Input device for entering control commands into a digital computer

Abstract

The invention relates to an input device (2) for entering control commands into a digital computer (3), the input device (2) comprising: - a main body (5); - an input wheel (6) which is mounted on the main body (5) so as to be rotatable about a rotational axis (30), the input wheel (6) having an outer lateral surface (7) for actuation by a user; - a detection means (8) for detecting a rotational movement of the input wheel (6); - a braking device (9) for influencing the rotational resistance of the input wheel (6), the braking device (9) comprising a coil (10), a coil core (19), and a displaceable braking component (20) having a friction surface (26), wherein a pressing force of the friction surface (26) of the braking component (20) against a counter-friction surface (27) can be varied by means of the magnetic field generated by the coil (10), thereby making it possible to influence the rotational resistance of the input wheel (6).

Description

[0001] INPUT DEVICE FOR ENTERING CONTROL COMMANDS INTO A DIGITAL CALCULATOR

[0002] The invention relates to an input device for entering control commands into a digital computer.

[0003] Various input devices are known for entering control commands into a digital computer. A computer mouse, for example, has an input wheel, for example, for scrolling or moving text vertically. Furthermore, it is known, for example, to enter various input commands using an input wheel mounted on the steering wheel of a motor vehicle. This could be a list selection, for example.

[0004] JP2010282397A discloses an input device for inputting control commands into a digital computer. The input device comprises a base body, an input wheel mounted on the base body for rotation about a rotational axis, the input wheel having a peripheral surface for actuation by a user, a detection means for detecting a rotational movement of the input wheel, and a braking device for influencing a rotational resistance of the input wheel.

[0005] The input device known from JP2010282397A has the disadvantage that it has a large design.

[0006] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide an improved input device.

[0007] This object is achieved by an input device according to the claims.

[0008] According to the invention, an input device is provided for entering control commands into a digital computer. The input device comprises:

[0009] - a base body;

[0010] - an input wheel which is mounted on the base body so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation, the input wheel having an outer surface for actuation by a user;

[0011] - a braking device for influencing the rotational resistance of the input wheel. The braking device comprises a coil, a coil core, and a movable braking component with a friction surface. The magnetic field generated by the coil can be used to change the contact force of the friction surface of the braking component against a counter friction surface, thereby influencing the rotational resistance of the input wheel.

[0012] The input device according to the invention offers the advantage of being robust yet space-saving. This makes it easy to integrate the input device into an electronic component, such as a computer mouse, in a space-saving manner. Furthermore, the braking device according to the invention allows the rotational resistance of the input wheel to be easily influenced, thereby providing haptic feedback on the input wheel.

[0013] In a first embodiment, it is conceivable, for example, that the contact pressure of the friction surface of the brake component against the counter friction surface is increased by means of the magnetic field generated by the coil, in that the friction surface of the brake component is pressed against the counter friction surface by the magnetic force of the magnetic field.

[0014] In an alternative embodiment, it is conceivable, for example, that the magnetic field generated by the coil reduces the contact force of the friction surface of the brake component against the counter friction surface by pushing the friction surface of the brake component away from the counter friction surface by the magnetic force of the magnetic field. In such an embodiment, it can be provided that, when the coil is de-energized, the friction surface of the brake component is pressed against the counter friction surface by means of a spring element.

[0015] Furthermore, the input device can include a detection device for detecting the rotational movement of the input wheel. The detection device can also be installed outside the input device, and the rotational movement of the input wheel can be detected by an external sensor system, for example, by optical sensors.

[0016] Furthermore, it can be provided that the input device, in particular the detection means and the coil, are coupled to a circuit board. The circuit board can comprise electronic components arranged thereon. In particular, it can be provided that the circuit board comprises a microcontroller. Furthermore, it can be provided that the circuit board, in particular the microcontroller, can be coupled to the digital computer. In particular, it can be provided that the signal from the input device is converted into a digital signal for transmission to the digital computer by means of the circuit board. Furthermore, it can be provided that a digital control command from the digital computer for energizing the coil is converted into an actual energization of the coil by means of the circuit board. In particular, it can be provided that a transistor is arranged on the circuit board and is designed to switch the energization of the coil.

[0017] Furthermore, it can be provided that the detection means is designed in the form of a Hall sensor. Furthermore, it can be provided that one or more permanent magnets are coupled to the input wheel, wherein the Hall sensor, in cooperation with the permanent magnets, can detect the angular position of the input wheel.

[0018] A first option for establishing a data connection between the circuit board, such as the one installed in a computer mouse, and the digital computer is the use of a wired interface. This interface can be implemented using standardized connecting cables that ensure reliable and fast data transmission. The direct contact between the circuit board and the digital computer allows data to be transmitted with minimal latency and maximum accuracy. Furthermore, the cable can transmit the electrical power required to power the coil.

[0019] Another option for data connection between a circuit board in a computer mouse and a digital computer is wireless technology. This utilizes wireless communication protocols such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, enabling a flexible and convenient connection without the need for physical cables. This wireless connection offers the advantage of mobility, as the mouse can be moved freely without being tied to a cable. It enables seamless data transmission over short to medium distances. The development of efficient power management systems combined with modern battery technologies ensures sufficient operating time even when the coil requires power.

[0020] The rotational resistance of the input wheel can be influenced by varying the current strength when energizing the coil.

[0021] Furthermore, it may be expedient for the input wheel to be designed as a hollow body and for the coil to be at least partially surrounded by the input wheel. In other words, the input wheel can be designed as a hollow body and have an axial extension. The coil can extend into the axial extension of the hollow body. This has the advantage that this measure allows for a particularly space-saving design of the input device.

[0022] Furthermore, the input wheel can be designed as a rotationally symmetrical hollow body, in particular as a ring body. Such a hollow body is particularly easy to manufacture.

[0023] Furthermore, it can be provided that the braking component is displaceable in the axial direction of the rotational axis, and the friction surface is arranged on one end face of the braking component. This measure allows for a simple design of the input device.

[0024] Furthermore, it can be provided that the braking component is displaceable in the axial direction of the rotational axis by means of at least one guide element and is held in a torque-transmitting manner to the base body. In other words, it can be provided that the braking component is displaceable in the axial direction of the rotational axis by means of the guide element, but not rotatable about the rotational axis. This measure allows a simple design of the input device to be achieved.

[0025] Another advantageous embodiment is one in which the coil is arranged on a coil carrier, the coil carrier surrounding the coil core, and the guide element is designed in the form of a pin arranged on the coil carrier, the pin protruding axially from the coil carrier. This provides the advantage that the coil can be easily accommodated in the input device.

[0026] According to a further development, it is possible for the coil to be rigidly coupled to the base body and for a winding axis of the coil to be arranged coaxially with the rotation axis. The coil core is formed by a rotating body arranged coaxially with the rotation axis, with at least parts of the coil core being surrounded by the coil. This results in a simple design of the input device.

[0027] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil core has a first coil core part and a second coil core part, wherein the first coil core part is designed as a hollow cylinder and the second coil core part has a first shell, wherein the first shell surrounds the first coil core part in a sleeve-like manner, and a second shell, wherein the second shell surrounds the first shell in a sleeve-like manner, and has a first end wall, wherein the first end wall connects the first shell to the second shell. This has the advantage that the coil core can be easily manufactured.

[0028] Furthermore, it can be provided that the second coil core part is open opposite the first end wall and the first shell and the second shell opposite the first end wall are not connected to each other.

[0029] The first end wall, the first shell and the second shell can form a coil holder, which can be open towards the side of the second support area and serves to hold the coil carrier cylinder together with the coil held thereon.

[0030] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first shell, together with the first coil core part, forms a first coil end face. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second shell forms a second coil end face. In particular, it can be provided that the first coil end face has a first surface area and the second coil end face has a second surface area, wherein the first surface area is between 80% and 120%, in particular between 90% and 110%, preferably between 95% and 105% of the first surface area. This measure can achieve a uniform distribution of the magnetic field lines.

[0031] In particular, it can be provided that the second coil core part is formed as a single piece. Preferably, the second coil core part can be formed as a deep-drawn part.

[0032] In particular, it can be provided that the second coil core part is U-shaped and tilted by 90° when viewed in longitudinal section, wherein the U-shape tilted by 90° is designed as a rotational body around the winding axis.

[0033] According to a further development, it is possible for the coil to be rigidly coupled to the base body and for a winding axis of the coil to be arranged coaxially to the axis of rotation, wherein the coil core is formed by a rotating body arranged coaxially to the axis of rotation, wherein the coil core is surrounded by the coil, wherein an axial stop disk is arranged at a first longitudinal end of the coil and the braking component is arranged at a second longitudinal end of the coil, wherein a hollow cylindrical body is formed between the axial stop disk and the braking component, wherein the hollow cylindrical body is torque-coupled to the input wheel, wherein the hollow cylindrical body has a first end face which is assigned to the axial stop disk and wherein the hollow cylindrical body has a second end face which is assigned to the braking component.Such a structure is particularly easy to implement and can therefore be highly robust and at the same time less susceptible to errors.

[0034] Furthermore, it may be expedient to form a first bearing body that is coupled to the hollow cylinder body in the region of the first end face, and to form a second bearing body that is coupled to the hollow cylinder body in the region of the second end face, wherein the first bearing body and the second bearing body are rotatably mounted on the base body. This measure allows for simple mounting of the input wheel.

[0035] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first bearing body and the second bearing body are coupled to one another. In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body and the second bearing body are coupled to one another by means of the input wheel. In particular, the first bearing body and the second bearing body can be pressed into the input wheel.

