Operating device having a rotatable actuating element and a pivoting element, steering wheel, and motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating device (1), in particular for a steering wheel (2) of a motor vehicle (3), which requires little installation space, and to an associated steering wheel (2) and motor vehicle (3). The operating device (1) has in particular at least an actuating element (4), a first pivoting element (17a), a first push-rod element (7a) and a first sensor device (8a). The rotatable actuating element (4) forms a first driver (6a) within a housing (5). The first pivoting element (17a) is coupled in terms of movement to the first driver (6a) and is designed to be pivoted out of a zero position (P0) of the operating device (1) depending on a first rotational movement of the actuating element (4). The first push-rod element (7a) is coupled in terms of movement to the first pivoting element (17a) and is designed to be moved in translation depending on a pivoting movement of the first pivoting element (17a). The first sensor device (8a) is designed to generate at least a first operating signal depending on a translatory position of the first push-rod element (7).

Description

[0001] Operating device with a rotatable actuating element and a swivel element, steering wheel, and motor vehicle

[0002] The invention relates to an operating device with a rotatable actuating element, in particular for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle, as well as an associated steering wheel and motor vehicle.

[0003] Control devices that can be integrated, for example, into a steering wheel, particularly of a motor vehicle, are already known from the prior art. A rotatable actuating element, for example in the form of a tilting wheel or a tilting roller, can be used, for example, to set the speed of a cruise control system of the motor vehicle, to scroll through a menu of a user interface of the motor vehicle, or to adjust the volume of a sound system of the motor vehicle.

[0004] The available installation space for a control element, particularly in a steering wheel, can sometimes be significantly limited, making it impossible to integrate a rotatable actuating element, which requires a comparatively large amount of installation space in the prior art, in specific applications. Furthermore, in specific applications where a user interface of the control device is required to assume a specific angle relative to a sensor-carrying circuit board, this cannot be achieved using the prior art, so alternative control devices, such as push buttons or rocker switches, must be used.

[0005] The invention is based on the object of providing an operating device with a rotatable actuating element which requires a significantly reduced installation space, as well as providing an associated steering wheel and motor vehicle into which the operating device can be integrated.

[0006] The object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are described by the dependent patent claims, the following description and the figures. A first aspect of the invention relates to an operating device, in particular for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle. The operating device has in particular at least one actuating element, a first pivoting element, a first tappet element and a first sensor device, and preferably a housing. The actuating element is mounted in particular with respect to the housing so as to be rotatable, at least to a certain extent, about an axis of rotation. Within the housing, the actuating element forms a first driver. The first pivoting element is mounted in particular with respect to the housing so as to be pivotable about a first pivot axis parallel to the first axis of rotation and is designed to be movement-coupled to the first driver.The first pivoting element is configured, in particular, to be pivoted from a zero position of the operating device depending on a first rotational movement of the actuating element. The first plunger element is mounted, in particular, so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing along a translation axis perpendicular to the rotational axis and is motion-coupled to the first pivoting element and configured to be moved translationally depending on a pivoting movement of the first pivoting element. The sensor device is configured, in particular, to generate at least one first operating signal depending on a translational position of the first plunger element.

[0007] Such kinematics of the operating device can advantageously be implemented in a particularly space-saving manner, so that the operating device can be integrated even where there is little available installation space, for example in a motor vehicle steering wheel. Furthermore, the operating device can be implemented independently of an angle of the operating surface to the circuit board, which for example carries at least the first sensor device, so that the operating device according to the invention can be integrated in a large number of applications. Furthermore, the kinematics of the operating device advantageously prove to be extremely robust with regard to vibrations and shocks. This makes the operating device durable and low-maintenance. Secondly, operation of the operating device by a user can be detected particularly precisely and converted into an associated operating signal.

[0008] The operating device can in particular be used to be operated or actuated by a user, for example to adjust or change a setting of an electronic system, in particular of the motor vehicle. In particular, a speed of the motor vehicle or a cruise control system of the motor vehicle can be adjusted by means of the operating device, preferably by turning or tilting the actuating element using a finger of the user. The operating device can preferably be integrated into a steering wheel, for example in a ring, in a spoke or a central part of the steering wheel. The operating device can also be integrated into other components, in particular of the motor vehicle, for example in a center console, a dashboard, an armrest or a roof of the motor vehicle.

[0009] The operating device itself can form the housing, which can be integrated into a given installation space, or the installation space itself can form the housing into which the components of the operating device can be integrated.

[0010] The actuating element can be formed at least partially outside the housing so that it can be actuated by the user. The actuating element can also have one or two opposing bearing points, by means of which the actuating element can be connected to corresponding bearing points of the housing, so that the actuating element is only rotatable about the rotation axis. The bearing points can preferably be located inside the housing, so that only a circular segment-like portion of the actuating element can protrude from the housing.

