Domestic appliance control device comprising a ring as an control element and a parameter value change step size that is dependent on the rotational speed of the ring, domestic appliance, and method

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a domestic appliance control device (5) comprising a rotatably mounted control element (6) and a display unit (11) on which values of an operating parameter can be optically displayed in a stationary display region (11a), wherein the modification of a value to be displayed in this display region (11a) is linked to the rotation of the control element (6), and a rotational speed of the control element (6) is linked to a step size of the value change in such a way that a first step size of the value change per reference travel of the control element (6) is linked to a first rotational speed, and a second step size, which is different from the first, of the value change per said reference travel of the control element (6) is linked to a second rotational speed, which is different from the first.

Description

[0001] Household appliance operating device with a ring as operating element and a step size of a parameter value change dependent on the rotation speed of the ring, household appliance and method

[0002] One aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance control device. Another aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance with such a household appliance control device. Another aspect relates to a method for operating a household appliance control device.

[0003] Control devices for household appliances are known in a wide variety of designs. Cylindrical rotary knobs are known in this regard. Touch-sensitive control elements are also provided. Furthermore, it is also known for a control element to be designed as a ring. This is known, for example, from DE 10 2021 203 491 A1. The multi-component design therein allows an outer ring to be rotated about a rotation axis relative to an inner, stationary ring.

[0004] It is also known that visual information is displayed on a display unit of the operating device depending on the actuation of a control element of the operating device. This can lead to information overload, and a clear assignment of displayed information to specific actuations can be inaccurate or lead to misinterpretation by the user.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a household appliance operating device, a household appliance and a method in which the display of information associated with an actuation of the operating element of the operating device is improved.

[0006] This object is achieved by a household appliance operating device, a household appliance, and a method according to the independent claims. One aspect of the invention relates to a household appliance operating device with a rotatably mounted operating element and a display unit on which values ​​of an operating parameter can be visually displayed in a stationary display area or a display field of the display unit. Changing a value to be displayed in this display area is linked to rotating the operating element.A rotational speed of the operating element is linked to a step size of the change in the value in such a way that a first rotational speed of the operating element is linked to a respective first step size of the change in the value per reference path of the operating element and a second rotational speed of the operating element which is different from the first is linked to a respective second step size of the change in the value per this reference path of the operating element.

[0007] In particular, the household appliance operating device can, for example, have at least one rotational position detection device and / or a control unit. This device and / or unit can detect and / or adjust the rotational position of the operating element and / or the rotational speed of the operating element and / or the speed-dependent basis of the, in particular predefined, step sizes. In particular, a step size can also be selected from at least two different step sizes depending on the current rotational speed.

[0008] This household appliance control device thus enables a speed-dependent step size of the value change of an operating parameter of a household appliance.

[0009] It is possible that the value difference by which the operating parameter value is changed per reference travel of the control element during the display differs between two consecutive displayed values ​​at the two rotation speeds. This means that a larger value difference can be used as a basis for each reference travel at higher rotation speeds than at lower rotation speeds. This allows large value changes to be achieved with one movement of the control element when the rotation speed is high. For example, smaller value changes occur at a lower first rotation speed for the same movement distance.

[0010] It is therefore possible for a first rotational speed of the control element to be linked to a first increment of change in the value per reference travel of the control element, and for a second rotational speed of the control element, which is greater than the first, to be linked to a second increment of change in the value per this reference travel of the control element. This can be provided, for example, if the value of the operating parameter is displayed in only one unit. For a time, a unit can be seconds, minutes, or hours, for example. However, a unit can also be degrees Celsius, etc.

[0011] However, it is also possible for a first rotational speed of the operating element to be linked to a first increment of change in the value per reference path of the operating element, which is an increment of a first unit of the operating parameter, and for a second rotational speed of the operating element, which is different from the first, to be linked to a second increment of change in the value per this reference path of the operating element, which is different from the first and is an increment of a second unit of the operating parameter that is different from the first. This also makes it possible to automatically switch between units when displaying values ​​depending on the rotational speed. This can be provided, for example, when the value of the operating parameter is displayed in at least two different units. For example, a time in hours and minutes or in hours, minutes and seconds.Or when the duration of a household appliance program is displayed in minutes and seconds. For example, at the first rotation speed, the first increment can be a specific value difference between the seconds. For example, at the second rotation speed, the second increment can be a specific value difference between the minutes. The value difference per reference path of the second increment can then be the same as the value difference of the first increment for this reference path. In this case, depending on the rotation speed, only one unit change is carried out. However, it is also possible that with the unit change at a changed rotation speed, the value change per reference path for the new unit is also changed by the different rotation.Thus, when rotating quickly at the second rotation speed, it is possible to change from changing the value of the seconds to changing the value of the minutes and at the same time the value difference per reference path for the minutes can be greater than if the seconds were changed.

[0012] In the household appliance control unit, only this display area is intended for displaying the values ​​of the operating parameter. This means, in particular, that the various values ​​of the operating parameter are not displayed simultaneously and side by side in different display areas. Therefore, only one value of the operating parameter is shown on the display unit at a time. This one value can be a temperature value, a time of day, or the duration of a household appliance program, etc.

[0013] In general, the household appliance device allows for rapid 'overcoming' of large value ranges / setting ranges. It also enables precise 'overcoming' of large value ranges / setting ranges. A significant reduction in the number of necessary gripping movements on the control element for a user is achieved. Particularly comprehensible increments for slow (step-by-step) and fast (continuous) rotation are possible. In the examples, there is also no need to separately select and individually set individual parameters such as seconds, hours, or minutes.

[0014] This makes it very advantageous to enter values ​​that are related to time as operating parameters, such as a duration or a time of day. For example, in a household appliance for preparing food, such as a cooking appliance, the preparation time for a piece of food and / or the time when the food is ready and / or the time of day, such as the time of day setting, play a role. The invention is also advantageous for other household appliances, such as a dishwasher or a laundry appliance or a drinks machine, such as a fully automatic coffee machine or one for producing hot or chilled drinks, which can be part of a refrigerator and / or freezer. The preparation time is entered, for example, either in the format "minutes:seconds" or "hours:minutes". It is also possible to switch between these display types.For example, the setting is made with 5 seconds accuracy as a value difference or with one minute accuracy as a value difference, which are not exhaustive examples of step sizes.

[0015] A point in time, such as the end time, especially for a food preparation process, can be postponed up to 48 hours into the future. The proposed concept is also advantageous for such settings, especially when significant changes in value are made.

[0016] The concept also enables a very intuitive and easy-to-understand value change without the user suffering a “loss of control” or a loss of understanding when turning, i.e. the user no longer loses the connection between the turning and the value change.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first rotational speed is a speed from a first speed interval that is different, in particular smaller, than a, in particular predefined, rotational speed threshold. In addition or instead, the second rotational speed is a speed from a second speed interval that is different from the first speed interval and the rotational speed threshold, in particular greater in this respect. Such a threshold-based distinction between large and small rotational speeds enables precise assignment of the step sizes. This is because if the value is changed at rotational speeds, even different rotational speeds, that are greater than the rotational speed threshold, a value change always occurs with the second step size per reference path.If the value is changed at rotational speeds, even at different speeds, that are lower than the rotational speed threshold, the value always changes with the first step size per reference path. This achieves a highly coordinated and understandable relationship between rotational path, rotational speed, and value change. Even large value changes can be adjusted quickly and precisely. In one embodiment, the rotational speed threshold is a value from an interval between 157,100 ms and 207,100 ms, in particular 177,100 ms. This particularly fulfills the above-mentioned advantages.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first step size is maintained if a change in the first rotational speed occurs during rotation and the rotational speeds are only within the first speed interval, and / or the second step size is maintained if a change in the second rotational speed occurs during rotation and the rotational speeds are only within the second speed interval. Therefore, rotation does not always have to be carried out at the same speed if a value change is to occur with the first step size. Rather, a change in the rotational speed can then also be carried out without an undesirable change in the step size.

[0019] In one embodiment, the second step size is maintained if the second rotational speed falls below the rotational speed threshold for a period of time, in particular a predetermined or predefined period of time, which is shorter than a tolerance time interval. This also makes it possible to avoid situations in which the rotational speed only briefly, in particular unconsciously or unintentionally, tips to the other side of the rotational speed threshold and then the step size is immediately changed. For example, if the control element is rotated quickly and released, it can slow down during independent braking and the rotational speed can briefly fall below the rotational speed threshold before the control element is then grasped again by the user and rotated quickly again, for example by being pushed.In such cases, we would preferably not switch to the other, smaller step size.

