EP1400997A2 - Electric switch - Google Patents

Abstract

The push button (14) actuated electrical switch (12) is connected to an electrical load. Also mounted on the under side is a magnetic armature (18) that moves in a coil (16). Both are mounted on a plate (10). A feed back circuit (20) generates pulses when the switch is properly actuated and these are fed to the input as tactile feedback. An alternative uses a piezo electric device for feedback.

Description

The present invention relates to an electrical switch with a Actuating element and one which can be acted upon by the actuating element Switching device and a method for reporting a Switching state of an actuatable by means of an actuating element Switching device when actuating the actuating element.

Electrical switches are generally known and are used for opening and closing circuits. For this purpose, they have a switching device on, which can be actuated via an actuating element in such a way that the switching device assumes one of two switching states. At a first, in The following switching state, referred to as conductive, is two connections the switching device electrically connected to each other while in a second switching state, referred to below as separate the connections are electrically separated from each other.

So-called electrical switches are used for a number of applications Pushbuttons used that have a specified switching state only ingest while operating the actuator. In such In cases it is desirable for an operator to operate the switch actuated, can recognize whether a triggering of a switching process or reaching a predetermined switching state by actuation was actually achieved.

There are electrical switches that have mechanical devices for this purpose have the operator, for example, when depressed an actuator designed as a button by a change one of the resistance to the actuating movement Overcoming a pressure point and thus reaching a predetermined one Show switching status. However, such a mechanism is susceptible to wear and mediates especially when the Push button no reliable feedback whether the switching device is still is in the desired switching state.

However, feedback is particularly important in situations where which the operator does not visually check the effect of the operation can. In particular, a driver of a motor vehicle is usually forced to watch road traffic so that it is a visual As a rule, do not perceive feedback of a button being pressed can.

The present invention is therefore based on the object of an electrical To provide switches that provide feedback of an achieved Switching state allows in a simple manner, and a method for Feedback of a switching state by means of an actuating element actuatable switching device when actuating the actuating element to accomplish.

The task is solved by an electrical switch with the features of claim 1.

The electrical switch according to the invention comprises an actuating element, a switching device which can be acted upon by the actuating element and an actuator, by means of which at least on the actuating element a force can be exerted in an actuating position of the actuating element is, wherein the actuator is a piezoelectric element to act on the actuator or a coil winding with an armature that by changing a magnetic field caused by a current flow through the Coil winding is generated, is movable, includes.

The task is also solved by a feedback procedure a switching state of an actuatable by means of an actuating element Switching device when actuating the actuating element with the Features of claim 18.

In the method according to the invention for reporting a switching state a switching device which can be actuated by means of an actuating element when the actuating element is actuated during a Actuation of the actuating element, the switching device in a predetermined Switched switching state and on the actuating element by means of of a piezoelectric element by changing a voltage across the piezoelectric element or by means of an armature by modification a magnetic field in the area of the armature exerted a force.

The method according to the invention can be carried out with the aid of the electrical switch.

The switching device which can be actuated by the actuating element is used for Opening and closing a circuit. For this, it can have two switching device connections have between which during a given Actuation of the actuating element a predetermined switching state given is. In this given switching state, depending on Application the switching device connections electrically with each other connected or separated. In the invention The switching device can thus move by actuating the actuating element from a complementary to the given switching state Switching state can be set to the specified switching state.

Furthermore, an actuator is provided, by means of which the actuating element a force is exercisable. The actuator can directly on the Actuator act, but it is also possible that it is only indirect acts on this. For example, the application of force take place that the actuator directly on a guidance or a storage of the Actuator exerts a force, which then leads to exertion of force on the actuating element by means of the guide or the bearing leads.

Furthermore, the possibility of applying force to the actuating element is required only in the actuating position of the actuating element to be possible during operation, i.e. if the appropriate predetermined switching state is reached, relative to the switching device, occupies.

According to the invention, the actuator can be a piezoelectric according to a first alternative Have element for acting on the actuating element. The piezoelectric element does not use up immediately to act on the actuating element. Rather, it can also be a mechanical one Coupling device, for example a lever, for transmission a force generated by this piezoelectric element on the actuator be provided.

Piezoelectric elements are preferably used with which a particularly large extension when a corresponding voltage is applied can be achieved in a given direction.

According to a second alternative, the actuator comprises one according to the invention Coil winding with an armature by changing one by one Current flow through the coil winding generated magnetic field movable is. A force is then exerted on the actuating element by means of this anchor exercisable. The exertion of force does not necessarily need to be immediate to be done by the magnetic field, rather the armature can also, for example by changing a magnetic field against one resilient element to be moved, only after another change movement of the armature in the direction of the actuating element of the magnetic field causes.

