A user interface with a dial controller that includes a rotatable dial that can be manipulated along or about three axes.

Abstract

A dial controller for a vehicle comprises: (a) a rotatable dial (i) rotatable about an axis of rotation, (ii) linearly movable along a line parallel to the axis of rotation, and (iii) movable along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation; (b) a first sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and generating an output that is a function of rotation of the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation; (c) a second sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and generating an output that is a function of movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation; and (d) a third sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and generating an output that is a function of movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to dial controllers for vehicles, such as those used in conjunction with user interfaces. [Background technology]

[0002] Horse-drawn carriages sometimes included a dashboard between the carriage occupant and the horse pulling the carriage to protect the occupant from debris kicked up by the horse behind. With the advent of non-horsepowered propulsion, such as the internal combustion engine and electric motor, the dashboard remained a feature and became a platform for a human-machine interface that allowed the occupant to control various functions of the vehicle. Vehicles evolved to include numerous dials, levers, buttons, etc. scattered across the dashboard, the vehicle's center console, and even the steering wheel.

[0003] Some vehicles have integrated some of the human-machine interfaces into a single human-machine interface with a touch screen that allows the occupant to control various functions of the vehicle via touch. However, problems still remain that occupants may become frustrated with (i) the number of disparate human-machine interfaces still present in the vehicle and (ii) the navigability of the touch screen human-machine interface. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure addresses that problem with user interfaces that utilize a dial controller having a display and a rotatable dial that can be manipulated along or about three axes to interact with the display to select a vehicle function to control. Movement of the rotatable dial along one axis can change the menu of functions that are displayed for control.

[0005] Movement of the rotatable dial about another axis can select a particular function to control and can control an aspect of that function. A selector button is included to confirm the occupant's selection. Movement of the rotatable dial along another axis can change a menu of functions or control an aspect of the selected function or even control movement of the vehicle.

[0006] For example, passenger manipulation of a forward rotatable dial can cause the vehicle to move forward, and passenger rotation of the rotatable dial can cause the vehicle to turn while moving forward. The passenger's ability to move a rotatable dial in multiple axes (e.g., forward / backward, up / down, and rotational) eliminates touch screen user interfaces and facilitates passenger navigation through the vehicle controls.

[0007] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a dial controller for a vehicle comprises: (a) a rotatable dial (i) rotatable about an axis of rotation, (ii) linearly movable along a line parallel to the axis of rotation, and (iii) movable along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation; (b) a first sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and generating an output that is a function of rotation of the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation; (c) a second sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and generating an output that is a function of movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation; and (d) a third sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and generating an output that is a function of movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0008] In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, the first aspect further includes a selector button proximate to the rotatable dial, the selector button being depressible along an axis of rotation of the rotatable dial, and a fourth sensor operatively connected to the selector button, the fourth sensor generating an output that is a function of depression of the selector button.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, in the second aspect, (i) the rotatable dial surrounds the selector button around a rotation axis of the rotatable dial, (ii) the selector button intersects the rotation axis of the rotatable dial, (iii) when the rotatable dial rotates around the rotation axis, the selector button does not rotate around the rotation axis, and (iv) the selector button is biased along the rotation axis to avoid being depressed.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in either the second or third aspects, rotation of a rotatable dial about an axis of rotation selects a function from a menu of functions to use or control, and depression of a selector button confirms the selection and enables use or control of the selected function.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the first to fourth aspects, the first sensor is a rotary encoder or a Hall sensor.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the fifth aspect further comprises a stepper motor comprising a shaft and a gear attached to the shaft, (i) the rotatable dial is attached to a first end of a cylinder through which the axis of rotation extends, (ii) the cylinder further comprises a second end and a gear at the second end operatively connected to the gear of the stepper motor, (iii) rotation of the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation rotates the cylinder and thus rotates the gear at the second end of the cylinder, (iv) rotation of the gear of the cylinder rotates the gear of the stepper motor, which rotates the shaft of the stepper motor, (v) the first sensor is positioned relative to the stepper motor to generate an output that is a function of a portion of the rotation of the shaft, (vi) the stepper motor resists rotation of the shaft and therefore the rotation of the rotatable dial during each portion of the rotation of the shaft, and (vii) a torque applied to the rotatable dial is required to overcome the resistance.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the sixth aspect, (i) rotation of the rotatable dial about an axis of rotation selects a function from a menu of functions to use or control, and (ii) resistance applied to the rotatable dial by the stepper motor must be overcome to rotate the rotatable dial a portion of a rotation and scroll to the next function in the menu of functions.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, in the sixth aspect, (i) rotation of the rotatable dial about an axis of rotation controls a controllable aspect of a selected function, and (ii) the resistance applied by the stepper motor to the rotatable dial must be overcome to rotate the rotatable dial a portion of a rotation and cause a change in the controllable aspect.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the sixth to eighth aspects, the shaft of the stepper motor is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the rotatable dial.

[0016] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the first to ninth aspects, the present invention further comprises a second cylinder through which an axis of rotation of a rotatable dial extends, the second cylinder having a first end about which the rotatable dial rotates and a second end from which an extension extends, the extension terminating in a sensor contact surface that contacts a second sensor, the second sensor comprising: (i) a fixed portion statically attached to a fixed base of the dial controller; and (ii) a sensor contact surface that contacts the second sensor. and a movable portion contacting a sensor contact surface of a second cylinder, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion, movement of the movable portion of the second sensor relative to the fixed portion of the second sensor alters an output of the second sensor, the movable portion being biased towards the sensor contact surface of the second cylinder, and movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to an axis of rotation of the rotatable dial causes the second cylinder and thus the movable portion of the second sensor to move.

[0017] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the tenth aspect further includes (i) a second base coupled to the fixed base, the second base substantially resisting movement of the second base along a line parallel to the axis of rotation; and (ii) a retainer protruding from the second base toward the second cylinder, the retainer being movable away from the second cylinder but biased toward the second cylinder, the second cylinder having at least two recesses disposed between a first end and a second end of the second cylinder. the at least two recesses are spaced differently between the first end and the second end, the retainer is configured to protrude into one of the at least two recesses of the second cylinder at a time, and a force applied to the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation overcomes the bias of the retainer into one of the at least two recesses of the second cylinder, the second cylinder moves along a line parallel to the axis of rotation, and the retainer is biased to protrude into the other of the at least two recesses of the second cylinder.

[0018] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the first to eleventh aspects, movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to an axis of rotation of the rotatable dial changes from one menu of functions to be used or controlled to another menu of functions to be used or controlled.

[0019] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the first aspect further comprises (a) a fixed base to which a third sensor is mounted; and (b) a second base to which a rotatable dial is mounted, the second base having (i) a sensor contact surface and (ii) movable along a plane parallel to the rotation axis, wherein the third sensor is a linear displacement sensor comprising (i) a fixed portion statically mounted to the fixed base and (ii) a movable portion contacting the sensor contact surface of the second base, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion, an output generated by the third sensor being a function of a position of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion, the movable portion of the third sensor being urged towards the sensor contact surface of the second base, and movement of the second base along a plane parallel to the rotation axis of the rotatable dial moves the movable portion of the third sensor.

[0020] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the thirteenth aspect, (i) the fixed base comprises a platform and a pair of parallel rails on the platform, (ii) one rail of the pair of parallel rails is disposed on one side of a plane and the other rail is disposed on the other side of the plane, and (iii) a second base moves relative to the fixed base on the pair of parallel rails.

[0021] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in either the thirteenth or fourteenth aspects, (i) the fixed base further comprises a first wall and a second wall extending from the platform, the second base and a pair of parallel rails being disposed between the first wall and the second wall, (ii) the first spring is connected to both the first wall and the second base of the fixed base, (iii) the second spring is connected to both the second wall and the second base of the fixed base, (iv) the first spring and the second spring cooperate to bias the second base, and thus the rotatable dial, to a neutral position along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation, and (v) the rotatable dial moves along the plane when the resistance provided by either the first spring or the second spring is overcome.

