CASE FITTING FOR A MOBILE DEVICE AND MOBILE DEVICE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a casing device for a mobile device with at least one input device and a mobile device with at least one input device.

[0002] Such mobile devices include handhelds (such as smartphones, foldable smartphones, tablets, or touchpads) or other types of smart devices (such as smart watches), or even notebooks, foldable notebooks, or the like. A particularly crucial feature of such devices is their size and compactness. This is why current smartphones and tablets, for example, have very few or no buttons or switches. As a rule, operation is almost exclusively via a touch-sensitive display. However, this has a negative impact on ease of use. For example, the display must always be observed during operation. In addition, the display must always be active for operation. It is sometimes also considered uncomfortable to have to hold the device with the hands in a certain way when operating it.

[0003] Document US 2006 / 0033703 A1 discloses a mobile device with a scroll wheel that can be selectively damped by means of an electromagnetic braking device. Document WO 2013 / 0163233 A1 discloses a casing device for a mobile device with a clampable input device such as a scroll wheel or a vibrating joystick. Document US 9,862,099 B1 discloses a haptic handheld controller comprising a rotary knob, a motor for generating force feedback, and touch sensors.

[0004] Mobile phones have become known that have radar scanners or image recognition and can detect contactless gestures, such as a user's hand. Such operation works in itself, but requires a corresponding recognition system, such as a radar chip, in the mobile device and is currently only suitable for simple commands.

[0005] It is therefore the object of the present invention to improve the operability and, in particular, the ease of use of such mobile devices. Preferably, reliable and targeted operation should be possible even without visual observation of the device or the display. Preferably, simple but also versatile manual operation should be enabled, preferably even when wearing gloves. In particular, an improvement should be possible for existing mobile devices, i.e., among other things, the ease of use and the complexity of use should be improved. Preferably, however, a solution should also be capable of being integrated into a mobile device during production. In particular, it is desirable that the compactness of the mobile devices is not adversely affected. This object is achieved by a casing device having the features of claim 1 and by a mobile device having the features of claim 15.Preferred developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the device component with a magnetorheological braking device will become apparent from the general description and the description of the exemplary embodiments.

[0006] For example, a casing device is provided for a mobile device, and in particular for a smartphone, foldable smartphone or tablet (iPad, Note...) or for other types of handhelds or mobile smart devices. The casing device comprises at least one casing part for at least partially surrounding the mobile device. The mobile device can be at least partially accommodated in or on the casing part. The casing device comprises at least one input device arranged at least partially in the casing part for controlling the mobile device that can be accommodated or accommodated in the casing part. This allows the mobile device to be operated from the casing part. The input device comprises at least one movable operating element and at least one braking device. At least one movement of the operating element (carried out during operation) can be specifically dampened by means of the braking device.

[0007] The casing device according to the invention offers many advantages. A significant advantage is the selectively dampenable control element of the input device. This allows a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, to be easily and inexpensively equipped with an additional control element that offers very extensive, yet comfortable, and particularly intuitive operating options. Due to the magnetorheological damping, for example, the invention can be used particularly advantageously for controlling a wide variety of device functions and applications. Appropriate haptic feedback can be assigned to specific device or input functions, allowing the user to deduce what they are adjusting and in which operating direction based solely on the feedback. For example, the torque can increase when turning clockwise if the microphone recording volume is increased. This can be achieved without looking (i.e., through "blind operation").The use of a motor-driven braking device is also possible and particularly preferred.

[0008] Another particular advantage of the invention is that not only inputs from the user to the mobile device can be transmitted, but also haptic feedback from the mobile device to the user. The casing device with the manually tactile control element allows for very direct feedback that can be felt directly with the finger. This allows for very precise control. Direct contact with a finger of the hand, which can also be gloved, enables sensitive and intuitive control.

[0009] At the same time, the invention makes it particularly easy to utilize all these advantages with an existing mobile device. For example, the smartphone or tablet is simply inserted into the case and paired with the case device, e.g., wirelessly via Bluetooth, Ant+, ZigBee, or the like. After pairing, functions can be started, adjusted, or terminated, for example, by turning the control element. This advantageously allows for mechanical or manual operation without requiring the user to focus on the display for extended periods.

[0010] Particularly preferably, the braking device is magnetorheologically designed and / or comprises at least one magnetorheological braking device. A or the magnetorheological braking device comprises at least one magnetorheological medium and at least one field generating device for generating and controlling a magnetic and / or electric field strength. The rheological (in particular the magnetorheological) medium can preferably be influenced by the or a field generating device in order to adjust the torque for the rotation of the control element. A magnetorheological braking device offers particularly numerous advantages.

[0011] In particular, the casing device comprises at least one control device for controlling the braking device. The control device can be used to specifically adjust the damping generated by the braking device.

[0012] In particular, an operating position of the control element, preferably an angular position and particularly preferably a rotational angle position, is taken into account for controlling the mobile device. In particular, the input or control of the mobile device is carried out depending on the operating position. In particular, at least one specific input or control of the mobile device is assigned to a defined angle. Within the scope of the present invention, an angle can also be provided by an angular range.

[0013] For example, a first input is made by rotating the control element to a first angle of rotation or into a first angle of rotation range. A second input is then made by rotating the control element to a second angle or into a second angle of rotation range. The input device presented here can preferably provide at least 30,000 increments or distinguishable angles of rotation per revolution. At least one input can preferably be assigned to each increment or angle of rotation. The classification and assignment of increment or angle to an input then occurs in particular depending on the respective device function and, for example, depending on an app. In particular, this assignment can be adapted dynamically. In addition, a speed and / or direction of actuation of the control element and / or the time for this assignment can also be taken into account.For example, turning faster can result in a different input than turning slower. When turning slowly, a fine grid (= high / low torque with small angular intervals) can be useful, as something needs to be set / adjusted precisely. When turning quickly, preferably without a grid or with a very small grid, large setting or adjustment ranges can be covered quickly and with little force on the finger (torque on the control element). This offers very high-resolution and, at the same time, particularly simple operation. It is preferred that the control element can be turned multiple times and, in particular, continuously. It is also possible for the angle of rotation to be limited and restricted to a certain number of revolutions or to an angular range of one revolution. It is also possible for the torque to be different in one direction of rotation than in the other direction of rotation (clockwise or anti-clockwise).counterclockwise). This allows the user to clearly identify and assign the direction of rotation or adjustment.

[0014] The casing device preferably comprises at least one sensor device. Preferably, an actuating position of the operating element can be detected by the sensor device. The actuating position of the operating element is defined in particular by an angular position and preferably by a rotational angle position. The actuating position can be detected directly or indirectly.

[0015] In particular, the braking device can be controlled by the control device at least as a function of the actuating position of the operating element. In particular, the control device is suitable and designed to adjust, and preferably specifically adapt, the damping of the movement of the operating element and, in particular, a deceleration torque of the braking device as a function of the actuating position. It is possible and preferred that a different damping and, in particular, a defined deceleration torque can be set depending on the actuating position of the operating element.

[0016] The deceleration torque set for a specific actuation position can, for example, be fixed and / or determined dynamically by an algorithm. The assignment of actuation position and deceleration torque can, for example, depend on which device function and, for example, which application is currently being operated. The assignment can additionally or alternatively depend on the movement speed of the control element and / or time and / or an actuation force and / or a direction of movement. The control unit can also be capable of learning (artificial intelligence, machine learning). Certain operations or operating sequences (operating patterns) can be optimized or assigned in this way. If the user has preferred operating patterns over a longer period of time, the control element can adapt to them and can perform a function automatically and in advance.Thanks to the corresponding haptic feedback assigned to the functions, the user also knows what is currently being adjusted and can react accordingly if incorrect settings are made.

[0017] Preferably, the damping is adjustable depending on at least one angle of rotation of the control element detected by the sensor device. The damping is adjusted, in particular, depending on the angle of rotation.

[0018] The control device is preferably suitable and designed to control the braking device at least (also) as a function of at least one control command. The control device is preferably suitable and designed to convert the control command into at least one haptic signal perceptible on the operating element. This is done in particular in such a way that a user can receive or receives at least one haptic feedback (so-called force feedback) as a result of an input made and / or during an input. The haptic signal in particular comprises a defined sequence of deceleration moments or is designed as such. In particular, a haptic signal is understood to mean a significant (and in particular perceptible) change in the rotational resistance.

[0019] The control command specifies, in particular, which deceleration torque is to be set at which angle of rotation and / or at which time. The control command can include at least one function that describes a torque curve over the angle of rotation and / or over time. The control command can contain information on how such a function is to be dynamically adjusted.

[0020] The control command is preferably provided by the mobile device and in particular by an application (app) stored in the mobile device or also by a remote server or another mobile device. An application (also called an app) is preferably a program that can be executed at least partially on the mobile device. The application can also be stored on a remote computer that issues control commands to the mobile device, which are then executed locally. The control command can also be provided by the control device itself. The control device and / or the mobile device can in particular generate a plurality of different control commands or specifically select a control command from a plurality of stored control commands.

[0021] The input device can preferably be coupled to the mobile device wirelessly and / or by wire. In particular, the input device can be coupled such that the mobile device accommodated in the casing part can be operated with the input device and / or such that the mobile device can transmit signals and in particular at least one control command to the input device. The mobile device and the input device are in particular operatively connected. In particular, two-way communication between the mobile device and the input device is provided. In particular, the casing device comprises at least one coupling device. The coupling device can, for example, comprise a Bluetooth unit, an ANT+ unit, a ZigBee unit, a WLAN unit, and / or another data transmission unit.

[0022] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the casing device comprises at least one electrical energy storage device and, for example, a battery. In particular, the input device can be supplied with electrical energy by the energy storage device. The energy storage device is preferably attached to and / or in the casing part and preferably integrated. It is also possible and advantageous for the input device to be supplied with energy by an energy storage device of the mobile device and, for example, its battery (also, for example, wirelessly, inductively, etc.).

[0023] In particular, at least the braking device and / or the control device and / or the sensor device can be supplied with energy in this way. In particular, at least one coil unit or coil device of the braking device is supplied with power via such an energy storage device.

[0024] It is possible and advantageous for the electrical energy storage device of the casing device to be suitable and designed for charging the energy storage device of the mobile device. In particular, the casing device provides at least one additional battery for the mobile device that can be accommodated in the casing part.

[0025] The cover device preferably comprises at least one cover part with an input device arrangement optimized for right-handed users. The cover device preferably also comprises at least one cover part with an input device arrangement optimized for left-handed users. In particular, the input device is arranged such that it is easier to reach with either the right or left hand when handling the cover device as intended. If operation with the thumb is intended, the input device is arranged on the left side of the cover part for left-handed users and on the right side for right-handed users.

[0026] In a particularly advantageous development, the casing part comprises at least two receptacles, each for accommodating at least one input device. The input device can preferably be inserted selectively into one of the receptacles. This offers particularly simple and convenient adaptation to functions, apps, and the handedness of the user. For example, by selecting the receptacle, the input device can be arranged in a way that is optimized for right-handed or left-handed users. It is also possible for one input device to be inserted into each of two receptacles. Retrofitting an input device into a second and / or third and / or fourth receptacle is also possible.

[0027] The casing part can also comprise at least three or at least four or more receiving devices. In particular, the casing device comprises at least one input device that can be removed from the casing part and reinserted. In particular, the removal and / or insertion is designed to be tool-free. In particular, the insertion and / or insertion into the receiving device results in an at least partially automatic coupling of the input device to an energy storage device and / or to the mobile device. Preferably, an electrical energy supply is provided at least partially automatically by inserting the input device into the receiving device.

[0028] The operating element preferably comprises at least two actuation zones, and particularly preferably at least three, or at least four, or at least five or more actuation zones. In particular, the movement of the operating element can be specifically dampened at least depending on the actuation zone in which the operating element is actuated and, in particular, touched. This allows for the implementation of diverse and simultaneously intuitive operating options in a particularly compact and structurally simple manner.

[0029] In particular, the actuation zones can only be moved together and are preferably rotatable. In particular, the actuation zones cannot be moved independently of one another. In particular, the actuation zones are rotatably mounted on a common axis. In particular, the actuation zones are (rotationally) rigidly connected to one another. In particular, at least one common braking device is provided for the actuation zones. In particular, the actuation zones are arranged axially directly or indirectly next to one another. The axial arrangement relates in particular to a rotational axis and / or longitudinal axis of the operating element and / or the braking device. For example, the operating element is designed as a (cylindrical) operating roller and the actuation zones are provided by axial sections of such a body.