[0020] In one embodiment, the household operating device has a touch detection device, in particular at least one capacitive sensor, with which touching of the operating element can be detected. This advantageously also makes it possible to detect when a user influences the movement of the operating element and when not. That is, when the operating element performs the rotation as specified by the user or when it rotates itself, in particular after being rotated by the user and then released. This allows precise detection of situations in which the respective desired step size can be determined, so that maintaining a step size or changing the step size can be decided more situation-dependently by the household appliance operating device itself.

[0021] In one embodiment, the rotation of the control element can be detected using a rotation position detection device of the household appliance control device. When the control element is rotated, the touch detection device can detect whether the control element has been touched or not with a hand, in particular with fingers. When the release of the control element is detected, one embodiment provides for a hysteresis time interval to start from the moment of release. This allows the contactless state, in particular its duration, to be precisely detected, and this information can be used as a basis for other operating decisions, in particular whether or not to change the step size.

[0022] In one embodiment, the touch detection device can be used to check during the hysteresis time interval whether the operating element is touched again, in particular after being released. If this is detected, in one exemplary embodiment the second step size is maintained even if the operating element is rotated at the first rotational speed after being touched again. In such a specific scenario, it is therefore also possible to ensure that, due to specific preconditions, the second step size remains the basis even if, in the touched state, rotation takes place at a user-initiated rotational speed that is lower than the rotational speed threshold. This allows the approach to the desired target value to continue more slowly after a rapid rotation with a second step size while still maintaining the second step size.This also implements an advantageous step size hysteresis.

[0023] In one embodiment, when the control element is released, the hysteresis timer is started with a hysteresis time interval of, for example, 700 ms. This tolerance time interval also allows the user, for example, to release the control element and change their grip far enough to allow further rotation. In this case, the second step size for continuous rotation would continue to be applied. Even if the user now rotates more slowly (single-step speed), the second step size for continuous rotation is applied. This allows the user to adjust the value in larger steps with complete control.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first step size for slow rotation is "switched back" if the hysteresis timer expires, i.e., if the user does not touch the control element again for more than 700 ms, or if the direction of rotation of the control element changes from the last previous direction of rotation, especially before the control element is released. In particular, the direction of rotation is determined based on the sign of the rotational speed, particularly by evaluating and averaging multiple rotational speeds. This also allows the direction of rotation to be detected precisely and reliably.

[0025] This process, made possible under these specific conditions, of maintaining this second step size even at the first rotation speed, can, in one embodiment, be time-limited after the start of the first rotation speed and / or maintained only for a specific further interval of value change. It is possible that after the time limit, in particular without a user touching the control element during the hysteresis time interval, and / or after the interval has been exceeded, the first step size is automatically set if rotation then continues at the first rotation speed or a rotation speed lower than the rotation speed threshold.

[0026] In one embodiment, the tolerance time interval and / or the hysteresis time interval is between 500 ms and 900 ms, in particular between 600 ms and 800 ms, in particular between 650 ms and 750 ms. Such a time window enables particularly realistic assessments of a user's respective approach when turning, so that it can be precisely assessed whether or not a step size should be maintained. In one embodiment, the first rotation speed is formed as an average value of rotation speeds recorded during a rotation time interval of the control element. In one embodiment, the second rotation speed is formed additionally or instead as an average value of rotation speeds recorded during a rotation time interval of the control element.By calculating an average value in this way, short-term and / or multiple fluctuations in the rotational speed can be particularly advantageously reduced or eliminated, so that no distortions of the situation occur and undesirable, even short-term and rapid changes between the step sizes are avoided. Such fluctuations can occur in particular if the rotational movement of the control element is accompanied by haptics. In other words, if haptic feedback is provided for each predefined section of the movement path. Such haptics can, for example, be provided by a ball pre-tensioned by a spring, which snaps into recesses and is moved out again when the control element rotates. In such embodiments, a short-term reduction always occurs when the ball snaps in and is pushed out again. In one embodiment, the rotational movement of the control element is therefore timed haptically.This also provides users with haptic feedback when turning the control element. This improves the feel for the rotational travel and makes the associated change in the value on the display even easier to classify and understand. Specifically, a cycle width corresponds to a circular sector with a center angle between 4° and 8°, and especially between 5° and 7°.

[0027] In one embodiment, the rotation time interval is between 100 ms and 300 ms, in particular between 120 ms and 20 ms, in particular between 130 ms and 170 ms. An advantageous balance between rapid detection of the high rotation speed and precise signal shapes for reliable detection is achieved with an averaging period as mentioned above.

[0028] In one embodiment, a rotational movement of the control element corresponding to a circular sector with a center angle between 4° and 8°, in particular between 5° and 7°, is linked to a change in the value of the parameter by the respective speed-dependent increment. This means, in particular, that a reference path is an angular interval, as explained above. This enables very high resolution at all rotational speeds and rapid and / or large value changes even with short movement paths of the control element. Individual value settings, i.e., value changes with small increments at a low initial rotational speed, are also possible precisely and with short movement paths of the control element.

[0029] The display unit is designed as a full-surface display, particularly in the display field or display area in which the value is displayed. This also enables a seamless pixel arrangement with corresponding pixel display and / or a very high pixel density.

[0030] In one embodiment, the display unit has a refresh rate greater than 50 Hz, in particular greater than or equal to 60 Hz, and / or a refresh rate, in particular less than or equal to 120 Hz. A relatively fast refresh rate allows the continuous change in the displayed value to be displayed with particularly sharp visual clarity, especially during movement.

[0031] In one embodiment, the household appliance operating device comprises a rotational position detection device. In particular, this device allows discrete rotational positions of the operating element to be perceived haptically and / or electronically detected. In particular, the operating element has at least one magnetic ring of the rotational position detection device, which electronically detects a rotational position when the operating element is rotated in interaction with at least one magnetic field sensor of the operating device. In particular, the magnetic field sensor has a scanning rate of less than 2.5 ms. This also enables very precise detection of the rotational position and the associated dynamic change of a displayed value to be achieved precisely. This accuracy is then maintained even when the operating element is rotated more quickly.

[0032] In one embodiment, the magnetic ring has between 12 and 60, in particular between 12 and 30, in particular between 14 and 18, in particular 16, magnetic sectors when viewed in the direction of rotation around the ring axis. This enables very finely detailed detection of rotational positions. A north pole and a south pole are arranged alternately in this direction of rotation. In one embodiment, the household appliance operating device has at least one ring as an operating element. This ring preferably has a stationary support ring, on which a separate operating ring unit of this ring is preferably rotatably mounted. The operating ring unit preferably surrounds the support ring circumferentially. This means that the operating ring unit and the support ring are designed to overlap in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the operating element, which in particular also corresponds to the axis of rotation about which the operating ring unit can be rotated.In the radial direction to this axis of rotation, the operating ring unit is arranged further out than the carrier ring.

[0033] The control ring unit is designed as a capacitive sensor on at least one outer side, at least in part. In particular, this means that this outer side is designed as an electrode of a capacitive sensor. This expands the functionality of such a geometrically specified control element. This is because interaction can occur even when grasping this exposed and outwardly facing end part or visible component. Simply touching this outer side by a person or user enables the triggering and / or setting of an operating state. This occurs automatically when this outer side is touched, thus triggering the capacitive operating principle of the control element.

[0034] In this context, the outer side can be formed by one surface or by several different surfaces of the operating ring unit. However, these surfaces are those that are exposed to the outside and can be touched, in particular those that are intended to be touched for further actuations, such as rotating the operating ring unit. In this context, it is possible for an outer side to have a radial annular surface of the operating ring unit. In addition to or instead of this, the outer side can have a front-side annular surface. This can, in particular, be spanned in a plane oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0035] Furthermore, such an outer side can also have a radially inner surface of the operating ring unit. Therefore, various configurations of outer sides are possible, which can be present individually or together in exemplary embodiments.

[0036] In one embodiment, the control ring unit has an outer ring. This outer ring overlaps the support ring along a longitudinal axis of the control element, forming a receiving space radially aligned with this longitudinal axis. These two separate ring elements thus form a type of ring housing designed to accommodate additional components. This enables a compact design and a protected arrangement of additional elements of the control element.

[0037] In one embodiment, a rotational position detection device is arranged in the receiving space, with which discrete rotational positions of the control ring unit relative to the carrier ring can be haptically perceived and / or electronically detected. Such a device is then arranged in the receiving space in a space-saving and protected manner. Furthermore, it can operate highly functionally in this context, since the required components can be arranged directly adjacent to each other, thus enabling the operating principle to operate very precisely and error-free.