[0022] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the first to fifteenth aspects, (i) the dial controller is disposed within the vehicle, and (ii) movement of the rotatable dial along a plane parallel to the rotation axis causes the vehicle to move.

[0023] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the sixteenth aspect, rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis causes the vehicle to turn.

[0024] According to an 18th aspect, in any of aspects 13 to 15, the device further comprises a second cylinder through which the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial extends, the second cylinder having a first end about which the rotatable dial rotates and a second end from which an extension extends, the extension terminating in a sensor contact surface that contacts a second sensor, the second sensor being disposed on a side of the platform different from the rotatable dial, the fixed base platform having a slot, and the extension from the second cylinder extending through the slot in the platform.

[0025] According to the 19th aspect, in the 18th aspect, (i) the second cylinder further comprises a second extension portion, (ii) the fixed base platform further comprises an opening sized to receive the second extension portion, (iii) when the rotatable dial is arranged along a line parallel to the rotation axis closest to the fixed base platform, the second extension portion of the second cylinder is disposed within the opening of the fixed base platform and the rotatable dial cannot move along a plane parallel to the rotation axis, and (iv) when the rotatable dial is arranged along a line parallel to the rotation axis farthest from the fixed base platform, the second extension portion of the second cylinder is disposed within the opening of the fixed base platform and the rotatable dial can move along a plane parallel to the rotation axis.

[0026] According to a twentieth aspect, a user interface for a vehicle comprises: (1) a panel; (2) a display; and (3) a dial controller in communication with the display, the dial controller comprising: (a) a rotatable dial disposed on the panel, the rotatable dial (i) rotatable about an axis of rotation, (ii) linearly movable along a line parallel to the axis of rotation, and (iii) movable along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation; (b) a first sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and disposed below the panel, the first sensor generating an output that is a function of rotation of the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation; (c) a second sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and disposed below the panel, the second sensor generating an output that is a function of movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation; and (d) a third sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and disposed below the panel, the third sensor generating an output that is a function of movement of the rotatable dial along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0027] According to a twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, in the twentieth aspect, the dial controller further comprises (i) a selector button adjacent to the rotatable dial, the selector button being depressible onto the panel along a rotation axis of the rotatable dial, and (ii) a fourth sensor disposed on the panel and operably connected to the selector button, the fourth sensor generating an output that is a function of depression of the selector button.

[0028] According to a twenty-second aspect of the present disclosure, in the twenty-first aspect, (i) the display displays a menu of functions to use or control, (ii) rotation of the rotatable dial about an axis of rotation selects a function from the menu of functions to use or control, and (iii) depression of a selector button confirms the selection and enables use or control of the selected function.

[0029] According to a twenty-third aspect of the present disclosure, in the twenty-second aspect, rotation of the rotatable dial about an axis of rotation controls a controllable aspect of a selected function.

[0030] According to a 24th aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the 20th to 23rd aspects, (a) the panel has a slot disposed under the rotatable dial; (b) the dial controller further has a second cylinder through which the rotation axis of the rotatable dial extends; (c) the second cylinder has a first end disposed above the panel, about which the rotatable dial rotates, and a second end disposed below the panel, from which an extension extends, the extension terminating in a sensor contact surface that contacts the second sensor; and (d) the second sensor is (i) a sensor contact surface of the dial controller. A linear displacement sensor comprising: (i) a fixed portion statically mounted to a fixed base; and (ii) a movable portion contacting a sensor contact surface of a second cylinder, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion, wherein movement of the movable portion of the second sensor relative to the fixed portion of the second sensor modifies an output of the second sensor, (e) the movable portion is biased towards the sensor contact surface of the second cylinder, and (f) movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to a rotation axis of the rotatable dial moves the second cylinder and thus the movable portion of the second sensor.

[0031] According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in the twenty-fourth aspect, movement of the rotatable dial along a plane parallel to the rotation axis causes a second cylinder of the dial controller to move within a slot through the panel.

[0032] According to a 26th aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the 20th to 25th aspects, movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial changes the display from displaying one menu of functions to be used or controlled to displaying another menu of functions to be used or controlled.

[0033] According to a 27th aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the 20th to 26th aspects, (i) the user interface is disposed within the vehicle, and (ii) movement of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial causes the dial controller to control movement of the vehicle.

[0034] According to a 28th aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the 20th to 27th aspects, (a) the fixed base is disposed below a panel to which the third sensor is attached; (b) the second base is a second base disposed below a panel to which the rotatable dial is operably coupled, and (i) has a sensor contact surface and (ii) is movable along a plane parallel to the rotation axis; (c) the third sensor is a linear displacement sensor having (i) a fixed portion statically attached to the fixed base and (ii) a movable portion contacting the sensor contact surface of the second base, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion, and an output generated by the third sensor is a function of a position of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion; (d) the movable portion of the third sensor is biased toward the sensor contact surface of the second base; and (e) movement of the second base along a plane parallel to the rotation axis of the rotatable dial moves the movable portion of the third sensor.

[0035] According to a 29th aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the 20th to 28th aspects, (i) the user interface is disposed within the vehicle, and (ii) movement of the rotatable dial along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation causes the vehicle to move forward or backward.

[0036] According to a thirtieth aspect of the present disclosure, in the twenty-ninth aspect, rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis causes the vehicle to turn.

[0037] According to a thirty-first aspect of the present disclosure, in the twenty-first aspect, the rotatable dial, the selector button, and the fourth sensor are all disposed on the panel.