[0030] The actuation zones are preferably distinguishable haptically and / or visually (e.g., by different lighting). The actuation zones can also be made of glass, Plexiglas, transparent or semi-transparent materials, and / or be illuminated from the inside or outside. In particular, the actuation zones have, at least in sections, a different surface and / or surface structure and / or geometry and / or color and / or material and / or size. For example, the actuation zones differ in their roughness and / or diameter and / or outer contour. For example, the actuation zones differ in their color and / or lighting.

[0031] It is possible and advantageous for at least one (specific) haptic feedback to be provided depending on the actuation zone in which the control element is actuated and, in particular, touched. In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to implement a haptic signal depending on the actuation zone in which an actuation or touch occurs. For example, a different sequence of deceleration torques and, for example, different ripples are set depending on the actuated actuation zone. (Ripple = (strong) alternating torque (low / high) at time- or angle-dependent intervals). It can also be provided that a different number of grid points or stops are set for the actuation zones.

[0032] The actuation zones are preferably each suitable and designed to operate at least one specific function of the mobile device, so that, in particular, a different function of the mobile device can be controlled depending on the actuated actuation zone. In particular, at least one device function is assigned to each actuation zone. In particular, at least one different device function can be controlled by selecting the actuation zone. For example, three different device functions can be controlled intuitively and conveniently using just a single control element.

[0033] It is also preferred and advantageous that the actuation zones can each be activated and, in particular, deactivated by touching and / or pressing. For example, a rotary movement of the control element is assigned to the actuation zone that was previously touched and / or pressed at least once. It is possible for a pressure intensity to be detected, in particular measured, for this purpose. In particular, the actuation zones can be activated depending on the pressure intensity. In particular, at least one pressure sensor is assigned to each actuation zone.

[0034] In all embodiments of the invention, it is possible for the pressure intensity on the control element, and in particular on a specific actuation zone, to be detected and taken into account for the input. For example, a light press initiates an input or selects and / or starts a function. A stronger press can, for example, be used to confirm or execute a command. In particular, the haptic feedback changes depending on the selected function. This has the advantage that the user can recognize what they have selected and what they are setting.

[0035] In an advantageous development, the operating element is designed as a rocker. In particular, the operating element comprises at least one rocker bearing. In particular, the rocker bearing is arranged between at least two actuation zones. In particular, the operating element can be tilted to either side of the rocker bearing to perform an input. In particular, a specific input and / or a specific haptic feedback is provided depending on the actuation zone pressed and / or pulled. Damping by means of the braking device may or may not be provided for the pressing and / or pulling. In particular, the rocker bearing has a pivot axis which is arranged transversely to the axis of rotation of the operating element.

[0036] In particular, the casing device comprises at least one monitoring device. In particular, the monitoring device is suitable and configured to use sensors to detect the actuation zone in which an actuation occurs. The monitoring device comprises, in particular, at least one image recognition and / or proximity sensor and / or at least one touch sensor and / or radar sensor and / or at least one camera device and / or at least one capacitive sensor. In particular, at least one sensor of the monitoring device is assigned to each actuation zone.

[0037] In a particularly advantageous development, a first input can be executed by at least one first movement of the control element. In particular, at least one further input can be executed by further movement of the control element. In particular, a different damping is provided for the first movement than for the further movement. Preferably, after the first movement, at least one targeted increase in the deceleration torque occurs, so that additional force is required to continue moving.

[0038] The first movement comprises, in particular, a rotation through a defined angle of rotation. In particular, a temporary increase in the deceleration torque is provided. In particular, a certain angular range must be overcome in order to be able to continue rotating more easily afterwards. The temporary increase can cover a defined time and / or a defined angular range. It is possible for the deceleration torque to be permanently increased or decreased. The increased or decreased deceleration sum can continue to increase or decrease over time and / or the angle. The term permanent refers here in particular to the duration of an executed operation. The further movement comprises, in particular, a rotation through a defined angle of rotation.

[0039] Preferably, the first movement of the control element starts at least one function. Preferably, further movement of the control element at least adjusts the function. Further movement can also start at least one further function. For example, the first movement triggers media playback, accepts a call, or starts a camera function. Further movement then, for example, adjusts the volume of the playback or call, triggers the camera, or selects the recording mode.

[0040] The control device is preferably suitable and designed to provide at least one haptic signal perceptible on the control element, which serves as assistance for people with disabilities. For example, a Morse code is generated from delay moments for this purpose. It is also possible for another suitable code to be generated from delay moments. For example, for such a code, higher and lower delay moments are set in a targeted sequence. The assistance is intended in particular for people with impaired vision and / or hearing. It is possible for the signal to be started and / or repeated by actuating the control element. For example, the signal is started by pressing or turning it once. By turning the control element further, the signal can then be perceived haptically, for example with the finger or thumb.For example, the signal describes a currently selected function of the mobile device or the battery status or a selected telephone number or other functions that usually require visually captured information.

[0041] It is possible and advantageous that zooming and / or scrolling and / or camera selection and / or call control, for example, answering and / or ending a call, and / or menu selection can be performed by at least one movement, in particular by rotating the control element. Preferably, other functions can also be performed by moving the control element. Particularly preferably, functions that would otherwise be operated by rotating a wheel or rotating bar simulated on the screen can be performed by rotating the control element. For example, setting an alarm or selecting a date in the calendar can be performed by rotating the control element.

[0042] It is advantageous and preferred that at least one highlight, for example an enlargement, of a display area can be specifically moved further and preferably jumps further by at least one movement, in particular rotation, of the control element. Preferably, the highlight of the display area jumps in the reading direction from one text section, for example, one line, to the subsequent text section, for example, the next line. Preferably, the highlight can be activated by at least one press and / or at least one rotation of the control element. Such a configuration enables so-called intelligent reading.

[0043] It is possible and advantageous for the cover part to be designed to be foldable. For this purpose, the cover part comprises at least two cover sections. The cover sections are movably connected to one another by at least one hinge device. Preferably, the input device is integrated into the hinge device. In particular, at least one cover section is designed to accommodate the mobile device. This provides secure accommodation for the mobile device. Furthermore, such a design is particularly compact, since the input device and hinge device share the installation space.

[0044] In particular, operation via the input device is provided, at least in the unfolded state. Preferably, operation via the input device is also provided in the folded state. Thus, the mobile device can be carried in a jacket pocket with the case closed, and volume control, for example, of the headphones, can be performed via the input device. It is possible for the input device to be automatically activated as soon as the case is unfolded.

[0045] The input device or the braking device comprises, in particular, a rotational axis about which the operating element can be rotated. In particular, the hinge device comprises a rotational axis about which the casing sections can be pivoted. The rotational axis of the input device preferably corresponds to the rotational axis of the hinge device or is parallel to it. In particular, the operating element can be rotated about the rotational axis of the hinge device.

[0046] Preferably, the control device is suitable and designed to detect by sensor whether a movement of the control element is caused by an actuation or by a folding of the hinge device. The monitoring device is provided for this purpose, for example.

[0047] Preferably, the mobility of the hinge device can be selectively dampened at least partially by means of the braking device. In particular, the hinge device can be fixed in at least one pivot position. Preferably, the hinge device can be blocked and / or fixed in the unfolded state and / or in the folded state of the cover part. Fixing is understood, in particular, to mean that the deceleration moment is so high that further movement of the hinge device is only possible with increased force.

[0048] The mobility of the hinge device can also be specifically blocked with the braking device. Blocking is defined, in particular, as a deceleration moment so high that the hinge device cannot be moved with the manual forces expected under normal use. In particular, another actuation of the control element must then be performed to release the blockage.

[0049] Preferably, at least one user setting can be used to specify the position at which the hinge device is fixed and / or blocked. This allows the user to fix the cover part in a specific position so that they can, for example, read or watch videos more easily. Preferably, two or more grid points can be set using at least one user setting. A specific pivot position or a specific angle of rotation is assigned to a grid point, as well as a specific deceleration moment. If, for example, an unfolded smart device is used for video telephony, an angle can be set and fixed. Such a grid point must be overcome, in particular, by applying increased force. A mobility block can also be provided at such a grid point. This also allows the unfolded display to be moved during, for example,video telephony without it folding away due to touch force.

[0050] It is also possible that the mobility of the hinge mechanism is dampened by means of a correspondingly high-frequency sequence of different deceleration moments. This could, for example, cause vibration or trembling when the cover part is opened or closed.

[0051] Another cover device according to the invention is provided for a mobile device, and particularly preferably for a foldable mobile device. For example, the cover device is provided for a foldable smartphone or foldable tablet, or another type of foldable handheld or mobile smart device. The cover device comprises at least one cover part for at least partially surrounding the mobile device. The cover part is designed to be foldable. For this purpose, the cover part comprises at least two cover sections, which are movably connected by at least one hinge device. The hinge device comprises at least one braking device. The braking device is suitable and designed to specifically dampen the movement of the cover sections relative to one another.

[0052] This casing device also solves the problem particularly advantageously. Through the targeted damping of the casing sections, the operation of a mobile device accommodated in the casing part can be significantly improved and made more comfortable. The casing device and / or hinge device and / or braking device are, in particular, at least partially designed as described in the context of the previously presented casing device.

[0053] Particularly preferably, the braking device is designed magnetorheologically and / or comprises at least one magnetorheological braking device and can be designed and further developed as described above.

[0054] Preferably, the hinge device and / or the braking device protrudes beyond the width and / or height and / or length of the folded cover part on only one side or on no side of the folded cover part. The hinge device and / or the braking device can also protrude in this way on only two sides or only three sides. Preferably, the hinge device and / or the braking device has a maximum diameter and / or a maximum height and / or width which is equal to or smaller than a thickness of the folded cover part. This enables a particularly compact and easy-to-transport cover device. The hinge device can protrude at least partially beyond a circumference of the cover part. The hinge device can be arranged within a circumference of the cover part.

[0055] In particular, a movement of the casing sections can be subjected to a targeted deceleration torque, so that the casing sections can be fixed and / or blocked in the closed and / or open state and / or at any desired opening angle. Preferably, at least one control device is assigned to the hinge device, by means of which the braking device can be controlled in order to set a targeted damping for the movement of the casing sections. In particular, the control device is suitable and designed to perform the functions described in the context of the previously presented casing device.

[0056] In particular, the magnetorheological braking device is integrated into the hinge device. In particular, the rotational axis of the braking device corresponds to the rotational axis of the hinge device and / or is parallel to it. The rotational axes can also be identical. In particular, the rotational axes are arranged on a common straight line.

[0057] The mobile device according to the invention is, in particular, a smartphone or a tablet or another type of handheld or mobile smart device. The mobile device comprises at least one device body. The mobile device comprises at least one input device for controlling device functions. The input device comprises at least one movable operating element and at least one braking device. At least one movement of the operating element can be specifically dampened by means of the braking device. The input device is preferably arranged predominantly within the device body.

[0058] Such a mobile device solves the aforementioned task particularly well. In addition to being significantly more convenient to use, it also offers a particularly compact design.

[0059] Particularly preferably, the braking device is magnetorheologically designed and / or comprises at least one magnetorheological braking device. A or the magnetorheological braking device comprises at least one magnetorheological medium and at least one field generating device for generating and controlling a magnetic and / or electric field strength. The rheological (in particular the magnetorheological) medium can preferably be influenced by the or a field generating device in order to adjust the torque for the rotation of the control element. A magnetorheological braking device offers particularly numerous advantages.

[0060] According to the invention, an arrangement within the device body means that something is accommodated within a space at least partially delimited by the device body. Preferably, the input device is arranged to more than 50%, preferably to more than 65%, and particularly preferably to more than 75% within the device body. In particular, only a portion of the operating element protrudes from the device body. Preferably, the operating element is arranged predominantly, and in particular to at least 50%, within the device body with respect to its cross-sectional area.

[0061] It is preferred that the operating element is rotatable about at least one rotational axis. The rotational axis is preferably arranged within the device body. In particular, the rotational axis does not protrude from the device body. In particular, the operating element has a circumference that is more than half located within the device body. It is particularly preferred that a diameter of the operating element, in particular of an operating roller, is less than a minimum thickness of the device body.

[0062] Preferably, the input device of the mobile device is designed at least partially like the input device described in the context of the casing device.

[0063] In an advantageous development of the mobile device, the control element comprises at least two actuation zones. In particular, a movement of the control element can be specifically dampened depending on the actuation zone in which the control element is actuated and, in particular, touched.

[0064] Another mobile device according to the invention is designed, in particular, as a smartphone or tablet or another type of handheld or mobile smart device. The mobile device is designed to be at least partially foldable. For this purpose, the mobile device, in particular its device body, comprises at least two device parts. The device parts are movably connected by at least one hinge device. The hinge device is equipped with at least one magnetorheological braking device. The magnetorheological braking device is suitable and designed to specifically dampen the movement of the device parts relative to one another.