Furthermore, the armature can be wholly or partially within the coil winding be arranged. However, it is also possible to anchor outside to arrange the coil winding, optionally in the coil winding a coil core made of a ferromagnetic or soft magnetic Material can be arranged around that generated by the coil winding magnetic field in the area of the armature.

In the method according to the invention is during an operation of the Actuator, the switching device in a predetermined switching state offset, which depends on the use of the inventive electrical switch a conductive or separate switching state can be. The actuating element is then in the actuating position. Then during the actuation of the actuating element exerted a force on the actuating element that is which actuates the actuating element, either as a change in force or can be felt as movement of the actuating element.

According to the two alternatives, a change to the piezoelectric element applied voltage or a change of a magnetic field in the area of the armature, in the case of the invention Switch by changing one flowing through the coil winding Current.

The invention therefore advantageously allows active tactile Feedback of an reached switching state with a very simultaneous simple and easy construction of the electrical switch used.

In particular, this makes it possible to use the electrical device according to the invention Switches in motor vehicles also close in many different places use without incurring prohibitively high costs or weight of the motor vehicle increases significantly.

In addition, electrical switches according to the invention can be designed in this way be that they require very little space, what use of a motor vehicle is very advantageous.

The simple construction also allows very short response times of the actuator and thus a quick feedback successful actuation of the electrical according to the invention Person operating the switch.

Further developments and preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the description, the claims and the drawings.

Basically, the electrical switch according to the invention can Reaching the specified switching state even after actuation has ended of the actuating element remain in this switching state reached. However, it is preferred that the electrical switch acts as a button is trained. A button is understood to be a switch the a given switching state only during an actuation of the Actuator assumes, but otherwise to the specified Switching state complementary switching state. With such an electrical Switch, an active tactile feedback is particularly advantageous, because an operator may find it difficult to determine whether the desired switching state has been reached or whether it has been reached Switching status is still present.

The actuation of the switch according to the invention can be different Way take place, the actuating element and the switching device are preferably matched accordingly. at In one embodiment of the invention, it is preferred that the actuating element is movable relative to the switching device. Such electrical Switches have a very simple structure.

Any switching devices can be used. For example can use capacitive or inductive proximity switches be that respond to an approach of the actuator and bring about a switching operation.

However, it is preferred that the electrical switching device at least two in contact with each other by moving the actuator feasible contact elements, one of which each with a corresponding connection of the switching device is connected. A such switching device is very simple and allows it also switching larger currents. The actuator is then Transfer of a movement to the switching device is formed.

In a preferred embodiment of the switch according to the invention the actuating element is designed as a push button. Such an electrical Switch is easy to operate with just one finger.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention Switch it is preferred that the actuating element as a rotary knob is trained. Such an electrical switch is particularly then advantageous if it is attached to a place where a pressure movement with one finger only while twisting the wrist and / or of an operator's arm is possible. It also becomes accidental Operation easier avoided.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention electrical switch, it is preferred that the actuator as Rocker element is formed. With such an actuator guidance that is only less precise than that required with a pressure switch. In particular, it is less prone to failure during actuation movements not exactly a predetermined direction of movement of the actuating element correspond.

In such movable actuators is to form the electrical switch as a button preferably a resilient element is provided, by means of which the actuating element and the switching device can be returned from an actuation position to a rest position. This can be provided in the switching device, for example.

An actuation of the electrical switch according to the invention needs but not necessarily through movement of the actuator respectively. In one embodiment of the switch according to the invention it is preferred that the switching device and the actuating element together form a touch switch. Such an electrical The switch can be actuated simply by touching the actuating element, however, a certain contact pressure may be necessary. Since that Actuator then essentially not during a movement is moved, it is always essentially in the operating position. The operation of such an electrical switch is without major Movement possible, and therefore allows use in less easily accessible areas. In addition, there is mechanical wear of the actuating element and / or the switching device largely excluded, since in particular the switching device an electrical circuit can be given. Because an actuation path that when actuating an actuating element such as a push button or a rocker is to be covered, have such electrical Switches also have a particularly low overall height.

It is particularly preferred that the switching device with the Actuator forms a capacitive switch. A capacitive The switch is characterized in that a switching operation a change in a capacitance of a capacitor is effected. The Actuator can form part of the capacitor or only act on the capacitance of the capacitor in a different way. Such electrical switches are very simple and can in particular have a particularly flat design. In addition, you can they are very insensitive to vibrations, on the one hand by Environmental influences, for example when used in a motor vehicle, can occur and on the other hand by actuating the actuator can be caused.

