WO2009071258A1 - Control device for electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Control device for electronic apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2009071258A1
WO2009071258A1 PCT/EP2008/010175 EP2008010175W WO2009071258A1 WO 2009071258 A1 WO2009071258 A1 WO 2009071258A1 EP 2008010175 W EP2008010175 W EP 2008010175W WO 2009071258 A1 WO2009071258 A1 WO 2009071258A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
lever
membrane
control device
printed circuit
lower face
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2008/010175
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jean-Philippe Bekaert
Frédéric MOULIN
Original Assignee
Continental Automotive France
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Continental Automotive France filed Critical Continental Automotive France
Publication of WO2009071258A1 publication Critical patent/WO2009071258A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/0474—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks characterised by means converting mechanical movement into electric signals
    • G05G2009/04748—Position sensor for rotary movement, e.g. potentiometer
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/0474—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks characterised by means converting mechanical movement into electric signals
    • G05G2009/04755—Magnetic sensor, e.g. hall generator, pick-up coil
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04766—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks providing feel, e.g. indexing means, means to create counterforce
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • G05G2009/04781—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks with additional rotation of the controlling member

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of control devices, better known as joysticks, used in automotive environment for the control of electronic devices such as, for example, a navigation system.
  • a joystick allows: - to move in menus in at least four directions (up, down, right, left),
  • a validation button vertically (for example).
  • Such a tactile sensation contrasts with the feeling of softness of the other vehicle controls based on the use of soft silicone membranes (better known as "soft feeling” membranes) conventionally used for the control of window regulators or air conditioning .
  • joysticks are already known with a “noisy” feeling of touch characteristic of the use of “sharp feeling” membranes.
  • the structure of such joysticks consists of a contact encoder, a deformable blade indexer and various electrical contacts.
  • the tactile sensation is provided by a single dome (or membrane) thin walled metal in contact with a lever secured to a control button located in the vehicle cockpit. This lever to a particular profile to cause the deformation of the single metal dome regardless of the action performed and thus make an electrical contact with a track of a printed circuit dedicated to the controls of the joystick.
  • this type of joystick has a perceived fuzziness around its neutral position, due to too much play between the various elements and low values of resistant force around the neutral position.
  • the present invention particularly aims to provide a control device to overcome these disadvantages.
  • the invention seeks to create a multimedia interface control device embedded in a vehicle having a soft feel like "soft feeling" identical to that of other controls of the vehicle, without the blurred area around the neutral position and a longer life.
  • Such a control device must also be able to operate in an automotive environment (vibrations, dust).
  • the invention proposes a control means for an electronic device comprising: a lever provided with a first end and a second end, a control button provided with a lower face, said button being secured in translation and rotation of the lever, a printed circuit positioned parallel to the lower face, said first end of the lever being perpendicular to said lower face and the lever traversing perpendicularly the printed circuit from one side.
  • the invention is characterized in that the control device further comprises: - a mobile table:
  • each of the facets corresponding to a direction selectable by the actuation of the control knob, a plurality of membranes, each positioned facing a facet of the table, a plurality of pistons each in contact with a facet of the table and placed opposite the corresponding membrane, and in that each membrane is adapted to be actuated by the corresponding piston during the movement of the lever in a direction selected by the actuation of the control button, to mechanically decouple each membrane and each mechanical action of the control button.
  • This device is remarkable in that the lever is mechanically coupled to a movable table located opposite the underside of the control button and traversed perpendicularly by the lever, the table being adapted to transmit, via the lever, the movement from the control knob to a diaphragm in a direction selected by actuation of the control knob.
  • the other membranes are decoupled from the mechanical action applied to the selected membrane.
  • each membrane corresponds to a piston in contact with the table and placed opposite said membrane.
  • Such a control device advantageously allows to decouple each mechanical action of the control button through the use of a membrane for each of the directions.
  • each mechanical action corresponds a support on a corresponding membrane.
  • the life of the control device according to the invention is then increased compared to a conventional control device using a single membrane (or dome) for all directions.
  • the device according to the present invention also allows the use of flexible membranes type "soft feeling", thus allowing compared to the known prior art the sensation of "soft" control.
  • the table is integral with a guide in translation and the lever is placed substantially in the center of the table.
  • each membrane is made of a silicone material and is housed in a corresponding membrane housing.
  • the table comprises at least one drive system mechanically connected to a potentiometer and integral in rotation with a guide means in translation of the table.
  • control device comprises a Hall effect encoder.
  • the invention is implemented as a control device for embedded electronic device, such as a navigation system. It is obvious, however, that the invention is not limited to this particular application, but can also be implemented in many other electronic devices embedded or not.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the control device according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of the control device according to the invention
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic view illustrating the mounting of the membranes of the control device according to the invention
  • FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the mechanism of interaction between the pistons of the table and the membranes
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating an exploded view of the entire control device according to the invention.