[0038] In one embodiment, the rotational position detection device has a peak-and-valley structure formed in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis. A haptic element is coupled to this peak-and-valley structure, which is mounted on the carrier ring, so that a rotational position can be perceived haptically when the operating ring unit is rotated. This makes it particularly advantageous and simple for mechanical components to enable various discrete rotational positions to be immediately perceived by a person who grasps and rotates the operating ring unit. Such a peak-and-valley structure preferably has a wave contour when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. This creates structural regions that are closer to the longitudinal axis in the radial direction, namely the peaks, than other structural regions, namely the valleys. This also makes it possible to design a very finely structured structure in the circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis.In this context, a large number of rotational positions can also be perceived very precisely. In one embodiment, the haptic element can be a haptic ball preloaded with a spring in the radial direction to the longitudinal axis. Such an embodiment of a rotational position detection device enables very precise haptic perception of the discrete rotational position when the haptic ball slides into such a valley in the peak-and-valley structure. The shape of the peak-and-valley structure, in particular as a wave structure, and the haptic ball also achieves a mechanical interaction that enables very continuous and uniform rotation of the control ring unit. This also conveys a very ergonomic and pleasant rotation sensation that does not require discrete large force peaks to enable further rotation of the control ring unit.On the other hand, such a design also achieves very pleasant haptic feedback without transmitting large and unpleasant haptic forces to the person. Furthermore, such a construction also enables a very low-wear implementation, making this principle of haptic rotational position detection highly functional and reliable over the long term.

[0039] In one embodiment, the peak-and-valley structure is integrated into a haptic ring of the control ring unit. In one embodiment, this haptic ring is separate from an outer ring of the control ring unit. In one embodiment, it is preferably coupled to this outer ring in a rotationally fixed manner. Such a coupling can, in particular, comprise one or more snap connections.

[0040] In an embodiment in which such a multi-component ring configuration of the control ring unit is formed, these separate partial rings can be manufactured individually. This also allows the outer ring and the haptic ring, for example, to be made of different materials. Since they can have different functions and integrate different structures, it is then also possible in such an example to design these very individually and with precise shape on the respective rings.

[0041] Snap-on connections also allow for the components to be attached to one another with minimal play. Furthermore, this separation also improves the capacitive principle between the outer ring and another electrode of the capacitive sensor. In particular, the haptic ring, preferably made of plastic, can serve as a functional intermediate layer in this context.

[0042] In one embodiment, the operating ring unit has a magnetic ring. This enables the detection of a rotational position of the operating ring unit when the operating ring unit is rotated, wherein for this purpose the magnetic ring interacts with a magnetic field sensor of the operating element. The magnetic ring can be a separate component. In particular, it can be separate from an outer ring of the operating ring unit. If a haptic ring is also present, the magnetic ring can also be formed separately from the haptic ring. This enables various configurations of the operating ring unit. In this regard, three separate rings can be provided, namely the outer ring, the haptic ring, and the magnetic ring. It is also possible for at least two of these separate rings to be combined in a common ring and, in this respect, to be integrated with one another or formed integrally with one another.

[0043] In one embodiment, the magnetic ring, if designed as a separate ring element, is coupled to the outer ring. In particular, it is coupled thereto in a rotationally fixed manner. It is possible to provide one or more snap connections in which the magnetic ring is attached to the outer ring.

[0044] In one embodiment, the magnetic field sensor is arranged in an electronics unit of the household appliance operating device. This electronics unit is arranged in particular in the free space delimited or surrounded by the ring. This enables a space-saving design of the operating element. On the other hand, it enables a very advantageous position of the magnetic field sensor, in particular relative to the magnetic ring. This enables particularly precise detection of the rotational position. The electronic or electromagnetic detection of the rotational position is therefore highly precise. Last but not least, the positional arrangement of the magnetic field sensor in this free space is also advantageous for protecting the magnetic field sensor. This is because the operating ring unit, which in particular surrounds it at least radially, also provides shock protection or the like.In one embodiment, the magnetic ring is separate from an outer ring of the operating ring unit, and the magnetic ring is coupled to this outer ring in a rotationally fixed manner, in particular by snap connections to the outer ring.

[0045] In one embodiment, the haptic ring and the magnetic ring are arranged one behind the other, particularly without overlapping, as viewed in the axial direction of the operating element. Viewed in the axial direction, they are preferably arranged within the lengths of the outer ring and the carrier ring. In particular, the magnetic ring and the haptic ring are arranged in a receiving space delimited by the outer ring and the carrier ring, particularly arranged entirely therein. Therefore, the outer ring and the carrier ring essentially form a housing for the haptic ring and the magnetic ring.

[0046] In one embodiment, the support ring is connected, in particular screwed, to a separate base. The control element is mounted on a control panel of the household appliance control device by means of this base. This allows the control element to be easily yet securely attached to this separate control panel. In this context, the base represents a mechanically stable support or bridge part with which the entire control element can be mounted on this control panel.

[0047] In one embodiment, an electronics unit of the household appliance operating device is arranged in the free space delimited by the ring. In particular, this electronics unit is designed as a cylinder segment, in particular as a cylinder half-segment. Such a specific geometric shape of the electronics unit also allows a compatible arrangement and adaptation to the radius, in particular of the support ring, to be achieved. The thus formed electronics unit can thus be applied with its curved radially outer surface to the preferably compatible and complementary shaped inner side of the support ring, in particular even over its entire surface. In addition, however, the further surface of the cylinder segment, which represents a peripheral surface, forms an exposed surface. This is particularly advantageously visible and accessible.However, this cylindrical segment design and the arrangement of the electronics unit within this free space also protect this functional surface of the electronics unit. The ring of the control element thus limits at least radial accessibility, thus preventing unwanted collisions with objects and the like.

[0048] In particular, the electronics unit has at least one operating and / or display and / or person detection device. This allows a multifunctional electronics unit to be arranged in a compact and space-saving manner, yet still exposed to its respective functions. This enables both viewing and accessibility for touching or use. This supports intuitive movement and operating sequences.

[0049] In one embodiment, the electronics unit of the household appliance control device is arranged in the free space defined by the ring. Additionally or instead of this, a person detection sensor of the household appliance control device can be arranged in the free space defined by the ring. This also enables advantageous positioning, which, on the one hand, enables very precise, contactless detection of a person in the environment or in the vicinity of the household appliance, while, on the other hand, this person detection sensor is also arranged in a protected manner.

[0050] In one embodiment, the electronics unit comprises a flexible circuit board. This flexible circuit board can be U-shaped. In particular, the flexible circuit board comprises a first, preferably rigid circuit board part and a second, particularly rigid, circuit board part connected to it by a flexible connection. Preferably, the circuit board comprises a third, particularly rigid, circuit board part. This is preferably connected to the second circuit board part by a flexible connection. The flexible connections are mechanical and / or electrical connections. Such a design of a circuit board enables particularly space-saving and compact installation, while also making it possible to accommodate a wide variety of electronic elements.This particularly advantageously achieves the result that the electronics unit can be designed to be multifunctional, in particular as an operating unit and / or as a display unit and / or as a contactless position detection device. In particular, the circuit board can have a person detection sensor, a Hall sensor, at least one light source, in particular a plurality of light sources, and an electrode of a capacitive sensor. The person detection sensor is preferably arranged on the second circuit board part. This is preferably a central circuit board part of the entire circuit board. The preferably plurality of light sources, which can in particular be light-emitting diodes, can be arranged on a first circuit board part of this circuit board. This makes it possible to arrange these light sources directly adjacent to a display surface of the electronics unit.In one embodiment, this display surface can be a peripheral surface of the cylinder segment exposed in the free space.

[0051] Preferably, the Hall sensor and / or the capacitive sensor and / or an electronic unit thereof can be arranged on the third circuit board part. This allows these diverse, different electronic components to be arranged on a common circuit board, which, thanks to the aforementioned flexible design, can be shaped and arranged in a space-saving manner such that these respective electronic units are arranged directly at the locations and, at least partially due to the required functionality, are arranged directly adjacent to the counter components with which they interact. In one exemplary embodiment, the ring is arranged at a distance from a front side of a control panel of the household appliance control device, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the control element. In this respect, it is arranged offset forward relative to this front side of the control panel.This creates a visual effect that essentially appears as if the ring is floating freely. Furthermore, this arrangement of the ring also allows for particularly smooth operation. Because the ring is not pressed against the side of the control panel, there are no frictional forces to overcome.