[0065] Such a mobile device also solves the aforementioned problem particularly advantageously. This mobile device according to the invention can be equipped with an input device. In particular, the input device and / or braking device and / or the hinge device are designed as previously described for the other mobile device and / or the casing device.

[0066] In particular, the input device is integrated into the hinge device. In particular, a rotation axis of the input device is arranged along a rotation axis of the hinge device or runs parallel to it. These rotation axes can also be identical. In particular, the rotation axes are arranged on a common straight line.

[0067] In particular, the braking device is integrated into the hinge device. In particular, the hinge device of the mobile device has at least one axis of rotation about which the device parts can pivot. In particular, the axis of rotation runs along a rotation axis of the magnetorheological braking device or is parallel to it. The axes of rotation can also be identical. In particular, the axes of rotation are arranged on a common straight line.

[0068] Preferably, the hinge device and / or the braking device protrude beyond the width and / or height and / or length of the folded device body on only one side or on no side of the folded device body. The hinge device and / or the braking device can also protrude in this way on only two sides or only three sides. Preferably, the hinge device and / or the braking device has a maximum diameter and / or a maximum height and / or width which is equal to or smaller than a thickness of the folded device body. The hinge device can protrude beyond a circumference of the device body at least in sections. The hinge device can be arranged within a circumference of the device body.

[0069] The applicant reserves the right to claim a bookend, particularly for a mobile device, which is at least partially foldable and comprises at least two support sections. The support sections are movably connected by at least one hinge device. The hinge device comprises at least one magnetorheological braking device, which is suitable and designed to specifically dampen the movement of the support sections relative to one another. In particular, the braking device and / or the hinge device are designed as previously described for the mobile device and / or the cover device. An input device, as previously described, can also be integrated into the hinge device of the bookend.

[0070] The input device according to the invention is suitable and designed for one of the previously described casing devices and / or for one of the previously described mobile devices.

[0071] The method according to the invention serves to operate one of the previously described casing devices and / or one of the previously described mobile devices.

[0072] It is possible for the input device to be arranged at least partially on and / or in a support part. The support part is connectable or connected, in particular, to the mobile device and, in particular, to its device body. In particular, the support part is arranged at least partially and preferably entirely within the device body.

[0073] Preferably, the input device can be coupled to the mobile device and, in particular, is coupled. In particular, the input device, preferably at least the braking device and / or the control device and / or the sensor device, can be supplied with energy by at least one energy storage device of the mobile device. In particular, the input device and the mobile device are operatively connected.

[0074] Preferably, at least two hinge devices are provided for the casing device and / or for the mobile device, the axes of rotation of which are arranged, in particular, on a common straight line. Only some of the hinge devices may have an input device.

[0075] It is also possible for the input device to be provided separately from the hinge device. In this case, the rotation axes of the hinge device and the input device can be arranged on a common straight line, parallel to each other, or even perpendicular to each other.

[0076] The input device can be permanently connected to the casing part. The input device can also be detachably connected to the casing part, in particular so that the tool can be freely removed. In particular, the input device is integrated into the casing part.

[0077] In particular, the operating element is designed to be rotatable. In particular, the operating element is mounted so that it can rotate relative to an axle or another support structure. Such a support structure can be provided, in particular, by a first or second brake component of a braking device.

[0078] The cover part can, for example, be designed in a shell-like manner. For example, the cover part surrounds the mobile device in a shell-like manner. The cover part can be designed for inserting the mobile device. In particular, a shell-like cover part is provided. Other shapes are also possible.

[0079] The input device is arranged, in particular, laterally on the cover part. The input device is arranged, in particular, on a side extending between a front and a rear side of the cover part. In particular, the input device is arranged laterally on the left or right, or at the top or bottom. Two or more input devices can also be arranged on one or more sides. It is also possible to arrange the input device on a front and / or rear side of the cover part.

[0080] The control device is particularly suitable and designed to apply at least a specific deceleration torque to a rotary movement of the operating element in one and / or both directions of rotation and / or over a specific angle of rotation and / or at a specific rotational speed and / or with a specific actuating force, depending on the control command. This allows the rotary movement to be specifically delayed and / or blocked and / or released.

[0081] In particular, the control device is suitable and designed to dampen a rotational movement of the control element variably and / or continuously over time and / or over the angle of rotation depending on the control command.

[0082] In all embodiments, it is particularly preferred that the control element for controlling the mobile device is at least rotatable. In particular, at least the rotational movement of the control element can be specifically damped by means of the magnetorheological braking device.

[0083] It is preferred and advantageous that the control element for controlling the mobile device can be pressed and / or pulled in addition to being rotatable. Preferably, the rotational movement can then be specifically damped by means of the braking device. The pressing and / or pulling action is then preferably implemented without any specific damping.

[0084] It is possible for the control element for controlling the mobile device to be movable at least linearly (i.e., along its longitudinal axis) and, in particular, to be pressable, pushed, and / or pulled. In particular, the control element in such an embodiment provides at least one pushbutton. Then, in particular, at least the linear movement of the control element can be specifically dampened by means of the magnetorheological braking device.

[0085] It is also possible for the control element for controlling the mobile device to be able to rotate in addition to linear movement. In this case, the linear movement, in particular, can be specifically damped using the braking device. The rotary movement is then designed without any specific damping.

[0086] It is particularly preferred that the operating element comprises at least one operating roller and preferably at least one finger roller or is designed as such. A finger roller is also understood to mean, in particular, a thumb roller. The operating roller is in particular rotatable about a rotational axis in order to make an input. The operating roller can in particular be pressed and / or pulled transversely to its rotational axis in order to make an input. During pressing (push), the rotation of the operating element (in particular the operating roller and / or a rotary knob) can be prevented, which makes pressing more pleasant and safer because when the operating roller is pressed, for example, it is not rotated unintentionally (increased torque or blocking of the operating roller rotation when pushed).

[0087] The operating element can also comprise at least one rotary knob and / or at least one push button or be designed such that it can be rotated about a rotational axis in order to make an input. The rotary knob can be pressed and / or pulled in the direction of its longitudinal axis or rotational axis in order to make an input. It is also possible for the rotary knob to be pressed and / or pulled transversely to its rotational axis. The push button is moved in particular along a linear axis of movement in order to make an input. The push button can in particular be rotated about a linear axis of movement in order to make an input.

[0088] In all embodiments, it is particularly preferred that the input device be dimensioned such that it can be accommodated in a space of a maximum of 12 mm and particularly preferably a maximum of 10 mm in height and / or width and / or diameter. In particular, an operating element, preferably an operating roller, is provided which has a diameter of a maximum of 12 mm and preferably a maximum of 10 mm. Such requirements can be implemented particularly advantageously with the magnetorheological braking device presented within the scope of the present invention.

[0089] In particular, the braking device can be controlled by the control device to implement at least one of the aforementioned method steps or functions or modes of operation. Preferably, the aforementioned method steps or functions or modes of operation can also be implemented in combination with one another.

[0090] In advantageous embodiments, it is preferred that the sensor device comprises a sensor means with at least one sensor (e.g., encoder, rotary encoder, Hall sensor, etc.). The sensor is, for example, an angle sensor and, in particular, a rotation angle sensor. An absolute position (e.g., absolute encoder) or a relative position can be detected. The sensor means can detect the angle of the operating element directly or indirectly via a position of another component, and, in particular, the braking device. For example, an angular position and / or a rotation angle of the braking device is detected for this purpose. The detected angle is preferably provided to the control device for controlling the braking device.

[0091] The holding / deceleration torque can be set high enough to allow further movement of the control element with increased force. However, the deceleration torque can also be set high enough to block the control element with normal manual forces. Further movement of the control element with increased force and / or blocking of the control element can occur in at least one or both directions of rotation.

[0092] The control command can be issued independently of an input and / or as feedback to an input made with the mobile device or input device. In particular, the deceleration torque is adjusted depending on the control command. The control command can relate to at least one real operating situation and / or at least one situation simulated using software.

[0093] In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to receive the control command and then, at least taking the control command into account, to adjust the deceleration torque. In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to carry out the previously and / or subsequently described activations of the braking device at least partially in dependence on the control command.

[0094] Preferably, the control device is suitable and designed to convert the control command into at least one haptic signal (force / torque change) perceivable on the control element, in particular so that the user can receive haptic feedback (e.g. increased force at the human-machine interface) as a result of an input made.

[0095] In particular, the mobile device can specifically influence the mobility or damping of the control element. This makes haptic feedback (such as force feedback) particularly advantageous. The haptic signal preferably comprises at least one defined sequence of deceleration moments. The haptic signal particularly preferably comprises at least one defined sequence of (rapidly) changing deceleration moments or forces at the human / machine interface (also called ripples / ticks / rasters).

[0096] The individual feedback can be assigned by the software in the form of artificial intelligence.

[0097] In particular, any number of locking positions that can be implemented with the braking device can be set at any position within the normal operating range of movement or rotation of the control element. In particular, the locking positions can be set depending on the angle of rotation and / or the time and / or the control command. In particular, the locking positions are defined by at least one angle of rotation and one deceleration moment.

[0098] The control device is particularly suitable and designed to increase the deceleration torque from a defined angle of rotation before reaching a locking position and / or to reduce it from a defined angle of rotation after leaving the locking position.

[0099] In all designs, the increase and / or decrease of the deceleration torque can be continuous or variable (over time and / or angle).

[0100] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the control device is suitable and configured to decelerate and release the movement of the control element using the braking device in a targeted sequence. To implement such a sequence, the control device is particularly suitable and configured to set different deceleration torques for the deceleration and release. Such a sequence (ripple) provides reliably perceptible haptic feedback even under difficult operating conditions and is particularly well-suited to implementation with the invention.

[0101] The sequence is in particular composed of a sequence of relative maxima with higher deceleration torque and relative minima with lower deceleration torque. In particular, an angular distance of a period of adjacent relative maxima is adjustable and is set. In particular, the course of the deceleration torque over a period is set as a function of a set operating mode. Such a sequence with particularly short intervals can also be referred to as ripples / ticks. In particular, such a sequence is formed from a defined combination of deceleration torques as a function of time and / or angle. Preferably, the deceleration torques for the deceleration and / or the release are set as a function of time and / or as a function of angle and / or as a function of a control command.

[0102] The deceleration moments of the sequence are started, held, and / or ended, in particular, in an angle-dependent and / or time-dependent manner. Preferably, a change of such dependencies within a sequence can also be provided. For example, the start of the sequence is angle-dependent or time-dependent, and the length of the sequence is then adjusted in a time-dependent or angle-dependent manner.

[0103] Preferably, the control device is suitable and configured to start the deceleration moments of the sequence in an angle-dependent manner and to maintain them in a time-dependent manner. In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to omit the setting of a deceleration moment provided in the sequence if an angular position intended for the start (specific angle of rotation of the control element) is swung over while maintaining a deceleration moment.

[0104] Particularly preferably, the control device is suitable and configured to set the different deceleration moments of the sequence at a specific frequency, and preferably at a frequency such that the movement of the control element is dampened with a specific vibration. In particular, the frequency is at least 20 Hz and preferably at least 50 Hz.

[0105] The control device is particularly suitable and designed to dynamically adapt the different deceleration moments of the sequence over time and / or the angle and / or the speed of movement (angular velocity) of the control element and / or the number of deceleration moments already set.

[0106] The control device is particularly suitable and designed to set a sequence with deliberately changing deceleration torques. In particular, a sinusoidal or cosinusoidal curve is provided for this purpose. In particular, the curve has a (slight) negative offset. The offset is in particular less than 30% and in particular less than 20% and preferably less than 10%. In particular, at least two zero crossings per period are provided for the curve. In particular, the braking device is controlled with a sine or cosine signal, in particular with a predetermined and in particular adjustable (slight) offset from the zero point.

[0107] It is preferred that the control device is suitable and configured to control the braking device with a control frequency of at least 5 kHz, preferably at least 10 kHz, and particularly preferably at least 50 kHz. In particular, the braking device is suitable and configured to implement such a control frequency.

[0108] In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to dampen the braking device in real time. In particular, the braking device is suitable and configured to implement the deceleration torque in real time. In particular, the damping of the braking device can be adjusted in real time by means of the control device depending on the angle and / or time and / or a control command and / or a movement speed or angular velocity of the control element.