A force can in principle be applied by the actuator in any way be transferred to the actuator. In one embodiment of the electrical switch according to the invention, it is preferred that the actuator and the piezoelectric element or the armature are mechanically firmly connected. Is in particular the actuator designed as a plastic injection molded part, can be so special simply the piezoelectric element or the armature on the actuating element for example, by pressing or snapping into one opening formed for this are attached. Especially when used of the anchor, separate guidance of the anchor is not necessary, but can be taken over by a guide of the actuating element become. Furthermore, the number of individual parts of the invention is reduced electrical switch, which makes assembly easier.

In another embodiment of the electrical However, the piezoelectric element can also be switched with one part of the electrical switch according to the invention connected which the actuator is movable. This has the advantage that Piezoelectric element simply using a line that is not moving Voltage is available.

When using an actuator with a coil winding with an armature it is preferred that the armature is movable relative to the actuating element is. The actuating element can then be largely independent be formed by the anchor. Furthermore, the anchor can preferably be guided in the coil winding, making it possible to to transmit the actuating element at largely any point.

In an electrical switch according to the invention with an actuator, the includes the coil winding with the armature, it is with another Embodiment of the invention further preferred that the anchor is linearly movable relative to the coil winding. This can in particular an appropriate guide for the anchor may be provided. Especially the guidance is preferably carried out in the coil winding or in one Winding body that carries the coil winding. Such an actuator allows an immediate translation of the movement of the anchor into a force the actuating element and thus allows a particularly simple and thus space-saving and light construction. Furthermore, this results in particularly short response times of the actuator.

In order to achieve the highest possible force for a given magnetic field, can the armature in particular a section of a ferromagnetic, i.e. in particular have soft or hard magnetic material. In an electrical switch according to the invention with an actuator, which comprises the coil winding with the armature, it is preferred that the armature has a permanent magnet. Its magnetization is then in a suitable manner, for example parallel to an axis the coil winding. Such an anchor can be replaced by a Magnetic field can be easily moved in opposite directions.

The actuation of the actuator can be done in different ways by corresponding voltage or current signals for the piezoelectric Element or the coil winding take place. The control of the The actuator is preferably such that one of the inventive electrical switch operator operating the on the actuator applied forces as such or as movement of the actuating element or a part of it. Furthermore can the type of control of the intended use of the electrical Depending on the switch.

In one embodiment of the electrical switch according to the invention it is preferred that a feedback circuit with one with the switching device electrically connected control input and one with the piezoelectric element or the coil winding of the actuator electrically connected feedback circuit output is provided with which in Dependence on an instantaneous switching state of the switching device or a last change in the switching state of the switching device Voltage or current signals to the piezoelectric element or the coil winding can be delivered. Preferably the voltage depend or current signals not from other, previous ones Switching state changes from. Actuation of the actuator, i.e. the Supply of voltage signals to the piezoelectric element or of current signals to the coil winding, can therefore be independent of the function of a device controlled by operating the switch respectively. Such an electrical switch can be easily connected to any Locations, for example in a motor vehicle, without additional wiring be used.

It is further preferred that a feedback circuit with a the switching device electrically connected control input and one with the piezoelectric element or the coil winding of the actuator electrically connected feedback circuit output is provided which designed as a control or regulating device for a device to be controlled and by means of which the device is dependent on one instantaneous switching state of the switching device and / or previous Switching states and / or switching state changes can be controlled is and corresponding voltage or current signals to the Actuator can be dispensed. In the simplest case, this can be a Input device for a device, for example an air conditioning system, act in which the switching device and the actuator for Serve input of control signals. In this way, with the invention electrical switch using a device control simple tactile feedback possible.

It is particularly preferred that the feedback circuit at least is partially designed as a digital circuit, the circuit states by actuating the actuating element at least partially are controllable, with a switching state change due to a Actuation of the actuating element to a voltage or current signal the actuator can be output. The digital circuit particularly preferably has a microcontroller or processor that can easily change the Properties of the digital circuit by changing a programming microcontroller or processor allowed. The actuator and the switching device can also be easily used for control purposes complex devices are used. In particular, it is one preferred embodiment of the invention possible that by actuation the electrical switch from a list of values for a control parameter a list entry and / or from a hierarchy of function options an option or alternative can be selected is. This is, in particular, a movement in a menu of a program possible, whereby reaching a menu item by a tactile feedback to the operator about the inventive Switch is possible.