  • FIGS. 6a to 6c show a graph of the force of the membrane on the lever as a function of the travel of the table for a single-stroke membrane of the "sharp feeling” type (FIG. 6a), for a single-stroke membrane of "soft feeling” type (FIG. 6b) as well as for a “soft feeling” double-course membrane (FIG. 6c).
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a device 10 for controlling an electronic device according to the invention.
  • this device comprises an upper casing 12 for protecting the control device 10 and a control knob 11 located approximately in the center of an upper face 121 of the housing 12.
  • the control knob 1 1 is housed in an opening 113 (FIG. 3) of the casing 12.
  • This control button 11 has an upper portion 111 in the form of a half-sphere joining a lower portion 112 plane.
  • the lower part 112 is furthermore parallel to the upper face 121 of the casing 12.
  • a first end 131 of a lever 13, molded in the material of the control knob 11, makes it possible to make the lever 13 and the control knob 11 integral in rotation and in translation.
  • the lever 13 is placed perpendicular to the lower part 1 12 of the control knob 1 January.
  • the lever 13 is integral in translation with a table 15 by means of a ball joint type connection 14 ( Figures 4 and 5).
  • the table 15 comprises a spherical opening 152 (FIG. 4) receiving the lever 13.
  • a printed circuit 30 dedicated to the electronic functions of the joystick has an opening 31 passing therethrough.
  • the opening 31 is substantially in the center of the control device 10. Once the table 15 is positioned, the opening 152 of the table 15 is opposite the opening 31 of the printed circuit 30.
  • the table is guided in translation by means of translation guiding means 84 also comprising a spherical opening 841 facing the opening 31 of the printed circuit 30.
  • the ball joint connection 14 is made by means of a rigid sphere 14 housed in a cavity formed during assembly of the table 15 and the translation guide means 84 of the table 15 ( Figure 2).
  • the sphere 14 ( Figure 5) further comprises a bore 141 passing through it completely and allowing the passage of the lever 13 in the center of the sphere.
  • the openings of the printed circuit (31) of the sphere (141), the table (152) and the guide means (841) are located opposite each other.
  • the lever 13 passes through all of these openings (31, 141, 152, 841) to be positioned perpendicular to the sphere 14, the table 15, the printed circuit 30 and the translation guide means 84 of the table 15.
  • the table 15 has as many facets 153 as selectable directions by actuation of the lever 13.
  • the lever can take four distinct directions and can be driven in rotation and in translation vertical.
  • the number of facets and membranes could be different from four.
  • each piston 16 is a membrane housing 17 adapted to receive a membrane 18 (FIG. 3).
  • the lever 13 also has a second end 132 connected to a rotation device 80 of the control knob 11 ( Figures 2 and 5).
  • This rotation device 80 ( Figure 2) consists of an upper block 81 of cylindrical shape and a lower block 82 also cylindrical. Once assembled, these two blocks 81 and 82 are integral with each other and form a cavity 90 adapted to receive the second end 132 of the lever 13.
  • the second end 132 further comprises two lugs 133 for ensuring a spherical finger type connection.
  • a platform 83 guided in translation is also in contact with a vertical validation button 50.
  • the set of elements (vertical validation 50, rotation device 80, 81, 82 and platform 83) are housed and held in a lower element 122 of the housing 12.
  • the translation guiding means 84 comprises grooves (not shown) cooperating with other grooves (not shown) of a lower portion 842 of the translational guiding means 84.
  • This lower portion 842 is integral with the printed circuit board 30. Good obviously, this lower portion 842 also has an opening 843 facing the openings (31, 141, 152, 841). The lever 13 therefore also passes through the lower portion 842.
  • control device 10 further comprises two potentiometers 20 (FIG. 4) located symmetrically on either side of a direction that can be selected by the user when the control button 11 is pressed.
  • Each potentiometer 20 comprises a drive system 21 of the gear type.
  • each potentiometer 20 is connected to the tracks (not shown) of the printed circuit 30.
  • Each drive system 21 of each potentiometer 20 also corresponds to a drive system 19 (of the gear type) of the table 15.
  • each drive system 19 is integral with the lower portion 842 of the translation guide means 84 of the table 15.
  • Each drive system 19 is also mechanically connected to the table 15 by means of an annular linear type connection.
  • this annular linear connection is made by means of a drive pin 191 sliding in a groove 151 of the table 15 during the movement of the table 15 ( Figure 4).
  • the control device 10 comprises a Hall effect encoder 60 (FIG. 2) composed of at least three magnetic field sensors 62 and a spherical magnet 61 integral with the rotation block 80.
  • a Hall effect encoder 60 (FIG. 2) composed of at least three magnetic field sensors 62 and a spherical magnet 61 integral with the rotation block 80.
  • These magnetic field sensors 62 are fixed directly on a lower face 32 of the printed circuit 30 and placed opposite the spherical magnet 61.