[0109] In particular, the braking device is suitable and designed to change the deceleration torque by at least 30% within less than 100 milliseconds. In particular, the deceleration torque can be changed by at least 10%, preferably by at least 30%, and particularly preferably by at least 50%, within less than 10 milliseconds. The deceleration torque can also be varied by at least 100% or 500%, or by ten or a thousand times, within less than 100 milliseconds.

[0110] The magnetorheological braking device is preferably suitable and designed to provide at least 30,000 increments, in particular 30,000 increments per revolution, for a pivot axis of the control element, in particular by means of a sensor, rotary encoder, or incremental encoder. Incremental encoders, for example, provide a specific number of pulses per revolution or a so-called zero pulse per revolution. These can be incremental encoders with UVW signals or absolute encoders. This allows haptic signals to be implemented particularly effectively. In particular, the increments can be used to provide the previously described feedback and sequences. In particular, at least 30,000 increments can be provided per revolution of the braking device. In particular, the sensor means can comprise at least 30,000 increments per revolution of the braking device.

[0111] It is preferred and advantageous that the braking device is designed as a magnetorheological transmission device or at least comprises such a device. It is preferably provided that the magnetorheological transmission device is equipped with at least two coupling components whose coupling intensity can be influenced, wherein at least one channel is provided for influencing the coupling intensity, wherein the channel contains a magnetorheological medium with magnetically polarizable particles that can be influenced by a magnetic field, and wherein at least one magnetic field generating device is provided for generating at least one magnetic field in the channel in order to influence the magnetorheological medium in the channel with the magnetic field.wherein one component, as the outer component, surrounds the other component, as the inner component, and wherein at least one of the two components is supported by at least one separate bearing, and wherein a distance between the outer component and the inner component is at least ten times as large as a typical average diameter of the magnetically polarizable particles in the magnetorheological medium, and the channel can be at least partially exposed to the magnetic field of the magnetic field generating device in order to selectively link or release the particles. In particular, the magnetic field generating device of the transmission device can be controlled by the control device in order to specifically adjust and adapt the deceleration torque.

[0112] The control element is then assigned to one of the two connectable components and, in particular, is connected to it in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0113] A magnetorheological transmission device particularly advantageously suited for use in the braking device of the invention is described, for example, in DE 10 2010 055 833 A1 and WO 2012 / 034697 A1. The entire disclosure of DE 10 2010 055 833 A1 and / or WO 2012 / 034697 A1 hereby preferably becomes part of the disclosure content of the present application.

[0114] A magnetorheological braking device particularly advantageous for use in the invention is also described, for example, in DE 10 2018 100 390 A1 and WO 2019 / 138015. The entire disclosure of DE 10 2018 100 390 A1 and WO 2019 / 138015 hereby preferably becomes part of the disclosure content of the present application. Such a braking device can also be referred to as a wedge bearing or magnetic field concentrator.

[0115] The braking devices described above can be used particularly advantageously in the input device according to the invention. They can apply the required deceleration torques and adjust them quickly and, if necessary, in real time. At the same time, they are compact enough to be accommodated in the case, mobile device, or hinge.

[0116] The input device of a casing device or a mobile device has a magnetorheological braking device that is accommodated on the casing device or the mobile device. The magnetorheological braking device has at least two braking components. A first braking component is connected to the casing device or the mobile device in a rotationally fixed manner and extends in an axial direction. The second braking component comprises a rotating part that is hollow (and in particular cylindrical on the inside) and rotatable around the first braking component. A circumferential gap (active gap) is formed between the first and second braking components. The gap is at least partially filled with a magnetorheological medium. The magnetorheological medium wets the first and second braking components.The first brake component comprises a core made of a magnetically conductive material and extending in the axial direction, and (at least) one electrical coil. The electrical coil is preferably wound in the axial direction around the core and preferably spans a coil plane, such that a magnetic field of the electrical coil preferably extends transversely (to the axial direction) through the first brake component. Preferably, a maximum (outer) diameter of the electrical coil in a radial direction within the coil plane is larger than a minimum (outer) diameter of the core in a radial direction transversely (and in particular approximately perpendicular or perpendicular) to the coil plane.

[0117] The first braking component defines an axial direction. However, the first braking component can also be designed to be at least locally angled to the axial direction. The formulation that the core of the first braking component extends in the axial direction is understood, within the meaning of the present invention, to mean that the core also extends at least substantially in the axial direction. The core can have a course that is preferably aligned parallel to the axial direction, but can also have a slight angle to the axial direction. For example, the core can also be aligned at an angle of 2.5 degrees (°) or 5° or 10° or 15° to the axial direction. The winding of the electrical coil does not have to be aligned exactly in the axial direction around the core either. The electrical coil can also be wound around the core at an angle of 5° or 10° or 15° or the like to the axial direction.In all cases, however, it is preferred that an angle between the orientation of the core and the axial direction and an angle of the winding of the electrical coil to the axial direction is less than 20° and in particular less than 10°.

[0118] A particular advantage arises when the electrical coil is wound axially around at least a substantial portion of the core, or the core as a whole. If a maximum outer diameter of the electrical coil in a radial direction within the coil plane is larger than a minimum outer diameter of the core in a radial direction transverse to, and in particular at least approximately perpendicular to, the coil plane, a larger core diameter can be realized. A larger core cross-section enables the generation of a stronger magnetic field (higher field strengths in the effective gap). This allows for higher braking forces to be generated in the same installation space, or equally high braking forces in a smaller installation space, thus increasing the achievable torque per unit volume. If necessary, it is also possible to generate considerable braking forces in a very small installation space. This facilitates use in an enclosure device.

[0119] This results from the fact that the magnetic field of the electric coil runs transversely to the axial direction of the first braking component (i.e. radially relative to the longitudinal axis) and that the diameter of the electric coil is increased.

[0120] Within the scope of the present invention, the terms "damping" and "deceleration" can preferably be used synonymously. The control device is particularly suitable and designed to specifically decelerate and release the movement of the control element in both directions, and to block it at the expected manual forces on the control element during operation.

[0121] In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to adjust a deceleration torque of the braking device in order to dampen the movement in a targeted manner. In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to dynamically adjust the deceleration torque.

[0122] Preferably, the control device can set any deceleration torque that can be generated by the braking device for any angle of rotation achievable with the control element and / or for an adjustable duration. In particular, the control device comprises a plurality of adjustable operating modes and is preferably suitable and configured to assign the deceleration torque to the angle of rotation and / or duration depending on the operating mode.

[0123] The control device is, in particular, an electronic control device. The control device comprises, in particular, at least one control algorithm. In particular, the setting of a deceleration torque is achieved by controlling an electrical coil device of the braking device with a specific current and / or a specific voltage or a suitable signal.

[0124] In the context of the present invention, enabling the movement is understood in particular to mean that only a normal operating base torque of the braking device is present, without any additional magnetorheological deceleration being applied, for example, by energizing a coil device of the braking device. When the movement is enabled, the magnetorheological braking device is in particular inactive, so that no field is generated to actively influence a magnetorheological medium of the braking device.

[0125] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the embodiments which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0126] The figures show: Fig. 1-5 purely schematic representations of casing devices according to the invention; Fig. 6 a purely schematic sketch of a deceleration torque curve over the angle of rotation; Fig. 7 a purely schematic representation of another casing device according to the invention; Fig. 8 purely schematic representations of a mobile device according to the invention; Fig. 9 a highly schematic cross-section through a rolling element of a magnetorheological braking device; Fig. 10 a schematic cross-section through a braking device; Fig. 11 a cross-section of another braking device; Figs. 12a-12d schematic cross-sections of the braking devices according to Figure 10 or 11; Fig. 13a-13e another braking device; Fig. 14a-d possible torque curves over the angle of rotation of a braking device; Fig. 15 a purely schematic representation of an input device with a gear unit; and Fig. 16 a purely schematic representation of an input device with a drive device in a sectional view.

[0127] The Figure 1 shows a cover device 500 according to the invention for a mobile device 510 (not shown in detail here), for example, a smartphone or tablet. The cover device 500 comprises a shell-like cover part 501 into which the mobile device 510 can be inserted. The cover device 500 is shown in a side view in the left part of the figure and in a front view in the right part of the figure.

[0128] The casing part 501 is equipped here purely by way of example with several input devices 502 for controlling the mobile device 510. The number of input devices 502 serves to illustrate possible positions on the casing part 501. The casing part 501 can also have only some of the input devices 502 shown here or even just a single input device 502. The input devices 502 are arranged here essentially laterally on the casing part 501, so that, for example, a display of the mobile device 510 remains uncovered.

[0129] The casing part 501 can be equipped with receiving devices 507, sketched here as an example. An input device 502 can be optionally inserted into each of the receiving devices 507, e.g., in a preferred operating position.

[0130] The input devices 502 are each equipped with an operating element 503 configured as an operating roller, a finger roller, or a thumb roller. To input inputs into the mobile device 510, the operating element 503 can be rotated about a rotation axis, preferably with the finger or thumb (hence the name finger or thumb roller). The rotation axis is arranged here within the casing part 501.

[0131] An energy storage device 540 and, for example, a battery serves to supply energy to the input device 502.

[0132] The rotational movement of the operating element 503 is specifically damped by means of a magnetorheological braking device 1 arranged inside (not visible here).

[0133] To control the braking device 1, a sensor device 505 and a control device 506 are provided, which are also arranged invisibly inside. The sensor device 505 serves to detect an actuating position of the control element 503 and, for example, its angle of rotation. The control device 506 controls the braking device 504 depending on the detected actuating position.

[0134] The braking device 1 and its control or mode of operation as well as its advantageous structure are described below and in particular with reference to the Figures 9 to 14 described in more detail. The information related to the Figures 1 to 8 presented control elements 503 each by a second brake component 3 of the braking device 1 according to the Figures 9 to 14 provided.

[0135] The Figure 2shows an embodiment of the previously described cover device 500, which differs from the previously described cover device 500 essentially in the shape of the cover part 501. The cover device 500 is shown here in a perspective view obliquely from above, a side view, a front view, and a rear view (from left to right).

[0136] The Figure 3 shows a design of the related to the Figure 2 The described casing device 500. The input device 502 shown here is equipped with an operating element 503, which has two different actuation zones 508. The actuation zones 508 are arranged axially adjacent here. The actuation zones 508 differ, for example, in their surface structure.

[0137] The movement of the control element 503 can be damped depending on which of the actuation zones 508 is used for the input. The actuation zones 508 are connected to a common braking device 1, so that their movement can only be damped jointly or not independently of each other. Depending on which actuation zone 508 the control element 503 is rotated, a different damping and / or a different haptic feedback occurs. The haptic feedback is described in more detail below. With one actuation zone, for example, one half of the screen of the Figure 7 and 8 The double display unit (folding smart device) shown can be operated with one touch, and the other half with the other touch zone. This allows, for example, the content (e.g., Word document, newspaper article) to be easily scrolled or moved vertically in each half of the display.

[0138] In the Figure 4 is an embodiment of the casing device 500 according to Figure 2 , in which the operating element 503 has three actuation zones 508. The actuation zones 508 differ in their surface structure. Furthermore, the central actuation zone 508 has a larger diameter.

[0139] The Figure 5 shows on the left the design of the control element 503 with two actuation zones 508 according to Figure 3 . On the right is the design of the control element 503 with three actuation zones 508 according to Figure 4 shown.

[0140] A monitoring device 518 is provided to detect which of the actuation zones 508 is being used or touched. The monitoring device 518 comprises at least one sensor for each of the actuation zones 508, for example, a proximity sensor or image recognition system. This allows for reliable determination of which actuation zone 508 the control element 503 is being touched and rotated.

[0141] The Figure 6shows an advantageous course of a deceleration torque, which is set by the control device 506 using the braking device 1 on the control element 503. The torque curve will be described in more detail below.

[0142] The Figure 7 shows an embodiment of the cover device 500 in which the cover part 501 is designed to be foldable. For this purpose, two cover sections 511 are pivotally connected to one another via three hinge devices 509. For example, the hinge devices 509 shown here can each be equipped with a braking device 1, so that the pivoting movement can be specifically dampened or even blocked or fixed in specific positions.

[0143] The hinge devices 509 shown here can all or partially each have one of the previously described input devices 502. This allows the mobile device 510 to be operated from the hinge device 509. It can be provided that the braking device 1 for the input device 502 also simultaneously dampens the pivoting movement of the hinge device 509.

[0144] The Figure 8 shows a mobile device 510 according to the invention, which here has a foldable device body 520. For folding, the device body 520 is divided into two device parts 530, which are pivotally attached to one another via two hinge devices 509. The hinge devices 509 are each equipped with a magnetorheological braking device 1. This allows the pivoting movement to be specifically dampened or even blocked or fixed in specific positions.

