WO2025051463A1 - Operator control apparatus with a cam-shaped, rotatable actuation element, steering wheel, and motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an operator control apparatus (1), in particular for a steering wheel (2) of a motor vehicle (3), which requires a small installation space, and an associated steering wheel (2) and motor vehicle (3). The operator control apparatus (1) comprises in particular at least one actuation element (4), a first plunger element (7a) and a first sensor device (8a). The actuation element (4) is rotatably movably mounted about an axis of rotation (X0) with respect to a housing (5). Within the housing (5), the actuation element (4) forms a first actuation surface (6a) with a cam-shaped profile. The first plunger element (7a) is translationally movably mounted along a translation axis (Y), which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation (X0), with respect to the housing (5) and designed to be coupled in terms of movement to the first actuation surface (6a), and is set up to be moved translationally from a neutral position (P0) of the operator control apparatus (1) depending on a first rotational movement of the actuation element (4). The first sensor device (8a) is set up to generate at least one first operator control signal depending on a translational position of the first plunger element (7a).

Description

Operating device with a cam-shaped, rotatable actuating element, steering wheel, and motor vehicle

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

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

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

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

The object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are described by the dependent patent claims, the following description, and the figures. A first aspect of the invention relates to an operating device, in particular for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle. The operating device has, in particular, at least one actuating element, a first tappet element, and a first sensor device, as well as preferably a housing. The actuating element is mounted, in particular, with respect to the housing, for at least limited rotation about an axis of rotation. Within the housing, the actuating element forms a first actuating surface with a cam-shaped profile. The first tappet element is mounted, in particular, with respect to the housing, for translational movement along a translation axis perpendicular to the axis of rotation and is designed to be movement-coupled to the first actuating surface. It is also designed to be translationally moved from a zero position of the operating device depending on a first rotational movement of the actuating element. The first sensor device is, in particular, designed to generate at least one first operating signal depending on a translational position of the first tappet element.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The actuating element forms the first

Actuating surface with the cam-shaped profile, whereby the profile is particularly a sectional plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation is cam-shaped. "Cam-shaped" can be understood, in particular, as meaning that a radius of the cam-shaped profile relative to the axis of rotation changes depending on the angle of rotation of the actuating element. Alternatively, the profile can be described, at least approximately, as having an Archimedean spiral.

The cam-shaped profile forms, in particular, a path for the first plunger element. The cam-like, first actuating surface is at least indirectly in contact with the first plunger element. The cam-shaped profile can be designed such that the first rotational movement of the actuating element, and thus of the cam-shaped profile, pushes the first plunger element downward along the translation axis in the direction away from the rotation axis. Movement-coupled can thus be understood to mean that a first translational movement of the first plunger element along the translation axis is directly or indirectly coupled to the first rotational movement of the actuating element.

A comparatively similar operative connection between a surface with a cam-like profile and a plunger element is known, for example, from document JP 2011065881 A, but in connection with a switch, see Fig. 3. By pivoting the lever 210 about the shaft 203, the surface with the cam-like profile 202 pushes the plunger 20 away. A similar principle is known from document JPH09293425A, in particular Fig. 10.

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

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

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

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

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

One embodiment provides that the operating device has at least one first rotary cylinder, which is mounted for rotation relative to the first plunger element about a first rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis. The first rotary cylinder can be made, in particular, of metal or plastic. Preferably, the first plunger element can have interfaces, for example bearing bushes, and the first rotary cylinder can have bearing points, for example bearing pins, on the base surfaces, by means of which the first plunger element and the first rotary cylinder are connected to one another, so that the first rotary cylinder is only rotatable relative to the first plunger element about the first rotation axis, but not translationally movable relative to the first plunger element. In particular, the first tappet element may have two adjacent fork arms extending along the translation axis, wherein the first rotary cylinder is suspended between the two fork arms.

Preferably, the first rotary cylinder is motion-coupled to the first actuating surface and is configured to be moved rotationally from the neutral position and translationally with the first plunger element depending on the first rotational movement of the actuating element. In other words, the first rotary cylinder contacts the first actuating cylinder with its outer surface, wherein the first rotary cylinder rolls over the first actuating surface during the first rotational movement. At the same time, due to the cam-shaped profile of the first actuating surface, the first rotary cylinder, and thus also the first plunger element, are moved translationally downward. For kinematic reasons, the first rotary cylinder thus rotates opposite to the rotational movement of the actuating element.