[0036] In a further alternative, it can be provided that the first bearing body or the second bearing body have a recess in which the other bearing body selected from the first bearing body or the second bearing body is received.

[0037] Furthermore, the brake component can be provided with a central recess, with a brake component receptacle of the coil core extending through the central recess. This has the advantage that the magnetic flux can be closed via the brake component and the coil core. In particular, the brake component can act as a yoke.

[0038] Furthermore, it can be provided that the central recess and the brake part receptacle of the coil core are conical, at least in sections. This measure can achieve a reduction in the air gap between the central recess and the brake part receptacle of the coil core upon axial displacement of the brake component. According to a particular embodiment, it is possible for the winding axis of the coil to be arranged coaxially with the rotational axis, with the coil core being rotationally symmetrical. This measure allows for a simple design of the input device.

[0039] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second hollow cylindrical body is formed, wherein the counter friction surface is arranged on a first end face of the second hollow cylindrical body, wherein the second hollow cylindrical body coaxially surrounds the coil and wherein the brake component is arranged at an air gap distance from the coil core when the friction surface of the brake component bears against the counter friction surface. By this measure, it can be achieved that only the counter friction surface, which is arranged on an end face of the second hollow cylindrical body, and the friction surface of the brake component bear against one another. Thus, the friction torque can be precisely defined. Furthermore, smooth running of the input wheel can be achieved by this measure.

[0040] In particular, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body is torque-coupled to the input wheel. This measure allows the input wheel to be braked by means of the second hollow cylinder body.

[0041] Furthermore, it can be provided that the air gap distance is dimensioned as small as possible and yet sufficiently large that, over the service life of the input device, the air gap distance remains greater than zero when the second hollow cylinder body wears out.

[0042] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least the counter friction surface of the second hollow cylinder body is made of a plastic material. This has the advantage that the friction pairing can exhibit good friction properties.

[0043] In a first embodiment, the second hollow cylinder body may be formed as a single piece from a plastic material. In particular, the second hollow cylinder body may be formed as an injection-molded part from a plastic material. This offers the advantage that a second hollow cylinder body formed in this way is easy to manufacture.

[0044] Furthermore, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body is rigidly arranged on a stiffening ring, with the second hollow cylinder body surrounding the stiffening ring. This has the advantage that the dimensional stability of the second hollow cylinder body can be improved by this measure.

[0045] Furthermore, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body is pressed onto a stiffening ring. This has the advantage that this measure can improve the dimensional stability of the second hollow cylinder body.

[0046] Furthermore, it can be provided that the stiffening ring is made of a metal. In particular, it can be provided that the stiffening ring is designed as a formed sheet metal part, in particular as a deep-drawn part. Furthermore, it can be provided that a microstructure, in particular a toothing, is formed on the outer surface of the stiffening ring, thus achieving an improved connection between the stiffening ring and the second hollow cylinder body.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be provided that elevations or depressions distributed over the circumference are arranged on an outer surface of the second hollow cylinder body, which form a positive connection with the input wheel or with a component coupled to the input wheel, so that the second hollow cylinder body is axially displaceable relative to the input wheel and simultaneously coupled to transmit torque. More generally, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body is axially displaceable relative to the input wheel and simultaneously coupled to transmit torque. This has the advantage that this measure can simultaneously permit an axial relative displacement between the input wheel and the base body while fully maintaining the functionality of the braking device.

[0048] In particular, it can be provided that the shaped elements are designed in the form of elevations or depressions.

[0049] The form elements can interact with counter-form elements.

[0050] The elevations can interact with counter-depressions. The depressions can interact with counter-elevations.

[0051] Furthermore, it can be provided that the elevations or depressions have a wedge-shaped taper at one axial end, and that the counter-depressions or counter-elevations have a counter-wedge corresponding to the taper. This has the advantage that the wedge-shaped taper can achieve zero play in the circumferential direction when the wedge-shaped taper is pressed into the counter-wedge in the axial direction.

[0052] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second end face is formed on the second hollow cylinder body opposite the first end face, wherein the second end face is designed as a second counter friction surface, wherein a counter-holder is arranged on the coil core, on which a second friction surface is formed. This has the advantage that the possible rotational resistance of the input wheel can be further increased by this measure.

[0053] In particular, it can be provided that the counterholder has a sleeve portion and a flange portion, wherein the second friction surface is formed on the flange portion.

[0054] Furthermore, it can be provided that the counterholder is designed as a deep-drawn part made of a sheet metal material.

[0055] Furthermore, it can be provided that the counterholder, in particular the sleeve section of the counterholder, is pressed onto the coil core.

[0056] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil is arranged on a coil carrier, with the coil carrier being held on the coil core. This has the advantage that the coil can be easily accommodated in the input device.

[0057] Furthermore, permanent magnets can be positioned in the input device in such a way that the magnetic field of the permanent magnets acts on the braking component, so that when the coil is de-energized, the braking component is attracted to the axial limiting disc and rests against it. This has the advantage that, when the coil is de-energized, the braking component does not rest against the counter friction surface, thus reducing the idle torque of the input wheel. This results in an improved feel for the input wheel.

[0058] Furthermore, it can also be provided that an angle sensor comprises the permanent magnets, which, together with a detection means designed as a Hall sensor, serve to determine the angular position of the input wheel. Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil is intermittently energized, so that the brake component is lifted off the axial limiting disc by means of the coil and then attracted back to the axial limiting disc to generate a clicking sound.

[0059] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil is slightly energized in predetermined scenarios, so that the brake component is attracted by the permanent magnets in the direction of the axial limiting disc, but still rests on the counter friction surface and thus the braking torque is reduced.

[0060] In a further embodiment, it is also conceivable for the braking component and the permanent magnets to be designed in such a way that, when the coil is de-energized, the braking component is repelled and pressed against the counter friction surface. In this case, a reduction in the friction force can be achieved when the coil is energized.

[0061] Furthermore, the coil carrier can be provided with a tab, wherein the tab is spring-elastic and wherein the tab rests against the brake component and acts on the brake component in such a way that the friction surface of the brake component is pushed away from the counter friction surface. This measure can ensure that the friction surface of the brake component does not rest against the counter friction surface when the coil is de-energized. This can improve the smooth operation of the input wheel and thus the user experience.

[0062] Furthermore, it can be provided that the input wheel is displaceable in the axial direction relative to the base body, with an axial sensor being formed to detect the axial position of the input wheel. This has the advantage that the input wheel can be used to input information into a digital computer not only by turning it, but also by pressing it.

[0063] According to an alternative embodiment, the brake component can be designed as a hollow cylinder and the friction surface is formed on an inner circumferential surface of the brake component, with a winding axis of the coil being arranged transversely to the rotational axis of the input wheel. With such an embodiment, a high braking torque can be achieved. In particular, it can be advantageous if the counter friction surface is arranged on the coil core, if the friction surface of the brake component and the counter friction surface are conical, and if the brake component is displaceable in the axial direction of the rotational axis. This measure makes it possible to achieve a simple structure for applying the braking torque.

[0064] Furthermore, the braking component can be mounted on the coil core so that it can be moved longitudinally. This measure allows for a simple design for applying the braking torque.

[0065] In one embodiment, the coil carrier may have a support pin opposite the pin, wherein the support pin is rigidly mounted in the base body, in particular, a first winding end and a second winding end of the coil are guided outward through the support pin. This has the advantage that this measure allows for easy mounting of the coil carrier in the base body and, moreover, provides a simple means of connecting the coil.

[0066] Furthermore, the base body can be accommodated in a computer mouse, and the input wheel can be designed as a mouse wheel. Especially in such an application, it is advantageous if the input wheel can be braked and the input device has a space-saving design.

[0067] Another advantageous embodiment is one in which the base body is accommodated in a steering wheel of a motor vehicle and the input wheel is designed as a selection wheel. Particularly in such an application, it is advantageous if the input wheel can be braked and the input device has a space-saving design.

[0068] The winding axis of the coil is defined as the axis that lies at the center of the coil windings. In a toroidal coil winding, the winding axis is concentric with the coil winding.

[0069] Of course, it is also conceivable that the coil is not wound in a ring shape, but has a different winding geometry, such as an elongated extension. In this case, the winding axis is considered to be the axis that runs through the center of gravity of the winding and extends along the inner cavity of the winding.

[0070] A copper material can be used as the material for the coil.

[0071] A ferromagnetic material can be used for the coil core. This could be an iron material, for example.

[0072] A ferromagnetic material can be used for the brake component. This could, for example, be an iron material.

[0073] A ferromagnetic material can be used for the axial stop plate. This could, for example, be an iron material.

[0074] A ferromagnetic material can be used for the hollow cylinder body. This could, for example, be an iron material.

[0075] A plastic can be used as the material for the coil carrier. In particular, the coil carrier can be designed as an injection-molded part.

[0076] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for operating an input device coupled to a digital computer may be provided. The method comprises the following steps:

[0077] - Providing the input device with a base body, an input body which is displaceable relative to the base body, a detection means for detecting a movement of the input body relative to the base body, a braking device for influencing a resistance to movement of the input body, wherein the braking device comprises a coil, a coil core and a displaceable braking component with a friction surface, wherein by means of the coil the friction surface of the braking component can be pressed against a counter friction surface and thereby the resistance to movement of the input body can be influenced, wherein a printed circuit board is formed which is coupled to the detection means and the coil and serves for data transmission to the digital computer;

[0078] - detecting a movement of the input body relative to the base body by means of the detecting means and transmitting control commands to the digital computer by means of the circuit board;

[0079] - Increasing the resistance to movement of the input body by energizing the coil, whereby the friction surface of the brake component is pressed against the counter friction surface;

[0080] - Outputting a haptic and / or acoustic signal to the input device by intermittently energizing the coil at a specified frequency.