[0145] Additionally or alternatively, the mobile device 510 can also be equipped with an input device 502 as outlined here, such as is described, for example, with reference to the Figures 1 to 5 The input device 502 has an operating element 503 that can be rotated about a rotation axis. The rotation axis is then arranged entirely within the device body 520.

[0146] The braking device 1 is now presented in more detail.

[0147] Figure 9 shows a highly schematic cross-sectional view of a magnetorheological braking device 1 for a casing device 500 for a mobile device 510, such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, or other types of handheld devices or mobile smart devices. The magnetorheological braking device 1 serves to influence the force transmission between two braking components 2 and 3. In this case, between the two braking components 2 and 3 Fig. 9A rolling element or rotating body 11 is provided. The rolling element 11 is designed here as a ball 14. However, it is also possible to design rolling elements 11 as cylinders or ellipsoids, rollers, or other rotatable rotating bodies. Even rotating bodies that are not rotationally symmetrical in the true sense, such as a gear or rotating body 11 with a specific surface structure, can be used as rolling elements. The rolling elements 11 are not used for bearing support relative to one another, but rather for transmitting torque.

[0148] Between the brake components 2 and 3, a channel 5 is provided, which is filled with a medium 6. The medium here is a magnetorheological fluid, which, for example, comprises an oil containing ferromagnetic particles 19 as a carrier fluid. Glycol, grease, water, and viscous substances can also be used as the carrier medium, but are not limited to these. The carrier medium can also be gaseous, or the carrier medium can be omitted (vacuum). In this case, only particles that can be influenced by the magnetic field are filled into the channel.

[0149] The ferromagnetic particles 19 are preferably carbonyl iron powder, with the particle size distribution depending on the specific application. Specifically, a particle size distribution between one and ten micrometers is preferred, although larger particles of twenty, thirty, forty, and fifty micrometers are also possible. Depending on the application, the particle size can be significantly larger, even reaching into the millimeter range (particle spheres). The particles can also have a special coating / shell (titanium coating, ceramic, carbon shell, etc.) to better withstand the high compressive loads that may occur depending on the application. The magnetorheological particles for this application can be made not only from carbonyl iron powder (pure iron), but also, for example, from special iron (harder steel).

[0150] The rolling element 11 is preferably set in rotation about its rotational axis 12 by the relative movement 17 of the two brake components 2 and 3 and practically runs on the surface of the brake component 3. At the same time, the rolling element 11 runs on the surface of the other brake component 2, so that a relative speed 18 exists there.

[0151] Strictly speaking, the rolling element 11 has no direct contact with the surface of the brake components 2 and / or 3 and therefore does not roll directly on them. The free distance 9 from the rolling element 11 to one of the surfaces of the brake components 2 or 3 is, for example, 140 µm. In a specific embodiment with particle sizes between 1 µm and 10 µm, the free distance is in particular between 75 µm and 300 µm, and particularly preferably between 100 µm and 200 µm.

[0152] The free distance 9 is in particular at least ten times the diameter of a typical average particle diameter. Preferably, the free distance 9 is at least ten times the diameter of a typical largest particle. The lack of direct contact results in a very low basic friction / force / torque when the brake components 2 and 3 move relative to each other.

[0153] If the magnetorheological braking device 1 is subjected to a magnetic field, the field lines form depending on the distance between the rolling elements 11 and the brake components 2, 3. The rolling element 11 is made of a ferromagnetic material, for example, ST 37 (S235) in this case. The steel type ST 37 has a magnetic permeability ur of approximately 2000. The field lines (magnetic circuit) pass through the rolling element and concentrate in the rolling element. At the radial entry and exit surface of the field lines on the rolling element, there is a high magnetic flux density in the channel 5. The inhomogeneous and strong field there leads to a local and strong cross-linking of the magnetically polarizable particles 19 (magnetic interlinking).The rotational movement of the rolling element 11 toward the wedge forming in the magnetorheological fluid greatly increases the effect and the potential braking or clutch torque is increased significantly, far beyond the amount that can normally be generated in the magnetorheological fluid. Preferably, the rolling elements 11 and the brake components 2, 3 are made at least partially of ferromagnetic material, which is why the magnetic flux density increases the smaller the distance between the rotating element 11 and the brake components 2, 3. This creates a substantially wedge-shaped region 16 in the medium, in which the gradient of the magnetic field increases sharply toward the acute angle at the contact point or the region of the smallest distance.

[0154] Despite the distance between the rolling element 11 and the brake components 2, 3, the relative speed of the surfaces can cause the rolling element 11 to rotate. This rotational movement is possible both with and without an active magnetic field 8.

[0155] If the magnetorheological braking device 1 is exposed to a magnetic field 8 of a Figure 9 not shown electrical coil 26, the individual particles 19 of the magnetorheological fluid 6 are linked along the field lines of the magnetic field 8. It should be noted that the Figure 9 The vectors drawn in only a rough schematic representation of the field line region relevant to the influence of the MRF. The field lines essentially enter channel 5 perpendicular to the surfaces of the ferromagnetic components and do not necessarily run in a straight line, especially in the acute-angled region 10.

[0156] At the same time, some material on the circumference of the rolling element 11 is set into rotation by the magnetorheological fluid, so that an acute-angled region 10 is formed between the braking component 3 and the rolling element 11. On the other side, an identical acute-angled region 10 is created between the rolling element 11 and the braking component 2. The acute-angled regions 10 can, for example, have a wedge shape 16 in the case of cylindrical rolling elements 11. Due to the wedge shape 16, further rotation of the rolling element 11 is hindered, so that the effect of the magnetic field on the magnetorheological fluid is intensified, since the effective magnetic field within the acute-angled region 10 results in greater cohesion of the medium 6 there. This increases the effect of the magnetorheological fluid in the accumulated pile (the chain formation in the fluid and thus the cohesion or viscosity), which prevents further rotation orMovement of the rotating body 11 is made more difficult.

[0157] Due to the wedge shape 16 (particle accumulation), significantly greater forces or moments can be transmitted than would be possible with a comparable structure that only uses the shear movement without a wedge effect.

[0158] The forces directly transmitted by the applied magnetic field represent only a small portion of the forces that can be transmitted by the device. The magnetic field can be used to control the wedging and thus the mechanical force amplification. The mechanical amplification of the magnetorheological effect can be so extensive that force transmission is possible even after the applied magnetic field has been switched off, once the particles have been wedged together.

[0159] It has been found that the wedge effect of the acute-angled regions 10 results in a considerably greater effect of a magnetic field 8 of a certain strength. This effect can be amplified many times over. In one specific case, the relative speed of two braking components 2 and 3 was influenced approximately ten times as strongly as in the prior art with MRF couplings based on the shear principle, in which a magnetorheological fluid is arranged between two surfaces moving relative to one another and is subjected to the shear forces of the surfaces moving relative to one another. The possible amplification here through the wedge effect depends on various factors. If necessary, it can be further enhanced by a greater surface roughness of the rolling elements 11.It is also possible that outwardly projecting projections are provided on the outer surface of the rolling elements 11, which can lead to an even stronger wedge formation.

[0160] The wedge effect is distributed over the rolling element 11 and components 2 or 3.

[0161] Figure 10shows a section through an input device 502, which forms a device component 200. The input device 502 comprises a magnetorheological braking device 1, which has two braking components 2 and 3. The first braking component 2 and the second braking component 3 extend essentially in an axial direction 20. The first braking component 2 is arranged here inside the second braking component 3 and is held in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner by a holder 4. The holder 4 is usually attached to the casing device 500 or to a mobile device 510. The second braking component 3 is received thereon so as to be continuously rotatable relative to the first braking component 2. The second braking component 3 forms the rotatable operating element 503, which can be operated, for example, with a user's finger.

[0162] The second brake component 3 is elongated and has the rotating part 13 and therein a magnetically conductive sleeve part 13e.

[0163] The second brake component 3 is rotatably mounted on the second brake component 2 at the first bearing point 112 and at the second bearing point 118 and can also be mounted for axial displacement. At the bearing points 112, 118, forces in a global radial direction 122 can be supported by the bearings 30, while the first brake component 2 is axially displaceable relative to the second brake component 3. The diameter 116 of the first bearing point 112 is approximately twice the diameter 117 of the second bearing point 118.

[0164] The second brake component 3 extends out at both ends. A closed chamber 110 filled with a magnetorheological fluid (MRF) is formed between the brake components 2 and 3. In the region of the first end 111 of the chamber 110, a cylindrical raceway is formed on the holder 4 as the first bearing point 112. A hardened surface or a surface of equivalent quality is present there. A bearing 30 for rotatably supporting the second brake component 3 is attached to this cylindrical raceway 37. Further inward in the axial direction 20, a seal 38 is provided adjacent to the bearing 30. The seal 38 reliably seals the interior.

[0165] The first brake component 2 has a base body 33. The windings of an electrical coil 26 are wound around the core 21. The individual windings of the electrical coil 26 protrude outward beyond the cylindrical base body 33 (see Fig. 12).

[0166] Radially, between the outer wall of the first brake component 2 and the inner wall of the sleeve part 13, there is a gap 5, which here is essentially designed as a hollow cylindrical gap. Several transmission components 11, which here are designed as rolling elements, are arranged in the gap. The rolling elements 11 are designed as cylindrical rolling elements and have an outer diameter that is slightly smaller than the gap width of the gap 5. The gap 5 is also filled with a magnetorheological medium.

[0167] For example, an O-ring or similar element filled with air or another gas can be arranged in one area of ​​the gap, providing volume compensation during temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, this creates a reservoir in case magnetorheological fluid or medium escapes from the interior to the outside during operation. Here, the design is used to provide automatic temperature compensation and a reservoir for MRF through the different diameters 116 and 117.

[0168] The (usable) gap length of the gap 5 is here greater than the length of the rolling elements 11. Here, the electrical coil is also longer in the axial direction 20 than the length of the rolling elements 11.

[0169] The core 21 can be seen inside the electrical coil 26. The holder 4 has a radially enlarged receptacle 36 (diameter 36a, see Fig. 11) for the rotationally fixed mounting of the first brake component 2. A cable duct extends downward through the holder 4. Cables 45 for connecting the electrical coil 26 and, if necessary, sensor lines are routed out there. A control device 27 can be provided or assigned in the base of the holder 4 or at other suitable locations to provide control as needed.

[0170] A closed chamber 110 is formed between the first end 111 and the second end 115. The closed chamber 110 comprises the volume 114, which is essentially completely filled with the magnetorheological medium 6.

[0171] A change in the volume of the magnetorheological medium 6 leads here to a relative axial displacement of the first brake component 2 to the second brake component 3 due to the different diameters 116, 117 of the two bearing points 112, 118.

[0172] In case the first braking component 2 is fixed, the second braking component 3 will be in the orientation of Figure 3 shifted to the right. A small part of the first brake component 2 with the diameter 116 at the first bearing point 112 exits the closed chamber 110, while a part of the first brake component 2 at the second end 115 with the significantly smaller diameter enters the closed chamber 110. In effect, the volume 114 of the closed chamber 110 is thus increased. In particular, a change in the volume of the magnetorheological medium 6 caused by a rise in temperature can be compensated for. The function of the magnetic field generating device 113 is not affected by this. In the event of a decrease in volume, which can be caused by temperature or a leak, the second brake component 3 is shifted to the left here.

[0173] During displacement, ambient pressure practically always prevails within the magnetorheological brake component 1. This primarily prevents additional stress on the seals 38. With a compensation device using a gas bladder, however, the interior is always pressurized, resulting in greater leakage and increased friction due to the required improved sealing.

[0174] A compensating channel 120 may be provided, connecting the areas near the bearing points 112, 118. This reduces the throttling effect of the gap, even if it is very small, in the event of a displacement of the magnetorheological medium 6.

[0175] In addition, the magnetorheological braking device 1 has a sensor device 70 for detecting at least one angular position of the two braking components 2, 3 relative to one another. Detection is carried out using a magnetic ring unit 71 and a magnetic field sensor 72. The sensor device 70 is connected to the second braking component 3 via a decoupling device 78. The decoupling device 78 magnetically decouples the sensor device. The sensor device 70 further comprises a shielding device 75, which here comprises several shielding bodies 76 and which surrounds the magnetic ring unit 71 on three sides. A separating unit 77 is provided between the magnetic ring unit and the shielding device 75. The separating unit 77 additionally shields the magnetic ring unit 71. As a result, the volume spanned by the magnetic ring unit 71 is largely shielded from magnetic influences of the electrical coil 26 or other magnetic fields.