With such a control, they can be immediately available available selection alternatives also depend on sizes that the Feedback circuit can be fed via a corresponding input and influence their function. It is then particularly preferred that the voltage for the piezoelectric element or the magnetic Field in the area of the anchor additionally depending on external Control signals is changed. In particular, the type of Change in voltage or magnetic field and thus the type the forces exerted on the actuating element by the external Depend on the control signal.

In the electrical switch according to the invention, it is preferred to that the feedback circuit has at least one further control input and that the voltage or current signals are also dependent of instantaneous or past signals on the additional control input can be emitted by the feedback circuit.

The voltage or current signals can in principle be any have a suitable shape. The form and duration of the voltage or Current signals that the piezoelectric element or the coil winding can be supplied, however, preferably on the one hand afterwards direct whether the forces caused by them on the actuator directly or as a movement of the actuating element for an operator are easily but surely perceptible. On the other hand, they can yourself according to the type of use of the electrical Straighten switch.

In one embodiment of the invention, when actuated the piezoelectric element is applied an oscillating voltage or generates an oscillating magnetic field in the area of the armature. To it is preferred that the feedback circuit generate an oscillator of an oscillating voltage or current signal. The Frequency of the vibration can be so high that an operator can still perceive a vibration of the actuating element.

In one embodiment of the invention, it is preferred that in a individual actuation at least one pulse-like change in voltage or the magnetic field in the area of the armature. at For the electrical switch according to the invention, it is preferred that the feedback circuit for delivering pulsed voltage or Current signals to the actuator is formed. A voltage pulse or one pulse-like change of the magnetic field in the area of the armature, i.e. a current pulse causing such a change can, in particular, do so be chosen so that the forces caused as one for an operator Impact against the actuating element are perceptible. To when in use an anchor returns the anchor after reaching it To achieve maximum deflection, either a corresponding elastic element may be provided, which is tensioned when the armature moves and after this. End of force moved back, or it can another pulse is connected to a pulse, which exerts a force on the Anchor in the opposite direction. Pulse are here also pulses modulated with a predetermined oscillation frequency Roger that.

However, it is particularly preferred that a timer is provided by means of this during a switching state corresponding to an actuation the switching device the delivery at predetermined time intervals a voltage or current signal to the actuator can be triggered. On such electrical switches allow the delivery of pulse trains as feedback signals, the forces on the actuator cause one Operator at low frequencies, for example, as a repeated Knock, can also perceive as vibration at higher frequencies. Such pulse sequences can also be repeated during an operation be dispensable.

In particular when using as a control or regulating device trained feedback circuit, however, it is particularly preferred that multiple pulse-like during a touch or deflection Changes in the voltage or the magnetic field causes be, the time interval with increasing duration of the operation decreases. With the electrical switch according to the invention, it is for this preferred that by means of the feedback circuit as a voltage or Current signals pulses can be emitted, the time interval with increasing Time since the switching status of the Switching device decreases. An operator also receives one tactile feedback on the duration of the actuation. Especially at Use of an at least partially designed as a digital circuit Feedback circuit can be run through a list by continuous Actuation of the actuating element the time for a jump decrease a next entry with increasing duration of operation, so that immediately before, at or immediately after reaching the list entry a voltage or current signal can be emitted.

Often it may be desirable to have two electrical switches to be able to exercise mutually exclusive functions. It is therefore preferred that a further switching device independent of the switching device and a further actuator independent of the actuator, by means of its on the actuating element at least in an actuating position a force of the actuating element can be exerted and another piezoelectric element or another coil winding with a comprises further anchors, are provided and that the actuating element comprises a rocker switch with a first and a second arm, the first arm with the switching device and mechanically with the Actuator and the second arm with the additional switching device and mechanically can be coupled to the further actuator, so that at first Arm a force by means of the piezoelectric element or the coil winding with the anchor and on the second arm a force by means of further piezoelectric element or the further coil winding can be exercised with the further anchor. The switching devices and the actuators can each be the same or different. In particular, the further switching device and the further actuator according to the preferred embodiments described above of the invention.

One with the two switching devices and the is particularly preferred connected feedback circuit provided with the two actuators a corresponding actuation of a switching device for the respective Switching device on characteristic voltage or jump signals the corresponding actuator can be issued. The fact that the Then differentiate the actuating forces exerted, an operator receives simple tactile feedback on the type of actuation.