[0011] The operating device has in particular a zero position in which the operating device and in particular its components are set as standard, in particular when the operating device is not currently being operated by the user. It can preferably be provided that the operating device is automatically returned to the zero position after operation. From the zero position, the actuating element can execute at least a first rotational movement, which can in particular be dependent on a corresponding force that the user exerts on the actuating element. The first rotational movement of the actuating element can be a rotational movement in a first of the two, at least theoretically possible, directions of rotation about the axis of rotation starting from the zero position.

[0012] The rotational mobility or a rotation angle range of the actuating element can be limited, for example, due to the kinematics of the operating device or by stop elements or the like. For example, a rotation angle range can be smaller than 45°, 30°, 15°, or 10°, at least in the first direction of rotation, or additionally in an opposite second direction of rotation.

[0013] The actuating element forms a first driver, in particular within the housing. A driver can be understood, in particular, as a component of the actuating element which is designed to set another part, in this case the first pivoting element, in motion, i.e. to drive it along, when the driver moves. The first driver can be a projection for this purpose. In particular, in a sectional plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation, the driver can have a nose-like or hook-like profile. The first driver can, in particular, have a first actuating surface, by means of which the actuating element is in contact with the first pivoting element. The first driver can be designed such that the first rotary movement of the actuating element, and thus of the first driver, pivots the first pivoting element about the pivot axis in a pivoting direction opposite to the first direction of rotation.Movement-coupled can thus be understood to mean that a pivoting movement of the first pivoting element about the first pivot axis is preferably directly coupled to the first rotational movement of the actuating element.

[0014] The first pivot element is pivotally mounted, in particular, with respect to the first pivot axis, wherein the first pivot axis is offset from the rotation axis but runs essentially parallel. For example, the housing can form a pivot joint or rotary joint with the first pivot element, about which the first pivot element can be pivoted. The first pivot element can, in particular, be designed approximately in the shape of a lever or lever arm, which means that the pivot element extends essentially elongated in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis, to the first pivot axis, and approximately to the translation axis.The associated pivot joint can be formed at a first distal end of the first pivot element, and a first contact surface can be formed at a second (free) distal end opposite the first distal end, by means of which the first pivot element is operatively connected to the actuating surface of the first driver.

[0015] The first pivot lever, in particular the second distal end, can preferably be in direct contact with the first plunger element. The first pivot lever can be designed such that the pivoting movement of the first pivot lever pushes the first plunger element downward along the translation axis in the direction away from the rotation axis. Movement-coupled can thus be understood to mean that a translational movement of the first plunger element along the translation axis is preferably directly coupled to the pivoting movement of the first pivot lever. It follows that a first translational movement of the first plunger element along the translation axis is, in particular, indirectly coupled to the first rotational movement of the actuating element.

[0016] The first plunger element is mounted, in particular, with respect to the housing so as to be translationally movable along the translation axis. For example, the housing can form bearing rails within which bearing slides of the first plunger element are mounted so as to slide translationally. The plunger element can, in particular, be designed approximately in the shape of a plunger, which means that the plunger element extends substantially along the translation axis. At a distal, upper end, close to the axis of rotation, the first plunger element can form an interface by means of which the first plunger element is preferably directly operatively connected to an actuating surface of the first pivoting element.

[0017] The first sensor device can in particular be designed to detect a specific translational position of the first plunger element by means of sensors.

[0018] In particular, more than one specific translational position can be detected, preferably two translational positions. If the at least one specific translational position of the plunger element is detected, then it can be provided that the first sensor device generates at least a first operating signal. Preferably, the specific translational position differs from the position of the first plunger element in which the operating device is in the rest position. The translational position is preferably assumed indirectly by tilting the actuating element in the first direction of rotation by a specific angle, so that this tilting generates the first operating signal, preferably indirectly by means of the first pivoting element. The first sensor device can be provided on a printed circuit board. The translational movement of the first plunger element can in particular run perpendicular to the printed circuit board.

[0019] Preferably, the first sensor device can be signal-connected to a processing unit. The processing unit can be configured, in particular, to control an electronic device, preferably of the motor vehicle, depending on the at least one first operating signal. The operating signal can, for example, be a pulse signal or a continuous signal.

[0020] It can be provided that the actuated operating device can be automatically reset. For this purpose, it can be provided that the actuating element is configured to be rotated in the reverse direction, depending on a translational movement of the first plunger element from the translational position toward the zero position, in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation, toward the zero position.

[0021] One embodiment provides that the first pivoting element has a first contact surface on the upper side, which is slidably connected to the actuating surface of the first driver, and a second contact surface on the lower side, which is slidably connected to a pressing surface of the first tappet element.