[0081] The method offers the advantage that by outputting the haptic and / or acoustic signal, the user can receive feedback about the status of the digital computer or confirmation of their inputs. This can improve the quality of the user's interaction with the input device or the user's interaction with the digital computer.

[0082] Furthermore, it may be expedient to energize the coil for outputting a haptic signal at a frequency between 1 Hz and 300 Hz, in particular between 10 Hz and 200 Hz, preferably between 20 Hz and 100 Hz. Especially when energizing the coil at this frequency, vibrations can be generated that can be easily perceived as a haptic signal. Furthermore, energizing the coil at the specified frequency can result in energy-efficient signal output.

[0083] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil is energized to emit an acoustic signal at a frequency between 100 Hz and 20 kHz, in particular between 500 Hz and 10 kHz, preferably between 1 kHz and 5 kHz. Especially at such frequencies, clearly audible acoustic signals can be emitted.

[0084] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil for outputting the haptic and / or acoustic signal is energized at different frequencies, which are overlapped and / or modulated to achieve desired effects. This has the advantage that, for example, both a haptic and an acoustic signal can be output. Furthermore, this measure can be used to output a specific signal pattern for a specific action. Thus, different, clearly identifiable signal patterns can be output for different actions.

[0085] Another advantageous embodiment is one in which the coil can be energized at different frequencies in a predetermined temporal sequence. This has the advantage that, for example, both a haptic and an acoustic signal can be output. Furthermore, this measure can be used to output a specific signal pattern for a specific action. Thus, different, clearly identifiable signal patterns can be output for different actions.

[0086] According to a further development, the intermittent current supply to the coil can be carried out in such a way that the friction surface of the brake component lifts off and then bounces back against the counter friction surface. This measure, in particular, allows for the generation of a clearly identifiable haptic signal or even a clearly identifiable acoustic signal.

[0087] Furthermore, it may be useful to apply intermittent current to the coil in such a way that individual components of the input device are elastically deformed and thus begin to vibrate. This measure, in particular, allows for the generation of a clearly identifiable haptic signal or even a clearly identifiable acoustic signal.

[0088] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the intermittent energization of the coil is carried out in such a way that the friction surface of the brake component lifts off and then bounces back against the counter friction surface in a timed sequence. Before or after this, the coil is intermittently energized in such a way that the individual components of the input device are elastically deformed and thus begin to vibrate, while the friction surface of the brake component does not lift off and bounce back against the counter friction surface. This measure can create various haptic or acoustic effects.

[0089] Furthermore, the intermittent current supply to the coil can be provided in such a way that the input body is moved relative to the base body. Such a movement, in particular, can be easily perceived as a haptic signal.

[0090] Furthermore, it can be provided that the base body is accommodated in a computer mouse, that the input body is designed as a mouse wheel, and that the circuit board is configured such that a haptic and / or acoustic signal is generated at the input body in response to the actuation of an operating unit of the computer mouse, without the need for a control command from the digital computer. This has the advantage that this measure allows confirmation of the actuation of an operating unit of the computer mouse without the digital computer having to have software designed for this purpose. For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0091] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

[0092] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a computer mouse;

[0093] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a steering wheel;

[0094] Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of an input device in a perspective longitudinal sectional view;

[0095] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a brake component of the first embodiment of the input device;

[0096] Fig. 5 is a perspective longitudinal sectional view of a coil carrier of the first embodiment of the input device;

[0097] Fig. 6 shows a second embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal sectional view;

[0098] Fig. 7 shows a third embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal sectional view;

[0099] Fig. 8 shows the third embodiment of the input device in a perspective cross-sectional view along the section line VIII-VIII of Fig. 7;

[0100] Fig. 9 shows the third embodiment of the input device in a perspective view with partially hidden components;

[0101] Fig. 10 shows a fourth embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal sectional view;

[0102] Fig. 11 shows the fourth embodiment of the input device in a perspective cross-sectional view along the section line XI-XI of Fig. 10;

[0103] Fig. 12 shows the fourth embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal section with partially hidden components; Fig. 13 shows a fifth embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal section;

[0104] Fig. 14 shows the fifth embodiment of the input device in a perspective exploded view with components shown partially in section;

[0105] Fig. 15 shows a sixth embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal sectional view;

[0106] Fig. 16 shows a seventh embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal section in an unpressed state;

[0107] Fig. 17 shows a seventh embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal section in a pressed state;

[0108] Fig. 18 shows the seventh embodiment of the input device in a perspective exploded view with components shown partially in section;

[0109] Fig. 19 shows a ninth embodiment of the input device in a perspective longitudinal section in an unpressed state.

[0110] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be applied analogously to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure, and these positional information must be applied analogously to the new position in the event of a change in position.

[0111] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a computer mouse 1 with an input device 2. The input device 2 is coupled to a digital computer 3. In particular, the input device 2 serves to input control commands into the digital computer 3. As can be seen from Fig. 1, the input device 2 can be provided with a mouse wheel.

[0112] Fig. 2 shows in a further embodiment a steering wheel 4 on which a

[0113] Input device 2 is arranged. This input device 2 is also coupled to a digital computer 3. As can be seen from Fig. 2, the input device 2 can comprise an input wheel on the steering wheel 4.

[0114] Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of the input device 2.

[0115] As can be seen from Fig. 3, the input device 2 can comprise a base body 5 and an input wheel 6 mounted thereon for rotation about a rotational axis 30. The input wheel 6 can have an outer surface 7 designed for contact and thus for actuation by a user. In particular, the outer surface 7 can be structured to increase friction.

[0116] Furthermore, a detection means 8 can be provided, which serves to detect a rotational movement or an angular position of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5. The detection means 8 can detect the rotational movement of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5 and convert it into an analog or digital signal. Any sensors known to those skilled in the art, such as incremental sensors, etc., can be used as the detection means 8.

[0117] Furthermore, the input device 2 can be provided with a braking device 9, which can be used to increase or decrease the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6. In particular, it can be provided that the input wheel can be braked or blocked by means of the braking device 9. This serves to provide the user with haptic feedback. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, that by increasing the rotational resistance or by stopping the input wheel 6, the user is signaled that the end of a document has been reached while scrolling.

[0118] In particular, it can be provided that the braking device 9 has a coil 10. The coil 10 can be wound in multiple windings and have a first winding end 11 and a second winding end 12. In particular, it can be provided that the coil 10 is wound coaxially with a winding axis 21. In particular, it can be provided that the winding axis 21 of the coil 10 is arranged coaxially with the rotational axis 30 of the input wheel 6.

[0119] In particular, it can be provided that the coil 10 is held on a coil carrier 13. In this case, it can be provided that the coil 10 is wound directly onto the coil carrier 13. The coil carrier 13 can be designed as a hollow body. The coil carrier 13 can have a coil carrier cylinder 14, which can be delimited by a first coil carrier wall 15 and a second coil carrier wall 16. In particular, it can be provided that the first coil carrier wall 15 and the second coil carrier wall 16 are designed to protrude outwards in the radial direction relative to the coil carrier cylinder 14. The coil carrier 13 thus forms, as defined by the coil carrier cylinder 14 or the first coil carrier wall 15 and the second coil carrier wall 16, a U-shaped receptacle, viewed in longitudinal section, which serves to hold the coil 10.

[0120] In particular, it can be provided that a first longitudinal end 17 of the coil 10 is assigned to the first coil support wall 15 and a second longitudinal end 18 of the coil 10 is assigned to the second coil support wall 16.

[0121] As further evident from Fig. 3, it can be provided that a coil core 19 is arranged within the hollow space of the coil 10 formed by the winding. In particular, it can be provided that the coil core 19 is arranged within the coil support cylinder 14 of the coil support 13. Preferably, it can be provided that the coil core 19 is coupled to the coil support 13 by means of a press fit. Furthermore, it can be provided that a braking component 20 is formed. The braking component 20 can be arranged in the region of the second coil support wall 16.

[0122] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the brake component 20 of the first embodiment according to Fig. 3. Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the coil carrier 13 of the first embodiment according to Fig. 3. For the sake of clarity, the coil carrier 13 is shown in a cross-sectional view.

[0123] The further description is based on a summary of Figures 3 to 5.

[0124] Furthermore, it can be provided that an axial stop disk 22 is arranged in the region of the first coil carrier wall 15.

[0125] Furthermore, it can be provided that a hollow cylinder body 23 is formed, which is arranged between the brake component 20 and the axial stop disc 22. The hollow cylinder body 23 can have a first end face 24 and a second end face 25. In particular, it can be provided that the hollow cylinder body 23 is torque-coupled to the input wheel 6 via intermediate components described below or is formed as part of the input wheel 6.

[0126] Furthermore, it can be provided that the brake component 20 has a friction surface 26, which serves to engage a counter friction surface 27. In the present embodiment, the second end face 25 of the hollow cylinder body 23 is designed as a counter friction surface 27.

[0127] Furthermore, it can be provided that a guide element 28 is formed, by means of which the braking component 20 is coupled to the coil carrier 13 in a manner that is displaceable in the axial direction but torque-locked. In particular, it can be provided that the guide element 28 is designed in the form of a pin 29, which is arranged on the second coil carrier wall 16. Of course, several of the pins 29 can be arranged on the second coil carrier wall 16, distributed over the circumference.