The electrical switch according to the invention is particularly suitable for Use in motor vehicles.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäβen Schalters nach einer ersten bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 2

eine schematische Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäβen elektrischen Schalters nach einer zweiten bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 3

eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Schalters nach einer dritten bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung, und

Fig. 4

eine schematische Darstellung eines elektrischen Schalters nach einer vierten bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung.

The invention will now be further explained by way of example with reference to the drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

2 shows a schematic representation of a switch according to the invention in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 2

1 shows a schematic illustration of an electrical switch according to the invention in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 3

is a schematic representation of an electrical switch according to a third preferred embodiment of the invention, and

Fig. 4

is a schematic representation of an electrical switch according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention.

In Fig. 1, an electrical switch according to a first preferred Embodiment of the invention on a base plate 10, a switching device 12 with switching device connections, an actuating element 14 for actuating the switching device 12 and as an actuator a coil 16 with an armature 18, by means of which the actuating element 14 can be moved is on. The electrical switch further comprises a feedback circuit 20, the control inputs with the switching device connections the switching device 12 and with feedback circuit outputs the coil winding 16 is electrically conductively connected. The electric one Switch is via the switch device connections with one device 22 connected whose power supply to the electrical switch can be switched.

The switching device 12 designed as a button comprises two each corresponding switching device connections connected to each other movable contact elements, not explicitly shown in FIG. 1, of which one is resilient. The movement of the contact elements takes place in a manner known per se via a pin 24. In a first The conductive switching state of the switching device 12 are the contact elements in contact with each other so that the circuit device connections are electrically connected to one another or short-circuited. It is the resilient contact element tensioned. In a second, to the first Switching state complementary separate switching state is the resilient Contact element in a relaxed state and the contact elements are not in contact with each other, so the switching device connections are not connected. The contact element are thus only by pressing against the spring force of the corresponding contact element in contact, in the event of loss of pressure, the switching device by the spring force back into the separated switching state brought.

To actuate the switching device 12, this is designed as a push button Actuator 14 provided, which, not shown in Fig. 1, in Direction of movement B of the pin 24 linear in an actuation direction is movably guided in a housing, not shown in Fig. 1.

The armature 18 is a pin made of a soft magnetic material, in Example of a suitable iron alloy, designed and linearly movable in a winding carrier of the coil winding not explicitly shown in FIG. 1 16 out. The armature 18 is supported by one in FIG. 1 not shown spring from the base plate 10. The armature 18 and the spring are designed and stored in the coil winding 16 that the Armature 18 by applying a current to the coil winding 16 below Tensioning the spring is drawn into the coil winding 16 and at Disappearance of the current from the tensioned spring in one direction parallel to an actuating direction of the actuating element 14 this is too movable. The coil winding 16 and the armature 18 are arranged on the base plate 10 so that the movement of the Armature 18 in an actuating position of the actuating element 14, in which the Switching device 12 assumes the connected switching state the actuator 14 is limited.

The feedback circuit 20 has a timer 26 and is designed such that when the control input is shorted in by means of the timer 26 determined intervals of about half, for example Second rectangular current pulses are delivered to the coil winding 16, which a corresponding temporal change one of the coil winding 16 cause generated magnetic field.

When the electrical switch is actuated, the switching device 12 placed in the conductive switching state, so that on the one hand two connections can be electrically connected in the device 22. To the others the control input of the feedback circuit 20 becomes independent short-circuited by the function of the device 22, causing this Rectangular current pulses to the coil winding 16. The coil winding 16 generates a corresponding magnetic field. Through the magnetic The anchor 18 becomes in the direction of the actuating element 14 to moves and bumps against it. An actuating element 14 Operator therefore takes during an operation of the Actuator 14 knocking against the actuator 14 with the pulse frequency of about 2 Hertz true.

An electrical switch according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention in FIG. 2 has a switching device on a base plate 28 30 with switching device connections, an actuating element 32 in the form of a rotary knob with an actuating cam 34 and a coil winding 36 with a linearly guided armature 38 therein Actuator on. There is also a feedback circuit 40 with an oscillator 42 is provided which is connected to the switching device 30 via a control input and to the coil winding 36 via a feedback circuit output connected is. The electrical switch is over the switchgear connections connected to a device 44, the power supply with the electrical switch can be switched.

The switching device 30 is designed like the switching device 12, however, has a modified mechanism, not shown in Figure 2 for transmitting a rotary movement of the actuating element 32 about an axis orthogonal to the base plate 28 by means of the Actuating cam 34 on the switching device 30.