[0022] The first contact surface can in particular be opposite the second contact surface, wherein the upper side can be understood to be that surface of the first pivot element which is closer to the axis of rotation than the lower side. In particular, one side of the nose-shaped, first driver can form the contact surface, wherein the first contact surface of the first pivot element slides over the actuating surface by rotating the first driver or the operating device. By rotating the actuating surface, a leverage force acts on the first contact surface at the free end of the first pivot element, thereby generating a moment in the first pivot joint, which causes the first pivot element to pivot about the first pivot axis.

[0023] Because the lever-like, first pivoting element extends essentially orthogonally to the first pivot axis and the translation axis, the free, distal end of the first pivoting element is moved at least approximately in the direction of the translation axis during the pivoting movement. The pivoting movement can thus cause the second contact surface to slide over the pressing surface and thus press with a force onto the first plunger element, causing it to move along the translation axis.

[0024] By means of the first pivoting element, the first rotary movement of the actuating element can thus be advantageously and skillfully converted into the translational movement of the first plunger element. In particular, the design is particularly robust and durable, ensuring the continuous, functional availability of the operating device.

[0025] One embodiment provides that the first pivot element forms a hook at its free end, which has the first contact surface. The hook can, in particular, form essentially at a right angle to the elongated configuration of the base body of the first pivot element. Due to the extension of the base body orthogonal to the axis of rotation and the translation axis, the hook can extend essentially along the translation axis towards the first driver. The hook can, in particular, be rounded at its tip, wherein the surface of the rounding can form the first contact surface. This has the advantage that the first driver and the first plunger element are particularly cleverly coupled in terms of movement by means of the hook.In particular, a force can thus be transmitted in both directions, i.e. from the actuating element to the first pivoting element, and from the first pivoting element to the actuating element, so that these components move.

[0026] One embodiment provides that the first sensor device has a first, elastic switching mat, which is operatively connected to the first plunger element. The switching mat can, in particular, be a silicone switching mat. At a distal, lower end, remote from the axis of rotation, the first plunger element can form an interface by means of which the first plunger element is operatively connected to the silicone switching mat. The interface of the plunger element can, in particular, be disc-shaped or plate-like and rest on the silicone switching mat. Such an operative connection advantageously represents a particularly reliable possibility for detecting the at least one translational position of the first plunger element.

[0027] One embodiment provides that the first elastic switching mat has a first elastic dome which is designed to be elastically deformed from the zero position as a function of a translational movement of the first plunger element. The elastic dome can in particular be made of silicone. The elastic dome can in particular be cylindrically shaped, wherein a cover surface of the cylindrical dome is connected in contact with the disk-like interface of the first plunger element. The dome can thus be compressed or shrunk by the translational movement of the first plunger element directed towards the elastic dome. Preferably, the first elastic dome, which is elastically deformed, in particular compressed, is designed to return the operating device to the zero position with a first restoring force.In particular, the restoring force can press on the disc-like interface of the first plunger element, causing it to move translationally back toward the zero position. This translational return movement of the elastic plunger element can, in turn, rotate the actuating element and the first pivoting element back to the zero position, so that the operating device as a whole can be returned to the zero position.

[0028] In particular, it can be provided that the operating device is actuated when the user's operating force is greater than the return force. In particular, the operating device is reset when the operating force is no longer applied or the return force is greater than the operating force.

[0029] An advantage of this embodiment is that an elastic recovery force or recovery movement of the elastic dome can be utilized to return the actuating element to the zero position via the kinematics of the operating device. This advantageously eliminates the need for more complex reset devices.

[0030] One embodiment provides that the first, elastic switching mat has a first switching element configured to generate the first operating signal depending on a first translational position of the first plunger element. The first switching element can, in particular, have a first contact cap and first, meandering conductor tracks. The contact cap can, in particular, be motion-coupled to the first plunger element, wherein in the first translational position, the contact cap presses onto the conductor tracks and thus electrically connects them, so that the first operating signal is generated. The first contact cap and the first conductor tracks can preferably be designed redundantly.

[0031] One embodiment provides that the first, elastic switching mat has a second switching element configured to generate a second operating signal depending on a second translational position of the first plunger element that differs from the first. The features of the first switching element can apply correspondingly to the second switching element. Thus, at least two operating signals can be generated during the rotational movement of the actuating element in the first direction, so that two different settings can also be advantageously made.

[0032] For example, in a cruise control system, the set speed can be increased by 1 km / h or 1 mph upon rotation of the actuating element in the first direction of rotation by a first angle, and thus by 1 km / h or 1 mph at the first translational position of the first plunger element, and by 5 km / h or 5 mph upon rotation of the actuating element in the first direction of rotation, for example. This advantageously enables the operating device to be operated particularly intuitively and easily.

