DE102008042456A1 - Operating unit for device, particularly household appliance, has control panel and disk-shaped actuating element that is pivoted around rotational axis lying at front of control panel - Google Patents

Abstract

The operating unit (10) has a control panel and a disk-shaped actuating element that is pivoted around a rotational axis lying at front of the control panel. The actuating element is arranged around a tipping axis (20) in tilting manner relative to the control panel. The tipping axis is arranged vertically to the rotational axis, and protrudes from an opening of the control panel at the front side. The actuating element is movably supported in the holding elements (30,32), which are fixedly fastened in the control panel.

Description

The The present invention is based on an operating unit after the Preamble of claim 1.

From the publication EP 0 855 668 A2 For example, an operating unit is known which has an operating element which can be rotated in four directions and pressed in one direction.

The unpublished publication DE 10 2007 035 892.1 shows an operating unit with at least one rotatably mounted about a first axis of rotation control element, at least one surface unit which limits an operable to a control operation of the operating element, and at least one rotary unit, by means of which the operating element is arranged at least a first inclination axis tiltable relative to the surface unit ,

The The object of the present invention is, in particular, a To provide control unit with a simple structure.

Solved This object is achieved by a control unit according to claim 1. The subclaims relate to preferred embodiments, which are used individually or in combination with each other can.

The Invention is based on a control unit with a control panel and a disc-shaped actuator, which can be rotated about an axis of rotation lying behind the control panel is mounted, and about a substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation arranged tilting axis arranged tiltable relative to the control panel is, and front of an opening of the control panel protrudes.

It It is suggested that the actuator on at least a holding element is movably mounted, which immovably on the control panel is attached. The advantage of such a control unit is in particular, Thus, a simple structure can be realized.

Of the Term control panel is representative of any, Front-side housing component. In particular, it may include a visor to be understood, on which the holding element is attached. However, it is also conceivable that the control panel a front-side part of a housing of the operating unit or may be attached to the housing aperture. A "tilt axis" should in particular an axis be about which the actuating element, starting from a Equilibrium position, which in particular its rest position without may be an operator intervention, tilted up or down becomes. An essential part of the actuator is not visible to the operator as this is behind the control panel lies, which the operating area of the actuating element limited. In particular, the actuator should be so far sticking out of the opening that an operator for the tilting movement up or down a sufficiently high force can apply to the actuator. Under "mobile stored "should be understood that the actuator can be moved in at least three directions. In particular are this is a rotation (X), indentation (Z) and tilting (Y). Under "immovably fixed" should be understood be that the holding element firmly connected to the control panel is, even with an intervention by the operator in his position remains. In contrast, under a moving part the control unit understood any components of the control unit which are during the intervention by the operator move relative to the control panel. These are especially that Actuator, as well as parts of a housing unit.

A advantageous development provides that two holding elements provided are within which the actuator movable is arranged. This arrangement has the advantage that on the actuating element acting forces evenly from the be received two retaining elements. Thus, a robust Arrangement of the control unit can be achieved.

Preferably are the two holding elements by means of a diaphragm element with each other connected, which in particular an operating area limiting opening having. This is on the one hand a stable design allows and on the other hand, the opening so be adapted to the actuator, so that between the aperture element and actuator only a very small gap remains. The gap width is preferably less than 1 mm, In particular, it is 0.7 mm, which on the one hand a low Ensures gap width in all operating situations, while on the other hand a perfect operation is guaranteed. This For example, it reduces the penetration of a stove or oven of Wrasen in the interior of the control unit. Preferably, the two are Holding elements and the aperture element integrally formed. Preferably, they are made of the same material.

Further, it is advantageously provided that the actuating element is mounted by means of a receiving device, in particular a housing unit movable on the holding element. The housing unit is used in particular for the protection of the actuating element. Preferably, the shape of the housing unit is selected such that a Eindrin conditions of, for example, vapors is avoided. By "indirectly movably mounted" is to be understood that, for example, the housing unit serves as a receptacle of the actuating element, and the housing unit in turn is movably mounted on the holding element. Thus, intervention by the operator would result in the housing unit with the actuator mounted therein moving relative to the support member.