[0052] It is advantageous that the circumferential surface of the electronics unit designed as a cylinder segment, which is exposed in the free space, represents an operating and display surface. In this context, an operating element can be implemented. This can be, for example, a touch-sensitive operating panel. For example, this can be an on / off switch. Furthermore, this surface can be used to display information. In particular, at least this operating element can be illuminated. In one embodiment, the rotational position detection device can be configured such that at least 20, in particular at least 30, in particular at least 40, in particular at least 50, in particular 60 different rotational positions can be realized in the direction of rotation around the longitudinal axis, which also represents the axis of rotation.This number of discrete rotational positions, which can then also be perceived haptically and electronically, can nevertheless be perceived very specifically. In particular, thanks to the above-mentioned design of the rotational position detection device, even with such a high number of individual discrete rotational positions, a respective "click effect" is perceptible when changing from one rotational position to the next. In one embodiment, up to 3,600 positions per full circle can be measured. This is achieved with the particular advantage that even with such a large number, the mechanical grid functions independently of the resolution of the angle measurement and thus supports the different number of rotational positions.

[0053] In one embodiment, the outer ring can be made of metal. For example, it can be made of stainless steel. In one exemplary embodiment, the outer ring has a radially inwardly projecting collar on the front. In this regard, an annular cover is formed, which conceals the preferably present elements of the haptic ring and the magnetic ring. Furthermore, this annular cover also forms an axial stop, so that the haptic ring located behind it in the axial direction is additionally held in position.

[0054] In one embodiment, the electronics unit comprises a metal element, for example, a copper part. This can be arranged on a circuit board of the electronics unit. In interaction with the outer ring, the capacitive functionality can be achieved upon contact with the outer ring. This metal part, which in particular represents a further electrode of the capacitive sensor, is separated from the outer ring by an electrical insulator, for example, a plastic part. This plastic part can preferably be formed by the haptic ring.

[0055] In one embodiment, multiple layers can also be formed between this metal part on the circuit board and the outer ring. In particular, this can be four different layers. This can also create a double-sandwich-like structure for this capacitive principle, for example. For example, a metallic insert can be formed in the plastic part, in particular the haptic ring, to increase the surface area. This insert can be directly contacted with the circuit board of the electronics unit, in particular by means of a metallic spring.

[0056] In one embodiment, this capacitive principle can cause a change in the operating state of the control element and / or the entire household appliance control device when the outer ring is touched. In this context, it is also possible for individual electronic components of the electronic unit, such as the Hall sensor and / or light sources, to be automatically activated by this capacitive principle when the outer ring is touched. The magnetic ring and the Hall sensor in particular make it possible to achieve very fine-tuned detection of rotational positions. This also enables the optical displays on a control panel of the control device associated with the rotational positions, in particular symbols that symbolize operating functions and / or functional units of a household appliance, to "move" along with the rotation. In particular, these symbols, which then move along with the rotation of the control device, can be individually backlit.

[0057] In one embodiment, the magnetic ring is formed with a plurality of magnets, in particular permanent magnets. These are arranged in a row in the direction of rotation around the rotation axis, and the north and south poles are oriented alternately to one another. This means that these magnet segments are each formed with a north pole and a south pole, and the polarity changes for each subsequent magnet segment in the azimuthal direction. Preferably, the magnetic field sensor can detect in two orthogonal planes. In particular, the orientation of the magnetic field in the sensor position can also be determined by appropriate conversion in a computing unit or control unit of the household appliance operating device.

[0058] In one embodiment, the circuit board can be white. This preferably contributes to the brightness, thus also improving the backlighting of a symbol arranged on the electronics unit and intended to be backlit. It can be provided that this on / off switch of the electronics unit is permanently active, thus immediately detecting a finger touch.

[0059] In one embodiment, the housing of the electronics unit can be formed from several housing parts. These can be connected by a non-destructively detachable connection, in particular a mechanically detachable connection. For example, at least one snap connection can be provided here. It is advantageous if this housing, in particular the housing parts, are provided with a seal at the connection interface. This can prevent dust and liquid from penetrating the interior of this housing of the electronics unit. It is advantageous if a seal is arranged between the control element and the above-mentioned base, with which the control element is arranged on the control panel of the household appliance control device. This can also prevent the penetration of dust and liquid at this interface.

[0060] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating a household appliance operating device, in particular according to the above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof, in which values ​​of an operating parameter are optically displayed on a stationary display area of ​​a display unit of the household appliance operating device, wherein a value to be displayed on this display area is changed depending on an associated rotation of an operating element of the household appliance operating device, and a rotation speed of the operating element is linked to a step size of the change of the value in such a way thatthat when the control element is rotated at a first rotational speed, the value per reference path of the control element changes with a first step size, and when the control element is rotated at a second rotational speed different from the first, the value per this reference path of the control element changes with a second step size different from the first.

[0061] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating a household appliance. In particular, the household appliance can be designed according to an above-mentioned aspect or an advantageous embodiment thereof. Advantageous embodiments of the household appliance operating device are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the method. Geometric and / or positional specifications of at least some individual components, alone or in conjunction with other individual components, enable specifying method steps of the method.

[0062] The terms “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “horizontal”, “vertical”, “depth direction”, “width direction”, “height direction” etc. indicate the positions and orientations given when the device and the equipment are used and arranged as intended.

[0063] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures can be used not only in the respective combination specified, but also in other combinations without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are to be regarded as encompassed and disclosed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the figures, but which emerge and can be produced by separate combinations of features from the explained embodiments. Embodiments and combinations of features are also to be regarded as disclosed that therefore do not have all the features of an originally formulated independent claim.Furthermore, embodiments and combinations of features are to be regarded as disclosed, in particular by the embodiments set out above, which go beyond or deviate from the combinations of features set out in the reliances of the claims.

[0064] Embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show:

[0065] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a household appliance according to the invention with an embodiment of a household appliance operating device according to the invention; Fig. 1a is a schematic view of a partial area of ​​an embodiment of a household appliance operating device;

[0066] Fig. 2 is a plan view of a representation in which a person is positioned in a surrounding area of ​​an embodiment of a household appliance according to the invention;

[0067] Fig. 3 is an exploded view of subcomponents of an embodiment of a household appliance operating device according to the invention;

[0068] Fig. 4 shows the assembled state of the components according to Fig. 3;

[0069] Fig. 5 is a sectional view through partial components of a control element of the household appliance control device designed as a ring in an intermediate assembly state;

[0070] Fig. 6 is a corresponding representation as in Fig. 5, wherein here a further intermediate assembly state with an additional further component of the operating element is shown;

[0071] Fig. 7 is a sectional view of the components according to Fig. 6, but in an assembled state compared to Fig. 5;

[0072] Fig. 8 is a perspective sectional view of an embodiment of subcomponents of a household appliance operating device;

[0073] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of subcomponents of an embodiment of a household appliance operating device according to the invention;

[0074] Fig. 10 is a further perspective sectional view through partial components of an embodiment of a household appliance operating device according to the invention; Fig. 11 is a sectional view through the components according to Fig. 10 in a sectional plane different from, but parallel to, Fig. 10;

[0075] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of subcomponents of an embodiment of a household appliance operating device;

[0076] Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a magnetic ring, which can be a component of an operating element of the household appliance operating device; and

[0077] Fig. 14 is a further perspective sectional view through an embodiment of a household appliance operating device.

[0078] In the figures, identical or functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0079] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a household appliance 1. The household appliance 1 can, for example, be designed for preparing food. It can preferably be a cooking appliance. In the exemplary embodiment, the household appliance 1 is an oven, a steam cooker, or a microwave cooker. It is also possible for a household appliance for preparing food to provide multiple functionalities, such as those provided by the three appliances mentioned above by way of example, in a single appliance. However, the household appliance 1 can also be, for example, a small household appliance, such as a fully automatic coffee machine or the like.

[0080] The household appliance 1 has a housing 2. A receiving space 3 is formed in the housing 2. In a cooking appliance, this can be a cooking chamber, for example. The household appliance 1 also has a door 4. This is provided here for closing the receiving space 3 from the front. The door 4 is, in particular, movably mounted on the housing 2.

[0081] The household appliance 1 further comprises an exemplary embodiment of a household appliance operating device 5 according to the invention. The household appliance operating device 5 comprises at least one operating element 6. This operating element 6 is preferably designed as a ring.

[0082] In addition, the household appliance 1 preferably has a presence detection device 7. With this

[0083] Presence detection device 7 can detect or recognize at least one presence of a person 8 (Fig. 2) in an environmental area 9 (Fig. 2) of the household appliance 1.

[0084] The presence detection device 7 is designed in particular to detect the presence of a person 8 in the surrounding area 9 as well as to detect a movement of the person 8 and in particular also an approach of the person 8 to the household appliance 1.

[0085] The household appliance operating device 5 has a control panel 10. The control element 6 is arranged on this control panel 10. The control panel 10 also has a display unit 11 external to the control element, for example, a graphic display. The display unit 11 can also be designed as a control panel, in particular as a touch-sensitive control panel. The control panel 10 is an example of a mounting plate on which the separate control element 6 can be arranged.