While the coil winding 36 as in the first embodiment is now linear in the coil winding 36 in one direction Anchor 38 guided orthogonally to the base plate 28 as parallel to magnetized permanent magnet.

The coil winding 36 with the armature 38 is thus on the base plate 28 arranged that the armature 38 is changed by a corresponding one Current in the coil winding 36 and thus a corresponding itself changing magnetic field movable against the actuator 32 is.

The feedback circuit 40 with the oscillator 42 is designed such that when the control input is shorted, using the Oscillator 42 a harmonic during the persistence of this switching state oscillating current signal with a frequency of about 100 Hertz delivers.

When the actuating element 32 is actuated, the switching device 30 placed in a conductive switching state, so that, as in the embodiment previously, on the one hand the device 44 is switched accordingly and on the other hand the feedback circuit connections of the Feedback circuit 40 are short-circuited. The oscillator 42 gives thereupon for the duration of the short circuit the current signal with a Frequency from around 100 Hz. This current signal is through the coil winding 36 converted into a magnetic field of a corresponding frequency, that acts on the armature 38 in the form of a permanent magnet. The armature 38 is changed into a by the changing magnetic field Vibration movement offset, in which he against the actuator 32 is moved so that an operator operating the actuator 32 actuated, a vibration of the actuating element 32 with one of the Frequency of the oscillator corresponding frequency perceives.

An electrical switch according to a third preferred embodiment the invention is shown in FIG. The electrical switch includes on a base plate 46 with first and second switching devices 48 and 48 ' corresponding switching device connections, as actuators first and second coil windings 50 and 50 'with armatures 52 and 52' and one pivoted rocker switch 54 with two arms 56 and 56 '. Farther a feedback circuit 58 is provided, which has two separate Control inputs with the switching device connections of the switching devices 48 and 48 'and via two feedback circuit outputs with the Coil windings 50 and 50 'is connected. The feedback circuit is further connected to a device 60 via signal connections 62, 62 ', which can be controlled by the feedback circuit 58.

The switching devices 48 and 48 'are like the switching device 12 in the first embodiment.

The coil windings 50 and 50 'with the armatures 52 and 52' are like that Coil winding 36 and armature 38 in the second embodiment educated.

The first circuit device 48, the first coil winding 50 with the Anchors 52 are arranged under the first arm 56 of the rocker switch 54, that when the first arm 56 is depressed, on the one hand, the switching device 48 is brought into a conductive switching state in which the switching device connections connected to the feedback circuit 58 are electrically connected to one another or short-circuited. Furthermore, the coil winding 50 with the armature 52 is under the arranged first arm 56 that this when actuating the switching device 48 is movable against the first arm 56.

The second switching device 48 ', the second coil winding 50' and the Anchors 52 'are arranged in a corresponding manner under the second arm 56'.

The feedback circuit 58 is a control circuit for the device 60 trained. For this purpose, it has a digital circuit with a programmable one Microcontrollers on the control inputs of the Feedback circuit 58 connected to the switching devices 48 and 48 ' is.

The device 60 to be controlled can be, for example, a Act air conditioning in a motor vehicle, the feedback circuit 58 is used to enter target temperatures. Device signals 60 can be fed to the feedback circuit 58 via the connection 62, while feedback circuit 58 signals via terminal 62 ' can deliver to the device 60.

For this purpose, the digital circuit is designed so that by pressing the Switching devices 48 and 48 'from a list of predefined possible ones Target temperatures a certain temperature can be selected. As long as one of the two control inputs is short-circuited, the List of possible target temperatures based on a current one List element the neighboring list element corresponding to a lower one or higher temperature selected. If it lasts longer The list entries are short-circuited to the corresponding control input run through faster and faster.

The digital circuit is also designed so that each time it is reached a new list entry, the feedback circuit 58 to the coil winding 50 or 50 ', that of the actuated switching device 48th or 48 ', outputs a current signal that corresponds to a corresponding one Change one generated by the coil winding 50 or 50 ' Leads magnetic field.

To distinguish whether arm 56 or arm 56 'is depressed was, are the current signals that indicate an actuation of the switching device 48 are output to the coil winding 50, as double pulses trained during the actuation of the switching device 54 'emitted current signals are each formed as a single pulse.

The electrical switch works as follows. If none of the Switching devices 48 or 48 'by means of the actuating element 54 is actuated, the currently selected list entry is connected via the connection 62 ' corresponding signal to the device, i.e. the air conditioner, issued.