The first rotary cylinder has at least the advantage that friction within the operating device is significantly reduced during operation. Rolling friction of the outer surface over the first actuating surface is significantly lower than sliding friction between the first plunger element and the first actuating surface. Furthermore, there is the advantage that the operating device is longer lasting and requires less maintenance due to reduced friction. Furthermore, tilting of the components is advantageously significantly reduced, so that the permanent, functional availability of the operating device can be guaranteed. Furthermore, the first cylinder can be used to ensure that the operating device can be reset to the zero position.

One embodiment provides that the first sensor device has a first, elastic switching mat, which is operatively connected to the first plunger element. The switching mat can in particular be a silicone switching mat. At a distal, lower end, remote from the axis of rotation, the first plunger element can form an interface by means of which the first plunger element is operatively connected to the silicone switching mat. The interface of the plunger element can in particular be disc-shaped or plate-like and sit on the silicone switching mat. Such an operative connection advantageously represents a particularly reliable possibility for detecting the at least one translational position of the first plunger element. One embodiment provides that the first elastic switching mat has a first elastic dome, which is configured to be elastically deformed depending on a translational movement of the first plunger element from the zero position. The elastic dome can be made of silicone, in particular. The elastic dome can be cylindrically shaped, with a cover surface of the cylindrical dome being connected in contact with the disk-like interface of the first plunger element. The dome can thus be compressed or shrunk by the translational movement of the first plunger element directed towards the elastic dome.

Preferably, the first elastic dome, which is elastically deformed, in particular compressed, is configured to return the operating device to the zero position with a first restoring force. In particular, the restoring force can press on the disc-like interface of the first plunger element, causing it to move translationally back toward the zero position. This translational return movement of the elastic plunger element, in turn, allows the actuating element to be rotated back to the zero position, so that the operating device as a whole can be returned to the zero position.

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

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

One embodiment provides that the first, elastic switching mat has a first switching element, which is configured to generate the first operating signal depending on a first translational position of the first plunger element. The first switching element can in particular have a first contact pill, as well as first, meander-shaped conductor tracks. The contact pill can in particular be coupled in terms of movement to the first plunger element, wherein in the first translational position the contact pill presses onto the conductor tracks and thus electrically so that the first operating signal is generated. The first contact pill and the first conductor tracks can preferably be redundant.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One embodiment provides that the actuating element forms a second actuating surface within the housing with a cam-shaped profile, which is arranged offset along the rotational axis to the first actuating surface and, in the zero position, is symmetrical with respect to the translational axis to the first actuating surface. The actuating surfaces can thus be formed directly next to one another. The respective cam-shaped profile can be of the same design, but mirrored to one another. In particular, the first Actuating surface is formed mirrored to the second actuating surface with respect to a mirror plane, wherein the mirror plane is spanned by the translation axis and the rotation axis.

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

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

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

According to the exemplary embodiment, the operating device additionally has a second sensor device which is designed to generate at least one third operating signal depending on a translational position of the second plunger element. Thus, at least two operating signals can advantageously be generated: a first by rotating the actuating element in the first direction of rotation, and a third by rotating the actuating element in the second direction of rotation. In particular, different switching directions can be implemented in a particularly space-saving manner.

In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages with regard to the first actuating surface, the first plunger element and the first sensor device, can be transferred analogously to the second actuating surface, the second plunger element and the second sensor device.

One embodiment provides that the operating device has at least one second rotary cylinder which is mounted so as to be rotatable with respect to the second plunger element about a second rotational axis parallel to the rotational axis, and is movement-coupled to the second actuating surface, and is designed to be moved in a rotational manner from the zero position and in a translational manner with the second plunger element depending on the second rotational movement of the actuating element.

In particular, individual features and corresponding explanations, as well as advantages relating to the first rotary cylinder, can be transferred analogously to the second rotary cylinder.

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

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

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

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

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

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

One embodiment provides for the actuating element to form a lever outside the housing, by means of which a user can tilt the actuating element around the rotation axis. This allows the actuating element to be operated particularly easily and with a pleasant tactile feel.