[0176] Figure 11 shows another input device 502 in section with a similar magnetorheological braking device 1. The operating element 503 of the input device 502 is either received on one side of the casing device 500 or an axle stub is formed at the second end in order to rotatably mount the operating element 503 of the input device 502.

[0177] The transverse grooves 32 in which the electrical coil 26 is wound at the axial ends of the core 21 are visible. Potting compound 28 is provided at both ends in the axial direction. A separate seal, for example, the O-ring shown or the like, is provided in the area of ​​the cable feedthrough 35.

[0178] It is also possible for individual rolling elements distributed over part of the circumference to be designed as magnetically non-conductive transmission components. Preferably, all rolling elements are made of a magnetically conductive material, such as steel.

[0179] A length or height 13c of the rotary part 13 and the sleeve part 13e or the second brake component 3 in the axial direction 20 is preferably between 3 mm and 90 mm, and in particular between 5 mm and 30 mm. A coating 49 can be applied externally to the second brake component 3, so that the external appearance of the rotary knob 23 is essentially determined by the surface of the coating 49. Different segments can be distinguished by different surfaces.

[0180] The material of the sleeve part 13e or the rotating part 13 as a whole is magnetically conductive and serves to close the magnetic circuit. A wall thickness 13d of the sleeve part 13e is preferably at least half the diameter of the rolling elements 11.

[0181] The diameter 36a of the receptacle 36 is preferably considerably larger than the diameter 37a of the cylindrical raceway 37. This reduces friction at the seal 38. Furthermore, standardized bearings can be used.

[0182] It is also possible to construct the core 21 and the holder 4 in two parts. Preferably, the separation runs along the Figure 11drawn center line, resulting in a left and right (core) half. The two core halves can be spaced from each other by a magnetically non-conductive element (e.g. seal). Preferably, the potting compound volume 28 is then part of the core half(s), resulting in a semicircular element with a circumferential groove on the separating surface for the electric coil. Furthermore, the receptacle 36 is preferably also divided into two halves. A receptacle half can also form a part with a core half (be designed as a single piece), or a core half can be designed as a single piece with a complete receptacle unit 36.

[0183] Here, the input device 502 with the magnetorheological braking device 1 is mounted on one side. The second braking component 3 is only received at the first end of the closed chamber 110 at an end section 121 of the first braking component 2, i.e., the second braking component 3 is only mounted at the first bearing point 112 by the bearing 30. If the volume within the closed chamber changes, the second braking component 3 can move back and forth slightly. Here, it is again assumed that the first braking component 2 is stationary. In this case, a portion of the diameter 116 of the first braking component 2 extends or retracts at the first bearing point 112. The volume 114 of the closed chamber 110 changes. Advantageously, the system is practically always at ambient pressure within the given range of motion. Additional loading of the seal 38 is prevented.

[0184] Figures 12a to 12dshow various schematic cross sections of the magnetorheological braking device 1, which is shown in the input devices 502 according to Figures 10 and 11 and can also be used in other embodiments.

[0185] The inner brake component 2 is stationary and is surrounded by the continuously rotating brake component 3. The second brake component 3 has a rotating part 13 that rotates around the first brake component and is hollow and cylindrical on the inside. The gap 5 extending between the first and second brake components 2, 3 is clearly visible. Here, the gap 5 is at least partially and in particular completely filled with a magnetorheological medium 6.

[0186] The first brake component 2 has the core 21 made of a magnetically conductive material, which extends in the axial direction 20, and an electrical coil 26 wound around the core 21 in the axial direction 20 and defines a coil plane 26c. The magnetic field 8 of the electrical coil 26 extends transversely to the axial direction 20 through the first brake component 2 or the core 21.

[0187] It is clearly evident that a maximum outer diameter 26a of the electrical coil 26 in a radial direction 26d within the coil plane 26c is greater than a minimum outer diameter 21b of the core 21 in a radial direction 25 transverse and, for example, perpendicular to the coil plane 26c.

[0188] The rolling elements 11 are each arranged only in angular segments 61, 62 and cannot rotate completely around the core 21, since the electrical coil 26 protrudes into the gap 5 or channel and thus prevents complete rotation.

[0189] This means there is less space available for the rolling elements 11.

[0190] This leads to an even higher concentration of the magnetic field 8. In Figure 12a Three magnetic field lines are shown as examples.

[0191] In Figure 12b The rolling elements 11 are not mounted on a cylindrical outer surface of the core 21, but rather on receptacles 63 specifically adapted to the contour of the rolling elements 11, in which the rolling elements 11 are preferably mounted and guided with some clearance. The transition of the magnetic field 8 into the rolling elements 11 is advantageous because more transmission surface is available between the core 21 or the outer surface 64 of the receptacles 63 and the rolling elements 11.

[0192] The electrical coil is located outside the angular segments 61 and 62. There are no rolling elements 11 outside the angular segments 61 and 62.

[0193] Figures 12c and 12dshow further developments in which rolling elements 11 are completely dispensed with. The cores 21 have outwardly projecting transmission components 11, which extend radially outward from the base body 33. In Fig. 12c the chamber 110 between the core 21 and the rotating part 13 is completely filled with MRF.

[0194] The maximum outer diameter 26a of the coil 26 is larger than the minimum core diameter 21b. The radial extent of the gap 5 varies around the circumference. At the outer ends of the transmission components 11, there is only a small gap 65, while a radial distance 66 between the braking component 2 and the braking component 3 is considerably larger at other locations.

[0195] Figure 12d shows a variant of Fig. 12c, in which the chamber is filled with potting compound 28 over a cylindrical section to reduce the MRF volume. This reduces the required volume of MRF. The radial distance 66 is significantly reduced, but remains considerably (at least a factor of 2 or 3 or 5 or 10) larger than the radial gap 65. This ensures that the described wedge effect occurs. The MRF particles interlink in the acute-angled areas and form a type of wedge, which leads to a considerable braking torque. Figures 12c and 12d the transmission components 11 form a kind of radial arms 11d.

[0196] Figures 13a to 13dshow a further embodiment of an input device 502 for a casing device 500 or a mobile device 510, which here again has a magnetorheological braking device 1 and comprises braking components 2 and 3. A "horizontal or axial coil" is again used, in which the electrical coil 26 is wound around the core 21 in the axial direction 20 and again has a maximum radial coil diameter 26a that is larger than a minimum core diameter 21b of the core 21. Here, too, the rolling elements or transmission elements are not arranged over the entire circumference.

[0197] Here, the device component 200 is designed as an input device 502. The second brake component 3 is received at the first end of the closed chamber 110 at the bearing point 112. Furthermore, the second brake component 3 is received at the second bearing point 118 on the first brake component 2. Here, the bearing is realized by means of an axle stub 119 with a diameter of 117 at the second bearing point 118. The sealing ring 46 prevents the magnetorheological medium from flowing into the area behind the axle stub 119.

[0198] The diameter 117 at the second bearing point 118 is significantly smaller than the diameter 116 at the first bearing point 112. This also allows for a volume change in the event of an axial displacement. Temperature-related volume changes and volume changes caused by leaks can be compensated. This is achieved by a relative axial displacement of the first brake component 2 relative to the second brake component 3.

[0199] In addition, a sensor device 70 is also present here for detecting an angular position of the input device 502. The magnetic field sensor 72 is integrated into the fixed receptacle 4 or the first brake component 2. The cable 45 of the magnetic field sensor 72, ie, the sensor line 73, is routed to the outside through the cable duct 35 at the receptacle 36.

[0200] The first axle part or the holder of the brake component 2 can, as in Figures 13b and 13cAs shown, it is preferably designed in two parts. This simplifies the installation of the electrical cables, and in particular the sensor cable 73, within the first brake component 2. The cables can be routed through the open cable entry 35.

[0201] In Figure 13dThe sensor device 70 is shown again in detail. The first brake component 2 and the second brake component 3, which is designed here as a rotated part, are only indicated (dashed lines). The sensor device 70 is supported in a magnetically decoupled manner on the rotatable second brake component 3 via the decoupling device 78. The shielding device 75 here consists of three shielding bodies 76, which reduce the stray magnetic field 8 of the electrical coil 26. In addition, a separation unit 77 is also present for magnetic separation. The magnetic ring unit 71 is used to measure the orientation or angle of rotation of the magnetorheological brake device 1. The magnetic field sensor 72 is arranged within the first brake component 2. Small relative axial displacements can also be used to detect, for example, the pressing of an operating button 101.

[0202] Figure 13eshows a highly schematic view of an operating device 502, in which the inner brake component 2 is stationary and surrounded by the rotatable brake component 3. For this purpose, the brake component 3 can have a pin section and a hollow cylindrical section. The pin section can be gripped and rotated, while the braking function is realized in the hollow cylindrical section. Such a configuration is possible in all embodiments.

[0203] In the Figures 14a, 14b Figures 9 and 9c show possible design variants for controlling a dynamically generated magnetic field or a dynamically generated braking torque as a function of the angle of rotation.

[0204] Figure 14ashows a variant in which the input device 502 is used as a roller and haptic operating aid. The rotational resistance is shown plotted against the angle of rotation. A left end stop 228 and a right end stop 229 can be generated with the control 27. Upon further rotation of the rotary knob 23, a strong magnetic field or stop torque 238 is generated there, causing the rotary knob 23 to offer high resistance to a rotary movement. The user receives haptic feedback of an end stop.

[0205] A grid of the rotary movement can be created or performed. For example, this can be used to navigate through a graphical menu and select menu items. A first grid point 226 is provided directly next to the left end stop 228, which, for example, corresponds to a first menu item during operation. If the next menu item is to be selected, the rotary knob 100 must be turned clockwise. To do this, the dynamically generated higher magnetic field or cogging torque 239 or its friction torque must be overcome before the next grid point 226 is reached. Figure 14a For a certain angular range, a constant magnetic field is generated at the grid points 226 and at the intermediate areas, which is considerably lower at the grid points than in the intermediate areas and again considerably lower than at the stops 228, 229.

[0206] An angular distance of 237 between individual grid points can be changed dynamically and is adapted to the number of available grid points or menu items.

[0207] Figure 14b shows a variant in which the magnetic field does not increase abruptly towards the end stops 228, 229, but rather takes a steep course. Furthermore, ramp-like gradients of the magnetic field are provided at the grid points 226 on both sides of rotation, whereby the rotational resistance increases in the corresponding directions of rotation. Here, with the same input device 502, only three grid points 226 are provided, the angular spacing 237 of which is greater than in the example according to Figure 14a .

[0208] Figure 14cshows a variant in which there is a lower rotational resistance between individual grid points 226 and an increased magnetic field 239 is generated only directly adjacent to the grid points 226 in order to enable locking at the individual grid points 226 and at the same time to provide only a low rotational resistance between individual grid points.

[0209] In principle, a mixture of operating modes and magnetic field characteristics of the Figures 14a, 14b and 14c For example, different submenus can be used to adjust the magnetic field profile accordingly.

[0210] Figure 14dshows the possible use when accepting, for example, a telephone call. The operating element 503 of the input device 502 can be turned with little resistance, for example minimally - or practically not at all. The required torque then increases steeply or suddenly up to threshold 230. After threshold 230 has been overcome, for example, an incoming telephone call or a video conference is accepted. The rotational resistance drops to a relative minimum torque 231. Immediately after this, the function of the operating element 503 is changed. Upon further rotation, for example, the volume of the call is changed. Here, the required torque is increased linearly according to the gradient 232. It is also possible that the curve is not linear. It is also possible that, above a certain volume, a steeper gradient is set or that the required torque is suddenly increased by a certain amount.

[0211] In all cases, it is also possible, for example, to switch between a lower and higher current intensity with the same polarity (e.g., +0.2 to +0.8A = ripple), instead of switching between lower and higher current intensity with the same polarity as before (e.g., +0.2 to +0.8A = ripple), but instead to switch alternately with a different polarity, i.e., from +0.2 to +0.8A, followed by the next ripple with -0.2A to -0.8A, followed by the next torque peak from +0.2 to +0.8A, and so on. The preferably low-alloy steel can retain a residual magnetic field. The steel is preferably demagnetized regularly or as needed (e.g., using a special alternating field).

[0212] The preferred material for the components through which the magnetic field flows is FeSi3P (silicon steel) or a similar material.

[0213] In all cases, voice or sound control can be implemented. Voice control allows adaptive control of the braking system.

[0214] If the rotating unit is not rotating, i.e., the angle is constant, the current is preferably continuously reduced over time. The current can also be varied depending on the speed (the angular speed of the rotating unit).