Preferably is the receiving device or the housing unit by means a guide member movably mounted on the holding element. The advantage of such a control unit is, in particular, that for example in an eccentric indenting movement (Z) of the actuating element is a substantially linear and symmetrical movement of the movable part of the operating unit is ensured. Preferably, the guide element is pivotally mounted on the holding element about a pivot axis, which in particular arranged substantially parallel to the tilting axis is. This is an implementation of the linear displacement of the movable Part of the control unit by the push-in movement (Z) with simple means. It is preferably provided that the tilting axis in the Eindrückbewegung of a first Position corresponding to a rest position of the actuator, can be deflected into a second position, which in particular a End point of the push-in movement (Z) represents. This is with simple means that allows the moving part the control unit during the push-in movement (Z) to the rear is deflectable. The tilting axis moves during the pushing-in movement (Z) on a circular path. The guide element is included understood as a handlebar, which is movable at both ends is stored. In the push-in movement (Z) is the guide element thus articulated in the pivot axis. Preferably, the center distance dimensioned between the tilting axis and the pivot axis such that in the push-in movement (Z) of the actuating element the ratio of horizontal deflection to vertical deflection greater than 150 is. This will allow that the movable part of the control unit during the Eindrückbewegung (Z) is moved substantially horizontally. Preferably, two guide elements provided, which are interconnected by a bridge. This arrangement has the advantage that in particular by the Eindrückbewegung the actuator generated forces evenly be absorbed by the two guide elements. About that In addition, the connection of the two guide elements is used by means of the bridge of synchronization, which is why the moving part the operating unit during a push-in movement (Z) substantially is deflected symmetrically. This reduces the risk a misoperation. It is preferably provided that the two guide elements and the web cohesively, in particular are integrally formed. This will be a special achieved robust construction.

Preferably is the actuator in the housing unit or rotatably mounted in the receiving device about the axis of rotation. This may provide additional means for supporting the actuator be waived, which in turn is a cost-effective production allows. In addition, a compact construction the control unit allows.

A advantageous development provides that the receiving device or the housing unit with a tilting movement (Y) of the Actuator guided by means of a coupling unit on the holding element is. The coupling unit serves to that after a tilting movement overcome above or below a bias generated by the coupling unit must become. This allows the operator to do the haptic perception, so for example the active feeling a switching point, to improve. The coupling unit serves over it In addition, a center-center centering and guides the receiving device or the housing unit in the tilting movement (Y).

Prefers it is provided that the coupling unit on to the housing unit attached latching means comprising, with a arranged on the holding element counter-locking means engaged. By means of this locking means can be realize the coupling unit with simple means, which in turn leads to a cost-effective production.

Preferably the latching means is attached as one attached to the housing unit Spring and the counter-locking means as a depression located on the holding element educated. This allows a structurally simple and create a robust arrangement. In addition, by means of a certain spring constant the bias can be adjusted.

An advantageous development provides that a Bewegungsauswahleinheit is provided, which optionally either a tilting movement (Y) or an indenting movement (Z) allows the actuating element. Thus, when tilting (Y) about the tilting axis, no pushing in along the Z-direction is possible by means of the movement selection unit, whereas tilting (Y) about the tilting axis is not possible when pushing along the Z-direction. This prevents incorrect operation by the operator. In addition, it can be provided that the movement selection unit simultaneously serves as a limiting device for the pressed or tilted actuating element. That is, by the Eindrück- (Z) or tilting movement (Y) caused deflection is possible only to a point in which the actuating element Be motion selection unit at least partially touched.