One embodiment provides that an orthogonal line of a surface of the housing of the operating device forms an angle of 25° to 45°, preferably 35°, with the translation axis. In other words, it can be provided that the surface of the housing forms an angle of 25° to 45°, preferably 35°, with the circuit board. The term "surface" refers in particular to that part of the surface which forms the opening from which the actuating element partially protrudes. By adopting such an angle, the operating device can be integrated into an installation space, preferably into a steering wheel, in a particularly suitable manner. In particular, this makes it possible to reduce the maximum depth of the required installation space.

A further aspect of the invention provides a steering wheel, in particular for a motor vehicle. The steering wheel has at least one operating device according to the invention. The steering wheel can furthermore be a steering wheel for a watercraft or aircraft. The steering wheel can in particular have a ring, one or more spokes and a central part of the steering wheel, wherein the operating device can be integrated in the ring, in one of the spokes or in the central part. The operating device can hereby be integrated into the steering wheel in such a way that only the actuating element protrudes from a surface of the steering wheel.

A further aspect of the invention provides a motor vehicle which has a steering wheel according to the invention. The motor vehicle can be a It can be a passenger car, a truck, a bus or a motorcycle, although in the case of a motorcycle the steering wheel can actually be designed as a handlebar.

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

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

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

Fig. 3 is a sectional view of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention in a first operating position;

Fig. 4 is a sectional view of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention in a second operating position;

Fig. 5 shows a schematic structure of an embodiment of a sensor device;

Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a motor vehicle according to the invention with a steering wheel according to the invention. Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an operating device 1 according to the invention, which can be integrated, for example, into a steering wheel 2 of a motor vehicle 3. The operating device 1 can have an actuating element 4, as well as a first plunger element 7a, a second plunger element 7b, a first sensor device 8a and a second sensor device 8b, and a housing 5.

The actuating element 4 can be mounted so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis X0 with respect to the housing 5. Within the housing 5, the actuating element 4 can form a first actuating surface 6a and a second actuating surface 6b, each with a cam-shaped profile (see Fig. 2 to Fig. 5), which are hidden in Fig. 1 for better illustration.

The plunger elements 7a, 7b can, in particular, be mounted so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing 5 along a translation axis Y perpendicular to the rotation axis X0 and can be movement-coupled to the respectively associated actuating surfaces 6a, 6b, and can be configured to be translationally moved depending on a first rotational movement of the actuating element 4 from a zero position PO of the operating device 4 or depending on a second rotational movement of the actuating element 4, opposite to the first rotational movement, from the zero position PO of the operating device 4. In other words, the first plunger element 6a is moved only during the first rotational movement, and the second plunger element 6b is moved only during the second rotational movement.

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

Furthermore, the operating device 1 can have a first and a second rotary cylinder 17a, 17b, which are mounted so as to be rotatable with respect to the first and second tappet elements 7a, 7b about a respective first and second rotational axis X1, X2 parallel to the rotational axis X0, and are coupled in terms of movement to the respective associated actuating surfaces 6a, 6b. The rotary cylinders 17a, 17b can be designed to rotate depending on the first and second rotational movement of the Actuating element 4 is rotated from the zero position and moved translationally with the first or second plunger element 7a, 7b.

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

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

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

The actuating element 4 can have a tilting roller 14, which protrudes at least partially from an opening in the housing 5 or from a surface 19 of the housing 5. The tilting roller 14 can have a lever 16 outside the housing 5. by means of which a user can tilt the actuating element 4 about the rotation axis X0. This allows, for example, the speed of a cruise control system of the motor vehicle 1 to be controlled by the user.

Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of an embodiment of the operating device 1 according to the invention in the rest position PO, as well as in Fig. 3 in a first operating position P1 and in Fig. 4 in a second operating position P2. The description of Fig. 1 can be applied analogously to Figs. 2 to 4.

The first and second operating positions P1 can be assumed in particular by tilting the lever element 18 and the resulting first rotational movement of the actuating element 4 from the zero position PO, which can be initiated by the user, wherein the first operating position P1 differs from the second operating position P2 in the degree of deflection. It is understood that a third and fourth operating position can also be assumed by the opposite, second rotational movement of the actuating element 4 from the zero position PO. The third and fourth operating positions are not shown in the figures. However, the operating principle of the kinematics shown in Fig. 2 to Fig. 4 can be applied accordingly to the third and fourth operating positions. The description applies accordingly.