[0086] In addition, the household appliance 1 has a control unit 12. The control unit 12 can also be part of the household appliance operating device 5.

[0087] The household appliance 1 further comprises a door opening device 13. This device can be used to automatically open the door 4, particularly from its fully closed position. Preferably, a door opening control element 14 is also provided for this purpose. Actuating this control element initiates this automatic opening process, which is then carried out by the door opening device 13.

[0088] The presence detection device 7 mentioned above preferably has at least one sensor 15. This sensor 15 is designed to detect the surrounding area 9 in the depth direction (z-direction) in front of the household appliance 1. For this purpose, it has a detection area 15a (Fig. 2). This sensor 15 is preferably a person detection sensor. It can preferably be a lidar sensor.

[0089] Fig. 1a shows a schematic representation of a portion of the household appliance control device 5. As can be seen, the control element 6 is designed as a ring that can be rotated about the axis A perpendicular to the plane of the figure. In particular, rotation is possible both clockwise and counterclockwise. For example, the control element 6 partially protrudes into the surface of the display unit 11. This control element 6 is arranged in front of the display unit 11, viewed perpendicular to the plane of the figure.

[0090] The display unit 11 can be designed, at least in part, as a full-surface display. For example, it can be designed as an LED display, in particular as an OLED display. However, a design as a TFT display is also possible.

[0091] This is provided in particular in an example of a display field or display area or area 11a of the display unit 11. This area 11a borders on the control element 6 in the radial direction. The area 11a can also be directly connected to the control element 6. However, the area 11a can also be arranged so as to partially overlap the control element 6. In particular, if the control element 6 is transparent or is a thin ring, such a provision can also be made. This area 11a is provided in particular for the visual display of information. For example, a value of an operating parameter, in particular of the household appliance 1, can be visualized here. The visual display of this value on the display unit 11, in particular in this specific area 11a, can be activated, for example, by a user touching the control element 6.In particular, only this single area 11a is designed to display the value of the operating parameter.

[0092] Generally speaking, only a single value can be displayed in area 11a, such as a temperature value, a time of day, or the duration of a program, etc. Multiple different values ​​cannot be displayed simultaneously, even adjacent to area 11a.

[0093] In particular, only this value of the operating parameter is displayed. Simultaneous display of another value of this operating parameter, for example, adjacent to area 11a, is not provided. Thus, only a single value of the operating parameter is displayed at any time, but it can be changed in a defined manner at this location depending on the rotation of control element 6. Different values ​​of the operating parameter can then be displayed sequentially at different times.

[0094] The control element 6 can be rotated in both directions about a rotation axis A. For example, when rotated clockwise, the value of the operating parameter is increased, and when rotated counterclockwise, it is decreased.

[0095] Changing a value to be displayed in this area 11a is linked to the rotation of the operating element 6. A rotational speed of the operating element 6 is linked to an increment of the change in the value such that a first, in particular predetermined, increment of the change in the value per reference path of the operating element 6 is linked to a first rotational speed of the operating element 6, and a second rotational speed of the operating element 6, which is different from the first, in particular larger and / or different in units, is linked to a second increment of the change in the value per this reference path of the operating element 6, which is different from the first, in particular larger and / or different in units, and in particular predetermined.

[0096] In particular, the household appliance operating device 5 can, for example, have at least one rotational position detection device 26 and / or a control unit 12, with which, for example, the rotational position of the operating element 6 can be determined and / or the rotational speed of the operating element 6 can be determined and / or the speed-dependent basis of the, in particular predefined, step sizes can be detected and / or adjusted. In particular, a step size can thus be selected from at least two different step sizes depending on the, in particular current, rotational speed. This household appliance operating device 5 thus enables a speed-dependent step size of the value change of an operating parameter of a household appliance 1.In one exemplary embodiment, the value difference by which the value of the operating parameter is changed during the display per reference travel of the control element 6 between two consecutive values ​​to be displayed is different for the two rotational speeds. This means that a larger value difference can be used as a basis for a higher rotational speed per reference travel than for lower rotational speeds. This is particularly the case if the unit of the operating parameter is not changed during the value change. This means that even large value changes, in particular of the same unit of the operating parameter, can be achieved with one movement of the control element 6 if the rotational speed is high, whereby, for example, smaller value changes occur with the same movement distance at a lower first rotational speed.However, it is also possible to have a rotational speed-dependent unit change of the operating parameter as a change in the step size with the same value difference or a changed value difference.

[0097] In one embodiment, the first rotational speed is a speed from a first speed interval that is less than a, in particular predefined, rotational speed threshold. Additionally or instead of this, the second rotational speed is a speed from a second speed interval that is greater than the rotational speed threshold. Such a threshold-based distinction between large and small rotational speeds enables precise assignment of the step sizes. This is because, if the value change is performed at rotational speeds, even different rotational speeds, that are greater than the rotational speed threshold, a value change always occurs with the second step size per reference path.If the value is changed at rotational speeds, even at different speeds, that are lower than the rotational speed threshold, the value always changes with the first step size per reference path. This achieves a highly coordinated and understandable relationship between rotational path, rotational speed, and value change. Even large value changes can be adjusted quickly and precisely. In one embodiment, the rotational speed threshold is a value from an interval between 157,100 ms and 207,100 ms, in particular 177,100 ms. This particularly fulfills the above-mentioned advantages.

[0098] In one embodiment, the first step size is maintained if a change in the first rotational speed occurs during rotation and the rotational speeds are only within the first speed interval, and / or the second step size is maintained if a change in the second rotational speed occurs during rotation and the rotational speeds are only within the second speed interval. Therefore, rotation does not always have to be carried out at the same speed if only a value change is to occur with the first step size. Rather, a change in the rotational speed can then also be carried out without an undesirable change in the step size.

[0099] In one embodiment, the second step size is maintained if the second rotational speed only falls below the rotational speed threshold for a period of time, in particular a predetermined or predefined period of time, which is shorter than a tolerance time interval. This also makes it possible to avoid situations in which the rotational speed only briefly tips to the other side of the rotational speed threshold and then the step size is immediately changed. For example, if the control element is rotated quickly and released, it can slow down during automatic braking and the rotational speed can briefly fall below the rotational speed threshold before the control element 6 is then grasped again by the user and rotated quickly again, for example by being pushed. In such cases, it is then preferably not changed to the other, in this case smaller, step size.

[0100] In one embodiment, the household operating device 5 has a touch detection device, in particular a capacitive sensor S, with which touching of the operating element 6 can be detected. This advantageously also makes it possible to detect when a user influences the movement of the operating element 6 and when not. This means when the operating element 6 performs the rotation as specified by the user or when it rotates itself, in particular after being rotated by the user and then released. This allows precise detection of situations in which the respective desired step size can be determined, so that maintaining a step size or changing the step size can be decided more situation-dependently.

[0101] In one embodiment, the rotation of the operating element 6 can be detected by the rotation position detection device 26 of the household appliance operating device 5. When the operating element 6 is rotated, the touch detection device can detect whether the operating element 6 has been touched or not by a hand, in particular by fingers. When the release of the operating element 6 is detected, one embodiment provides for a hysteresis time interval to start from the moment of release. This allows the contactless state, in particular its duration, to be precisely detected, and this information can be used as a basis for other operating decisions, in particular for changing the step size or not.

[0102] In one embodiment, the touch detection device can be used to check during the hysteresis time interval whether the operating element 6 is touched again, in particular after being released. If this is detected, in one exemplary embodiment the second step size is maintained even if the rotating of the operating element 6 occurs at the first rotational speed after the operating element 6 is touched again. In such a specific scenario, it is therefore also possible to ensure that, due to specific preconditions, the second step size remains the basis even if, in the touched state, the rotation takes place at a user-initiated rotational speed that is lower than the rotational speed threshold. This allows the approach to the desired target value to continue more slowly after a rapid rotation with a second step size while still maintaining the second step size.This also implements an advantageous step size hysteresis.

[0103] In one embodiment, the first rotational speed is formed as an average of rotational speeds recorded during a rotational time interval of the operating element 6. In one embodiment, the second rotational speed is formed additionally or instead as an average of rotational speeds recorded during a rotational time interval. By calculating an average in this way, short-term and / or multiple fluctuations in the rotational speed can be particularly advantageously reduced or eliminated, so that no distortions of the situation occur and unwanted, even short-term and rapid changes between the step sizes are avoided. Such fluctuations can occur in particular when the rotational movement of the operating element 6 is accompanied by haptics. That is, when haptic feedback is provided for each predefined movement path section.Such haptics can be achieved, for example, by a pre-tensioned ball that snaps into recesses and is moved out again when the control element 6 rotates. In such embodiments, a brief reduction always occurs when the ball snaps in and is pushed out again. In one embodiment, the rotational movement of the control element 6 is therefore haptically timed. This also provides a user with haptic feedback when turning the control element 6. This improves the feeling for the rotational path and makes the associated movement of a display element even easier to classify and understand. In particular, a cycle width corresponds to a circular sector with a center angle ß between 4° and 8°, in particular between 5° and 7°.