[0128] Furthermore, it can be provided that a guide recess 31 is arranged in the brake component 20, into which the pin 29 projects. In particular, it can be provided that several, in particular three, of the pins 29 and the guide recess 31 are distributed around the rotation axis 30. The guide recess 31 can be designed as a round hole, and the pin 29 can be designed as a rotationally symmetrical pin.

[0129] Furthermore, it can be provided that the brake component 20 has a central recess 32 through which the coil core 19 extends. In particular, it can be provided that a brake part receptacle 33 of the coil core 19 is formed, which is surrounded by the central recess 32. The brake part receptacle 33 and the central recess 32 can have a conical shape.

[0130] Furthermore, it can be provided that a coil core pin 34 is formed, which connects to the brake part receptacle 33.

[0131] Furthermore, it can be provided that a support pin 35 is formed opposite the coil core pin 34. The support pin 35 can be arranged on the first coil support wall 15 of the coil support 13.

[0132] In particular, it can be provided that the support pin 35 is held on a first receptacle 36 of the base body 5. Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil core pin 34 is held on a second receptacle 37 of the base body 5. In other words, it can be provided that the coil core 19, the coil carrier 13, the coil 10 received therein, and the axial stop disk 22 arranged on the coil carrier 13 are rigidly held on the base body 5 by means of the coil core pin 34 and the support pin 35.

[0133] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first bearing body 38 is formed, by means of which the input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the support pin 35. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second bearing body 39 is formed, by means of which the input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the coil core pin 34.

[0134] In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are designed as deep-drawn parts.

[0135] In particular, it can be provided that the hollow cylinder body 23 is coupled to the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39. Preferably, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are pressed onto the hollow cylinder body 23.

[0136] Furthermore, it can be provided that the input wheel 6 is pressed onto the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 or that these are received in a central recess of the input wheel 6.

[0137] In particular, it can be provided that a first plain bearing element 40 is arranged between the support pin 35 and the first bearing body 38. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second plain bearing element 41 is arranged between the coil core pin 34 and the second bearing body 39. By means of the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39, the input wheel 6 can be rotatably mounted relative to the coil 10 or relative to the base body 5.

[0138] As can be further seen from Fig. 3, it can be provided that an angle sensor 42 is arranged on the second bearing body 39, which cooperates with the detection means 8.

[0139] As can further be seen from Fig. 3, it can be provided that a printed circuit board 53 is formed, which serves for data transmission between the input device 2 and the digital computer 3. The printed circuit board 53 can be coupled to the input device 2 and the digital computer 3. In particular, it can be provided that the first winding end 11 and the second winding end 12 are coupled to the printed circuit board 53. Furthermore, the detection means 8 can be coupled to the printed circuit board 53. In particular, it can be provided that a capacitor 54 is arranged on the printed circuit board 53. In particular, the capacitor 54 can serve to supply current to the coil 10.

[0140] The functionality of the input device 2 is described below. The user can place a finger on the outer surface 7 of the input wheel and thereby rotate the input wheel 6.

[0141] The input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the base body 5 by means of the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39. In particular, the input wheel 6 rotates together with the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 and the hollow cylinder body 23 relative to the base body 5 or relative to the brake component 20. The friction surface

[0142] 26 and the counter friction surface 27 can be arranged at a small distance from each other or at least not bear against each other with pressure.

[0143] By means of the detection means 8, the angle of rotation or the rotational movement of the input wheel 6 can be detected and a corresponding signal can be transmitted to a digital computer 3.

[0144] If, for example, the end of the scrolling of a document displayed on the digital computer 3 is reached, the coil 10 can be energized, whereby the brake component 20 is displaced in the axial direction towards the hollow cylinder body 23. In particular, the hollow cylinder body 23 can be clamped between the axial stop disc 22 and the brake component 20. As a result, the friction surface 26 of the brake component 20 and the counter friction surface

[0145] 27 of the hollow cylinder body 23 can be brought into contact with one another, whereby the rotational resistance of the hollow cylinder body 23 can be increased. The braking component 20 is pressed against the hollow cylinder body 23 by the magnetic force of the coil 10 or by the resulting field lines 43. The field lines 43 run through the coil core 19, the first coil support wall 15, the axial stop disc 22, the hollow cylinder body 23, and the braking component 20.

[0146] As can be seen from Fig. 4, it can be provided that a first channel 44 is formed in the support pin 35, which serves to pass through the first winding end 11. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second channel 45 is formed in the support pin 35, which serves to pass through the second winding end 12. As can be seen from a joint view of Figures 5 and 3, it can be provided that the first coil support wall 15 has a passage for the first winding end 11 and the second winding end 12 and the stop disk 22 is interrupted or has a recess in the region of this passage. In the remaining part of the circumference, the stop disk 22 can rest directly on the coil core 19 or extend up to it in order to achieve a magnetic connection. However, this is not clearly apparent from the sectional view in Fig. 3 due to the choice of cutting line.

[0147] Fig. 6 shows a second and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figs. 1 to 5. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figs. 1 to 5.

[0148] The second embodiment of the input device 2 according to Fig. 6 has a fundamentally similar structure to the first embodiment of the input device according to Figs. 3 to 5. For reasons of economy, a detailed description of all components identical to the first embodiment is omitted; instead, only the essential differences from the first embodiment according to Figs. 3 to 5 are described.

[0149] As can be seen from Fig. 6, in the second embodiment of the input device 2, no coil core pin 34 is formed, but rather a bolt 46 is formed, which is received in a bolt receptacle 47 in the coil core 19. In particular, it can be provided that the bolt 46 is pressed into the bolt receptacle 47. Furthermore, it can be provided that the bolt 46 is received in the second receptacle 37 of the base body 5. Furthermore, it can be provided that the bolt 46 has the brake part receptacle 33 for receiving the brake component 20. Furthermore, it can be provided that the bolt 46 has a second sliding surface 48, on which the second bearing body 39 is rotatably mounted.

[0150] As further evident from Fig. 6, it can be provided that an inner diameter of the central recess 32 of the braking component 20 is smaller than an outer diameter 49 of the coil core 19. This makes it possible for the braking component 20 to rest or approximately rest against an end face of the coil core 19, so that an air gap between the braking component 20 and the coil core 19 can be kept as small as possible. The operation of the input device 2 according to Fig. 6 is also similar to the operation of the first embodiment of the input device 2.

[0151] Fig. 7 shows a third and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations as in the preceding Figs. 1 to 6 are used for the same parts. Fig. 8 shows a sectional view of the third embodiment of the input device in a perspective cross-sectional view along section line VIII-VIII in Fig. 7. Fig. 9 shows the third embodiment of the input device in a perspective view with some components hidden. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figs. 1 to 6.

[0152] The description of the third embodiment of the input device 2 is based on a synopsis of Figures 7 to 9.

[0153] The third embodiment of the input device 2 has a different structure than the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

[0154] As can be seen from Fig. 7, the third embodiment also has a base body 5 in which an input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted.

[0155] The input wheel 6 has an outer surface 7 for contact by a user. Furthermore, a detection means 8 is provided, which serves to detect a rotational angle position or a rotational movement of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5. Furthermore, a braking device 9 is also provided, which serves to change the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6. A coil 10 is also provided, which has a first winding end 11 and a second winding end 12. The coil 10 is also arranged on a coil carrier 13.

[0156] Furthermore, a coil core 19 is formed, which extends along the winding axis 21 of the coil 10. In the third embodiment of the input device 2, in contrast to the first two embodiments of the input device 2, the winding axis 21 of the coil 10 is not arranged coaxially with the rotational axis 30 of the input wheel 6, but rather, the coil is arranged tilted by 90° relative to the rotational axis 30, as seen in cross-section. Thus, the coil core 19 is also arranged tilted by 90° relative to the rotational axis 30.

[0157] The brake component 20 is designed as a hollow cylindrical body, which can be manufactured, for example, by a deep-drawing process. In particular, it can be provided that the friction surface 26 is formed on an inner circumferential surface 50 of the brake component 20. Furthermore, it can be provided that the brake component 20 simultaneously defines the first bearing body 38 and serves to support the input wheel 6.

[0158] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil core 19 has a counter friction surface 27 on each of its end faces relative to the winding axis 21. Furthermore, it can be provided that the friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 are conical, so that upon axial displacement of the braking component 20 relative to the coil core 19, the friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 can be brought into contact with one another. This can influence the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6.

[0159] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second bearing body 39 is formed, which is coupled to the first bearing body 38. In particular, it can be provided that the second bearing body 39 is slide-mounted on a support sleeve 51. Furthermore, it can be provided that the support sleeve 51 is rigidly received in the second receptacle 37 of the base body 5. Furthermore, it can be provided that the support sleeve 51 serves to hold the coil carrier 13 or the coil core 19 in the base body 5.

[0160] As can be further seen from Fig. 7, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 is rotatably mounted in the first receptacle 36.

[0161] The third embodiment of the input device 2 functions as follows. When the coil 10 is de-energized, the input wheel 6 can be rotated with low resistance, with the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 serving to rotatably support the input wheel 6 on the base body 5. The friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 can be arranged at a small distance from one another or at least not bear against one another with pressure. When the coil 10 is energized, the resulting magnetic field lines 43 attract the friction surface 26 to the counter friction surface 27. This leads to an axial displacement of the braking component 20, so that the friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 are pressed against one another. This can increase the friction and thus the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6.