Preferably The motion selection unit includes one on the housing unit located within a projection in the holding element located recess is arranged. This can be done create a structurally simple and robust arrangement. Especially the retaining element should be designed such that a force of at least 100 N via the actuator can be included, and at the same time a complete Function of the control unit is guaranteed. Thus is Ensured that even with an accidental shock the actuator does not damage the control unit and a smooth operation is possible.

A advantageous development provides that at least one spring element is provided, which a restoring moment on by a tilting movement (Y) or an indenting movement (Z) deflected Actuated exerts. The spring element is designed so that they the device in the equilibrium position can hold. In addition, the attachment points to choose the spring so that a single spring suffices in each case a restoring moment with respect to both To generate movements. It should be noted that the spring element a restoring moment on the upwardly deflected actuator exerts while deflecting the actuating element down the spring is relaxed, and thus no restoring moment is produced. In the case of the downward deflection, the weight is sufficient of the movable part of the device to this again in the equilibrium position bring to. Preferably, the spring element is on the one hand on the holding element and on the other hand attached to the housing unit. This will achieved a simple construction. The installation position of the spring element In particular, it should be chosen such that the direction of action of the Spring element arranged substantially perpendicular to the tilting axis is. As a result, the forces in the tilting movement upwards and below the same size.

A advantageous development provides that a signal generator for generating a triggerable by a movement of the actuating element electrical Signal is provided. Preferably, for the production an electrical signal due to the tilting movement (Y) due to a possible movement up and down two signal heads provided, which are designed in particular as a microswitch. For generating an electrical signal through the Push-in movement (Z) is preferably only a signal generator provided, for example, on one of the diaphragm support arranged board is mounted. Preferably, this signal generator operated by a shift lever, which as an extension a deflected by the push-in movement (Z) guide element is trained. However, it is also conceivable, the shift lever on to provide the housing unit. For the generation an electrical signal by the rotational movement (X) is preferred a bit generator is provided which preferably on the housing top is appropriate. The transmission of the rotational movement (X) of the Actuation element by means of a on the actuating element arranged gear, which communicates with one with the bit generator standing gear engaged.

A advantageous development provides that the holding element at least Sectionally made of flexible material. Thereby It is particularly easy, the control panel on the control panel to assemble. In this case, for example, the holding element according to a first mounting direction in the control panel mounted front become. Then it can be the actuator and the housing unit having part of the operating unit in the spring-loaded, flexible portion of the holding element according to a mounted to the first mounting direction opposite direction become. By "sprung" is meant to be understood that the holding element for mounting the above-mentioned part easily is bent outwards, so after reaching a End position, the recess of the retaining element to the housing unit encloses existing projection.

The Control unit is suitable for installation in a variety of electrical appliances. In particular, it should be included Household appliances, such as cookers, Ovens, grills, washing machines, tumble dryers and the same. However, these examples are not limiting with regard to the use of the invention Control unit to understand.

Further Advantages are shown in the following description of the drawing. In the drawing is an embodiment of the invention shown. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The skilled person will become the characteristics expediently also consider individually and to summarize meaningful further combinations.

It demonstrate:

1 a household appliance in perspective

2 a front view of a control unit and a panel member

3 a rear view of the control unit in a perspective view

4 a plan view of the control unit and a panel

5 the control unit in a first lateral sectional view

6 the operating unit in a second lateral sectional view

1 shows a household appliance 1 in perspective view. The household appliance 1 has a control panel 4 on, which is mounted in the upper region of the front of the household appliance. In a middle area of the control panel 4 there is a display unit 2 which, for example, displays information regarding selected settings to an operator. Below the display unit 2 there is a control unit 10 by means of which, for example, certain settings or certain functions can be selected. The operating unit 10 has a disc-shaped actuator 12 which is mostly behind the control panel 4 located.