[0104] In one embodiment, the rotation time interval is between 100 ms and 300 ms, in particular between 120 ms and 20 ms, in particular between 130 ms and 170 ms. An advantageous balance between rapid detection of the high rotation speed and precise signal shapes for reliable detection is achieved with an averaging period as mentioned above.

[0105] In particular, it is provided that a reference path for a rotary movement of the operating element 6, which amounts to a circular sector with the center angle ß, corresponds to between 4° and 8°, in particular between 5° and 7°, in particular 6°.

[0106] In one embodiment, the rotary movement of the operating element 6 is haptically timed. In particular, a constant time interval is provided, which corresponds to a circular sector with a center angle, in particular the center angle ß, between 4° and 8°, in particular between 5° and 6°, in particular 6°. Fig. 1a also shows a movement path BW of the operating element 6. Depending on the desired value change, this can have different lengths. In this case, it is a movement around the axis A. In particular, it is a multiple of the reference path, which is measured azimuthally here.

[0107] Preferably, the rotational position detection of the operating element 6 about the axis A is enabled by the rotational position detection device 26. For this purpose, this rotational position detection device 26 has at least one magnetic ring 21. This can be a component of the operating element 6. Preferably, this magnetic ring 21 is constructed from several magnetic sectors. The number of magnetic sectors, viewed in the direction of rotation about the axis A, is preferably between 12 and 20, preferably between 14 and 18, in particular 16. It is provided that, viewed in the direction of rotation about the axis A, a north pole and a south pole of these magnetic sectors are arranged alternately one after the other.

[0108] In particular, in one example, a rotation angle resolution and accuracy of 0.1° or less is also implemented. To achieve the direct coupling of control element 6 with the elements of the household appliance control device 5, the detection of the rotational movement is implemented in one embodiment within a few (6-8) milliseconds and with an update rate of up to 10 ms (100 Hz). To be able to determine the rotational movement quickly enough, individual measurements are performed at time intervals and thus with a sampling rate of preferably 1-2 milliseconds.

[0109] For a screen update rate or a refresh rate of, for example, 60 Hz and a measurement speed of, for example, 10 ms and an angular resolution of, for example, 0.1 degrees, the value changes are individual for different speeds of rotation.

[0110] In one example, the magnetic ring 21 can be formed from 16 magnetic sectors, each having a north pole and a south pole in the radial direction. Thus, the magnetic sectors are 360716 ÷ 22.4° in size. A magnetic ring 21 with multiple sectors, for example, more than 50, can also be provided. In a magnetic ring 21 with 60 magnetic sectors, these magnetic sectors are 360760 = 6° in size. This corresponds to the advantageous haptic mechanical grid mentioned above.

[0111] A 3D magnetic sensor of the rotational position detection device 26 preferably delivers new measured values ​​of the three magnetic field components faster than every 2 ms. The preferably only two magnetic field components are read out and further processed. The sector angle within a magnetic sector is calculated using the arctan calculation of the two magnetic field components.

[0112] Preferably by comparison with the last sector angle, the sector counter is adjusted accordingly when the magnetic sector limit is exceeded.

[0113] The absolute angle of rotation is preferably calculated by multiplying the sector counter by the sector interval (for example, 22.4° for 16 sectors per 360°) and preferably then adding the sector angle. The sector angle is the angle of rotation within a magnetic sector. The rotational speed is preferably calculated by calculating the difference between the current angle of rotation and the previous angle of rotation, divided by the time difference between the two measurements. The average rotational speed is calculated, for example, using the last eight measured values. The average rotational speed (and thus direction of rotation) is advantageously used in the case of subsampling, for example, to correct the calculation of the correct angle of rotation accordingly.

[0114] According to the simplified illustration in Fig. 2, which shows a top view, in one exemplary embodiment, a person 8 is located in the surrounding area 9. This is detected by the presence detection device 7. Depending on this detection of the presence of the person 8 in the surrounding area 9, the door opening device 13 is converted from an inactive state to an active state. This means that if the person 8 is still positioned at a distance, in particular, for example, greater than 1 m, in particular greater than 2 m, in particular greater than 3 m, in particular greater than 4 m, in particular greater than 5 m, in particular less than or equal to 8 m, from the household appliance 1, the door opening device 13 is already woken up.In one embodiment, this also means that the door opening device 13 is put into an active state when the person 8 has not yet reached the household appliance 1 and is not standing directly in front of it in order to be able to operate it. In one embodiment, this transfer of the door opening device 13 from the inactive state to the active state is carried out in advance, even though the person 8 is merely present, i.e., for example, that the person 8 is standing still. Thus, with this precautionary setting of the active state of the door opening device 13, it is not yet finally known, in particular not known with certainty, whether the person 8 will actually go to the household appliance 1 to operate it.

[0115] In one embodiment, depending on the detection of the presence of person 8 in the surrounding area 9, the door opening control element 14 is transferred to the active state. This also ensures that when person 8 subsequently actually approaches the household appliance 1 to operate it, the control element 6 of the household appliance 1 is activated by the person 8.

[0116] This then also means that the door opening device 13, which preferably has an actuator 16 which, in the active state, automatically opens the door 4 essentially without delay, is in the active state. In particular, this occurs when the automatic opening of the door 4 is requested by the actuator 16 through a triggering action. One such triggering action is, for example, the actuation of the operating element 14. In one exemplary embodiment, it is possible for the presence detection device 7 to detect the person 8 even at one of the above-mentioned distances from the household appliance 1. This at least enables presence detection even at a distance from the household appliance 1 that is still relatively large.This allows the above-mentioned advantages for transferring the door-opening device 13 from the inactive state to the active state to be achieved very advantageously, so that even when the person 8 approaches the household appliance 1 quickly, this active state is fully present upon reaching the household appliance 1. This enables particularly delay-free actuation of the door-opening device 13 and thus a delay-free opening of the door 4 upon actuation of the operating element 14. In one exemplary embodiment, the transfer from the inactive state to the active state takes place within a time interval of less than or equal to 3 s, in particular less than or equal to 2 s, in particular between 0.5 s and 2 s.

[0117] The functionality already mentioned above, whereby the presence detection device 7 also detects an approach of the person 8 to the household appliance 1, is carried out in particular with a proximity detection device that is a component of the presence detection device 7. In one exemplary embodiment, it is provided that other functional units of the household appliance 1, in particular of the household appliance operating device 5, for example the display unit 11, are deactivated during the process of transitioning from the inactive state to the active state. In addition to or instead of this, it can be provided that this display unit 11 can only be automatically activated upon detection of an approach of the person 8 to the household appliance 1, in particular in a close range 9a to the household appliance 1 in the surrounding area 9 of the household appliance 1.This provides that when the presence of person 8 is detected, initially only the door opening device 13 is switched to an active state. Other functional units of the household appliance 1 then remain in a non-active state if they were in this state before the presence was detected. This avoids an unnecessary or undesired switching of other functional units to an active state. On the one hand, this can save energy, and on the other hand, a person 8 is not confused if a display unit 11 and / or other functional units of the household appliance 1 were to light up without the person 8 actually having the intention of interacting with the household appliance 1.It is therefore advantageous if these additional functional units are only activated when it can be concluded with a high degree of probability that the person 8 actually and consciously wants to interact with the household appliance 1.

[0118] In one embodiment, the sensor 15 is preferably a component of the household appliance operating device 5. In this context, it can be arranged on the operating element 6. Fig. 3 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of subcomponents of the household appliance operating device 5. Individual parts of the ring-shaped operating element 6 are also shown here. In one embodiment, this operating device 5 can be the one with which the value change of the operating parameter is carried out.

[0119] In the exemplary embodiment, this operating element 6 has a carrier ring 17. This is a fixed ring here. In addition, the operating element 6 has an operating ring unit 18 that is separate from the carrier ring 17. This operating ring unit 18 is rotatably mounted on the carrier ring 17. It is also arranged such that it surrounds the carrier ring 17 on the circumference. Fig. 3 also shows a longitudinal axis A of the operating element 6. This longitudinal axis A is also the axis of rotation about which the operating ring unit 18 can rotate relative to the carrier ring 17. In the assembled state, the carrier ring 17 and the operating ring unit 18 are arranged so as to axially overlap one another.