When one of the switching devices 48 or 48 'is actuated, its switching device connections are short-circuited, so that the feedback circuit 58 runs down or up the list as long as the respective switching device 48 or 48' is actuated. Corresponding current signals are thereby output to the corresponding coil winding 50 or 50 ^' . This generates a corresponding changing magnetic field, which moves the corresponding armature 52 or 52 'against the arm 56 or 56', which is then depressed, so that each time a new list entry is reached, an operator perceives a tactile movement by perceiving a knocking movement on the actuating element 54 Receives feedback. When the actuating element 54 is released, a signal corresponding to the current list entry is sent to the device 60.

4 is an electrical switch according to a fourth preferred embodiment shown of the invention, the switching device 64 with an actuating element 66, one fastened to a base plate 67 piezoelectric element 68 as an actuator and one with two switching device connections the switching device 64 via a control input and with the piezoelectric element 68 via a feedback circuit output connected feedback circuit 70 comprises. With the switching device connections the switching device 64 is still to be controlled Device 72 connected.

The switching device 64 together with the actuating element 66 form a capacitive touch switch, which is a metal plate trained actuating element 66 a part of a sensor element serving capacitor of the touch switch. The switching device 64 also includes an electronic circuit, the so is designed such that when touching the actuating element 66 change in the capacitance of the capacitor shorts two switching device connections and thus the switching device 64 placed in a conductive switching state.

The piezoelectric element 68 is in direct contact with the actuating element 66 arranged so that when voltage is applied to it the actuator 66 has a force orthogonal to a surface of the Actuator 66 exercises.

The feedback circuit 70 is designed such that it is in the event of a short circuit their control input a sequence of voltage pulses to the piezoelectric element 68 emits.

When the actuating element 66 is actuated by touch on the one hand, the device 72 is switched. On the other hand, the switching device connections the switching device 64 short-circuited, so that the feedback circuit is a sequence of voltage pulses to the piezoelectric element 68 emits. This then gives to the actuator 66 a corresponding sequence of force pulses. One that Operator touching actuator 66 takes this sequence from Pulses that can have a frequency of one Hertz, for example, true as an even tapping movement and thus receives tactile feedback on reaching the conductive switching state of the switching device 64th

Further embodiments of electrical switches according to the invention are through a suitable combination of actuating elements, switching devices, Actuators and feedback circuits possible.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

baseplate

12

switching device

14

actuator

16

coil winding

18

anchor

20

Feedback circuit

22

contraption

24

pen

26

timer

28

baseplate

30

switching device

32

actuator

34

actuating cam

36

coil winding

38

anchor

40

Feedback circuit

42

oscillator

44

contraption

46

baseplate

48, 48 '

switching devices

50, 50 '

coil windings

52, 52 '

anchor

54

rocker

56, 56 '

poor

58

Feedback circuit

60

contraption

62, 62 '

connections

64

switching device

66

actuator

67

baseplate

68

piezoelectric element

70

Feedback circuit

72

contraption

B

operating direction

Claims (21)