[0038] According to a thirty-second aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the twentieth to thirty-first aspects, the display is disposed below but is visible through the panel. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle illustrating in shadow a user interface within a phantom disposed within the interior of the vehicle. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an overhead perspective view from the interior of a vehicle illustrating the user interface of FIG. 1 including a dial controller having a rotatable dial in communication with a display disposed under a panel that is sufficiently transparent for passengers to view the display. [Diagram 3] 2 is a perspective view of the user interface of FIG. 1 illustrating a fixed base of a dial controller disposed below a panel and a rotatable dial disposed above the panel, as well as a rotatable dial including a selector button. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the user interface of FIG. 1 illustrating a rotatable dial having an axis of rotation about which a passenger can rotate the rotatable dial to access the user interface, and illustrating that a passenger can move the rotatable dial (e.g., up and down) along a line parallel to the axis of rotation and move the rotatable dial (e.g., back and forth) along a plane from which the axis of rotation extends to further access the user interface. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective exploded view of the user interface of FIG. 1 illustrating that the display is disposed below the panel but is visible through the panel. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an elevation view of a dial controller illustrating a first sensor that generates an output that is a function of rotation of a rotatable dial about an axis of rotation, and a second sensor that generates an output that is a function of the movement and position (e.g., up and down) of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is another elevational view of the dial controller illustrating a rotatable dial connected to a cylinder having a gear that drives a gear of a stepper motor, the rotation of which is sensed by a first sensor. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is another elevational view of the dial controller illustrating the first sensor disposed proximate to the stepper motor. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is another elevation view of the dial controller illustrating a second sensor including a movable portion that is biased to contact a fixed portion and a sensor contact surface operably coupled to the rotatable dial, such that when a passenger moves the rotatable dial (e.g., up or down) along a line parallel to the axis of rotation, the sensor contact surface and the movable portion of the second sensor move in a similar manner to generate an output indicative of the movement and position of the rotatable dial. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is an overhead view of a dial controller illustrating a fixed base and a second base coupled to the fixed base, the second base configured to move (e.g., forward or backward) when a passenger moves the rotatable dial along a plane in which the rotation axis extends, and including a sensor contact surface that manipulates a movable portion of a third sensor mounted to the fixed base such that the third sensor can generate an output indicative of the movement and position of the rotatable dial. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the dial controller illustrating a bracket extending from a fixed base platform for holding a second sensor. [Figure 12] 7 is a perspective view of a cross section of the dial controller taken through line XII-XII in FIG. 6, illustrating a first sensor disposed under the stepping motor. FIG. [Figure 13]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cross section of the dial controller taken through line XIII-XIII of FIG. 9 illustrating a rotatable dial operably connected to a second cylinder extending through the cylinder, the second cylinder including at least two recesses that cooperate with a retainer attached to the second base to maintain positioning (e.g., up and down) of the rotatable dial along a line parallel to the axis of rotation. [Figure 14] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cross section of the dial controller taken through line XIV-XIV of FIG. 7 illustrating an extension extending from a second cylinder terminating in a sensor contact surface that interacts with a second sensor, the extension extending through a slot through the platform of the fixed base, and the second extension extending from the second cylinder extending through an opening through the platform of the fixed base to lock the rotatable dial in position along a plane extending through the axis of rotation (e.g., back and forth) unless the occupant moves the rotatable dial (up) away from the fixed base along a line parallel to the axis of rotation such that the second extension is withdrawn from the opening. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dial controller illustrating a slot through a fixed-base platform that is elongated parallel to a plane through which a rotation axis extends (e.g., back and forth) to allow an extension that interacts with a second sensor to move through the slot as a passenger manipulates the rotatable dial (e.g., back and forth) along the plane. [Figure 16] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cross section of the dial controller taken through line XVI-XVI of FIG. 6 illustrating a pair of braces attached to the second base that extend at least partially around the second cylinder to maintain the second cylinder in place, and a pair of braces having a key that extends into a receiver of the second cylinder to prevent substantial rotation of the second cylinder when a occupant rotates the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation. [Figure 17]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the user interface of FIG. 1 having a dial controller illustrating a display that displays a menu of available or controllable functions from which an occupant can select via a rotatable dial and selector button. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a subsequent moment in time to FIG. 17, in which the passenger selects a different function to control from a menu and utilizes a rotatable dial to control a controllable aspect of that function (e.g., increasing the audio volume). [Figure 19] 2 is a schematic diagram of a controller of the vehicle of FIG. 1 illustrating, among other things, the controller in communication with a display of a user interface and a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor of a dial controller; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] 1 and 2, a vehicle 10 includes a user interface 12. The vehicle 10 includes an interior 14, and the user interface 12 is disposed within the vehicle 10 accessible from the interior 14. The vehicle 10 includes panels 16, doors 18, and windows 20 that separate the interior 14 from an environment 22 external to the vehicle 10.

[0041] Vehicle 10 includes a propulsion source 24, such as an electric motor or an internal combustion engine (or both), that propels vehicle 10. Vehicle 10 may include wheels 26. Propulsion source 24 may rotate wheels 26 and thus propel vehicle 10. Vehicle 10 is configured to receive one or more passengers 28 within interior 14 and to transport one or more passengers 28.

[0042] In an embodiment, the vehicle 10 includes a seating assembly 30 for one or more passengers 28. In an embodiment, as illustrated, the user interface 12 is disposed inboard of the seating assembly 30 and generally laterally between the passengers 28 seated on the seating assembly 30. The vehicle 10 is generally capable of autonomous driving and, in an embodiment, lacks a traditional steering wheel mounted on either front of the seating assembly 30.

[0043] However, in an embodiment, the vehicle 10 includes a steering wheel. The vehicle 10 may be a car, a truck, a sports utility vehicle, a van, a passenger train, or an airplane, among other options.

[0044] 3-5, in an embodiment, the user interface 12 includes a panel 32, a display 34, and a dial controller 36. In an embodiment, the panel 32 isolates the display 34 from the interior 14. However, the panel 32 is sufficiently transparent in the area above the display 34 such that the display 34 is viewable from the interior 14 through the panel 32.

[0045] Panel 32 may be a plastic or glass material. In essence, display 34 is disposed below panel 32 but is viewable through panel 32. Display 34 may be a flat panel display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) display, among other options.

[0046] As discussed further below, the user interface 12 can visually communicate with the passenger 28 via the display 34, and the passenger 28 can communicate with the user interface 12 via the display 34 and the dial controller 36. In an embodiment, a panel separate from the panel 32 is disposed above the display 34.

[0047] 6-16, the dial controller 36 includes a rotatable dial 38, a first sensor 40, a second sensor 42, and a third sensor 44. The first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, and the third sensor 44 all generate outputs and are operatively connected to the rotatable dial 38.

[0048] In other words, movement of the rotatable dial 38 changes the output of one or more of the first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, and the third sensor 44. The dial controller 36 further includes a fixed base 46 that is attached to the vehicle 10. The panel 32 of the user interface 12 separates the fixed base 46 from the interior 14. In short, the fixed base 46 of the dial controller 36 is disposed below the panel 32.

[0049] The rotatable dial 38 is rotatable about an axis of rotation 48. From an overhead perspective as illustrated in FIG. 10 , the rotatable dial 38 can rotate in both a clockwise direction 50 about the axis of rotation 48 and a counterclockwise direction 52 about the axis of rotation 48. To rotate the rotatable dial 38, the occupant 28 applies a torque to the rotatable dial 38 about the axis of rotation 48. The rotatable dial 38 is open to the interior 14, thus allowing such interaction with the occupant 28.

[0050] As mentioned, the first sensor 40 is operatively connected to the rotatable dial 38. In an embodiment, the dial controller 36 further includes a cylinder 54. The rotation axis 48 extends through the cylinder 54. The cylinder 54 extends about the rotation axis 48. The cylinder 54 has a first end 56 and a second end 58 along the rotation axis 48. The rotatable dial 38 is attached to the first end 56 of the cylinder 54. The second end 58 of the cylinder 54 has a gear 60. Thus, rotation of the rotatable dial 38 about the rotation axis 48 rotates the cylinder 54, which rotates the gear 60 at the second end 58 of the cylinder 54.

[0051] In an embodiment, the dial controller 36 further includes a stepper motor 62. The stepper motor 62 includes a shaft 64 and a gear 66 attached to the shaft 64. The gear 66 of the stepper motor 62 is operatively connected to a gear 60 on the second end 58 of the cylinder 54 that is attached to the rotatable dial 38. Rotation of the gear 60 on the cylinder 54 (due to rotation of the rotatable dial 38) therefore rotates the gear 66 of the stepper motor 62, which rotates the shaft 64 of the stepper motor 62. The shaft 64 of the stepper motor 62 is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38.

[0052] In an embodiment, the first sensor 40 is a rotary encoder 68. The rotary encoder 68 is positioned relative to the stepper motor 62 such that the rotary encoder 68 generates an output that is a function of a portion of a rotation of the shaft 64 of the rotary encoder 68. Thus, as the rotatable dial 38 rotates, the shaft 64 of the stepper motor 62 rotates and the rotary encoder 68 generates an output from which each portion of a rotation of the shaft 64 can be identified. The direction of rotation of the rotatable dial 38 can also be determined from the output of the rotary encoder 68. Thus, the output of the first sensor 40, in this example the rotary encoder, is a function of the rotation of the rotatable dial 38 about the axis of rotation 48 because the rotation of the rotatable dial 38 causes the shaft 64 to rotate.

[0053] In an embodiment, the first sensor 40 is a Hall sensor. In such an embodiment, a magnet may be attached to the shaft 64 and the Hall sensor may be mounted anywhere, such as at the bracket 110 to which the stepper motor 62 is mounted, or at the stepper motor 62, where a portion of the rotation of the shaft 64, and therefore a change in the position of the magnet attached to the shaft 64, produces a change in a magnetic field that the Hall sensor can sense and produce an associated output.