[0120] In the exemplary embodiment, the operating ring unit 18 has an outer ring 19. This means that this outer ring 19 is the radially outer end part of the operating ring unit 18, in particular of the operating element 6. When connected to one another, a receiving space is formed between the outer ring 19 and the carrier ring 17. In this receiving space, a haptic ring 20 is provided in the exemplary embodiment. This is a component of the operating ring unit 18, but is separate from the outer ring 19. In addition, the operating ring unit 18 in the exemplary embodiment has a magnetic ring 21. This is also a separate component of the operating ring unit 18 from the outer ring 19 and the haptic ring 20.

[0121] In the assembled state, the haptic ring 20 and the magnetic ring 21 are arranged in series with one another in the axial direction, in particular without overlapping. The magnetic ring 21 is arranged completely behind the haptic ring 20. In the assembled state, both the haptic ring 20 and the magnetic ring 21 are arranged axially overlapping with the outer ring 19. They are arranged such that their respective axial extents are arranged completely within the axial extent of the outer ring 19. In particular, the haptic ring 20 and the magnetic ring 21 are arranged in the receiving space formed by the outer ring 19 and the carrier ring 17.

[0122] In one embodiment, the outer ring 19 is formed in one piece. It is preferably made of metal. For example, it can be made of stainless steel. In one embodiment, the outer ring 19 preferably forms an electrode of a capacitive sensor of the household appliance operating device 5. In particular, a first circumferential outer side 19a and / or a front-side outer side 19b are formed as respective sensor surfaces. As can be seen here, the outer ring 19 has a lateral surface 23. In addition, an annular stop or annular collar 24 oriented radially inward is formed.

[0123] Thus, a capacitive sensor, or at least partial elements of a capacitive sensor, are integrated into the control element 6. Thus, upon contact with the outer ring 19, particularly on the surfaces 19a, 19b, the capacitive functionality can be achieved, and with this contact, an operating state of the household appliance control device 5 and / or the household appliance 1 can be set, selected, and / or started.

[0124] Preferably, the magnetic ring 21 and the haptic ring 20 are attached to the outer ring 19 by mechanically detachable connections. These mechanically detachable connections can be, for example, snap connections.

[0125] As can also be seen, the haptic ring 20 has a peak-valley structure 25 on its radially inner side. This peak-valley structure 25 is part of a rotational position detection device 26. With this rotational position detection device

[0126] 26, discrete rotational positions of the operating ring unit 18 relative to the support ring 17 are haptically perceptible. For this purpose, a mechanical coupling of this peak-valley structure 25 with a haptic element 27 (Fig. 8) is additionally provided. This haptic element

[0127] 27 is mounted on the support ring 17 in one embodiment, so that a rotational position can be perceived haptically when the operating ring unit 18 is rotated. In one embodiment, the haptic element 27 is a haptic ball 28 (Fig. 8) that is preloaded in the radial direction by a spring 29 (Fig. 8). When the operating ring unit 18 is rotated, the haptic ball 28 thus comes into direct contact with the peak-and-valley structure 25, so that when it snaps into a respective valley, a respective corresponding rotational position can be perceived haptically.

[0128] This peak-and-valley structure 25 is integral and thus formed in one piece with the haptic ring 20. As can be seen in Fig. 3, this peak-and-valley structure 25 preferably extends uninterrupted over the entire circumferential length of this inner side of the haptic ring 20. In the axial direction, however, this peak-and-valley structure 25 extends only over a partial area, in particular the rear area, of the haptic ring 20. The operating ring unit 18 forms a unit in the assembled state, so that here the separate haptic ring 20 and the magnetic ring 21 are preferably coupled to the outer ring 19 in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0129] Furthermore, the rotational position of the control ring unit 18 can also be electronically detected using the rotational position detection device 26. For this purpose, the magnetic ring 21 interacts with a Hall sensor 30 (Fig. 3), which is also a component of the rotational position detection device 26. This Hall sensor 30 is arranged on a circuit board or printed circuit board 31 of an electronic unit 32 of the household appliance control device 5. The Hall sensor 30 is therefore arranged in a stationary manner compared to the rotatable control ring unit 18.

[0130] This Hall sensor 30 is an embodiment of a magnetic field sensor which interacts with the magnetic ring 21 when the operating ring unit 18 is rotated, so that a rotational position can be detected electronically.

[0131] As can be seen in the exploded view in Fig. 3, this circuit board 31, which is a flexible circuit board, has several circuit board parts. It has a first rigid circuit board part 33, a separate second circuit board part 34, which is also rigid, and, in this exemplary embodiment, a third rigid circuit board part 35. The first two circuit board parts 33 and 34 are connected by a flexible part 36. The second circuit board part 34 is connected to the third circuit board part 35, also by a flexible part 37.

[0132] Fig. 3 already shows an advantageous positioning of the circuit board 31, namely a U-shape. This can be achieved through the flexibility of the aforementioned components. In the exemplary embodiment, light sources, in particular light-emitting diodes, are arranged on the first circuit board part 33. Multiple light sources 38 can be provided. In the exemplary embodiment, four such light sources 38 can be provided, of which, for the sake of clarity, only one is provided with the reference symbol.

[0133] In one embodiment, the already mentioned sensor 15 can be arranged on the second circuit board part 34.

[0134] The electronics unit 32, which has the circuit board 31, can be formed with a housing 39. This housing 39 can be designed as a cylinder segment, in particular as a cylinder half-segment. In the assembled state, this electronics unit 32 is arranged in a free space 40 that is delimited by the ring or the control element 6.

[0135] As can be seen, the electronics unit 32 has various functional surfaces 39a, 39b that are not oriented in a common plane. The surface, designed here in particular as a square functional surface 39a, is exposed into the free space 40. It can have an operating element, in particular an on / off switch 41. This can be backlit, for example, by the light sources 38.

[0136] In addition, in one embodiment, this functional surface 39a can also be designed as an operating surface, for example as a touch-sensitive operating surface.

[0137] In one embodiment, the additional functional surface 39b is designed as a detection surface or sensory detection surface. In one embodiment, this means that the sensor 15 is arranged behind this wall or the functional surface 39b and thus detects the surrounding area 9 through it.

[0138] Furthermore, it is provided that the household appliance operating device 5 has a separate base 42. This is intended so that at least the support ring 17 can be arranged by means of the base 42, in particular on the control panel 10 of the household appliance operating device 5, in particular can be screwed thereto. It is preferably provided that the base 42 is screwed to the support ring 17. In one exemplary embodiment, it is provided that the base 42 is directly mechanically connected to the housing 39 of the electronics unit 32, in particular connected by one or more snap connections. This forms a receiving space between the housing 39 and the base 42. In particular, the printed circuit board 31 is arranged in this receiving space. The electronics unit 32 is preferably designed at least to be an operating and / or display and / or person detection device.

[0139] In Fig. 4, the component arrangement as shown in Fig. 3 is shown in the assembled state. It can be seen that the functional surface 39b is preferably arranged flush with the end surface 19b.

[0140] Fig. 5 shows a vertical sectional view of the carrier ring 17. Also shown are the haptic ring 20 and the magnetic ring 21. To install the haptic ring 20, it is pushed axially over the carrier ring 17, which has a smaller radius, as indicated by arrow P1. This is done until a radially inwardly projecting snap element 20a snaps into a snap element receptacle 17a. This is then illustrated in Fig. 6. As a result, the haptic ring 20 is arranged axially relative to the carrier ring 17. The snap element receptacle 17a is, in particular, a fully circumferential annular groove on the radially outer side of the carrier ring 17.

[0141] For further assembly, the outer ring 19 is then pushed onto the intermediate assembly assembly shown in Fig. 5 in the axial direction according to arrow P2. A snap element 19c, which is integrally formed on the inner side of the outer ring 19, snaps into a snap element receptacle 20b on a radially outer side of the haptic ring 20. This snap element 19c and the snap element receptacle 20b are only formed locally and are not completely uninterrupted in the circumferential direction. This snap element 19c and the snap element receptacle 20b thus achieve an axial positional retention between the outer ring 19 and the haptic ring 20 and also enable a rotationally fixed coupling, so that when the outer ring 19 rotates, the haptic ring 20 is also moved along in a motion-coupled manner.In a corresponding manner, the magnetic ring 21 can also have a corresponding coupling with the outer ring 19, so that here too the mechanical connection is rotationally fixed and the magnetic ring 21 is guided when the outer ring 19 rotates. Fig. 7 shows the assembled state of the ring 6. It can be seen here that the haptic ring 20 and the magnetic ring 21 are arranged in the receiving space 43 between the outer ring 19 and the carrier ring 17.