[0162] Fig. 10 shows a fourth and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations as in the preceding Figs. 1 to 9 are used for the same parts. Fig. 11 shows a sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the input device in a perspective cross-sectional view along the section line XI-XI in Fig. 11. Fig. 9 shows the fourth embodiment of the input device 2 in a perspective longitudinal section with some components hidden. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figs. 1 to 9.

[0163] The description of the fourth embodiment of the input device 2 is based on a synopsis of Figures 10 to 12.

[0164] The fourth embodiment of the input device 2 is largely similar to the third embodiment of the input device 2. A detailed description of the same components is omitted for the sake of process economy.

[0165] The fourth embodiment of the input device 2, in contrast to the third embodiment of the input device 2, has a sliding sleeve 52 arranged on the coil core 19. The sliding sleeve 52 serves as a braking component 20, on which the friction surface 26 is arranged. The counter friction surface 27 is arranged on the inner circumferential surface 50 of the first bearing body 38. The first bearing body 38 can have a hollow cylindrical shape in the region of the counter friction surface 27. In particular, it can be provided that the sliding sleeve 52 is displaceable in the axial direction of the winding axis 21, whereby the friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 can be brought into contact with one another. The sliding sleeve 52 can be guided directly through the coil core 19.

[0166] The operation of the fourth embodiment of the input device 2 is as follows.

[0167] When the coil 10 is de-energized, the input wheel 6 can rotate freely relative to the base body 5, supported by the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39. The friction surface 26 and the counter-reaching surface 27 can be arranged at a small distance from each other, and in any case, they should not be in contact with each other with pressure.

[0168] When current is applied to coil 10, the braking component 20 in the form of the sliding sleeve 52 can be pulled radially outward, causing the friction surface 26 of the braking component 20 in the form of the sliding sleeve 52 to engage the counter friction surface 27. This can influence the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6.

[0169] In all described embodiments of the input device 2 and also in further embodiments of the input device 2 which are not shown in the figures, such as in a controller of a game console, in a keyboard or a trackpad or in another application of an input device 2 constructed according to the invention, in addition to the functionality already described, it can be provided that a haptic and / or acoustic signal is output at the input device 2 by intermittently energizing the coil 10 at a predetermined frequency.

[0170] The embodiments show possible embodiments, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments thereof, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiments with each other are also possible and this possibility of variation lies within the skill of the person skilled in the art in this technical field due to the teaching of technical action by means of the objective invention.

[0171] Figures 13 and 14 show a fifth and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figures 1 to 12. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figures 1 to 12.

[0172] Fig. 13 shows a fifth embodiment of the input device 2 in a perspective longitudinal sectional view, wherein the coil 10 is in the energized state and thus a magnetic field is generated. Fig. 14 shows the fifth embodiment of the input device 2 in a perspective exploded view. The description of the fifth embodiment of the input device 2 is based on a synopsis of Figs. 13 and 14. As can be seen from Fig. 13, the input device 2 can comprise a base body 5 and an input wheel 6 mounted thereon so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis 30. In particular, it can be provided that the rotation axis 30 has a horizontal orientation. The input wheel 6 can have an outer surface 7 which is designed for contact and thus for actuation by a user. In particular, it can be provided that the outer surface 7 has a structure to increase friction.

[0173] Furthermore, a detection means 8 can be provided, which serves to detect a rotational movement or an angular position of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5. The detection means 8 can detect the rotational movement of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5 and convert it into an analog or digital signal. Any sensors known to those skilled in the art, such as Hall sensors, incremental sensors, etc., can be used as the detection means 8.

[0174] Furthermore, it can be provided that the input device 2 comprises a braking device 9, which can serve to increase or decrease the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6. In particular, it can be provided that the input wheel 6 can be braked or blocked by means of the braking device 9. This serves to provide the user with haptic feedback. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, that by increasing the rotational resistance or by stopping the input wheel 6, the user is signaled that the end of a document has been reached while scrolling.

[0175] In particular, it can be provided that the braking device 9 comprises a coil 10. The coil 10 can be wound in multiple windings and have a first winding end 11 and a second winding end 12. In particular, it can be provided that the coil 10 is wound coaxially with a winding axis 21. In particular, it can be provided that the winding axis 21 of the coil 10 is arranged coaxially with the rotational axis 30 of the input wheel 6.

[0176] In particular, it can be provided that the coil 10 is accommodated on a coil carrier 13. In this case, it can be provided that the coil 10 is wound directly onto the coil carrier 13.

[0177] The coil carrier 13 is shown in detail in an exploded view in Fig. 14. The coil carrier 13 can have a coil carrier cylinder 14, which can be defined by a first coil carrier wall 15 and a second coil carrier wall 16. The coil carrier cylinder 14 can be designed as a hollow cylinder.

[0178] In particular, it can be provided that the first coil support wall 15 and the second coil support wall 16 are designed to protrude outward in the radial direction relative to the coil support cylinder 14. The coil support 13 thus forms, as defined by the coil support cylinder 14 or the first coil support wall 15 and the second coil support wall 16, a U-shaped receptacle, viewed in longitudinal section, which serves to accommodate the coil 10.

[0179] In particular, it can be provided that a first longitudinal end 17 of the coil 10 is assigned to the first coil support wall 15 and a second longitudinal end 18 of the coil 10 is assigned to the second coil support wall 16.

[0180] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least two tabs 55 are arranged on the first coil support wall 15. In particular, it can be provided that two tabs 55 are arranged opposite one another on the first coil support wall 15. The tabs 55 can protrude axially into the side facing away from the second coil support wall 16. Furthermore, it can be provided that the tabs 55 are designed to be resilient.

[0181] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first winding feedthrough 56 is formed in the first coil support wall 15, which serves to pass through the first winding end 11. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second winding feedthrough 57 is formed in the first coil support wall 15, which serves to pass through the second winding end 12.

[0182] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil carrier 13 has a coil carrier pin 58. The coil carrier pin 58 can have a first support region 59 and a second support region 60. The coil carrier pin 58 can be coupled to the base body 5 at the first support region 59 and the second support region 60.

[0183] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil carrier 13 has coil carrier struts 62, wherein the coil carrier pin 58 is coupled to the coil carrier cylinder 14 by means of the coil carrier struts 62. In particular, it can be provided that the coil carrier struts 62 are arranged at a regular angular spacing on the coil carrier 13. In particular, it can be provided that the first winding feedthrough 56 is formed in the region of one of the coil carrier struts 62 and that the second winding feedthrough 57 is formed in the region of another of the coil carrier struts 62.

[0184] In particular, it can be provided that an intermediate body 61 is arranged between the first support region 59 and the base body 5. The intermediate body 61 can also serve to receive the circuit board 53, on which the detection means 8 can be arranged.

[0185] As further shown in Fig. 13, a coil core 19 can be arranged within the hollow space of the coil 10 formed by the winding. In particular, the coil core 19 can be arranged within the coil support cylinder 14 of the coil support 13. Preferably, the coil core 19 can be coupled to the coil support 13 by means of a press fit.

[0186] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil core 19 has a first coil core part 64 and a second coil core part 65. The first coil core part 64 can be designed as a hollow cylinder. The second coil core part 65 can have a first casing 66. In particular, it can be provided that the first casing 66 is designed as a hollow cylinder, wherein the first casing 66 surrounds the first coil core part 64 in a sleeve-like manner. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second coil core part 65 has a second casing 67, wherein the second casing 67 surrounds the first casing 66 in a sleeve-like manner. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second coil core part 65 has a first end wall 68, wherein the first end wall 68 connects the first casing 66 to the second casing 67.A coil receptacle 69 can be formed by the first end wall 68, the first casing 66 and the second casing 67, which can be open towards the side of the brake component 20 and serves to receive the coil carrier cylinder 14 together with the coil 10 received thereon.

[0187] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first casing 66, together with the first coil core part 64, forms a first coil end face 70. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second casing 67 forms a second coil end face 71.

[0188] Furthermore, it can be provided that a braking component 20 is formed. The braking component 20 can be arranged in the region of the first coil support wall 15. In particular, it can be provided that the braking component 20 is disc-shaped. Furthermore, it can be provided that the braking component 20 has a central recess 32 through which the coil support 13 extends. In particular, it can be provided that the braking component 20 is arranged on the coil support 13 in the region of the coil support struts 62.

[0189] In particular, it can be provided that the central recess 32 of the braking component 20 is adapted to the shape of the coil support struts 62. This measure can ensure that the braking component 20 is guided axially displaceably relative to the coil support 13 and is simultaneously secured against rotation.

[0190] Furthermore, it can be provided that an axial limiting disc 72 is arranged in the region of the first coil support wall 15. The axial limiting disc 72 can be received, in particular pressed, onto the coil support pin 58 in the first support area 59. Furthermore, it can be provided that the axial limiting disc 72 serves to axially limit the movement of the braking component 20 away from the coil 10, which movement is caused by the spring action of the tab 55.

[0191] In particular, it can be provided that the axial limiting disc 72 is made of a plastic material. In particular, it can be provided that the axial limiting disc 72 is formed as an injection-molded part.

[0192] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second hollow cylinder body 73 is formed, which is arranged between the brake component 20 and a counter-holder 81. The second hollow cylinder body 73 can have a first end face 74 and a second end face 75. In particular, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body 73 is torque-coupled to the input wheel 6 via intermediate components described below or is formed as part of the input wheel 6.