The actuating element 4 can have a first and a second actuator element 15a, 15b, wherein the first actuator element 15a can form the first, cam-shaped actuating surface 6a and the second actuator element 15b can form the second, cam-shaped actuating surface 6b. The actuator elements 15a, 15b can be formed integrally with one another, but the respective actuating surfaces 6a, 6b are offset from one another in the direction of the rotation axis X0, so that the first actuating surface 6a acts only on the first rotary cylinder 17a, and the second actuating surface 6b acts only on the second rotary cylinder 6b offset in the direction of the rotation axis X0.

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

From the zero position PO to the operating position P1, the actuating element 4 is rotated by a first deflection in the first direction of rotation. The cam-shaped profile of the first actuating surface 6a acts on the first rotary cylinder 17a, causing it to roll over the cam-shaped profile and around the first rotation axis X1, while simultaneously moving downwards along the translation axis Y. Through the coupling with the first plunger element 7a, the latter is also moved downwards, causing its plate 22 to press against the first dome 10a of the first switching mat 9a, causing the dome 10a to deform elastically. A first switching element 11a of the first switching mat 9a can then be configured to generate the first operating signal depending on a first translational position of the first plunger element 7a or depending on the first compressed state of the first switching mat 9a. At the same time, it can be provided that the first boom 13a breaks through the light barrier of the light barrier sensor 12a, so that a confirmation signal is generated.

The compressed, or elastically deformed, first elastic dome 10a can be configured to return the operating device 1 to the zero position PO with a first return force, so that when the user releases the lever 16, the operating device 1 is returned to the zero position PO by the first return force. In particular, the operating device 1 is not returned beyond this point, since a second return force of the second elastic dome 10a prevents this.

From the zero position PO to the operating position P2, the actuating element 4 is rotated by a second, larger deflection in the first direction of rotation, so that the second safety mat 9a is compressed even further. Depending on the second compressed state, a second operating signal can be generated.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic structure of an embodiment of a first or second sensor device 8a, 8b, using the example of the first sensor device 8a. The three images of Fig. 5 show in particular different levels of the first sensor device 8a. The first switching mat 9a or the dome 10a can form or have a first switching element 11a and a second switching element 11b. By the first, In the compressed state, first contact pills 20a of the first switching element 11a, which are designed redundantly to one another, can press on first conductor wires 21a, so that the first operating signal can be triggered. In the second, compressed state, second contact pills 20b of the second switching element 11b, which are designed redundantly to one another, can also press on second conductor wires 21b, so that the second operating signal can be triggered. Accordingly, a third and fourth operating signal can be triggered by means of the second switching mat 9b by rotating the actuating element 4 in the second direction of rotation. Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a motor vehicle 3 according to the invention with a steering wheel 2 according to the invention, wherein the steering wheel 2 has at least one operating device 1 according to the invention.