[0054] The stepper motor 62 resists the rotation of the shaft 64, and therefore the rotation of the rotatable dial 38, during each portion of a rotation of the shaft 64. Torque applied to the rotatable dial 38 (such as from the occupant 28) is necessary to overcome the resistance provided by the stepper motor 62 and rotate the shaft 64 a portion of its rotation. The resistance provided by the stepper motor 62 after each portion of a rotation of the shaft 64 prevents the rotatable dial 38 from rotating freely and provides tactile feedback to the occupant 28 using the dial controller 36, as discussed further below.

[0055] The rotatable dial 38 is disposed on the panel 32, exposing the rotatable dial 38 to the interior 14 of the vehicle 10. Thus, the occupant 28 can operate the rotatable dial 38. The panel 32 includes a slot 70 (see FIG. 5). The slot 70 is disposed below the rotatable dial 38. The cylinder 54 attached to the rotatable dial 38 extends through the slot 70 in the panel 32.

[0056] In an embodiment, the dial controller 36 further includes a second cylinder 72 (see FIGS. 13, 14, and 16) from which the rotation axis 48 of the rotatable dial 38 extends. The second cylinder 72 includes a first end 74 and a second end 76. The rotatable dial 38 rotates about the first end 74 of the second cylinder 72. In other words, when the rotatable dial 38 rotates about the rotation axis 48, the second cylinder 72 does not rotate (i.e., remains rotationally static). The first end 74 of the second cylinder 72 is disposed above the panel 32, while the second end 76 of the second cylinder 72 is disposed below the panel 32.

[0057] The second cylinder 72 is operatively connected to the second sensor 42. In an embodiment, an extension 78 extends from a second end 76 of the second cylinder 72 substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38 and away from the first end 74 of the second cylinder 72. The extension 78 terminates in a sensor contact surface 80. The sensor contact surface 80 is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38. The sensor contact surface 80 contacts the second sensor 42.

[0058] As mentioned, the second sensor 42 is operably connected to the rotatable dial 38. In an embodiment, the second sensor 42 includes a fixed portion 82 and a moveable portion 84. The moveable portion 84 is moveable relative to the fixed portion 82. The fixed portion 82 of the second sensor 42 is statically mounted to the fixed base 46 of the dial controller 36, which is mounted to the vehicle 10.

[0059] For example, as illustrated, the fixed base 46 may include a platform 86 substantially orthogonal to the axis of rotation 48, with the rotatable dial 38 disposed on one side 88 of the platform 86 and the second sensor 42 disposed on an opposite side 90 of the platform 86 as the rotatable dial 38. The fixed base 46 may include a bracket 92 extending away from the opposite side 90 from the platform 86, with the fixed portion 82 of the second sensor 42 attached to the bracket 92.

[0060] The movable portion 84 of the second sensor 42 is biased, such as by a spring within the fixed portion 82, into contact with the sensor contact surface 80 of the second cylinder 72. The platform 86 of the fixed base 46 includes a slot 94 (see FIGS. 14 and 15). The extension 78 from the second cylinder 72 extends through the slot 94 in the platform 86.

[0061] The rotatable dial 38 is movable along a line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48. In an embodiment, the line 96 is co-extending with the axis of rotation 48. Movement of the rotatable dial 38 along the line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38 moves the second cylinder 72 and therefore the moveable portion 84 of the second sensor 42.

[0062] More specifically, a force applied to the rotatable dial 38 away from the fixed base 46 causes the rotatable dial 38 to move in the direction 98 (e.g., upward). The rotatable dial 38 likewise causes the cylinder 54 to move in the direction 98. The stepper motor 62, and therefore the gear 66 attached to the stepper motor 62, do not move in the direction 98.

[0063] However, the gear 60 of the cylinder 54 has a height 99 sufficient to maintain operable contact with the gear 66 of the stepper motor 62 while the cylinder 54, and thus the gear 60, moves in the direction 98. Thus, rotation of the rotatable dial 38 still rotates the gears 60, 66, enabling the first sensor 40 to generate an output as a function of rotation of the rotatable dial 38. The cylinder 54 includes a flange 100 extending generally radially away from the axis of rotation 48, and the second cylinder 72 includes a flange 102 (see FIGS. 13 and 14) extending radially away from the axis of rotation 48. The flange 100 of the cylinder 54 is disposed between the fixed base 46 and the flange 102 of the second cylinder 72.

[0064] A flange 100 of cylinder 54 opposes a flange 102 of second cylinder 72. Thus, movement of cylinder 54 in direction 98 brings flange 100 of cylinder 54 into contact with flange 102 of second cylinder 72, likewise pushing second cylinder 72 in direction 98. Extension 78 is attached to second cylinder 72 as noted. Thus, as second cylinder 72 moves in direction 98, extension 78 also moves in slot 94 through platform 86 of fixed base 46.

[0065] The extension 78 terminates in a sensor contact surface 80 and the moveable portion 84 of the second sensor 42 is biased into contact with the sensor contact surface 80 such that movement of the sensor contact surface 80 in the direction 98 causes the moveable portion 84 of the second sensor 42 to move in the direction 98 as well. Ball bearings (not illustrated) may be disposed between a flange 102 of the second cylinder 72 and a flange 100 of the cylinder 54 to reduce friction as the cylinder 54 rotates about the axis of rotation 48 while the second cylinder 72 is not rotating.

[0066] The rotatable dial 38 can be pushed along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38 in a direction 104 opposite direction 98 (e.g., downward), i.e., toward the fixed base 46. As the rotatable dial 38 moves in the direction 104 toward the fixed base 46, the cylinder 54 and the second cylinder 72 move in that direction 104 as well. Thus, movement of the second cylinder 72 in the direction 104 similarly causes the extension 78, the sensor contact surface 80, and the movable portion 84 of the second sensor 42 to move in the direction 104.

[0067] The second sensor 42 generates an output that varies as a function of movement of the rotatable dial 38 along a line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38. In an embodiment, the second sensor 42 is a linear displacement sensor. Movement of the movable portion 84 of the second sensor 42 relative to the fixed portion 82 of the second sensor 42 modifies the output of the second sensor 42. Thus, the positioning and movement of the rotatable dial 38 along the line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48 can be determined based on the output generated by the second sensor 42.

[0068] In an embodiment, the second sensor 42 is a Hall sensor, which may be mounted as a fixed part 82. Instead of a movable part 84 as described above, a magnet may be mounted on the sensor contact surface 80 of the second cylinder 72. Movement of the sensor contact surface 80 thus moves the magnet mounted thereon, and thus modifies the output of the Hall sensor. Thus, the positioning and movement of the rotatable dial 38 along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 may be determined based on the output generated by the second sensor 42 as a Hall sensor.

[0069] In an embodiment, the dial controller 36 further includes a second base 106 coupled to the fixed base 46 and operably coupled to the rotatable dial 38. The second base 106, like the fixed base 46, is disposed below the panel 32. The second base 106 includes a platform 108 that is generally perpendicular to the axis of rotation 48 and parallel to the platform 86 of the fixed base 46.

[0070] The second base 106 includes a bracket 110 to which the stepper motor 62 is mounted, which prevents movement of the stepper motor 62 and maintains the gear 60 in operative contact with the gear 66 upon rotation of the rotatable dial 38 about the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38.

[0071] The second base 106 further includes a pair of braces 112 extending from the platform 108 generally parallel to the axis of rotation 48 toward the rotatable dial 38. One brace 112 faces the other brace 112, with the second cylinder 72 disposed between the braces 112. The braces 112 extend radially around at least a portion of the second cylinder 72. The braces 112 maintain the second cylinder 72 aligned with the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38.