[0193] Furthermore, it can be provided that the brake component 20 has a friction surface 26, which serves to engage a counter friction surface 27. In the present embodiment, the first end face 74 of the second hollow cylinder body 73 is designed as a counter friction surface 27.

[0194] In the present exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that the friction surface 26 on the brake component 20 is not located in the main area of ​​the magnetic field lines generated by the coil 10, but rather radially outside. In particular, it can be provided that the second hollow cylindrical body 73 coaxially surrounds the coil 10 and the brake component 20 is arranged at an air gap distance 76 from the coil core 19 when the friction surface 26 of the brake component 20 rests against the counter friction surface 27. This state occurs when the coil 10 is energized.

[0195] Furthermore, it can be provided that the hollow cylinder body 73 is rigidly arranged on a stiffening ring 77, wherein the hollow cylinder body 73 surrounds the stiffening ring 77. In particular, it can be provided that the hollow cylinder body 73 is pressed onto the stiffening ring 77.

[0196] Furthermore, it can be provided that shaped elements 79 in the form of elevations are arranged on an outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73, distributed over the circumference.

[0197] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first bearing body 38 is formed, by means of which the input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the intermediate body 61.

[0198] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second bearing body 39 is formed, by means of which the input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the second support region 60 of the coil carrier pin 58 of the coil carrier 13.

[0199] In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are formed from a plastic material. In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are formed as injection-molded parts.

[0200] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are coupled to one another by means of a press connection.

[0201] Furthermore, it can be provided that the outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73 is coupled to the second bearing body 39. In this case, it can be provided that a hollow cylinder body receptacle 83 is formed in the second bearing body 39, in which the outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73 is accommodated so as to be displaceable in the axial direction. This can be achieved, for example, by a clearance fit.

[0202] Furthermore, it can be provided that counter-shaped elements 84 in the form of recesses are formed on the hollow cylinder body receptacle 83, which interact with the shaped elements 79 arranged on the outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73. This allows a torque-transmitting connection to be achieved between the hollow cylinder body 73 and the second bearing body 39.

[0203] In particular, it can be provided that a second end face 75 is formed on the hollow cylinder body 73 opposite the first end face 74, wherein the second end face 75 is formed as a second counter friction surface 80, wherein a counter holder 81 is arranged on the coil core 19, on which a second friction surface 82 is formed.

[0204] The counterholder 81 can be rigidly coupled to the coil core 19. This can be achieved, for example, by a press connection.

[0205] Furthermore, it can be provided that the input wheel 6 is pressed onto the first bearing body 38 or that the input wheel 6 is clamped between the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39.

[0206] By means of the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39, the input wheel 6 can be rotatably mounted relative to the spool 10 or relative to the base body 5.

[0207] As further evident from Fig. 13, it can be provided that an angle sensor 42 is arranged on the first bearing body 38, which cooperates with the detection means 8. The angle sensor 42 can comprise permanent magnets 63, which, together with a detection means 8 designed as a Hall sensor, serve to determine the angular position of the input wheel 6. Furthermore, it can be provided that the angle sensor 42 comprises an angle sensor disk 85, which can be accommodated in the first bearing body 38.

[0208] Furthermore, it can be provided that the permanent magnets 63 are positioned in the input device 2 in such a way that the magnetic field of the permanent magnets 63 acts on the braking component 20, so that in the de-energized state of the coil 10, the braking component 20 is attracted to the axial limiting disk 72 and rests against it.

[0209] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil 10 is intermittently energized, so that the braking component 20 is lifted from the axial limiting disc 72 by means of the coil 10 and is then attracted back to the axial limiting disc 72 to generate a clicking noise. Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil 10 is slightly energized in predetermined scenarios, so that the braking component 20 is attracted by the permanent magnets 63 in the direction of the axial limiting disc 72, but still rests against the counter friction surface 27, thus reducing the braking torque.

[0210] In a further embodiment, it is also conceivable that the braking component 20 and the permanent magnets 63 are designed such that, when the coil 10 is de-energized, the braking component 20 is repelled and pressed against the counter friction surface 27. In this case, a reduction in the friction force can be achieved when the coil 10 is energized.

[0211] In particular, it can be provided that the angle sensor disc 85 is made of a ferrous material. This allows, on the one hand, the permanent magnets 63 to adhere to the angle sensor disc 85 without additional connecting means. Furthermore, the angle sensor disc 85 can serve to shield the magnetic field of the coil 10 from the detection means 8, in order to prevent falsification of the angular position determination by the detection means 8.

[0212] As further evident from Fig. 13, it can be provided that a circuit board 53 is formed, which serves for data transmission between the input device 2 and the digital computer 3. The circuit board 53 can be coupled to the input device 2 and the digital computer 3. In particular, it can be provided that the first winding end 11 and the second winding end 12 are coupled to the circuit board 53. Furthermore, the detection means 8 can be coupled to the circuit board 53.

[0213] The functionality of the input device 2 is described below. The user can place a finger on the outer surface 7 of the input wheel and thereby rotate the input wheel 6.

[0214] The input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the base body 5 by means of the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39. In particular, the input wheel 6 rotates together with the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 and the second hollow cylinder body 73 relative to the base body 5 or relative to the brake component 20. The brake component 20 can be pressed away from the hollow cylinder body 73 by means of the tab 55 or by its spring action and bear against the axial limiting disk 72. The friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 can be arranged at a small distance from one another or at least not bear against one another with pressure.

[0215] By means of the detection means 8, the angle of rotation or the rotational movement of the input wheel 6 can be detected and a corresponding signal can be transmitted to a digital computer 3.

[0216] If, for example, an end of the scrolling of a document displayed on the digital computer 3 is reached, the coil 10 can be energized, whereby the braking component 20 is displaced in the axial direction towards the second hollow cylinder body 73.

[0217] In particular, the second hollow cylinder body 73 can be clamped between the counterholder 81 and the brake component 20. As a result, the friction surface 26 of the brake component 20 and the counter friction surface 27 of the second hollow cylinder body 73, and the second friction surface 82 of the counterholder 81 and the second counter friction surface 80 of the second hollow cylinder body 73 can be brought into contact with one another, thereby increasing the rotational resistance of the hollow cylinder body 23.

[0218] The pressing of the brake component 20 against the second hollow cylinder body 73 is effected by the magnetic force of the coil 10 or by the resulting field lines 43. The field lines 43 run through the coil core 19 and the brake component 20. In contrast to the previous embodiments, however, the field lines 43 do not run through the second hollow cylinder body 73, which in the present embodiment serves exclusively as a friction partner.

[0219] The axial displacement of the second bearing body 39 and the second hollow cylinder body 73 relative to each other allows the second hollow cylinder body 73 to be clamped between the counterholder 81 and the brake component 20. The torque-transmitting connection of the second bearing body 39 and the second hollow cylinder body 73 also allows the braking torque of the second hollow cylinder body 73 to be transmitted to the input wheel 6.

[0220] When the current supply to coil 10 is now discontinued, the braking component 20 is pressed away from the second hollow cylinder body 73 again by means of the lug 55, thereby reducing or completely eliminating the frictional effect. Figure 15 shows a sixth and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figures 13 and 14. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figures 13 and 14.

[0221] The sixth embodiment of the input device 2 can have a fundamentally similar structure to the fifth embodiment of the input device 2, which can differ in a few components described here.

[0222] In this alternative embodiment, it can be provided that, when the coil 10 is de-energized, the braking component 20 is pressed against the second hollow cylinder body 73 by means of a spring element 86, and that, when the coil 10 is energized, the resulting magnetic force pushes the braking component 20 away from the second hollow cylinder body 73. The spring element 86 can be arranged between the braking component 20 and the axial limiting disc.

[0223] In such an embodiment, the flange 55 is, of course, not present. In such an embodiment, the rotational resistance is increased when the coil 10 is de-energized, and when the coil 10 is energized, the rotational resistance is reduced.

[0224] Figures 16 to 18 show a seventh and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figures 1 to 15. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figures 1 to 15.

[0225] Fig. 16 shows a seventh embodiment of the input device 2 in a perspective longitudinal section, wherein the coil 10 is in the energized state and thus a magnetic field is generated.

[0226] Fig. 17 shows the seventh embodiment of the input device 2 in a perspective longitudinal section, with the coil 10 energized, thus generating a magnetic field. Furthermore, in this illustration, the input wheel 6 is pressed downward. Fig. 18 shows the seventh embodiment of the input device 2 in a perspective exploded view.

[0227] The description of the seventh embodiment of the input device 2 is based on a synopsis of Figures 16 to 18.

[0228] As can be seen from Fig. 16, the input device 2 can be provided with a base body 5 and an input wheel 6 mounted thereon so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis 30. In particular, the rotation axis 30 can be provided with a vertical orientation.

[0229] The input wheel 6 can have an outer surface 7, which is designed for contact and thus for actuation by a user. In particular, the outer surface 7 can be structured to increase friction. Furthermore, the input wheel 6 can have a pressure surface 87, which serves to axially displace the input wheel 6. In particular, the input wheel 6 can have a cap-like shape.

[0230] Furthermore, a detection means 8 can be provided, which serves to detect a rotational movement or an angular position of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5. The detection means 8 can detect the rotational movement of the input wheel 6 relative to the base body 5 and convert it into an analog or digital signal. Any sensors known to those skilled in the art, such as Hall sensors, incremental sensors, etc., can be used as the detection means 8.