[0033] One embodiment provides that the first elastic switching mat is configured to engage a first detent position in the first translational position and / or to engage a second detent position in the second translational position. The detent positions can be provided, for example, by the elastic dome, depending on the material and / or geometry. The detent positions can provide the user with haptic feedback, so that the adjustment made using the actuating element can be perceived tactilely.

[0034] One embodiment provides that the first sensor device additionally has a first sensor element, which is designed to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the first plunger element, and to generate a first confirmation signal depending on the deviating position. The zero position of the first plunger element can in particular correspond to the position assumed by the first plunger element in the zero position of the operating device, i.e. in a position in which the operating device is at least not operated by the first rotary movement. Alternatively, it can be provided that the first sensor element can detect whether the first plunger element is in the zero position and generates a confirmation signal when it leaves the zero position.

[0035] The first sensor element can advantageously be a redundant solution for the first safety mat. Furthermore, it can be provided that an electronic system is only adjusted when both the first or second operating signal and the confirmation signal are generated. This can advantageously ensure that the first or second operating signal is not generated erroneously, for example, due to a malfunction, even though the first plunger element is in the zero position. In particular, the availability and susceptibility to failure of the operating device can thus be significantly reduced.

[0036] One embodiment provides that the first sensor element has a first light barrier sensor and the first plunger element has a first arm, wherein the first arm is designed to interrupt a light barrier of the first light barrier sensor in the deviated position. The first arm can extend, in particular, perpendicularly, in the direction of the first axis of rotation, out of the first plunger element, in particular from one of the fork arms, and function as an optical barrier. Through the translational movement, in particular into the first and / or second translational position, it can thus be provided that the first arm interrupts the light barrier between an emitter and a receiver, or between an emitter-receiver and a reflector, so that the first confirmation signal is generated based on the interrupted light barrier. Such an embodiment advantageously proves to be extremely reliable.

[0037] Instead of a light barrier sensor, it can also be another sensor, for example a Hall sensor, whereby the first arm is accordingly metallic or magnetic.

[0038] One embodiment provides that the actuating element forms a second driver within the housing, which is arranged offset from the first driver along the axis of rotation and is designed symmetrically with respect to the translation axis to the first driver in the zero position. The two drivers can therefore be designed directly next to one another. The respective actuating surface of the drivers can be designed identically, but mirrored to one another. In particular, the first driver, or the first actuating surface of the first driver, is designed to be mirrored to the second driver, or the second actuating surface of the second driver, with respect to a mirror plane being spanned by the translation axis and the rotation axis.

[0039] According to the exemplary embodiment, the operating device additionally has a second pivoting element which is pivotally mounted with respect to the housing about a second pivoting axis parallel to the axis of rotation, and is designed to be movement-coupled to the second driver and is configured to be pivoted from the zero position of the operating device depending on a second rotational movement of the actuating element opposite to the first rotational movement.

[0040] The second pivot element can, in particular, be configured adjacent to the first pivot element. In particular, the actuating element is located offset along the translation axis, overlapping between the two pivot elements. In particular, it can be provided that the pivoting movement of the first pivot element during the first rotational movement is opposite to the pivoting movement of the second pivot element during the second rotational movement.

[0041] According to the exemplary embodiment, the operating device additionally has a second plunger element which is mounted so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing along the translation axis, and is designed to be movement-coupled to the second pivoting element and is configured to be translationally moved from the zero position of the operating device depending on the pivoting movement of the second pivoting element.

[0042] The second plunger element can, in particular, be configured adjacent to the first plunger element. In this respect, the plunger elements are each mounted for translational movement via a separate translation axis, with the respective translation axes being aligned. In particular, the actuating element is located offset along the translation axis, overlapping between the two plunger elements.

[0043] In particular, a second direction of rotation of the second rotational movement is opposite to the first direction of rotation of the first rotational movement. Thus, starting from the zero position, the first plunger element can be moved in the first direction of rotation upon rotation of the actuating element, and starting from the zero position, the second plunger element can be moved in the second direction of rotation upon rotation of the actuating element. Preferably, it can be provided that, starting from the zero position, the first pivot element and the first plunger element are not moved upon rotation of the actuating element in the second direction of rotation, and starting from the zero position, the second plunger element is not moved upon rotation of the actuating element in the first direction of rotation.Preferably, during the second rotational movement, the actuating surface of the first driver detaches from the first contact surface of the first lever element, so that the first lever element remains in the rest position. This can occur analogously during the first rotational movement.

[0044] According to the exemplary embodiment, the operating device additionally has a second sensor device which is designed to generate at least one third operating signal depending on a translational position of the second plunger element.