[0072] Each brace 112 includes a key 114 (see FIG. 16 ) that is generally parallel to the axis of rotation 48 and directed toward the second cylinder 72. The second cylinder 72 includes a pair of receivers 116 that receive the keys 114 of the braces 112. The keys 114 of the braces 112 cooperate with the receivers 116 of the second cylinder 72 to substantially prevent the second cylinder 72 from rotating about the axis of rotation 48 when the rotatable dial 38 rotates about the axis of rotation 48. However, because the keys 114 and receivers 116 run parallel to the axis of rotation 48, the keys 114 allow the second cylinder 72 to move in either direction 98, 104 (e.g., up or down) along a line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48.

[0073] The second base 106 further includes a retainer 118. The retainer 118 protrudes from the second base 106 toward the second cylinder 72. For example, in an embodiment, the second base 106 includes a bracket 120 extending from the platform 108 in the direction 98. The bracket 120 holds a housing 122 for the retainer 118. The retainer 118 can be stored within the housing 122, allowing the retainer 118 to be movable away from the second cylinder 72. However, a spring 124 (see FIG. 13 ) within the housing 122 biases the retainer 118 toward the second cylinder 72.

[0074] The second cylinder 72 further includes at least two recesses 126. The at least two recesses 126 are disposed between the first end 74 and the second end 76 of the second cylinder 72, with each recess 126 being spaced differently between the first end 74 and the second end 76.

[0075] In other words, the at least two recesses 126 are disposed sequentially along the second cylinder 72, progressing from the first end 74 to the second end 76 of the second cylinder 72. Although the illustrated embodiment includes two recesses 126, the second cylinder 72 can include more than two recesses 126, such as three, four, five, ten, fifty, etc.

[0076] The retainer 118 and the at least two recesses 126 are positioned relative to one another such that the retainer 118 can project into one of the at least two recesses 126 of the second cylinder 72 at a time. Which of the at least two recesses 126 the retainer 118 projects into depends on the position of the rotatable dial 38, and thus the second cylinder 72, along a line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48.

[0077] The retainer 118, disposed within one of the at least two recesses 126, maintains the positioning of the rotatable dial 38 along a line 96 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48. Maintaining the positioning of the rotatable dial 38 prevents the second sensor 42 from generating an output indicative of a change in position.

[0078] The portion of the retainer 118 that interacts with the at least one recess 126 is rounded, and each of the at least two recesses 126 is at a different angle perpendicular to the axis of rotation 48. Thus, a force can be applied to the rotatable dial 38 along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 that overcomes the bias of the retainer 118 into one of the at least two recesses 126 of the second cylinder 72. The second cylinder 72 thus moves (depending on the force) in either a direction 98 (e.g., up) or a direction 104 (e.g., down) along the line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 until the retainer 118 aligns with another of the at least two recesses 126 and the spring 124 biases the retainer 118 into that one of the at least two recesses 126.

[0079] In addition to being rotatable about a rotation axis 48 and being linearly movable along a line 96 parallel to the rotation axis 48, the rotatable dial 38 is movable along a plane 128 (see FIGS. 4 and 10) parallel to the rotation axis 48. In embodiments such as the one illustrated, the rotatable dial 38 is movable along a line 130 that lies on the plane 128 that is perpendicular to the rotation axis 48. The rotatable dial 38 can move along the line 130 in either a direction 132 (e.g., forward) or a direction 134 (e.g., rearward) that is opposite the direction 132. The direction 132 can be generally forward relative to the vehicle 10, and the direction 134 can be generally rearward relative to the vehicle 10. In other embodiments, the rotatable dial 38 is movable along an arc that lies on the plane 128.

[0080] The fixed base 46 further includes a pair of parallel rails 136 (see FIGS. 14 and 16 ) on the platform 86 that extend from the platform 86 toward the platform 108 of the second base 106. One of the rails 136 is disposed on one side of the plane 128. The other of the rails 136 is disposed on the opposite side of the plane 128. The second base 106 further includes a pair of guides 138, each of which cooperates with one of the pair of rails 136 of the fixed base 46 to allow the second base 106 to move on the pair of rails 136 along the plane 128 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48 (and line 130) while the fixed base 46 remains fixed in place.

[0081] The pair of guides 138 and the pair of rails 136 further cooperate to substantially prevent movement of the second base 106 along a line 96 parallel to the rotation axis 48. Thus, when the rotatable dial 38 moves in a direction 98 in the line 96 parallel to the rotation axis 48, the second base 106 is not lifted off the fixed base 46. The pair of guides 138 and the pair of rails 136 further cooperate to substantially prevent the second base 106 from rotating relative to the fixed base 46 in response to the rotatable dial 38 rotating about the rotation axis 48.

[0082] As the rotatable dial 38 moves along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48, the rotatable dial 38 forces the cylinder 54 and the second cylinder 72 to move along the plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 as well. A brace 112 extending up from the platform 108 of the second base 106 prevents the second cylinder 72 from tilting in the direction 132, causing the second base 106 to move. In addition, the cylinder 54 and the second cylinder 72 move in a slot 70 through the panel 32. The slot 70 through the panel 32 is sufficiently elongated along the plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 to allow the cylinder 54 (and thus the second cylinder 72) to move away from neutral in both the direction 132 and the direction 134. Similarly, the extension 78 from the second cylinder 72 moves within the slot 94 and through the platform 86 of the fixed base 46 as the rotatable dial 38 moves along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 .

[0083] As mentioned, the third sensor 44 of the dial controller 36 is operably connected to the rotatable dial 38. The third sensor 44 is mounted to a fixed base 46. The second base 106 further includes a sensor contact surface 140. The third sensor 44 includes a fixed portion 142 and a moveable portion 144. The fixed portion 142 is statically mounted to the fixed base 46.

[0084] The movable portion 144 contacts the sensor contact surface 140 of the second base 106. The movable portion 144 of the third sensor 44 is movable relative to the fixed portion 142 and can be retracted and retracted from the fixed portion 142 of the third sensor 44 in response to movement of the second base 106 and thus the sensor contact surface 140 of the second base 106. The movable portion 144 of the third sensor 44 is biased towards the sensor contact surface 140 of the second base 106. The movable portion 144 of the third sensor 44 is parallel to the plane 128.

[0085] Thus, as the second base 106 moves along the plane 128 , the sensor contact surface 140 of the second base 106 causes the moveable portion 144 of the third sensor 44 to move relative to the fixed portion 142 .

[0086] The third sensor 44 generates an output that is a function of the positioning and movement of the rotatable dial 38 along a plane 128 that is parallel to the axis of rotation 48. For example, the third sensor 44 may be a linear displacement sensor, where the generated output is a function of the position of the moveable portion 144 relative to the fixed portion 142. Thus, the position of the rotatable dial 38 along the plane 128 can be determined as a function of the output generated by the third sensor 44.

[0087] In an embodiment, the third sensor 44 is a Hall sensor. The Hall sensor may be mounted to a fixed base 46, the fixed portion 142 of which is described above. A magnet may be mounted to the sensor contact surface 140. Thus, the output that the Hall sensor generates as the third sensor 44 is a function of the position of the magnet on the sensor contact surface 140 relative to the Hall sensor. Thus, the position of the rotatable dial 38 along the plane 128 may be determined as a function of the output that the third sensor 44 generates.

[0088] In an embodiment, the rotatable dial 38 is biased to a neutral position that is not extreme in the direction 132 or not extreme in the direction 134. The fixed base 46 further includes a first wall 146 and a second wall 148 opposite the first wall 146. Both the first wall 146 and the second wall 148 of the fixed base 46 extend from the platform 86 of the fixed base 46 in the same direction 98 as the pair of parallel rails 136 extend. The second base 106 and the pair of parallel rails 136 are disposed between the first wall 146 and the second wall 148 of the fixed base 46.