[0142] Fig. 8 shows a perspective sectional view of the operating element 6 on the one hand and the electronics unit 32 on the other. To implement the principle of capacitive sensor technology, the aforementioned design of the outer ring 19 as an electrode of the capacitive sensor is explained. Following radially inwardly is the haptic ring 20, which is preferably made of plastic. In this capacitive sensor technology, this haptic ring 20 thus serves as an electrical insulator. In one embodiment, the inwardly following carrier ring 17 is preferably made of an electrically conductive material. It can in particular be made of metal. Following radially inwardly again, a further electrical insulator is formed by the housing 39. This housing 39 has a wall 44 (Fig. 8), which can be made of plastic, for example. It is also possible for the housing 39 to be made entirely of plastic.

[0143] As can also be seen in Fig. 8, a metallic insert 45 follows this wall 44 in the radially inward direction. This metallic insert 45, which is preferably trough-shaped, in particular U-shaped, represents a further electrode of the capacitive sensor S. This design also creates a double-sandwich-like capacitive structure. This insert 45 is preferably directly electrically contacted with the circuit board 31, in particular by means of a spring 46, as shown in Fig. 8.

[0144] Fig. 9 shows the assembled state of the control element 6. The connection of the base 42 to the support ring 17 is also shown. The position of the circuit board 31 is also shown. For clarity, the housing 39 has been removed.

[0145] Fig. 10 shows a perspective sectional view of the control element 6 and the electronics unit 32. The snapped state of the housing 39 with the base 42 can be seen. Snap elements 39c are provided for this purpose. In particular, a snap connection is formed here with a counter-snap element 47a of a coupling structure 47 of the carrier ring 17.

[0146] In Fig. 11 the representation according to Fig. 10 is shown, but in a different sectional plane.

[0147] In Fig. 12, the operating element 6 with the base 42 is shown from a different perspective. As can be seen here, the base 42, in its final assembled state, extends rearward in the direction of the longitudinal axis A beyond the dimensions of the operating element 6. This base 42 has engagement openings 48. A tool can be inserted into these openings to release the snap connections between the housing 39 and the carrier ring 17.

[0148] Fig. 13 shows an embodiment of the magnetic ring 21. The individual magnets with their respective poles, namely the north pole and the south pole, as well as their arrangement in the azimuthal direction are shown.

[0149] Fig. 14 shows a further perspective sectional view of the household appliance control device 5. Here, it can also be seen that the control element 6, in particular a rear edge 6a, is arranged at a distance a from the front side 10a of the control panel 10. In particular, this distance a is between 0.3 mm and 1 mm, in particular between 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm.

[0150] The explanations of Figs. 2 to 14 are to be viewed as exemplary embodiments of the claimed concept only, which may be provided for this purpose. The explained concept according to the claims and Figs. 1a and 1b is also possible for many other configurations of operating devices, in particular the operating element 6 and / or the display unit 11. Therefore, the examples according to Figs. 2 to 14 are not to be considered exhaustive for the concept. List of reference symbols

[0151] 1 household appliance

[0152] 2 housings

[0153] 3 Recording room

[0154] 4 Door

[0155] 5 Household appliance control device

[0156] 6 Control element

[0157] 7 Presence detection device

[0158] 8 people

[0159] 9 Surrounding area

[0160] 10 Control panel

[0161] 11 Display unit

[0162] 11a Area

[0163] 12 Control unit

[0164] 13 Door opening device

[0165] 14 Control element

[0166] 15 Person detection sensor

[0167] 15a Detection area

[0168] 16 Actuator

[0169] 17 Carrier ring

[0170] 17a Snap element holder

[0171] 18 Control ring unit

[0172] 19 Outer ring

[0173] 19a Outside

[0174] 19b Outside

[0175] 19c Snap element

[0176] 20 Haptic ring

[0177] 20a Snap element

[0178] 20b Snap element holder

[0179] 20 Haptic ring

[0180] 21 Magnetic ring 23 Shell surface

[0181] 24 ring collars

[0182] 25 Mountains-valleys structure

[0183] 26 Rotation position detection device

[0184] 27 Haptic element 28 Haptic ball

[0185] 29 spring

[0186] 30 magnetic field sensor

[0187] 31 circuit board

[0188] 32 Electronic unit 33 First circuit board part

[0189] 34 second circuit board part

[0190] 35 third circuit board part

[0191] 36 flexible part

[0192] 37 flexible part 38 light source

[0193] 39 housings

[0194] 40 free space

[0195] 41 On / Off switch

[0196] 42 Base 43 Recording space

[0197] 44 Wall

[0198] 45 metallic insert

[0199] 46 spring

[0200] 47 Coupling structure 47a Counter snap element

[0201] 48 access opening

[0202] P1 Arrow

[0203] P2 Arrow

[0204] A axis S capacitive sensor

[0205] BW Movement path x Width direction y Height direction z Depth direction a Central angle ß Central angle

Claims

Patent claims 1. Household appliance operating device (5) with a rotatably mounted operating element (6) and a display unit (11) on which values ​​of an operating parameter can be visually displayed on a stationary display area (11a), wherein the changing of a value to be displayed on this display area (11a) is linked to the rotation of the operating element (6), and a rotational speed of the operating element (6) is linked to an increment of the change in the value, such that a first increment of the change in the value per reference path of the operating element (6) is linked to a first rotational speed, and a second increment of the change in the value per reference path of the operating element (6), which is different from the first, is linked to a second rotational speed which is different from the first.

2. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 1, wherein the first rotational speed is from a first speed interval which is different, in particular smaller, than a rotational speed threshold value, and / or the second rotational speed is from a second speed interval which is different from the first speed interval, in particular larger, than the rotational speed threshold value.

3. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 2, wherein the rotational speed threshold is a value from an interval between 157100ms and 207100ms.

4. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first step size is maintained when a change in the first rotational speed occurs during rotation, the rotational speeds are only in the first speed interval, and / or the second step size is maintained when a change in the second rotational speed occurs during rotation, the rotational speeds are only in the second speed interval.

5. Household appliance operating device (5) according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 4, wherein the second step size is maintained if the second rotational speed falls below the rotational speed threshold value only for a period of time which is less than a tolerance time interval.

6. Household appliance operating device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the household operating device (5) has a touch detection device, in particular a capacitive sensor (S), with which the touching of the operating element (6) can be detected.

7. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 6, wherein the rotation of the operating element (6) can be detected with a rotation position detection device (26) and when the operating element (6) is rotated, the touching or non-touching of the operating element (6) can be detected with the touch detection device, wherein when the release of the operating element (6) is detected, a hysteresis time interval starts from the time of release.

8. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 7, wherein during the hysteresis time interval it is possible to check with the touch detection device whether the operating element (6) is touched again, and if this is detected, the second step size is maintained even if the rotation of the operating element (6) takes place at the first rotation speed after the operating element (6) is touched again.

9. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 5 and / or claim 7 or 8, wherein the tolerance time interval and / or the hysteresis time interval is between 500 ms and 900 ms, in particular between 600 ms and 800 ms, in particular between 650 ms and 750 ms.

10. Household appliance operating device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotary movement of the operating element (6) is haptically clocked, in particular a clock width corresponds to a circular sector with a central angle (ß) between 4° and 8°, in particular between 5° and 7°, in particular the cycle width corresponds to the reference path.

11. Household appliance operating device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rotational speed is formed as an average value of rotational speeds detected during a rotational time interval of the operating element (6), and / or the second rotational speed is formed as an average value of rotational speeds detected during a rotational time interval of the operating element (6).

12. Household appliance operating device (5) according to claim 11, wherein the rotation time interval is a time duration between 100 ms and 300 ms, in particular between 120 ms and 20 ms, in particular between 130 ms and 170 ms.

13. Household appliance operating device (5) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a rotational movement of the operating element (6) about the reference path, which corresponds to a circular sector with a center angle (ß) between 4° and 8°, in particular between 5° and 7°, is linked to a change in the value of the operating parameter by a single respective speed-dependent step size.

14. Household appliance (1) with a household appliance operating device (5) according to one of the preceding claims.

15. A method for operating a household appliance operating device (5), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, in which values ​​of an operating parameter are optically displayed on a stationary display area (11a) of a display unit (11) of the household appliance operating device (5), wherein a value to be displayed on this display area (11a) is carried out depending on an associated rotation of an operating element (6) of the household appliance operating device (5), and a rotational speed of the operating element (6) is linked to a step size of the change in the value such that when the operating element (6) is rotated at a first rotational speed, a change in the value per reference path of the operating element (6) takes place with a respective first step size and 5 when the operating element (6) is rotated at a second rotational speed different from the first, the value per reference path of the operating element (6) is changed with a second step size different from the first.

Images