[0045] This advantageously allows at least two operating signals to be generated: a first by rotating the actuating element in the first direction of rotation, and a third by rotating the actuating element in the second direction of rotation. In particular, different switching directions can be implemented in a particularly space-saving manner.

[0046] In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages with regard to the first driver, the first pivoting element, the first tappet element and the first sensor device can be transferred analogously to the second driver, the second pivoting element, the second tappet element and the second sensor device.

[0047] One embodiment provides that the second pivoting element has a third contact surface on the upper side, which is slidably connected to an actuating surface of the second driver, and a fourth contact surface on the lower side, which is slidably connected to a pressing surface of the first tappet element.

[0048] In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages relating to the first and second contact surfaces, can be transferred analogously to the third and fourth contact surfaces.

[0049] One embodiment provides that the second pivot element forms a hook at its free end, which hook has the third contact surface. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages, regarding the hook of the first pivot element can be applied analogously to the hook of the second pivot element.

[0050] One embodiment provides that the second sensor device has a second, elastic switching mat, which is operatively connected to the second plunger element. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages, relating to the first, elastic switching mat can be applied analogously to the second, elastic switching mat.

[0051] One embodiment provides that the second elastic switching mat has a second elastic dome configured to be elastically deformed from the zero position depending on a translational movement of the second plunger element. The elastically deformed second elastic dome is configured to return the operating device to the zero position with a second restoring force. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages, relating to the first elastic dome can be applied analogously to the second elastic dome.

[0052] One embodiment provides that the second, elastic switching mat has a third switching element configured to generate the third operating signal depending on a first translational position of the second plunger element. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages, regarding the first switching element can be applied analogously to the third switching element.

[0053] One embodiment provides that the second, elastic switching mat has a fourth switching element configured to generate a fourth operating signal depending on a second translational position of the second plunger element that differs from the first. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages, relating to the second switching element can be applied analogously to the fourth switching element.

[0054] One embodiment provides that the second sensor device additionally has a second sensor element, which is designed to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the second plunger element and to generate a second confirmation signal depending on the deviating position. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages regarding the first sensor element and the first actuation signal, can be applied analogously to the second sensor element and the second actuation signal.

[0055] One embodiment provides that the second sensor element comprises a second light barrier sensor, and the second plunger element comprises a second arm, which is designed to interrupt a light barrier of the second light barrier sensor in the deviating position. In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages, regarding the first light barrier sensor and the first arm can be applied analogously to the second light barrier sensor and the second arm.

[0056] One embodiment provides that the actuating element is composed of a tilting roller, which protrudes at least partially from an opening in the housing, and an actuator element, which forms at least the first driver within the housing. The tilting roller can, in particular, essentially only have a semicircular base surface, so that the tilting roller is designed as a roller only on the front side, i.e., towards the opening. The tilting roller can have a web element, which extends on the outer surface parallel to the axis of rotation, so that the tilting roller can be easier to operate. The tilting roller can be chrome-plated or the like. The tilting roller can be firmly connected, in particular rotationally fixed, to the actuator element on the rear side, i.e., directed away from the opening. For example, the roller can be hollow and, during assembly, placed onto the actuator element.The actuator element can be made of plastic, for example, and not be visible to the user within the housing. This advantageously provides an actuating element that is visually and haptically appealing to the user on the front and functionally designed on the back.

[0057] One embodiment provides for the actuating element to form a lever outside the housing, allowing a user to tilt the actuating element around the rotation axis. This allows the actuating element to be operated particularly easily and with a pleasant tactile feel.

[0058] One exemplary embodiment provides that an orthogonal line of a surface of the housing of the operating device forms an angle of 25° to 45°, preferably 35°, with the translation axis. In other words, it can be provided that the surface of the housing forms an angle of 25° to 45°, preferably 35°, with the circuit board. The term "surface" refers in particular to that part of the surface which forms the opening from which the actuating element partially protrudes. By adopting such an angle, the operating device can be integrated into an installation space, preferably into a steering wheel, in a particularly suitable manner. In particular, this allows a maximum depth of the required installation space to be reduced. A further aspect of the invention provides a steering wheel, in particular for a motor vehicle. The steering wheel has at least one operating device according to the invention.The steering wheel can also be a steering wheel for a watercraft or aircraft. The steering wheel can, in particular, have a ring, one or more spokes, and a center section of the steering wheel, whereby the operating device can be integrated into the ring, one of the spokes, or the center section. The operating device can be integrated into the steering wheel in such a way that only the actuating element protrudes from a surface of the steering wheel.

[0059] A further aspect of the invention provides a motor vehicle having a steering wheel according to the invention. The motor vehicle can be a passenger car, truck, bus, or motorcycle, although in the case of a motorcycle, the steering wheel can be designed as a handlebar.