Electrical switch with
an actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66),
a switching device (12; 30; 48, 48 '; 64) which can be acted upon by the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) and
an actuator (16, 18; 36, 38; 50, 52, 50 ', 52'; 68), by means of which - the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) at least in an actuated position of the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) a force can be exerted,
wherein the actuator (16, 18; 36, 38; 50, 52, 50 ', 52'; 68) a piezoelectric element (68) for acting on the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) or a coil winding (16; 36; 50, 50 ') with an armature (18; 38; 52, 52') which can be moved by changing a magnetic field which can be generated by a current flow through the coil winding (16; 36; 50, 50 '), includes. Electrical switch according to claim 1,
characterized in that the electrical switch is designed as a button. Electrical switch according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that the actuating element (14; 32; 54) is movable relative to the switching device (12; 30; 48, 48 '). Electrical switch according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the switching device (12; 30; 48, 48 ') comprises at least two contact elements which can be brought into contact with one another by movement of the actuating element (14; 32; 54), one of which each has a corresponding connection of the switching device (12; 30 ; 48, 48 ') is connected. Electrical switch according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the switching device (64) and the actuating element (66) together form a touch switch. Electrical switch according to claim 5,
characterized in that the switching device (64) with the actuating element (66) comprises a capacitive switch (64, 66). Electrical switch according to one of the previous connections,
characterized in that the actuating element (66) and the piezoelectric element (68) or the armature are mechanically firmly connected to one another. Electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 6,
characterized in that the actuator (16, 18; 36, 38; 50, 52, 50 ', 52') the coil winding (16; 36; 50, 50 ') and the armature (18; 38; 52, 52') includes, and
that the armature (18; 38; 52, 52 ') is movable relative to the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66). Electrical switch according to claim 8,
characterized in that the actuator (16, 18; 36, 38; 50, 52, 50 ', 52') the coil winding (16; 36; 50, 50 ') and the armature (18; 38; 52, 52') includes, and
that the armature (18; 38; 52, 52 ') is linearly movable relative to the coil winding (16; 36; 50, 50'). Electrical switch according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by
a feedback circuit (20; 40; 70) with a control input electrically connected to the switching device (12; 30; 64) and one with the piezoelectric element (68) or the coil winding (16; 36) of the actuator (16, 18; 36 , 38; 68) electrically connected feedback circuit output, with which, depending on an instantaneous switching state of the switching device (12; 30; 64) or a last change in the switching state of the switching device (12; 30; 64), voltage or current signals to the piezoelectric element (68) or the coil winding (16; 36) can be delivered. Electrical switch according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by
Feedback circuit (58) with a control input electrically connected to the switching device (48, 48 ') and a feedback circuit output electrically connected to the piezoelectric element or the coil winding (50, 50') of the actuator (50, 52, 50 ', 52') which is designed as a control or regulating device for a device (60) to be controlled and by means of which the device (60) can be controlled as a function of an instantaneous switching state of the switching device (48, 48 ') and / or previous switching states and / or switching state change and corresponding voltage or current signals can be output to the actuator (50, 52, 50 ', 52'). Electrical switch according to claim 11,
characterized in that the feedback circuit (58) is at least partially designed as a digital circuit, the circuit states of which can be at least partially controlled by actuating the actuating element (54), a voltage or current signal being applied when the switching state changes due to actuation of the actuating element (54) the actuator (50, 52, 50 ', 52') can be output. Electrical switch according to one of claims 11 or 12,
characterized in that the feedback circuit (58) has at least one further control input (62), and
that the voltage or current signals can also be output by the feedback circuit (58) as a function of current or past signals at the further control input (62). Electrical switch according to one of claims 10 to 13,
characterized in that the feedback circuit (40) has an oscillator (42) for generating an oscillating voltage or current signal. Electrical switch according to one of claims 10 to 14,
characterized in that the feedback circuit (20; 58; 70) is designed to deliver pulse-like voltage or current signals to the actuator (16, 18; 50, 52, 50 ', 52'; 68). Electrical switch according to one of claims 10 to 15,
characterized in that, by means of the feedback circuit (58), pulses can be emitted as voltage or current signals, the time interval of which decreases with increasing time since the last change in the switching state of the switching device (48, 48 '). Electrical switch according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that a further switching device (48 ') independent of the switching device (48) and a further actuator (50', 52 ') independent of the actuator (50, 52), by means of which the actuating element (54) is at least in one Actuating position of the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) a force can be exerted and which includes a further piezoelectric element or a further coil winding (50 ') with a further armature (52'), and
that the actuating element (54) comprises a rocker switch with a first and a second arm (56, 56 '), the first arm (56) with the switching device (48) and mechanically with the actuator (50, 52) and the second arm (56 ') can be coupled to the further switching device (48') and mechanically to the further actuator (50 ', 52'), so that a force is exerted on the first arm (56) by means of the piezoelectric element or the coil winding (50) a force can be exerted on the armature (52) and on the second arm (56 ') by means of the further piezoelectric element or the further coil winding (50') with the further armature (52 '). Method for reporting a switching state of a switching device (12; 30; 48, 48 '; 64) which can be actuated by means of an actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) when the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) is actuated, in which
during an actuation of the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) the switching device (12; 30; 48, 48 '; 64) is set to a predetermined switching state, and
on the actuating element (14; 32; 54; 66) by means of a piezoelectric element (68) by changing a voltage on the piezoelectric element (68) or by means of an armature (18; 38; 52, 52 ') by changing a magnetic field in Area of the armature (18; 38; 52, 52 ') a force is exerted. Method according to claim 18,
characterized in that the voltage for the piezoelectric element or the magnetic field in the area of the armature (52, 52 ') is additionally changed as a function of external control signals. Method according to claim 18 or 19,
characterized in that at least one pulse-like change in the voltage or the magnetic field in the region of the armature (18; 52, 52 ') is effected with a single actuation. Method according to one of claims 18 to 20,
characterized in that several pulse-like changes in the voltage or the magnetic field are effected during a touch or deflection, the time interval of which decreases with increasing duration of the actuation.

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