[0231] Furthermore, it can be provided that the input device 2 comprises a braking device 9, which can serve to increase or decrease the rotational resistance of the input wheel 6. In particular, it can be provided that the input wheel 6 can be braked or blocked by means of the braking device 9. This serves to provide the user with haptic feedback. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, that by increasing the rotational resistance or by stopping the input wheel 6, the user is signaled that the end of a selection menu has been reached.

[0232] In particular, it can be provided that the braking device 9 comprises a coil 10. The coil 10 can be wound in multiple windings and have a first winding end 11 and a second winding end 12. In particular, it can be provided that the coil 10 is wound coaxially with a winding axis 21. In particular, it can be provided that the winding axis 21 of the coil 10 is arranged coaxially with the rotational axis 30 of the input wheel 6.

[0233] In particular, it can be provided that the coil 10 is accommodated on a coil carrier 13. In this case, it can be provided that the coil 10 is wound directly onto the coil carrier 13.

[0234] The coil carrier 13 can be seen in detail in an exploded view in Fig. 18.

[0235] The coil carrier 13 can have a coil carrier cylinder 14, which can be delimited by a first coil carrier wall 15 and a second coil carrier wall 16. The coil carrier cylinder 14 can be designed as a hollow cylinder.

[0236] In particular, it can be provided that the first coil support wall 15 and the second coil support wall 16 are designed to protrude outward in the radial direction relative to the coil support cylinder 14. The coil support 13 thus forms, as defined by the coil support cylinder 14 or the first coil support wall 15 and the second coil support wall 16, a U-shaped receptacle, viewed in longitudinal section, which serves to accommodate the coil 10.

[0237] In particular, it can be provided that a first longitudinal end 17 of the coil 10 is assigned to the first coil support wall 15 and a second longitudinal end 18 of the coil 10 is assigned to the second coil support wall 16.

[0238] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first winding feedthrough 56 is formed in the first coil support wall 15, which serves to pass through the first winding end 11. Furthermore, it can be provided that a second winding feedthrough 57 is formed in the first coil support wall 15, which serves to pass through the second winding end 12.

[0239] In particular, it can be provided that the first winding bushing 56 merges into a first guide rail 91. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second winding bushing 57 merges into a second guide rail 92.

[0240] Recesses for receiving the first guide bar 91 and the second guide bar 92 can be formed in the base body 5. As can also be seen from Fig. 16, a coil core 19 can be arranged within the hollow space of the coil 10 formed by the winding. In particular, it can be provided that the coil core 19 is arranged within the coil support cylinder 14 of the coil support 13. Preferably, it can be provided that the coil core 19 is coupled to the coil support 13 by means of a press fit.

[0241] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil core 19 has a first coil core part 64 and a second coil core part 65. The first coil core part 64 can be designed as a hollow cylinder. The second coil core part 65 can also be designed as a hollow cylinder. In particular, it can be provided that the second coil core part 65 surrounds the first coil core part 64 in a sleeve-like manner.

[0242] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first coil core part 64 has a first end wall 68, wherein the first end wall 68 connects the first coil core part 64 to the second coil core part 65. The first end wall 68, the first coil core part 64, and the second coil core part 65 can form a coil receptacle 69, which can be open toward the side of the brake component 20 and serves to receive the coil support cylinder 14 together with the coil 10 received thereon.

[0243] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first coil core part 64 forms a first coil end face 70. Furthermore, it can be provided that the second coil core part 65 forms a second coil end face 71.

[0244] Furthermore, it can be provided that the coil core 19 has a coil core recess 88 with a non-circular cross-section, and that the base body 5 has a coil core receiving pin 89 with a corresponding non-circular cross-section. This can, for example, be a polygonal cross-section. This measure makes it possible to secure the coil core 19 to the base body 5 in a rotationally secure manner.

[0245] Furthermore, it can be provided that a braking component 20 is formed. The braking component 20 can be arranged in the region of the first coil carrier wall 15. In particular, it can be provided that the braking component 20 is disc-shaped. Furthermore, it can be provided that the braking component 20 has a central recess 32 through which the coil carrier 13 extends. Furthermore, it can be provided that the braking component 20 has guide recesses 90. The first guide bar 91 and the second guide bar 92 can extend through the guide recesses 90. This measure can ensure that the braking component 20 is guided on the coil carrier 13 so as to be axially displaceable relative to the latter and is simultaneously secured against rotation.

[0246] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second hollow cylinder body 73 is formed, which is arranged between the brake component 20 and a counter-holder 81. The second hollow cylinder body 73 can have a first end face 74 and a second end face 75. In particular, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body 73 is torque-coupled to the input wheel 6 via intermediate components described below or is formed as part of the input wheel 6.

[0247] Furthermore, it can be provided that the brake component 20 has a friction surface 26, which serves to engage a counter friction surface 27. In the present embodiment, the first end face 74 of the second hollow cylinder body 73 is designed as a counter friction surface 27.

[0248] In the present embodiment, it can be provided that the friction surface 26 on the brake component 20 is not located in the main area of ​​the magnetic field lines caused by the coil 10, but rather radially outside.

[0249] In particular, it can be provided that the second hollow cylinder body 73 coaxially surrounds the coil 10 and the braking component 20 is arranged at an air gap distance 76 from the coil core 19 when the friction surface 26 of the braking component 20 rests against the counter friction surface 27. This state occurs when the coil 10 is energized.

[0250] Furthermore, it can be provided that shaped elements 79 in the form of depressions are arranged on an outer circumferential surface 78 of the second hollow cylinder body 73 and distributed over the circumference.

[0251] Furthermore, it can be provided that a first bearing body 38 is formed, by means of which the input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the base body 5. In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 has a bearing pin 93, by means of which the first bearing body 38 is rotatably mounted on the base body 5. In particular, it can be provided that the bearing pin 93 protrudes into a bore 94 in the coil core receiving pin 89 and is mounted there. Furthermore, it can be provided that the bearing pin 93 is mounted in the coil core recess 88 of the coil core 19 at an axial distance therefrom.

[0252] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second bearing body 39 is formed, which is positively connected to the first bearing body 38 and, together with the first bearing body 38, serves to receive the second hollow cylinder body 73.

[0253] In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are formed from a plastic material. In particular, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are formed as injection-molded parts.

[0254] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 are coupled to one another by means of a snap connection.

[0255] Furthermore, it can be provided that the outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73 is coupled to the second bearing body 39. In this case, it can be provided that a hollow cylinder body receptacle 83 is formed in the second bearing body 39, in which the outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73 is accommodated so as to be displaceable in the axial direction. This can be achieved, for example, by a clearance fit.

[0256] Furthermore, it can be provided that counter-shaped elements 84 in the form of elevations are formed on the hollow cylinder body receptacle 83, which interact with the shaped elements 79 arranged on the outer surface 78 of the hollow cylinder body 73. This allows a torque-transmitting connection to be achieved between the hollow cylinder body 73 and the second bearing body 39.

[0257] In particular, it can be provided that a second end face 75 is formed on the hollow cylinder body 73 opposite the first end face 74, wherein the second end face 75 is formed as a second counter friction surface 80, wherein a counter holder 81 is arranged on the coil core 19, on which a second friction surface 82 is formed.

[0258] The counterholder 81 can be rigidly coupled to the coil core 19. This can be achieved, for example, by a press fit. Furthermore, the input wheel 6 can be coupled to the first bearing body 38 by means of a material connection.

[0259] By means of the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39, the input wheel 6 can be rotatably mounted relative to the spool 10 or relative to the base body 5.

[0260] As further evident from Fig. 16, it can be provided that an angle sensor 42 is arranged on the first bearing body 38, in particular at the front end of the bearing pin 93, which cooperates with the detection means 8. The angle sensor 42 can comprise a permanent magnet 63, which, together with a detection means 8 designed as a Hall sensor, can be used to determine the angular position of the input wheel 6.

[0261] As further evident from Fig. 16, it can be provided that a circuit board 53 is formed, which serves for data transmission between the input device 2 and the digital computer 3. The circuit board 53 can be coupled to the input device 2 and the digital computer 3. In particular, it can be provided that the first winding end 11 and the second winding end 12 are coupled to the circuit board 53. Furthermore, the detection means 8 can be coupled to the circuit board 53.

[0262] Furthermore, a return spring 95 can be provided, which is supported on the circuit board 53 and presses the first bearing body 38 into a non-actuated position 96, as shown in Fig. 16. The shaped element 79 or the counter-shaped element 84 serves as an axial stop. In particular, it can be provided that the return spring 95 acts on the bearing pin 93 of the first bearing body 38.

[0263] Furthermore, it can be provided that limiting knobs 98 are arranged on the first bearing body 38, which rest on the coil core 19 when the input wheel 6 is pressed downwards or actuated in the actuated position 97 and thus serve to limit the axial movement of the input wheel 6.

[0264] The functionality of the input device 2 is described below. The user can grip the outer surface 7 of the input wheel 6 with his fingers and thereby rotate the input wheel 6.

[0265] Furthermore, the user can move the input wheel 6 in the axial direction, for example, to confirm an input, as shown in Fig. 17. Here, the outer surface 7 of the input wheel 6 can also be gripped, or the pressure surface 87 can be pressed.

[0266] The input wheel 6 is rotatably mounted on the base body 5 by means of the first bearing body 38. In particular, the input wheel 6 rotates together with the first bearing body 38 and the second bearing body 39 and the second hollow cylinder body 73 relative to the base body 5 or relative to the brake component 20. The brake component 20 can be lightly pressed against the hollow cylinder body 73 by means of a spring element arranged in the base body 5.