[0060] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown in the figures, can be encompassed by the invention not only in the respective combination specified, but also in other combinations. In particular, the invention can also encompass embodiments and combinations of features that do not have all the features of an originally formulated claim. Furthermore, the invention can encompass embodiments and combinations of features that go beyond or deviate from the combinations of features set out in the backreferences to the claims. In this case:

[0061] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention;

[0062] Fig. 2 is a sectional view of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention in a rest position;

[0063] Fig. 3 shows a schematic structure of an embodiment of a sensor device; Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a motor vehicle according to the invention with a steering wheel according to the invention.

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an operating device 1 according to the invention, which can be integrated, for example, into a steering wheel 2 of a motor vehicle 3. The operating device 1 can have an actuating element 4, as well as a first pivoting element 17a, a second pivoting element 17b, a first plunger element 7a, a second plunger element 7b, a first sensor device 8a and a second sensor device 8b, as well as a housing 5.

[0065] The actuating element 4 can be mounted so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis X0 with respect to the housing 5. Within the housing 5, the actuating element 4 can form a first driver 6a and a second driver 6b.

[0066] The pivoting elements 17a, 17b can be mounted in particular with respect to the housing 5 so as to be pivotable about a first or second pivot axis X1, X2 parallel to the axis of rotation X0, and can be designed to be movement-coupled with the respectively associated first or second driver 6a, 6b and can be configured to be pivoted from a zero position PO of the operating device 1 depending on a first rotational movement or a second, opposite rotational movement of the actuating element 4.

[0067] The tappet elements 7a, 7b can in particular each be mounted so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing 5 about a translation axis Y perpendicular to the rotation axis X0, and can be designed to be movement-coupled with the respectively associated first or second pivot element 17b and can be configured to be translationally moved depending on a pivoting movement of the respectively associated first or second pivot element 17a, 17b.

[0068] The first and second sensor devices 8a, 8b can in particular be configured to generate a first to fourth operating signal depending on a translational position of the first or second plunger element 7a, 7b.

[0069] The sensor devices 8a, 8b can be provided in particular on a circuit board 18 and each have a first or second switching mat 9a, 9b, which are connected to the respectively associated first or second plunger element 7a, 7b. The elastic switching mats 9a, 9b can each have a first or second elastic dome 10a, 10b, which can be configured to be elastically deformed from the zero position (PO) depending on a translational movement of the first or second plunger element 7a, 7b, wherein the elastically deformed domes 10a, 10b are each configured to return the operating device 1 to the zero position PO with a first restoring force or a second restoring force directed opposite to the first restoring force.

[0070] The sensor devices 8a, 8b additionally have a respective associated first and second sensor elements 12a, 12b, which can be configured to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the first and second plunger elements 7a, 7b, respectively, of the zero position PO, and to generate a respective first and second confirmation signal depending on the deviating position. The sensor elements 12a, 12b can, for example, be configured as a first and second light barrier sensor 12a, 12b, respectively, and the plunger elements 7a, 7b can each have an associated first and second extension arm 13a, 13b, respectively, which can be configured to interrupt a light barrier of the respective light barrier sensor 12a, 12b in the deviating position.

[0071] The first plunger element 7a, the first sensor device 8a and the first rotary cylinder 17a, as well as associated components, can be designed offset in particular in the direction of the rotation axis X0 to the second plunger element 7b, the first sensor device 8b and the second rotary cylinder 17b, as well as to their associated components, so that they act independently of one another.

[0072] The actuating element 4 can have a tilting roller 14, which protrudes at least partially from an opening in the housing 5 or from a surface 19 of the housing 5. The tilting roller 14 can form a lever 16 outside the housing 5, by means of which a user can tilt the actuating element 4 about the rotation axis X0. This allows, for example, the speed of a cruise control system of the motor vehicle 1 to be controlled by the user. In the zero position PO, the respective components can be in a zero position in which no operating signal is generated. It can be provided that in this position the first plunger element 7a rests on the first elastic dome 10a, and the second plunger element 7b rests on the first elastic dome 10a, so that the actuating element 4 can be locked in the zero position PO. The first arm 13a does not interrupt the light barrier of the light barrier sensor 12a.

[0073] Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of the operating device 1 according to the invention in the rest position PO.

[0074] The first and second pivot elements 17a, 17b can each have a first and second contact surface 23a, 23b on their upper sides, respectively. The first contact surface 23a of the first pivot element 17a can be slidably connected to a first actuating surface 24a of the first driver 6a, and a second contact surface 23b on the lower side, which is slidably connected to a first pressing surface 25a of the first plunger element 7a. The same applies to the second pivot element 17b.