2 shows a front view of a control unit 10 and an aperture element 34 on which the operating unit 10 attached on the back. The aperture element 34 has an opening bounding an operating area 36 on which a touchable operating area 6 of the actuating element 12 releases. The edge of the opening 36 is essentially oval. The front side faces the operator in an operating situation. Between the panel element 34 and the actuator 12 a gap is formed which is about 0.7 mm. This is the actuating element 12 from the aperture element 34 sufficiently spaced so that it is movable in three directions. These are a rotation (X), indentation (Z) and a tilting motion (Y).

3 shows a rear view of the control unit 10 in perspective view. The operating unit 10 has a housing unit 40 in which the actuating element (not shown) is rotatably mounted. The housing unit 40 has a substantially cylindrical shape, which is flattened on its front side parallel to its longitudinal axis. The housing unit 40 consists of a lower part 42 and a top serving as a lid 44 , On the shell 44 is a signal generator 90 attached, which is designed as a bit generator. The top 44 has circumferentially in the region of its edge tabs, which together with on the lower part 42 attached lugs form a closure device for the housing unit. The lower part 42 is on two retaining elements 30 . 32 , which by means of a diaphragm element 34 are connected, movably mounted. The two retaining elements 30 . 32 and the aperture element 34 form a frame which is fixed immovably in a panel (not shown). The two retaining elements 30 . 32 are made of a flexible material and have in the area that the aperture element 34 facing, in each case a horizontally extending slot in an upper and a lower region. This allows easy mounting of the frame. The connection between housing base 44 and the two holding elements 30 . 32 takes place by means of guide elements 22 . 24 passing through a footbridge 26 connected to each other. The two guide elements 22 . 24 have at the outer edge, which each have a holding element 30 . 32 facing, a pin-shaped projection, which in a in the holding element 30 . 32 located opening is rotatably mounted, and which a pivot axis 21 defined to which the two guide elements 22 . 24 are pivotally mounted. The guide elements 22 . 24 are provided to realize the indentation (Z) and the tilting function (Y). During an indenting movement (Z), a deflection of the two guide elements takes place 22 . 24 in the Z direction. During this push-in movement (Z), this becomes in the lower part 44 mounted actuator by the two guide elements 22 . 24 guided along the Z-direction. For this purpose, the two guide elements pivot 22 . 24 around a pivot axis 21 , In order to achieve a substantially linear movement in the Z-direction, the lower part is 42 the housing unit 40 at the upper part of the guide elements 22 . 24 movably mounted. During the push-in movement (Z) thus becomes the tilt axis 20 from a first position, which corresponds to a rest position of the operating unit, deflected into a second position, which corresponds to an end position. In contrast, the two guide elements remain 22 . 24 with a tilting movement (Y) in its original position. For the realization of the tilting movement (Y) is the housing unit 40 with the actuator located therein down or up about the tilt axis 20 tiltable. For centering a central position, which corresponds to the rest position of the operating unit, is a coupling unit 60 to recognize which from a locking means 64 and a counter-deterrent 68 is formed. The locking means 64 is designed as a spring, which with a on the holding element 30 located recess is engaged. The spring is on the lower part 42 the housing unit 40 appropriate. The recess is located within a vertical slot, within which the spring is arranged in sections movable. During a tilting movement (Y) up or down, the spring element, which is biased in the direction of the recess, moves over the recess. This allows the operator to improve the haptic perception. In addition, a motion selection unit can be seen 70 which selectively allows either an indentation (Z) or a tilting movement (Y), and which is also adapted to the deflection of the Limit actuator in both directions of movement. The motion selection unit 70 is out of a lead 74 and a recess 78 educated. The lead 74 is on the side of the lower part 42 arranged. The recess 78 is designed such that the projection 74 it is up to a stop up or down or moved backwards. The motion selection is achieved by the recess 78 is stepped. This step shape causes during a push-in movement (Z) of the projection 74 to a rear edge of the in the holding element 30 located recess 78 emotional. In this rear position is the projection 74 at least in sections within a region of the recess 78 which prevents upward or downward movement due to two horizontally extending edges. Thus, no tilting movement (Y) of the actuating element is possible. In contrast, during a tilting movement (Y), no pushing-in movement (Z) is possible because the projection moved up or down 74 due to two vertical edges is prevented from moving backwards. Inside the recess 78 is beyond a trained as a microswitch signal generator 92 arranged, which is provided for generating a triggerable by a tilting movement (Y) electrical signal. The microswitch is on the lower part 42 the housing unit 40 arranged, and is supported by an operation against horizontally extending edges of the recess 78 from.