[0089] A first spring 150 (see FIGS. 10, 13, and 16) is connected to both the first wall 146 of the fixed base 46 and the second base 106. A second spring 152 is connected to both the second wall 148 of the fixed base 46 and the second base 106. Thus, the first spring 150 and the second spring 152 pull the second base 106 in opposite directions 132, 134, thus biasing the second base 106 (and the rotatable dial 38) to a neutral position along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48.

[0090] When a force sufficient to overcome the resistance provided by either the first spring 150 or the second spring 152 is applied to the rotatable dial 38, this force thus moves the second base 106, and thus the rotatable dial 38, along the plane 128, while simultaneously supplying power to one of the springs 150, 152. After the force stops, either of the energized springs 150, 152 returns the second base 106, and thus the rotatable dial 38, to the neutral position.

[0091] In the embodiment, in addition to or as an alternative to the first spring 150 and the second spring 152, the dial controller 36 further includes magnets 153a, 153b, 155a, and 155b. The magnets 153a and 153b are attached to the fixed base 46, specifically, the first wall 146 and the second wall 148, respectively. The magnets 155a and 155b are attached to the second base 106 at positions facing the magnets 153a and 153b, respectively, such as on the opposite side of the platform 108. The magnets 153a and 155a generate magnetic fields that face each other. The magnets 153b and 155b generate magnetic fields that face each other.

[0092] Thus, the magnets 153a, 153b, 155a, and 155b bias the second base 106 (and the rotatable dial 38) to a neutral position along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48. When a force sufficient to overcome the resistance provided by either the opposing magnetic fields of the magnets 153a and 155a or 153b and 155b is applied to the rotatable dial 38, this force thus moves the second base 106, and thus the rotatable dial 38, along the plane 128, while simultaneously opposing the opposing magnetic force of one of the pairs of magnets 153a / 155a or 153b / 155b with greater vigor. After the force stops, the opposing magnetic force of the magnet pair 153a / 155a or 153b / 155b returns the second base 106, and thus the rotatable dial 38, to the neutral position where the opposing magnetic forces are balanced.

[0093] In an embodiment, the rotatable dial 38 is not movable from the neutral position along the plane 128 unless the rotatable dial 38 is moved away from the second base 106 (e.g., upward) along a line 96 that is parallel to the rotation axis 48. For example, as illustrated, the second cylinder 72 can further include a second extension 154 that extends parallel to the extension 78.

[0094] The platform 86 of the fixed base 46 further includes an opening 156 in or through the platform 86 sized to receive the second extension 154. When the rotatable dial 38 is positioned along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 closest to the platform 86 of the fixed base 46 (e.g., downward), the second extension 154 of the second cylinder 72 is disposed within the opening 156 of the platform 86 of the fixed base 46.

[0095] Thus, the rotatable dial 38 cannot move in either direction 132 (e.g., forward) or direction 134 (e.g., backward) along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48. The opening 156 blocks movement of the second extension 154, and thus, movement of the rotatable dial 38. However, when the rotatable dial 38 is positioned along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 furthest from the platform 86 of the fixed base 46 (e.g., upward), the second extension 154 of the second cylinder 72 is disposed within the opening 156 in the platform 86 of the fixed base 46.

[0096] Thus, the rotatable dial 38 can move along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 when sufficient force is applied to overcome the resistance provided by either the first spring 150 or the second spring 152 (and / or the resistance provided by the opposing magnetic fields of the magnets 153a / 155a or 153b / 155b). The opening 156 no longer blocks the movement of the second extension 154.

[0097] In an embodiment, the dial controller 36 further includes a selector button 158 proximate to the rotatable dial 38. The rotatable dial 38 may radially surround the selector button 158 about the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38, as illustrated, such that the selector button 158 intersects the axis of rotation 48. As the rotatable dial 38 rotates about the axis of rotation 48, the selector button 158 does not rotate about the axis of rotation 48. In other embodiments, the selector button 158 may rotate as the rotatable dial 38 rotates.

[0098] In an embodiment, the dial controller 36 further includes a fourth sensor 160 (see FIGS. 13 and 14). The fourth sensor 160 is operably connected to the selector button 158. The fourth sensor 160 includes a fixed portion 162 and a movable portion 164. The fixed portion 162 of the fourth sensor 160 is attached to the first end 74 of the second cylinder 72 between the second cylinder 72 and the selector button 158. The selector button 158 is depressible along the axis of rotation 48 of the rotatable dial 38. The movable portion 164 is a cantilever spring biased to move the selector button 158 away from the second cylinder 72 along the axis of rotation 48, i.e., away from being depressed (e.g., upwards).

[0099] The fourth sensor 160 generates an output that is a function of depression of the selector button 158. For example, the fourth sensor 160 may include a switch 166 between a moveable portion 164 of the fourth sensor 160 and a fixed portion 162 of the fourth sensor 160. When the occupant 28 presses the selector button 158, the selector button 158 presses the moveable portion 164, which activates the switch 166 and generates an output indicating that the selector button 158 is pressed. In an embodiment, the fourth sensor 160 is disposed on the panel 32 of the user interface 12 along with the rotatable dial 38 and the selector button 158.

[0100] In an embodiment, the first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, and the third sensor 44 are all disposed below the panel 32 and hidden from view from the interior 14. In contrast, the rotatable dial 38 and the selector button 158 are disposed above the panel 32. Thus, the occupant 28 can manipulate the rotatable dial 38 and the selector button 158 to control various functions of the vehicle 10. The fourth sensor 160 of the embodiment is also disposed above the panel 32 but hidden from view from the interior 14 by the selector button 158 and the rotatable dial 38.

[0101] 17-18, the dial controller 36 is in communication with the display 34. In an embodiment, the display 34 displays a menu 168 of functions that can be selected to use or control the functions.

[0102] For example, the menu of functions 168 may include functions such as navigation 170, interior climate control 172, communications 174, audio 176, etc. The user interface 12 allows the occupant 28 to use the dial controller 36 to select a function from the menu of functions 168 to use or control.

[0103] More specifically, the occupant 28 rotates the rotatable dial 38 about the axis of rotation 48 to scroll through the menu of features 168 and select a feature from the menu 168 for use or control. In Figure 17, the navigation 170 feature is currently selected for use or control. However, by rotating the rotatable dial 38 in the clockwise direction 50, the first sensor 40 generates an output indicating that the rotatable dial 38 is rotated in the clockwise direction 50 (as described above), and the display 34 scrolls between the features of the menu of features 168, one feature at a time.

[0104] As explained above, the stepper motor 62 resists rotation of the rotatable dial 38 and the occupant 28 must overcome the resistance to rotate the rotatable dial 38 a portion of a rotation (in an embodiment), thus causing the display 34 to scroll to the next function in the menu of functions 168. For example, the occupant 28 overcomes the resistance of the stepper motor 62 once and rotates the rotatable dial 38 a portion of a rotation, and the display 34 displays the interior climate control 172 function for use or control.

[0105] The occupant 28 overcomes the resistance a second time and rotates the rotatable dial 38 another portion of the rotation, and the display 34 displays the communications 174 category as the function to use or control. Finally, the occupant 28 overcomes the resistance a third time and rotates the rotatable dial 38 another portion of the rotation, and the display 34 displays the audio 176 function to use or control, as illustrated in FIGURE 18. Depression of the selector button 158 by the occupant 28 confirms the selection and allows the occupant 28 to use or control the selected function.

[0106] As described above, the fourth sensor 160 generates an output indicative of the depression of the selector button 158, and the user interface 12 enables the occupant 28 to use or control a function selected from the menu 168.

[0107] In an embodiment, the user interface 12 causes the display 34 to display the controllable aspects 178 of a selected function. Rotation of the rotatable dial 38 about the axis of rotation 48 selects a particular aspect 178 for control, and depression of the selector button 158 confirms the selection.