[0215] In the invention, for example, a haptic rotary knob or a thumb roller or a push button with haptic feedback is installed as a control element in a (smartphone) case (case part). Possible applications include:

[0216] Adjusting the volume while on the phone: The louder the setting, the more torque is required on the control element. A stop is generated (very high torque) when the volume can no longer be increased or a critical volume is reached. Zooming when taking photos without moving your fingers into the display: As long as the optical zoom is adjusted, the brake applies a certain torque (e.g. torque increases with increasing focal length). When switching from the optical zoom to the digital zoom range, the user first feels a short stop (high torque) and then a grid / ripple. This lets the user know that they are in the digital zoom range. It is also advantageous and preferred that the mobility or feedback of the input element is adjusted depending on the zooming process. In particular, a different torque is set for zooming in than for zooming out.For example, a greater torque is applied when zooming in than when zooming out, or vice versa. The same applies if the tendency for camera shake increases, e.g., with increasing focal length. As soon as the user is at risk of camera shake, this is reported haptically on the control element. This (camera shake) area changes dynamically depending on the situation (lighting conditions due to shutter speed, etc.). With a two-zone control element, for example, according to... Figure 3One zone can be used to adjust the zoom (focal length) coarsely or in large focal length steps, which are assigned a correspondingly coarse grid (torque on the control element), while the other can be used for fine adjustment. This allows for fast, precise, and secure adjustment. Instead of the zoom (focal length), the shutter speed can also be set as described above. Or one operating zone can be used to set the focal length and the other the shutter speed. Clear haptic feedback is provided if there is a risk of camera shake or other situations arise that would impair the recording quality. Adjusting the music volume: Short barrier / short stop at the preferred volume. If the music gets too loud, the control element becomes stiff to turn. If the music gets so loud that it disturbs the surroundings, the user receives haptic feedback. This, in turn, is dynamically adapted to the situation.In quiet environments (e.g., office), the response threshold is lower than in noisy environments (e.g., subway, train, airplane). The screen brightness can also be adjusted using the control element (e.g., when the ambient light is too bright and you can't see anything on the screen, thus preventing you from seeing what you are adjusting). Browsing through the phone book, song list (playlist), files, etc. Scrolling - through websites, files, etc. The control element can also be operated when wearing gloves or plasters, as a mechanical rotation occurs, and touches on the skin are not detected, as with a touch-sensitive screen! The user can adjust the grid width as required. Child safety lock: The torque of the control element for operation can be increased so much that, for example,A child / young person cannot turn this device due to a lack of muscle-related lower tangential strength and therefore cannot operate it, and preferably cannot switch it on. Modular design:

[0217] The user can easily retrofit a smartphone case for their smartphone. However, the described control element can also be integrated directly into the smartphone or into a smart device.

[0218] The case may also contain a battery to increase the device's battery life, but this is not required.

[0219] The advantage of an additional battery would be that the haptic rotary knob (the thumb roller) would draw power directly from this battery and could also communicate with the smartphone via the existing power cable (power transfer from the additional battery to the smart device). The connection to the smartphone can be established either via a plug into the charging or general connection socket, or via Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, or other wireless data transmission methods.

[0220] The battery in the case can be charged either traditionally via cable or via inductive charging. The smartphone's battery can also be charged inductively from the case's battery. Reduction of control buttons • Operating assistance for smartphones and other smart devices with few or no buttons (e.g. smartphones that can only be operated via touchscreen)

[0221] Modern smartphones, in particular, have drastically reduced the number of buttons. Most controls are now operated solely via the display. However, some options, such as volume control (especially during a call when the phone is held to your ear), cannot be controlled via the display. When taking photos with your smartphone, it's also not ideal to trigger the camera via the screen, as this can cause camera shake and prevent the smartphone from being held securely in your hand / both hands.

[0222] Many smartphone manufacturers try to do away with buttons, keys, etc. as much as possible, for design reasons, but also to make the device waterproof, for example. The fewer moving parts, the less chance that dirt, water, etc. can get inside. Control buttons and dials in the case, i.e. outside the smartphone anyway, get around this problem. If a user doesn't care so much about design, but does care about greater flexibility and user-friendliness, a case like this is a good way to improve the phone or adapt it to their own needs without having to buy a completely new device. Many users want to protect their smartphone with an additional case, so it makes sense to equip the case with additional functions. This way the user doesn't have to do without, for example, a dial on the edge.

[0223] The case can be connected to the smartphone via a plug (in the socket for the charging cable) or via wireless data transmission.

[0224] It is essentially like a conventional protective case for smartphones, which also contains external telephone peripherals.

[0225] In the Fig. 1 Possible installation forms of the control element (here a rotary knob or a thumb / finger roller) in the cover part (cover) are shown. Figure 2 A cover device according to the invention for a smartphone is shown, in which the control element is arranged on the side. Furthermore, a battery is integrated into the cover part. Reduction of part variety / Common parts:

[0226] The combination of a touch display (display) plus a haptic button can be used in a variety of applications. The same basic configuration (hardware) can be customized using various software. For example, volume control, scrolling through the phone book, etc. Cost

[0227] A braking device such as that shown in DE 10 2018 100 390 A1 (so-called wedge bearing) can be manufactured cost-effectively. It has few, simple parts made of standard materials and, thanks to the wedge effect, achieves a very high torque relative to its size. Furthermore, the power consumption (required) is also very low. An MRF brake could therefore be powered simply by the smartphone's battery or directly by the smart battery case. Modularity - Left-handed smartphone

[0228] A cover device (cover) according to the invention can be modified relatively easily in its construction. The position of the haptic control button or thumb roller can be moved to the other side (from right to left) without much change to the design. This is not so easy in a smartphone because the entire internal architecture must be changed. The circuit paths, etc., must be routed differently. A cover does not have as many components that require attention. In addition, communication between the smartphone and thumb roller can take place via Bluetooth. The Bluetooth module can be installed directly on the thumb roller. This means that only a power connection to the battery is required.

[0229] This allows you to produce two different cases for right- and left-handed users relatively inexpensively. Or even more different cases where the position of the button varies depending on what the button is primarily used for (taking photos, adjusting the volume during a phone call, operating with the index finger or thumb, etc.).

[0230] The case could also be manufactured in a modular way so that the wedge mount can be inserted into different locations. Various openings are provided in the case, each containing the necessary connections for power and data transfer. The wedge mount can then be removed from the opening / holder and inserted into another. This allows for conversion from right- to left-handed mode. Or the button can be relocated from the bottom to the top of the smartphone. Haptic rotary knob with different zones

[0231] A rotary knob can have multiple actuation zones (zones), each with different surfaces (grooved in different directions, completely smooth, coarse, or fine), e.g., in three zones. However, the knob only has one control, one sensor, and one damping device, but the haptic feedback can vary depending on where it is actuated / touched.

[0232] This lets the user know they're adjusting something else. Sensors detect where the knob is being operated / touched. When a user moves a finger toward the dial, the sensors detect the area where the finger is being moved and then activate the corresponding function.

[0233] This means that different functions can be controlled with the same rotary knob without having to change or select anything beforehand.

[0234] In the Figure 3 a casing device according to the invention with two actuation zones is shown in different views.

[0235] In the Figure 4 a cover device according to the invention with three actuation zones is shown in different views.

[0236] In the Figure 5 a cover device according to the invention with two actuation zones (left) and three actuation zones (right) and the corresponding sensors is shown.

[0237] Example: The rotary knob has two zones: One zone adjusts the volume of the media playback (increasing torque with increasing volume), the second zone selects the song (forward / backward - i.e., a haptic click function. For favorite songs: harder click or greater braking torque). Or the second zone has a completely different function (camera zoom).

[0238] Various technologies can be used as sensors. For example, a proximity sensor near the relevant area, or capacitive sensors on the thumb roller, inductive sensors, the camera (image recognition) of the smart device, etc. The sensors can be mounted next to the roller or on the roller.

[0239] The number of zones can be any (1, 2, 3...), but a preferred number is probably 3. The MRF damper is mounted in one of the zones, and the other zones are connected to it for rotation. The zones can be equipped with different surfaces (the surfaces don't necessarily have to be different, but this makes operation more intuitive).

[0240] As mentioned, the haptic feedback can vary in the different zones. There can be different ripples with different distances between the resistance barriers; the resistance can be constant across the zones, with different strengths, etc. Since all zones are braked with the same MRF braking unit, all zones naturally rotate at the same time, but the controller detects which zone is being actuated via the sensors and then controls the correct function via software (so the volume and camera zoom aren't adjusted simultaneously). The sensor for determining the finger position is, of course, only for this purpose; an additional sensor is still required to measure the rotation of the thumb roller.

[0241] The big advantage of using one knob with different zones is that only one control and only one damper needs to be used to control multiple functions.

[0242] The Fig. 15 shows a section of an input device 502, such as the one described above. Here, the braking device 1 is coupled to the operating element 503 via a gear unit 512. This allows a higher (braking) torque to be achieved. Furthermore, the gear unit 512 bridges the rotational axes of the operating element 503 and the braking device 1, which are arranged parallel and offset here (shown in dash-dotted lines).

[0243] In the Fig. 16An input device 502 is shown in which the operating element 503 can be actively rotated with a drive device 513 in addition to manual rotation. Such an active drive can be advantageously used for all input devices 502 described here. The drive device 513 is arranged opposite the braking device 1 and has the same axis of rotation (shown in dash-dotted lines) as the operating element 503 and the braking device 1. This enables particularly compact installation.

[0244] Clearly visible here is a switching unit 514, which can be activated by pressing the control element 503. The switching unit 514 is equipped with a pressure sensor. This allows an input to be made depending on how hard the control element 503 is pressed. The switching unit 514 can also be designed as a switch without a pressure sensor.

[0245] In all embodiments and configurations, it is also possible for the braking device to be motorized. For example, an electric motor can be selectively energized to generate a desired braking torque. Possible haptic feedback

[0246] Fast-acting MRF dampers can be used to simulate mechanical devices, such as the rotary knob of an old radio. To turn on the radio, the knob is first turned against a high resistance until this resistance is overcome. The radio is then switched on, and the volume can be adjusted by continuing to turn it.

[0247] The thumb roller can also be used to initially set a high resistance until a small angle is reached. Then, the resistance is set back to the minimum value and the resistance is slowly increased with the angle of rotation as the volume increases (see figure 1). Fig. 6). For example, you can turn on your smartphone's media player and then adjust the volume.

[0248] Answering a call usually involves adjusting the volume (depending on connection quality, ambient noise, etc.). Both tasks can be performed quickly, easily, and efficiently using the rotary dial. This also reduces the likelihood of accidental answering.

[0249] The concept of a haptic rotary knob in the case can also be implemented on tablets or all types of portable smart devices that have few or no buttons built into the device itself. Pinch to Zoom

[0250] Pinch to zoom describes the ability to zoom with two fingers by moving them apart or together. On smartphones, this type of zoom is either impossible or difficult to achieve with one hand. A rotary knob that can be operated with the thumb, for example, or with the index finger on the other side, could enable one-handed operation, for example, when zooming. Operation with gloves (winter, cold, hygiene...)

[0251] Smartwatches usually have a capacitive display, which is difficult or, depending on the manufacturer, impossible to use with gloves. A haptic switch offers clear advantages here. When using a smartphone, people are more likely to accept removing their gloves, as the device has to be pulled out of a pocket (a lengthy process). However, the purpose of a smartwatch is to provide quick access to information. For hygiene reasons (infection, viruses), gloves must be left on, making it difficult or even impossible to use smart devices with touchscreens. Incorrectly detect scrolling as pressing

[0252] Due to the small display, scrolling is often mistaken for pressing. This can't happen with a rotary dial. Intelligent reading:

[0253] Zooms to a readable size and then rotates the screen just as a human would read a passage of text. That is, it jumps back to the beginning at the end of the sentence, and so on. The text always remains at the same height (within the same reading range) so the eye doesn't have to jump back and forth. Accept or reject calls

[0254] When a call comes in, the call is accepted or rejected depending on the direction the button is turned a certain angle (e.g., clockwise: answer, counterclockwise: reject). When rejecting, you can scroll through predefined messages (feedback) by turning the knob, which can be sent to the caller at the touch of a button (e.g., "I'm currently in a meeting"). Visual impairment (possibly in combination with hearing impairment)

[0255] People with visual impairments (blind people) can receive assistance through appropriate feedback, e.g. in the form of Morse code. Display defective / SOS / Emergency call:

[0256] If the display is defective, basic operation can still be selected if the control element is Figure 6 As described above, different people or functions can also be selected by rotating the dial / ribbon, with the names / functions being played back through the loudspeaker.