4 shows a plan view of the control unit and a panel. The operating unit 10 has an actuating element rotatably mounted in a housing unit 12 on which by a control panel 4 protrudes outwards. The touchable area of the actuating element 12 lies in an operating area 6 , The from the aperture element 34 and the two holding elements 30 . 32 existing frame is front on the control panel 4 postponed. For safe and immovable attachment of the two holding elements 30 . 32 have them in one behind the control panel 4 lying in each case two formed as locking elements horizontally extending slots, by means of which at least a portion of the holding elements 30 . 32 can be bent outwards. By the locking elements of the holding elements 30 . 32 can be in the area of the corners of the panel element 34 the holding elements 30 . 32 safe against falling out of the control panel 4 lock.

5 shows the control unit 10 in a first lateral sectional view along the line AA 4 , It is a spring element 82 to recognize which the actuator 12 holding one in an equilibrium position. The spring element 82 generates a restoring moment both during the indentation (Z) and during the tilting movement. The spring element 82 is on one side on the holding element 30 and on the other side on a projection of the lower part 42 the housing unit 40 attached. Particularly well in this representation, the sickle shape of the guide element 22 detect. In addition, it can be seen that the upper part of the guide element 22 to one in the control panel 34 extending recess extends. In the rest position of the actuator 12 is an upper part of the guide element 22 substantially flush with the front of the panel member 34 arranged. This makes it possible, the tilting axis 21 in the direction of the diaphragm element 34 to relocate.

6 shows the control unit 10 in a second lateral sectional view along the line BB 4 , Especially good here is the trained as a bit generator signal generator 90 to detect which for generating a by the rotational movement (X) of the actuating element 12 triggerable electrical signal is provided. The rotation of the actuator 12 around a rotation axis 16 simultaneously causes a rotation of one on the actuator 12 arranged gear 52 , The gear 52 engages with a gear 50 , which is connected to the bit generator. Thus, the rotational movement (X) can be detected by means of the bit generator. In addition, first locking means 56 . 57 to recognize which are arranged on the top and bottom of the actuating element. The first locking means 56 . 57 stand with second locking means 54 . 55 in engagement, of which the upper locking means 54 at the top 44 the housing unit 40 and the lower locking means 55 at the bottom 42 the housing unit 40 is appropriate. The first locking means 56 . 57 are formed as rings whose center on the axis of rotation 16 lies. The rings have at their the second locking means 54 . 55 facing surfaces on a plurality of elevations, which together with the formed as a spring second locking means 54 . 55 each form a mechanical locking device. This mechanical locking device has the effect of providing the operator with an improved tactile impression during the rotational movement (X). There is also a shift lever 28 to recognize which one-piece with the guide element 24 is trained. Also clearly visible is the shape of the aperture element 34 , The aperture element 34 has an opening 8th on, through which the actuator 12 protrudes. Between the actuator 12 and through the aperture element 34 formed circumferential edge is a gap within which the actuator 12 on the one hand operable and on the other hand is well protected against ingress of dirt. The operator facing surface of the diaphragm element 34 covers one in the control panel 4 located opening so far, so that the control unit is sufficient in the control panel 4 is attached. One behind the control panel 4 located part of the aperture element 34 extends substantially horizontally in the Z direction. This rearwardly projecting part of the panel element 34 has above and below the actuating element disposed therein 12 an edge which is substantially parallel to the flattened part of the housing unit 40 is, and which together with the housing unit 40 behind the control panel 4 located part of the actuating element 12 encloses.