[0108] For example, as in FIG. 17, the occupant 28 can rotate the rotatable dial 38 between navigable locations and press the selector button 158 to confirm the selection - the navigation system then navigates the vehicle 10 to the selected navigable location.

[0109] As another example, as in Fig. 18, the passenger 28 can rotate the rotatable dial 38 between aspects 178 associated with an audio 176 function, such as a playlist or volume. The display 34 then displays the particular aspect 178 to, for example, control the volume of the audio 176 function. Rotation of the rotatable dial 38 controls a controllable aspect - in the case of Fig. 18, increasing or decreasing the volume of the audio 176 in the vehicle 10. Again, the resistance that the stepper motor 62 applies to the rotatable dial 38 must be overcome in order to rotate the rotatable dial 38 at a rate of rotation to cause a change in the controllable aspect 178 - in the case of Fig. 18, an incremental increase or decrease in volume, or a change in a song in a list of songs in a playlist.

[0110] In an embodiment, movement of the rotatable dial 38 (e.g., up or down) along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 causes the display 34 to change from one menu 168 of functions to be used or controlled to another menu 168 of functions to be used or controlled. For example, when the rotatable dial 38 is positioned closer to the panel 32, the display 34 displays the menu 168 of functions already described. However, when the rotatable dial 38 is positioned further away from the panel 32 (i.e., raised upward), the second sensor 42 generates an output indicative of such positioning and the user interface 12 causes the display 34 to display another menu 168 of functions, such as interior lighting control, vehicle diagnostics, seat position adjustment, etc.

[0111] In an embodiment, movement of the rotatable dial 38 along a line 96 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 causes the dial controller 36 to control the movement of the vehicle 10. For example, when the rotatable dial 38 is positioned closer to the panel 32, the display 34 displays a menu 168 of the functions previously described.

[0112] However, when the rotatable dial 38 is positioned further away from the panel 32 (i.e., raised upward), the second sensor 42 generates an output indicative of such positioning, and the vehicle 10 enables the occupant 28 to control movement of the vehicle 10 using the dial controller 36. In an embodiment, movement of the rotatable dial 38 along a plane 128 parallel to the axis of rotation 48 causes the vehicle 10 to move forward or backward.

[0113] When the occupant 28 pushes the rotatable dial 38 in a direction 132 (e.g., forward), the third sensor 44 generates such an output and the user interface 12 causes the propulsion source 24 to move the vehicle 10 in that direction 132. When the occupant 28 pushes the rotatable dial 38 in a direction 134 (e.g., backward), the third sensor 44 generates such an output and the user interface 12 causes the propulsion source 24 to move the vehicle 10 in that direction 134. When the vehicle 10 is moving, the first sensor 40 generates such an output and causes the vehicle 10 to rotate when the occupant 28 causes the rotatable dial 38 to rotate about the axis of rotation 48.

[0114] Assuming the vehicle 10 is moving in a direction 132 (e.g., forward), the occupant 28 will rotate the rotatable dial 38 in a clockwise direction 50 to cause the vehicle 10 to turn right. Assuming the vehicle 10 is moving in a direction 132 (e.g., forward), the occupant 28 will rotate the rotatable dial 38 in a counterclockwise direction 52 to cause the vehicle 10 to turn left. The ability of the dial controller 36 to control the movement of the vehicle 10 is particularly beneficial where the vehicle 10 lacks a traditional steering wheel.

[0115] With the user interface 12 implementing the dial controller 36, the passenger 28 can easily access virtually every controllable aspect of the vehicle 10. From climate and audio 176 control to moving the vehicle 10, the passenger 28 can control it all with the dial controller 36. The passenger 28 does not have to navigate by pressing and swiping a touch screen user interface. The location of the particular function to be controlled is easily learned and controllable by either rotating the rotatable dial 38, raising or lowering the rotatable dial 38, or pushing forward / pulling the rotatable dial 38.

[0116] 19, the vehicle 10 further includes a controller 180. The controller 180 includes a processor 172 and a memory 174. The memory 174 stores programs that the processor 172 executes to perform functions commanded by the user interface 12.

[0117] The controller 180 is in communication with and accepts as inputs the outputs of the first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, the third sensor 44, and the fourth sensor 160 of the dial controller 36. The controller 180 further communicates with and controls the propulsion source 24 and the display 34. In an embodiment, the controller further communicates with and controls the stepper motor 62. The menu of functions 168 may be stored in the memory 174. The controller 180 may cause the display 34 to display the menu of functions 168.

[0118] The controller 180 causes the display 34 to display different menus 168, scroll between functions of the menus 168, and display controllable aspects 178 of the selected function according to outputs received from the first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, the third sensor 44, and the fourth sensor 160 of the dial controller 36, as described above. In an embodiment, the controller 180 also controls the selected controllable aspect 178 according to outputs received from the first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, the third sensor 44, and the fourth sensor 160 of the dial controller 36, e.g., change the volume to a speaker in the vehicle 10, change the output to an interior light, change a seat position, etc.

[0119] As mentioned, the controller 180 is in communication with the propulsion source 24 of the vehicle 10 and, in response to outputs received from the first sensor 40, the second sensor 42, the third sensor 44, and the fourth sensor 160 of the dial controller 36, can cause the propulsion source 24 to propel the vehicle 10 in accordance with user commands at the dial controller 36.

Claims

1. A dial controller for a vehicle, comprising: a rotatable dial that (i) is rotatable about a rotation axis, (ii) is linearly movable along a line parallel to the rotation axis, and (iii) is movable along a plane parallel to the rotation axis; a first sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial, the first sensor generating an output that is a function of the rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis; a second sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial, the second sensor generating an output that is a function of the movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the rotation axis; a third sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial, the third sensor generating an output that is a function of the movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the rotation axis; a dial controller.

2. a selector button proximate to the rotatable dial, the selector button being depressible along the rotation axis of the rotatable dial; a fourth sensor operably connected to the selector button, the fourth sensor generating an output that is a function of the depression of the selector button; The dial controller according to claim 1.

3. the rotatable dial surrounds the selector button about the rotation axis of the rotatable dial; the selector button intersects the rotation axis of the rotatable dial; when the rotatable dial rotates about the rotation axis, the selector button does not rotate about the rotation axis; the selector button is biased along the rotation axis to avoid being depressed; The dial controller according to claim 2.

4. rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis selects a function from a menu of functions to be used or controlled; depression of the selector button confirms the selection and enables use or control of the selected function; The dial controller according to claim 2.

5. The first sensor is a rotary encoder or a hall sensor; The dial controller according to claim 1.

6. further comprising a stepper motor comprising a shaft and a gear attached to the shaft; The rotatable dial is attached to a first end of a cylinder along which the rotation axis extends. The cylinder further comprises a second end and a gear at the second end operably connected to the gear of the stepper motor. Rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis rotates the cylinder, and thus rotates the gear at the second end of the cylinder. Rotation of the gear of the cylinder rotates the gear of the stepper motor, and rotation of the gear of the stepper motor rotates the shaft of the stepper motor. The first sensor is positioned relative to the stepper motor to generate an output that is a function of a portion of the rotation of the shaft. The stepper motor resists rotation of the shaft, and thus rotation of the rotatable dial, at each portion of the rotation of the shaft. Torque applied to the rotatable dial is required to overcome the resistance. The dial controller according to claim 5.

7. Rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis selects a function from a menu of functions to be used or controlled. The resistance that the stepper motor applies to the rotatable dial must be overcome to rotate the rotatable dial through a portion of the rotation to scroll to the next function in the menu of functions. The dial controller according to claim 6.

8. Rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis controls a controllable aspect of the selected function. The resistance that the stepper motor applies to the rotatable dial must be overcome to rotate the rotatable dial through a portion of the rotation to cause a change in the controllable aspect. The dial controller according to claim 6.