[0267] The friction surface 26 and the counter friction surface 27 can rest slightly against each other.

[0268] By means of the detection means 8, the angle of rotation or the rotational movement of the input wheel 6 can be detected, and a corresponding signal can be transmitted to a digital computer 3. Furthermore, the axial position of the input wheel 6 can be detected by means of the detection means 8. Of course, it is also conceivable that a further detection means is provided for detecting the axial position of the input wheel 6.

[0269] If, for example, an end of a menu selection option of a menu displayed on the digital computer 3 is reached, the coil 10 can be energized, whereby the brake component 20 is displaced in the axial direction towards the second hollow cylinder body 73.

[0270] In particular, the second hollow cylinder body 73 can be clamped between the counterholder 81 and the brake component 20. As a result, the friction surface 26 of the brake component 20 and the counter friction surface 27 of the second hollow cylinder body 73, and the second friction surface 82 of the counterholder 81 and the second counter friction surface 80 of the second hollow cylinder body 73 can be brought into contact with one another, thereby increasing the rotational resistance of the hollow cylinder body 23.

[0271] The braking component 20 is pressed against the second hollow cylinder body 73 by the magnetic force of the coil 10 or by the resulting field lines 43. The field lines 43 run through the coil core 19 and the braking component 20.

[0272] Due to the axial displaceability of the second bearing body 39 and the second hollow cylinder body 73 relative to one another, it can be achieved that the second hollow cylinder body 73 can be clamped between the counter-holder 81 and the brake component 20, regardless of whether the input wheel 6 is in the actuated position 97 or in the unactuated position 96.

[0273] Due to the torque-transmitting connection of the second bearing body 39 and the second hollow cylinder body 73, the braking torque of the second hollow cylinder body 73 can also be transmitted to the input wheel 6.

[0274] When the current supply to the coil 10 is now stopped, the brake component 20 is pressed less strongly or no longer against the second hollow cylinder body 73, whereby the friction effect is reduced or completely removed.

[0275] Of course, an eighth embodiment is also possible here, which can have a fundamentally similar structure to the seventh embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the braking component 20 is pressed strongly against the hollow cylinder body 73 by means of a spring element when the coil 10 is de-energized, and the contact force is reduced by energizing the coil 10. This embodiment has already been described in a similar form in connection with the sixth embodiment.

[0276] Figure 19 shows a ninth and possibly independent embodiment of the input device 2, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding Figures 16 to 18. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding Figures 16 to 18.

[0277] The ninth embodiment differs from the seventh embodiment in that the base body 5 is extended further upwards and the input wheel 6 is correspondingly shorter. Otherwise, this embodiment can have the same features already described in the seventh embodiment, which is why a detailed description of the remaining features is omitted here.

[0278] The scope of protection is determined by the claims. However, the description and the drawings must be used to interpret the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the various embodiments shown and described can represent independent inventive solutions in themselves. The problem underlying the independent inventive solutions can be derived from the description. All information on value ranges in this description is to be understood as including any and all sub-ranges thereof. For example, the reference 1 to 10 is to be understood as including all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10. This means that all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, for example 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0279] For the sake of clarity, it should finally be pointed out that, in order to better understand the structure, some elements have been shown out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0280] Reference symbol list

[0281] Computer mouse 32 Central recess input device 33 Brake part holder digital computer 34 Coil core pin steering wheel 35 Support pin base body 36 First holder input wheel 37 Second holder outer surface 38 First bearing body detection means 39 Second bearing body brake device 40 First plain bearing element coil 41 Second plain bearing element first winding end 42 Angle sensor second winding end 43 Field lines coil carrier 44 First channel coil carrier cylinder 45 Second channel first coil carrier wall 46 Bolt second coil carrier wall 47 Bolt holder first longitudinal end 48 Second sliding surface second longitudinal end 49 Outer diameter coil core 50 Inner surface brake component 51 Support sleeve winding axis 52 Sliding sleeve

[0282] Axial stop disc 53 Printed circuit board Hollow cylinder body 54 Capacitor first end face 55 Tab second end face 56 First winding leadthrough Friction surface 57 Second winding leadthrough Counter friction surface 58 Coil carrier pin Guide element 59 First support area Pin 60 Second support area Rotation axis 61 Intermediate body Guide recess 62 Coil carrier strut Permanent magnet 93 Bearing pin First coil core part 94 Bore Second coil core part 95 Return spring First shell 96 Unactuated position Second shell 97 Actuated position First end wall 98 Limiting knob

[0283] Coil holder first coil end face second coil end face axial limitation s disc second hollow cylinder body first end face second hollow cylinder body second end face second hollow cylinder body

[0284] Air gap distance

[0285] Stiffening ring

[0286] Outer surface of hollow cylinder body

[0287] Form element second counter friction surface

[0288] Counterholder second friction surface

[0289] Hollow cylinder body holder

[0290] Counter-form element

[0291] Angle sensor disc

[0292] spring element

[0293] Print area

[0294] Coil core recess

[0295] Coil core receiving pin

[0296] Guide recess first guide bar second guide bar

Claims

Patent claims 1. Input device (2) for entering control commands into a digital computer (3), the input device (2) comprising: - a base body (5); - an input wheel (6) which is mounted on the base body (5) so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation (30), the input wheel (6) having an outer circumferential surface (7) for actuation by a user; - a braking device (9) for influencing a rotational resistance of the input wheel (6), characterized in that the braking device (9) comprises a coil (10), a coil core (19) and a displaceable braking component (20) with a friction surface (26), wherein by means of the magnetic field generated by the coil (10) a contact force of the friction surface (26) of the braking component (20) against a counter friction surface (27) can be changed and the rotational resistance of the input wheel (6) can thereby be influenced.

2. Input device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the input wheel (6) is designed as a hollow body and the coil (10) is at least partially surrounded by the input wheel (6).

3. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the braking component (20) is displaceable in the axial direction of the rotation axis (30) and the friction surface (26) is arranged on an end face of the braking component (20).

4. Input device (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that the braking component (20) is displaceable in the axial direction of the rotation axis (30) by means of at least one guide element (28) and is received in a torque-transmitting manner to the base body (5).

5. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coil (10) is rigidly coupled to the base body (5) and a winding axis (21) of the coil (10) is arranged coaxially to the rotation axis (30), wherein the coil core (19) is formed by a rotation body arranged coaxially to the rotation axis (30), wherein at least parts of the coil core (19) are surrounded by the coil (10).

6. Input device (2) according to claim 5, characterized in that the coil core (19) has a first coil core part (64) and a second coil core part (65), wherein the first coil core part (64) is designed as a hollow cylinder and the second coil core part (65) has a first casing (66), wherein the first casing (66) surrounds the first coil core part (64) in a sleeve-like manner, and has a second casing (67), wherein the second casing (67) surrounds the first casing (66) in a sleeve-like manner, and has a first end wall (68), wherein the first end wall (68) connects the first casing (66) to the second casing (67).

7. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the winding axis (21) of the coil (10) is arranged coaxially to the rotation axis (30), wherein the coil core (19) is rotationally symmetrical.

8. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second hollow cylinder body (73) is formed, wherein the counter friction surface (27) is arranged on a first end face (74) of the second hollow cylinder body (73), wherein the second hollow cylinder body (73) coaxially surrounds the coil (10) and wherein the braking component (20) is arranged at an air gap distance (76) from the coil core (19) when the friction surface (26) of the braking component (20) bears against the counter friction surface (27).

9. Input device (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that at least the counter friction surface (27) of the hollow cylinder body (73) is formed from a plastic material.

10. Input device (2) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the hollow cylinder body (73) is rigidly arranged on a stiffening ring (77), wherein the hollow cylinder body (73) surrounds the stiffening ring (77).

11. Input device (2) according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that on an outer circumferential surface (78) of the hollow cylinder body (73) there are arranged shaped elements (79) distributed over the circumference, which form a positive connection with the input wheel (6) or with a component coupled to the input wheel (6), so that the hollow cylinder body (73) is coupled to the input wheel (6) in an axially displaceable manner and at the same time in a torque-transmitting manner.

12. Input device (2) according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that a second end face (75) is formed on the hollow cylinder body (73) opposite the first end face (74), wherein the second end face (75) is designed as a second counter friction surface (80), wherein a counter holder (81) is arranged on the coil core (19), on which counter holder a second friction surface (82) is formed.

13. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coil (10) is arranged on a coil carrier (13), wherein the coil carrier (13) is received on the coil core (19).

14. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that permanent magnets (63) are positioned in the input device (2) in such a way that the magnetic field of the permanent magnets (63) acts on the braking component (20) so that in the de-energized state of the coil (10) the braking component (20) is attracted to the axial limiting disc (72) and rests against it.

15. Input device (2) according to claim 13, characterized in that the coil carrier (13) has a tab (55), wherein the tab (55) is spring-elastic and wherein the tab (55) bears against the brake component (20) and acts on the brake component (20) in such a way that the friction surface (26) of the brake component (20) is pressed away from the counter friction surface (27).

16. Input device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input wheel (6) is displaceable in the axial direction relative to the base body (5), wherein an axial sensor is formed which serves to detect the axial position of the input wheel (6).

17. Input device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the base body (5) is accommodated in a computer mouse (1) and that the input wheel (6) is designed as a mouse wheel.

18. Input device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the base body (5) is accommodated in a steering wheel (4) of a motor vehicle and that the input wheel (6) is designed as a selection wheel.

19. Input device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the input wheel (6) is designed as a cylindrical rotary wheel which has a one-sided bearing.

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