1

household appliance

2

display unit

4

control panel

6

operating area

8th

opening

10

operating unit

12

actuator

13

midplane

14

gear

16

axis of rotation

20

tilt axis

21

swivel axis

22 24

guide element

26

web

28

gear lever

30 32

retaining element

34

diaphragm element

36

opening

40

housing unit

42

lower part

44

top

50

gear

52

gear

54 55

second latching means

56 57

first latching means

60 62

coupling unit

64 66

latching means

68 69

Securing means

70 72

Movement selector

74 76

head Start

78 80

recess

82 84

spring element

90, 92, 94, 96

signaler

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0855668 A2 [0002]
• - DE 102007035892 [0003]

Claims (15)

Control unit ( 10 ) with a control panel ( 4 ) and a disk-shaped actuating element ( 12 ), one behind the control panel ( 4 ) lying rotational axis ( 16 ) is rotatably mounted, and about a substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation arranged tilting axis ( 20 ) relative to the control panel ( 4 ) is tiltable, and front of an opening ( 8th ) of the control panel ( 4 ), characterized in that the actuating element ( 12 ) on at least one retaining element ( 30 . 32 ) is movably mounted, which at the control panel ( 4 ) is fixed immovably. Control unit according to claim 1, characterized in that two retaining elements ( 30 . 32 ) are provided, within which the actuating element ( 12 ) is movably arranged. Operating unit according to claim 2, characterized in that the two holding elements ( 30 . 32 ) by means of an aperture element ( 34 ), which in particular has an operating area ( 6 ) limiting opening ( 36 ) having. Operating unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element ( 12 ) by means of a receiving device, in particular a housing unit ( 40 ) indirectly on the holding element ( 30 . 32 ) is movably mounted. Control unit according to claim 4, characterized in that the receiving device or the housing unit ( 40 ) by means of a guide element ( 22 . 24 ) on the holding element ( 30 . 32 ) is movably mounted. Control unit according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the actuating element ( 12 ) in the housing unit ( 40 ) or in the receiving device about the axis of rotation ( 16 ) is rotatably mounted. Control unit according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the receiving device or the housing unit ( 40 ) with a tilting movement (Y) of the actuating element by means of a coupling unit ( 60 . 62 ) on the holding element ( 30 . 32 ) is guided. Operating unit according to claim 7, characterized in that the coupling unit ( 60 . 62 ) on the housing unit ( 40 ) attached latching means ( 64 . 66 ), which with one on the holding element ( 30 . 32 ) arranged counter-locking means ( 68 . 69 ) is engaged. Control unit according to claim 8, characterized in that the latching means ( 64 . 66 ) as one on the housing unit ( 40 ) mounted spring and the counter-locking means ( 68 . 69 ) as one on the holding element ( 30 . 32 ) formed recess is formed. Operating unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a movement selection unit ( 70 . 72 ) is provided, which either either a tilting movement (Y) or an indenting movement (Z) of the actuating element ( 12 ). Operating unit according to claim 10, characterized in that the movement selection unit ( 70 . 72 ) one on the housing unit ( 40 ) ( 74 . 76 ), which within a in the holding element ( 30 . 32 ) recess ( 78 . 80 ) is arranged. Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one spring element ( 82 . 84 ) is provided which a restoring moment on the by a tilting movement (Y) or an indenting movement (Z) deflected actuator ( 12 ) exercises. Operating unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a signal transmitter ( 90 . 92 . 94 . 96 ) for generating a by a movement of the actuating element ( 12 ) Triggerable electrical signal is provided. Control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the retaining element ( 30 . 32 ) is at least partially made of flexible material. Device, in particular household appliance, with an operating unit ( 10 ) according to one of claims 1 to 14.