9. The shaft of the stepper motor is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the rotatable dial. The dial controller according to claim 6.

10. A second cylinder along which the rotation axis of the rotatable dial extends, the second cylinder comprising a first end about which the rotatable dial rotates and a second end from which an extension extends, the extension terminating in a sensor contact surface that contacts the second sensor. The second sensor includes (i) a fixed portion that is statically attached to a fixed base of the dial controller, and (ii) a movable portion that contacts a sensor contact surface of the second cylinder, and is a linear displacement sensor, the movable portion is movable relative to the fixed portion, and the movement of the movable portion of the second sensor relative to the fixed portion of the second sensor modifies the output of the second sensor, the movable portion is biased toward the sensor contact surface of the second cylinder, movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial moves the second cylinder, and thus moves the movable portion of the second sensor, The dial controller according to claim 1.

11. A second base coupled to the fixed base, the fixed base substantially rejecting movement of the second base along the line parallel to the axis of rotation, a retainer projecting from the second base toward the second cylinder, the retainer being movable away from the second cylinder but biased toward the second cylinder, the second cylinder further includes at least two depressions disposed between the first end and the second end of the second cylinder, the at least two depressions being spaced differently between the first end and the second end, the retainer is configured to project into one of the at least two depressions of the second cylinder at a time, a force applied to the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial overcomes the biasing of the retainer into one of the at least two depressions of the second cylinder, the second cylinder moves along the line parallel to the axis of rotation, and the retainer is biased to project into the other of the at least two depressions of the second cylinder, The dial controller according to claim 10.

12. movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial changes from one menu of functions to be used or controlled to another menu of functions to be used or controlled, The dial controller according to claim 1.

13. a fixed base to which the third sensor is attached; a second base to which the rotatable dial is attached, the second base comprising: (i) a sensor contact surface and (ii) being movable along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation; the third sensor is a linear displacement sensor comprising: (i) a fixed portion statically attached to the fixed base and (ii) a movable portion that contacts the sensor contact surface of the second base, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion, and the output generated by the third sensor being a function of the position of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion; the movable portion of the third sensor is biased towards the sensor contact surface of the second base; movement of the second base along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial moves the movable portion of the third sensor; The dial controller according to claim 1.

14. the fixed base comprises a platform and a pair of parallel rails on the platform; one of the pair of parallel rails is disposed on one side of the plane and the other rail is disposed on the other side of the plane; the second base moves relative to the fixed base on the pair of parallel rails; The dial controller according to claim 13.

15. the fixed base further comprises a first wall and a second wall extending from the platform, the second base and the pair of parallel rails being disposed between the first wall and the second wall; the dial controller further comprises a first spring connected to both the first wall of the fixed base and the second base; the dial controller further comprises a second spring connected to both the second wall of the fixed base and the second base; the first spring and the second spring cooperate to bias the second base, and thus the rotatable dial, to a neutral position along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation; the rotatable dial moves along the plane when the resistance imparted by either the first spring or the second spring is overcome; The dial controller according to claim 13.

16. The dial controller is disposed within the vehicle, and movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation moves the vehicle. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. Rotation of the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation rotates the vehicle. The dial controller according to claim 16.

18. A second cylinder along which the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial extends, the second cylinder comprising a first end around which the rotatable dial rotates and a second end from which an extension extends, the extension terminating at a sensor contact surface that contacts the second sensor, further comprising a second cylinder; The second sensor is disposed on a side surface of the platform different from the rotatable dial; The platform of the fixed base comprises a slot; The extension from the second cylinder extends through the slot of the platform. The dial controller according to claim 13.

19. The second cylinder further comprises a second extension; The platform of the fixed base further comprises an opening sized to receive the second extension; When the rotatable dial is disposed along the line parallel to the axis of rotation closest to the platform of the fixed base, the second extension of the second cylinder is disposed within the opening of the platform of the fixed base and the rotatable dial cannot move along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation; When the rotatable dial is disposed along the line parallel to the axis of rotation farthest from the platform of the fixed base, the second extension of the second cylinder is disposed within the opening of the platform of the fixed base and the rotatable dial can move along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation. The dial controller according to claim 18.

20. A user interface for a vehicle, comprising: a panel; a display; a dial controller in communication with the display; A rotatable dial disposed on the panel, which is (i) rotatable about a rotation axis, (ii) linearly movable along a line parallel to the rotation axis, and (iii) movable along a plane parallel to the rotation axis. A first sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and disposed under the panel, which generates an output that is a function of the rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis. A second sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and disposed under the panel, which generates an output that is a function of the movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the rotation axis. A third sensor operably connected to the rotatable dial and disposed under the panel, which generates an output that is a function of the movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the rotation axis. A dial controller comprising the third sensor. User interface.

21. The dial controller is A selector button proximate to the rotatable dial, which is depressible on the panel along the rotation axis of the rotatable dial. A fourth sensor disposed on the panel and operably connected to the selector button, which generates an output that is a function of the depression of the selector button. The user interface according to claim 20.

22. The display displays a menu of functions to be used or controlled. The rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis selects a function from the menu of functions to be used or controlled. The depression of the selector button confirms the selection and enables the use or control of the selected function. The user interface according to claim 21.

23. The rotation of the rotatable dial about the rotation axis controls a controllable aspect of the selected function. The user interface according to claim 22.

24. The panel includes a slot disposed under the rotatable dial. The dial controller further includes a second cylinder along which the rotation axis of the rotatable dial extends. The second cylinder has a first end disposed above the panel around which the rotatable dial rotates, and a second end disposed below the panel from which an extension extends. The extension terminates at a sensor contact surface that contacts the second sensor. The second sensor is a linear displacement sensor comprising (i) a fixed portion statically attached to a fixed base of the dial controller, and (ii) a movable portion that contacts the sensor contact surface of the second cylinder. The movable portion is movable relative to the fixed portion, and movement of the movable portion of the second sensor relative to the fixed portion of the second sensor modifies the output of the second sensor. The movable portion is biased toward the sensor contact surface of the second cylinder. Movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial moves the second cylinder, and thus moves the movable portion of the second sensor. The user interface according to claim 20. **Claim 25** Movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial moves the second cylinder of the dial controller within the slot through the panel. The user interface according to claim 24. **Claim 26** Movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial changes the display of the display from the display of one menu of functions for use or control to the display of another menu of functions for use or control. The user interface according to claim 20. **Claim 27** The user interface is disposed within a vehicle. Movement of the rotatable dial along the line parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial causes the dial controller to control the movement of the vehicle. The user interface according to claim 20. **Claim 28** A fixed base disposed below the panel to which the third sensor is attached. disposed under the panel to which the rotatable dial is operably coupled and further comprising: (i) a second base having a sensor contact surface and (ii) being movable along a plane parallel to the axis of rotation. The third sensor is a linear displacement sensor comprising: (i) a fixed portion statically attached to the fixed base and (ii) a movable portion that contacts the sensor contact surface of the second base, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion, and the output generated by the third sensor being a function of the position of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion. The movable portion of the third sensor is biased towards the sensor contact surface of the second base. Movement of the second base along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotatable dial moves the movable portion of the third sensor. The user interface according to claims 20 to 27.

29. The user interface is disposed within a vehicle. Movement of the rotatable dial along the plane parallel to the axis of rotation causes the vehicle to move forward or backward. The user interface according to claims 20 to 27.

30. Rotation of the rotatable dial about the axis of rotation causes the vehicle to rotate. The dial controller according to claim 29.

31. The rotatable dial, the selector button, and the fourth sensor are all disposed on the panel. The user interface according to claim 21.

32. The display is disposed under the panel but is visible through the panel. The user interface according to claim 21.

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