[0075] The first and second pivot elements 17a, 17b can each form a first and second hook 26a, 26b at their free ends. The first hook 26a can have the first contact surface 23a. The same applies to the second hook 26b.

[0076] A first and a second operating position can be assumed, in particular, by a user-initiated tilting of the lever 16 according to arrow A1. By tilting according to arrow A1, the first rotational movement of the actuating element 4 according to arrow A2 can result from the zero position PO, wherein a first actuating surface 24a of the first driver 6a acts on the first contact surface 23a such that the first pivoting element 17a pivots about the first pivot axis X1 according to arrow A3. By pivoting according to arrow A3, a translational movement of the first plunger element 7a along the translation axis Y according to arrow A4 can be triggered, in particular by the second contact surface 23b of the first pivoting element 17a pressing on a pressing surface 25a of a plate 22 of the first plunger element 7a. Due to the translational movement of the plate 22, it presses on the first dome 10a of the first switching mat 9a, so that the dome 10a is elastically deformed.A first switching element 11a of the first safety mat 9a can then be configured to generate the first operating signal depending on a first translational position of the first plunger element 7a or depending on the first compressed state of the first safety mat 9a. At the same time, the first arm 13a can be configured to break through the light barrier of the light barrier sensor 12a, thereby generating a confirmation signal.

[0077] The first and second operating positions can differ from each other, in particular, by the degree of tilting or the degree of the first rotational movement according to arrow A2. It is understood that a third and fourth operating position can also be assumed by the opposite, second rotational movement of the actuating element 4 (opposite to arrow A2) from the zero position PO. The description applies accordingly.

[0078] The actuating element 4 can have a first and a second actuator element 15a, 15b, wherein the first actuator element 15a can form the first driver 6a and the second actuator element 15b can form the second driver 6b. The actuator elements 15a, 15b can be formed integrally with one another, but the respective actuating surfaces 24a, 24b of the drivers 6a, 6b are offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis X0, so that the first actuating surface 24a acts only on the first pivot element 17a, and the second actuating surface 24b acts only on the second pivot element 17b offset in the direction of the rotation axis X0.

[0079] In the zero position PO, the respective components can be in a zero position in which no operating signal is generated. It can be provided that in this position, the first plunger element 7a rests on the first elastic dome 10a, and the second plunger element 7b rests on the second elastic dome 10b, so that the actuating element 4 can be locked in the zero position PO. The first arm 13a or the second arm 13b does not interrupt the respective light barrier of the associated first or second light barrier sensor 12a, 12b.

[0080] Fig. 3 shows a schematic structure of an embodiment of a first or second sensor device 8a, 8b, using the first sensor device 8a as an example. The three images in Fig. 3 show, in particular, different levels of the first sensor device 8a. The first switching mat 9a or the dome 10a can form or have a first switching element 11a and a second switching element 11b. In the first, compressed state, first contact pills 20a of the first switching element 11a, which are designed redundantly to one another, can press on first conductor wires 21a, so that the first operating signal can be triggered. In the second, compressed state, second contact pills 20b of the second switching element 11b, which are designed redundantly to one another, can also press on second conductor wires 21b, so that the second operating signal can be triggered.Accordingly, a third and fourth operating signal can be triggered by means of the second switching mat 9b by rotating the actuating element 4 in the second direction of rotation.

[0081] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a motor vehicle 3 according to the invention with a steering wheel 2 according to the invention, wherein the steering wheel 2 has at least one operating device 1 according to the invention.

Claims

Patent claims 1. An operating device (1), in particular for a steering wheel (2) of a motor vehicle (3), comprising an actuating element (4) which is mounted for rotation about a rotation axis (XO) with respect to a housing (5) of the operating device (1) and forms a first driver (6a) within the housing (5), a first pivoting element (17a) which is mounted for rotation about a first pivot axis (X1) parallel to the rotation axis (XO) with respect to the housing (5), and is designed to be motionally coupled to the first driver (6a) and is configured to be pivoted from a zero position (PO) of the operating device (1) depending on a first rotational movement of the actuating element (4), and a first tappet element (7a) which is mounted for translational movement about a translation axis (Y) perpendicular to the rotation axis (XO) with respect to the housing (5), and is motionally coupled to the first pivoting element (17a) trained and equipped toto be moved translationally depending on a pivoting movement of the first pivoting element (17a), and a first sensor device (8a) which is designed to generate at least one first operating signal depending on a translational position of the first plunger element (7).

2. Operating device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first pivoting element (17a) has on the upper side a first contact surface (23a) which is slidably connected to a first actuating surface (24a) of the first driver (6a), and on the lower side a second contact surface (23b), which is slidably connected to a first pressing surface (25a) of the first tappet element (7a).