[0257] An SOS operation (short / long / short) of the control element can be detected and corresponding functions can be executed. Save electricity:

[0258] The previously described "Display Defective" function can also be used when the battery is running low, i.e., to save power / energy. The display can be dimmed significantly in the first stage, since picking up the handset, adjusting the volume, and hanging up the handset can be performed reliably using the adaptive control element. Using the dual-zone controller (e.g., after Figure 3) allows the display brightness to be quickly and reliably adjusted when more brightness is needed. A second energy-saving mode allows the energy-intensive display to be turned off completely. Select different cameras

[0259] New smartphones are increasingly equipped with a growing number of cameras. One is usually on the back and a selfie camera on the front. However, additional cameras are also increasingly being added, such as wide-angle cameras, or in the future, telephoto lenses. The thumb roller can be used to control the optical zoom. And you can easily and quickly switch between the cameras using the thumb roller. With the multi-zone design described above, several cameras can be adjusted / operated simultaneously. Thumb roller example structure

[0260] The thumb roller is preferably a horizontal wedge bearing, which is designed very narrowly. The rolling elements are also cylindrical, but with a smaller diameter (e.g., 1 mm) and a larger axial extension (e.g., 5 mm). The magnetic coil can be designed either horizontally (wound in the axial direction) or radially (coil wound around the axis).

[0261] Like all other actuators for haptic feedback, the thumb roller requires a sensor to measure rotation. A rotary encoder or a magnetic ring with a Hall sensor can be used for this. In principle, the same haptic feedback can be implemented with the thumb roller as with any other rotary knob with a wedge bearing. Due to its small installation space, it cannot generate such high torques. However, this is not necessary due to the small diameter.

[0262] DE 10 2018 100 390 A1 and WO 2019 / 138015 describe thumb rollers with an axial coil and enable particularly narrow actuators. Installation options

[0263] The roller can be installed in the smartphone case either axially parallel to the smartphone or rotated 90°. Depending on which fingers are primarily used for turning, the respective type may be better. For the latter, however, a standard knob with a wedge bearing is more suitable, as it can be made shorter but larger in the radial direction. Push

[0264] The thumb roller can also have a push function (the thumb roller is pressed). This can be used to confirm a function, toggle (on / off), as a return, or any other function (e.g., defined by the customer – such as answering or hanging up the call). The push function can also be multi-stage (adaptive). Adaptive hinge in foldable smartphones

[0265] The first foldable smartphones are already on the market. These smartphones are as large as a regular smartphone when folded, and twice as large when unfolded. This makes one-handed operation even more difficult, which is why a dial would be advantageous here (zooming, focusing, etc.). On the one hand, the screens are far too large to reach the entire surface, and on the other hand, the smartphone can be accidentally folded.

[0266] This can be remedied by equipping a cover with thumb rollers as hinges (see. Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 When the smartphone is opened, the thumb rollers lock in the open position, making it more difficult to fold the smartphone. In this case, too, the thumb rollers can be powered by an additional battery in the case.

[0267] For kinematic reasons, the thumb roller must be mounted precisely at the pivot point. This is difficult because the smartphone or rather the display is located there. Therefore, you can either install the thumb roller directly into the smartphone or use special linearly movable hinges. Of course, a haptic control button can also be integrated into this type of case on the edge, as described above. Touch pad cover with adaptive hinges

[0268] The folding covers of tablets or touchpads can also be equipped with such hinges so that the cover can be held in any position. Adaptive hinges for laptops

[0269] A laptop screen can be easily stabilized with thumb rollers, as the screen is attached to the pivot point. When moving the screen, the thumb rollers can be set to the lowest resistance, and when the desired position is reached, the resistance is adjusted to the maximum. Reading aid for books

[0270] The idea of ​​using hinges for smartphone and tablet cases, etc., can also be used with regular "analog" books. You make a simple frame that slides into the book between the pages, with a hinge with thumb rollers as dampers. The frame then holds the book open, making it more comfortable for the reader to hold. Adaptive function selection

[0271] The button assignment changes depending on the selected function. If the camera is selected as the control element, the button is assigned the zoom function or the function that the user selects most frequently. The customer can then preset this themselves, or the device can choose it itself based on an internal user data analysis. Artificial intelligence or machine learning can also improve user guidance and reduce operating complexity here.

[0272] The invention particularly relates to a device with a haptic rotary knob / thumb roller in a case for smartphones; the thumb roller enables operation of the smartphone for various apps; it is controlled by the smartphone; the haptic feedback is, for example, an increase in resistance when rotating; the use of sensors to measure the rotational movement does not limit us.

[0273] The invention particularly provides for the use of MRF in the actuator.

[0274] The invention provides in particular for communication between the haptic rotary knob and the smartphone via a plug or wireless transmission, such as Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, etc.

[0275] The invention particularly provides for the use of an additional battery in the casing to operate the actuator.

[0276] The MRF actuator is designed as a wedge bearing with rolling elements with radial or axial coil.

[0277] The invention, in particular, provides a modular design. This allows the position of the actuator to be changed.

[0278] The haptic feedback can also be supported acoustically (through a loudspeaker) or visually (lamp, LED, display, lighting of the control element...).

[0279] The invention presented here can be used in various technical fields, for example smartphones, smartwatches or smart devices, tablets (touch), small displays, Android applications (apps), Apple (iOS) applications (apps), photography, cases for cameras, remote controls, office PCs, gaming (computer mouse, keyboard, controller), computer mice, hi-fi or television systems. List of reference symbols:

[0280] 1 Magnetorheological 27 Control device braking device 28 Potting compound 2 Brake component 30 warehouse 3 Brake component 32 transverse groove 4 holder 33 Basic body 5 gap, channel 35 Cable entry 5a Gap width 36 Recording 6 medium 36a Outer diameter 8 Field 37 cylindrical running surface 9 free space 37a Outer diameter 10 acute-angled area 38 seal 11 Transmission components, rolling elements, rotating elements 43 User interface 45 Cable 11d arm 46 sealing ring 12 axis of rotation 48 Sliding guide 13 Turned part, 49 coating 13a inner diameter 50 console 13b Outer diameter 61 Angle segment 13c Height 62 Angle segment 13d Wall thickness 63 Recording for 11 13e Sleeve part (1x drawing) 64 outer surface 14 Bullet 65 radial gap 15 cylinder 66 radial distance 16 wedge shape 67 Inner surface of 13 17 Direction of relative movement 68 signal 69 amplitude 18 Direction of relative movement 70 Sensor device 71 Magnetic ring unit 19 magnetic particles 72 Magnetic field sensor 20 axial direction 73 Sensor cable 21 core 74 button 21b minimum diameter 75 Shielding device 23 rotary knob 76 Shielding body 24 Outer ring 77 Separation unit 25 radial direction 78 Decoupling device 26 Sink 110 closed chamber 26a maximum diameter 111 first end of 110 26c Coil level 112 first storage location 26d radial direction to 26c 113 Magnetic field generation furnishings 528 sensor 114 Volume of 110 530 Device parts 115 second end of the closed chamber 540 Energy storage 116 Diameter of first bearing point 117 Diameter of second bearing point 118 second storage location 119 axle stub 120 compensation channel 121 End section of 2 122 radial direction (global) 200 Device component 226 Grid point 228 End stop 229 End stop 230 threshold 231 minimum moment 232 gradient 237 Angular distance 238 Stop torque 239 Raster moment 240 Fundamental moment 500 Envelope setup 501 Cover part 502 Input device 503 Control element 505 Sensor device 506 Control device 507 Reception facility 508 Operating zone 509 Hinge device 510 mobile device 511 Shell section 512 Gear unit 513 drive device 514 switching unit 518 monitoring device 520 Device body

Claims

1. A sleeve device (500) for a mobile device (510), in particular a smartphone or tablet or other types of handhelds respectively mobile smart devices, comprising at least one sleeve part (501) for at least partially surrounding the mobile device (510) and at least one input device (502) at least partially disposed in the sleeve part (501) for actuating the mobile device (510) which can be accommodated in the sleeve part (501), wherein the input device (502) comprises at least one movable operating member (503) and at least one braking device (1), and wherein movement of the operating member (503) can in particular be damped controlled by means of the braking device (1), characterized in that the operating member (503) comprises at least two actuating zones (508), and wherein the movement of the operating member (503) can be damped controlled in dependence on the actuating zone (508) in which the operating member (503) is actuated and in particular touched, and that the sleeve device (500) comprises at least one monitoring device (518), wherein the monitoring device (518) is suitable and configured for capturing by sensor the actuating zone (508) in which actuating takes place.

2. The sleeve device (500) according to the preceding claim, wherein the braking device (1) is configured magnetorheologically, and wherein the braking device (1) comprises at least one magnetorheological medium (6) and at least one field generating device (113) for generating and controlling a magnetic and / or electric field strength, and wherein by means of the field generating device (113) the medium (6) can be influenced, so as to set the torque for the rotatability of the operating member (903).

3. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating position of the operating member (503) can be captured by means of at least one sensor device (505), and wherein the braking device (1) can be actuated by means of at least one control device (506) at least in dependence on the actuating position of the operating member (503), and wherein the damping is adjustable in dependence on at least one rotation angle of the operating member (503) captured by means of the sensor device (505), and is in particular adapted controlled.

4. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one control device (506) is comprised and is suitable and configured to actuate the braking device (1) at least in dependence on at least one control command, and to convert the control command to at least one haptic signal perceptible on the operating member (503), preferably a defined sequence of deceleration torques, so that the user can receive haptic feedback, at least due to an input made and / or during an input.

5. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the input device (502) can be coupled with the mobile device (510) wirelessly and / or wire-bound, so that the mobile device (510) accommodated in the sleeve part (501) can be operated by the input device (502), and / or such that the mobile device (510) can transmit signals to the input device (502).

6. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one sleeve part (501) with the input device (502) configuration optimized for right-handed persons, and / or comprising at least one sleeve part (501) with a configuration optimized for left-handed persons (502).

7. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve part (501) comprises at least two takeup devices (507) for taking up at least one input device (502) each, and wherein the input device (502) can be optionally inserted in one of the takeup devices (507).

8. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating zones (508) are haptically discernible, to this end showing in particular different surfaces and / or surface structures and / or sizes and / or geometries and / or colors and / or materials, and / or wherein haptic feedback is provided in dependence on the actuating zone (508) in which the operating member (503) is actuated and in particular touched.

9. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one first movement of the operating member (503) allows to execute a first input and wherein onward movement of the operating member (503) allows to execute at least one further input, and wherein damping is provided different for the first movement and for the onward movement, and / or wherein the first movement is followed by at least one specific increase of the deceleration torque, so that any onward movement requires the application of additional force, and wherein the first movement of the operating member (503) causes at least one function to start, and wherein the onward movement of the operating member (503) causes at least an adaptation of the function.

10. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (506) is suitable and configured for providing at least one haptic signal perceptible in the operating member (503), to serve as an aid for physically impaired persons.

11. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least by moving, in particular rotating, the operating member (503), zooming and / or scrolling and / or camera selection and / or call control and / or menu selection, can be executed.

12. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least by moving, in particular rotating, the operating member (503), an emphasis of a display area can be moved onward controlled, and in particular wherein the emphasis can be activated by pressing and / or rotating the operating member (503).

13. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve part (501) is configured foldable and comprises at least two sleeve sections (511), which are movably interconnected by at least one hinge device (509), and wherein the input device (502) is incorporated in the hinge device (509) .

14. The sleeve device (500) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sleeve part (501) is configured foldable and comprises at least two sleeve sections (511), which are movably interconnected by at least one hinge device (509), wherein the hinge device (509) is provided with at least one braking device (1), and wherein the braking device (1) is suitable and configured for controlled damping of the movement of the sleeve sections (511) relative to one another, and wherein the braking device (1) is configured magnetorheologically.

15. A mobile device (510), in particular a smartphone or tablet or other type of handheld respectively mobile smart device, comprising at least one device body (520) and at least one input device (502) for actuating device functions, wherein the input device (502) comprises at least one movable operating member (503) and at least one braking device (1), and wherein movement of the operating member (503) can be damped controlled by means of the braking device (1), characterized in that the major part of the input device (502) is disposed inside of the device body (520), that the operating member (503) comprises at least two actuating zones (508), wherein the movement of the operating member (503) can be damped controlled in dependence on the actuating zone (508) in which the operating member (503) is actuated and in particular touched, and that the mobile device (510) comprises at least one monitoring device (518), wherein the monitoring device (518) is suitable and configured for capturing by sensor the actuating zone (508) in which actuating takes place.