Claims

Patent claims 1. An operating device (1), in particular for a steering wheel (2) of a motor vehicle (3), comprising an actuating element (4) which is mounted so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation (X0) with respect to a housing (5) of the operating device (1) and which forms a first actuating surface (6a) with a cam-shaped profile within the housing (5), a first tappet element (7a) which is mounted so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing (5) along a translation axis (Y) perpendicular to the axis of rotation (X0), and is designed to be movement-coupled to the first actuating surface (6a) and is configured to be moved translationally from a zero position (PO) of the operating device (1) depending on a first rotational movement of the actuating element (4), and a first sensor device (8a) which is configured to generate at least one first operating signal depending on a translational position of the first tappet element (7a). 2. Operating device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by at least one first rotary cylinder (17a) which is mounted so as to be rotatable with respect to the first tappet element (7a) about a first rotational axis (X1) parallel to the rotational axis (X0), and is movement-coupled to the first actuating surface (6a), and is designed to be moved in a rotational manner from the zero position and in a translational manner with the first tappet element (7a) depending on the first rotational movement of the actuating element (4). 3. Operating device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first sensor device (8a) has a first, elastic switching mat (9a) which is operatively connected to the first plunger element (7a). 4. Operating device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the first elastic switching mat (9a) has a first elastic dome (10a) which is designed to be elastically deformed from the zero position (PO) as a function of a translational movement of the first tappet element (7a), wherein the elastically deformed, first elastic dome (10a) is designed to return the operating device (1) to the zero position (PO) with a first restoring force. 5. Operating device (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the first elastic switching mat (9a) has a first switching element (11a) which is designed to generate the first operating signal depending on a first translational position of the first plunger element (7a). 6. Operating device (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the first, elastic switching mat (9a) has a second switching element (11b) which is designed to generate a second operating signal depending on a second translational position of the first plunger element (7a) which is different from the first. 7. Operating device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the first elastic switching mat (9a) is designed to engage in a first locking position in the first translational position and/or to engage in a second locking position in the second translational position. 8. Operating device (1) according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the first sensor device (8a) additionally has a first sensor element (12a) which is designed to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the first plunger element (7a) and to generate a first confirmation signal depending on the deviating position. 9. Operating device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the first sensor element (12a) has a first light barrier sensor (12a) and the first plunger element (7a) has a first arm (13a) which is designed to interrupt a light barrier of the first light barrier sensor (12a) in the deviating position. 10. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (4) forms within the housing (5) a second actuating surface (6b) with a cam-shaped profile, which is arranged offset along the rotational axis (X0) relative to the first actuating surface (6a), and in the zero position is formed symmetrically with respect to the translational axis (Y) relative to the first actuating surface (6a), wherein the operating device (1) further comprises: a second plunger element (7b) which is mounted so as to be translationally movable with respect to the housing (5) along the translational axis (Y), and is formed so as to be movement-coupled with the second actuating surface (6b) and is designed to be translationally moved from the zero position of the operating device (1) depending on a second rotational movement of the actuating element (4) opposite to the first rotational movement, and a second sensor device (8b) which is designed to be dependent on a translational position of the second plunger element (7b) to generate at least a third operating signal. 11. Operating device (1) according to claim 2 and 10, characterized by at least one second rotary cylinder (17b) which is mounted so as to be rotatable with respect to the second tappet element (7b) about a second rotational axis (X2) parallel to the rotational axis, and is movement-coupled to the second actuating surface (6b), and is designed to be moved in a rotational manner from the zero position and in a translational manner with the second tappet element (7b) depending on the second rotational movement of the actuating element (4). 12. Operating device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the second sensor device (8b) has a second, elastic switching mat (9b) which is operatively connected to the second tappet element (7b). 13. Operating device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the second elastic switching mat (9b) has a second elastic dome (10b) which is designed to be elastically deformed from the zero position as a function of a translatory movement of the second tappet element (7), wherein the elastically deformed, second elastic dome (10b) is designed to return the operating device (1) to the zero position with a second restoring force. 14. Operating device (1) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the second, elastic switching mat (9b) has a third switching element (11c) which is designed to generate the third operating signal depending on a first translational position of the second plunger element (7b). 15. Operating device (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the second, elastic switching mat (9) has a fourth switching element (11d) which is designed to actuate a switching element (11d) which is different from the first, second translational position of the second plunger element (7b) to generate a fourth operating signal. 16. Operating device (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the second, elastic switching mat (9b) is designed to engage in a third locking position in the first translational position of the second plunger element (7b) and/or to engage in a fourth locking position in the second translational position of the second plunger element (7b). 17. Operating device (1) according to one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that the second sensor device (8b) additionally has a second sensor element (12b) which is designed to detect a translational position deviating from a zero position of the second plunger element (7b) and to generate a second confirmation signal depending on the deviating position. 18. Operating device (1) according to claim 17, characterized in that the second sensor element (12b) has a second light barrier sensor and the second plunger element (7b) has a second arm (13b) which is designed to interrupt a light barrier of the second light barrier sensor in the deviating position. 19. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (4) is composed of a tilting roller (14) which protrudes at least partially from an opening in the housing (5), and at least one actuator element (15a) which forms at least the first actuating surface (6a) within the housing (5). 20. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (4) forms a lever (16) outside the housing (5), by means of which a user can tilt the actuating element (4) about the axis of rotation (XO). 21. Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an orthogonal line of a surface (19) of the housing (5) forms an angle (α) of 25° to 45°, preferably 35°, with the translation axis (Y). 22. Steering wheel (2), in particular for a motor vehicle (3), comprising at least one Operating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims. 23. Motor vehicle (3) comprising a steering wheel (2) according to claim 22.