3. Operating device (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the first pivoting element (17a) forms a first hook (26a) at its free end, which has the first contact surface (23a).

4. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first sensor device (8a) has a first, elastic switching mat (9a) which is operatively connected to the first plunger element (7a).

5. Operating device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the first elastic switching mat (9a) has a first elastic dome (10a) which is designed to be elastically deformed from the zero position (PO) as a function of a translational movement of the first tappet element (7a), wherein the elastically deformed, first elastic dome (10a) is designed to return the operating device (1) to the zero position (PO) with a first restoring force.

6. Operating device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the first elastic switching mat (9a) has a first switching element (11a) which is designed to generate the first operating signal depending on a first translational position of the first plunger element (7a).

7. Operating device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the first, elastic switching mat (9a) has a second switching element (11b) which is designed to generate a second operating signal depending on a second translational position of the first plunger element (7a) which is different from the first.

8. Operating device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the first, elastic switching mat (9a) is designed to engage in a first locking position in the first translational position and / or to engage in a second locking position in the second translational position.

9. Operating device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that the first sensor device (8a) additionally has a first sensor element (12a) which is designed to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the first plunger element (7a) and to generate a first confirmation signal depending on the deviating position.

10. Operating device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the first sensor element (12a) has a first light barrier sensor (12a) and the first plunger element (7a) has a first arm (13a) which is designed to interrupt a light barrier of the first light barrier sensor (12a) in the deviating position.

11. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (4) forms a second driver (6b) within the housing (5), which is arranged offset from the first driver (6a) along the axis of rotation (X0) and is designed symmetrically with respect to the translation axis (Y) to the first driver (6a) in the zero position (PO), wherein the operating device (1) further comprises: a second pivoting element (17) which is mounted pivotably with respect to the housing (5) about a second pivoting axis (X2) parallel to the axis of rotation (X0), and is designed to be movement-coupled to the second driver (6b) and is designed to pivot depending on a rotational movement opposite, second rotary movement of the actuating element (4) from the zero position (PO) of the operating device (1), and a second plunger element (7b) which is mounted so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing (5) about the translation axis (Y), and is designed to be movement-coupled to the second pivoting element (17b) and is designed to be translationally moved from the zero position (PO) of the operating device (1) depending on a pivoting movement of the second pivoting element (17b), and at least one second sensor device (8b) which is designed to generate at least one third operating signal depending on a translational position of the second plunger element (7b).

12. Operating device (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the second pivoting element (17b) has a third contact surface on the upper side, which is slidably connected to a second actuating surface of the second driver (6b), and has a fourth contact surface on the lower side, which is slidably connected to a second pressing surface of the second tappet element (7b).

13. Operating device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the second pivoting element (17b) forms a second hook at its free end, which has the third contact surface.

14. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second sensor device (8b) has a second, elastic switching mat (9b) which is operatively connected to the second plunger element (7b).

15. Operating device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the second elastic switching mat (9b) has a second elastic dome (10b) which is designed to be elastically deformed from the zero position (PO) as a function of a translatory movement of the second tappet element (7b), wherein the elastically deformed second elastic dome (10b) is designed to return the operating device (1) to the zero position (PO) with a second restoring force.

16. Operating device (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the second, elastic switching mat (9b) has a third switching element (11c) which is designed to generate the third operating signal depending on a first translational position of the second plunger element (7b).

17. Operating device (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that the second, elastic switching mat (9b) has a fourth switching element (11d) which is designed to generate a fourth operating signal depending on a second translational position of the second plunger element (7b) which is different from the first.

18. Operating device (1) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the second, elastic switching mat (9b) is designed to engage in a third locking position in the first translational position and / or to engage in a fourth locking position in the second translational position.

19. Operating device (1) according to one of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that the second sensor device (8b) additionally has a second sensor element (12b) which is designed to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the second plunger element (7b) and to generate a second confirmation signal depending on the deviating position.

20. Operating device (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that the second sensor element (12b) has a second light barrier sensor and the second plunger element (7b) has a second arm (13b) which is designed to interrupt a light barrier of the second light barrier sensor in the deviating position.

21. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (4) is composed of a tilting roller (14), which protrudes at least partially from an opening in the housing (5), and an actuator element (15), which forms at least the first driver (6a) within the housing (5).

22. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (4) forms a lever (16) outside the housing (5), by means of which a user can tilt the actuating element (4) about the axis of rotation (XO).

23. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an orthogonal of a surface of the housing (5) forms an angle (a) of 25° to 45°, preferably 35°, with the translation axis.

24. Steering wheel (2), in particular for a motor vehicle (3), comprising at least one operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

25. Motor vehicle (3) comprising a steering wheel (2) according to claim 24.

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