  • control device The operation of the control device according to the invention is described below.
  • the lever 13 moves the table 15 to the right, parallel to the upper face 121.
  • the piston 16 corresponding to the selected direction then presses on the corresponding diaphragm 18. Under the action of the piston 16, the diaphragm 18 is deformed thereby allowing the lever 13 and the table 15 to describe a certain stroke.
  • each housing comprises a groove (not shown) adapted to guide the piston 16 corresponding to the support of the table 15 on the piston 16.
  • this guide in translation allows a homogeneous support of the piston 16 on the corresponding membrane 18.
  • each movement of the table 15 thus corresponds to a simultaneous rotation of at least two potentiometers 20 by cooperation of the drive systems 19 and 21.
  • each drive system 19 is mechanically connected to the table 15 by means of a drive pin 191 adapted to slide in the groove 151 of the table 15 ( Figure 4).
  • each potentiometer 20 is electrically connected to the appropriate tracks of the printed circuit board 30.
  • Each movement of the table 15 corresponds to a movement of one of the membranes 18 in the direction selected by the control button by a user.
  • the use of potentiometers 20 mechanically coupled to the table 15 thus makes it possible to avoid the electrical connection of each membrane 18 to the tracks of the circuit 30.
  • the potentiometers 20 that detect the movements of the table 15 and retransmits them to the electronic circuit for processing, and not the deformation of the membranes 18 which closes a circuit (contact) on the printed circuit 30.
  • the membranes 18 therefore have only a mechanical function and no electrical function.
  • the movement of the table 15 is possible thanks to the existence of a spherical connection finger between the second end 132 of the lever 13 and the rotation block 80. Indeed, the cavity 90 surrounding the second end 132 allows the lever 13 to tilt in the direction selected by the user when the control button 11 is actuated.
  • the casing 12 serves as a stop for the pistons 16 and must be precisely positioned relative to the printed circuit 30.
  • the casing 12 used in abutment also allows the prestressing of the membranes 18 by providing the central return forces sufficient to combat the action of the lever 13.
  • the lower portion 842 of the translation guide means 84 of the table 15 comprises grooves (not shown) cooperating with grooves (not shown) of said guide means.
  • each drive system 19 comprises an axis of rotation fixed on the lower part 842 of the translation guide means 84 of the table 15.
  • the lever 13 By vertically pressing the control button 11, the lever 13 is also adapted to move in translation in a direction perpendicular to the upper face 121 of the housing 12.
  • the connection between the table 15 and the lever 13 is a connection ball-type slide.
  • the lever 13 can thus slide perpendicular to the table 15 during a vertical support on the control button 11.
  • the end 132 of the lever 13 can also move in translation perpendicularly to the table 15 in the cavity 90, the lever 13 thus presses the lower block 82 of the rotation block 80.
  • This support allows the displacement of the platform 83 to finally transmit a homogeneous support on the vertical validation button 50.
  • the center of rotation of the lever 13 must be placed below the printed circuit 30. This arrangement then causes a problem of electrical connection of the vertical validation button 50 to the printed circuit 30.
  • the solution proposed is then to use a particular Hall effect encoder 60 consisting of a magnet 61 arranged facing at least three magnetic field sensors 62.
  • this magnet 61 consists of only two poles whose intensity of the magnetic field varies sinusoidally along the circumference.
  • the magnetic field sensors 62 simultaneously detect a magnetic field variation, it is automatically deduced a change in height of the magnet 61 and therefore the lever 13.
  • a vertical support on the control button 11 is then detected. This information is then processed electronically.
  • the vertical validation button 50 then only has a purely mechanical and non-electrical function.
  • the acquisition of the rotation of the control knob 11 is also detected by the hall effect encoder 60.
  • Each rotation of the rotation block 80 and thus of the magnet 61 corresponds to a distinct sinusoidal variation for each of the magnetic field sensors 62.
  • FIG. 6a shows the mechanical behavior of a so-called “sharp feeling” membrane as used in the known prior art.
  • the characteristic noisy behavior of such a membrane comes essentially from the deformation of the metal dome. It has an almost linear stiffness. It deforms linearly until it collapses sharply (F1), causing a clicking sound. The stroke of this type of membrane is short.
  • the mechanical behavior of such a so-called “sharp feeling” membrane is to be compared to that of a known so-called “soft feeling” membrane (FIG. 6b) rendering a sensation of tactile softness.
  • a membrane is characterized in particular by a highly non-linear variation of the forces during the race (FIG. 6b).
  • the F1 / F2 ratio (Also called "click ratio") is of the order of 80%, higher than that of the "sharp feeling” keys whose value of the ratio F1 / F2 is about 50%.
  • the kinematics of the control device 10 according to the present invention is based on the principle of the "lever arm".
  • the present invention advantageously makes it possible to mechanically decouple all the mechanical actions by making the force of the lever 13 on the membrane 18 independent during a support in a selected direction. The life of each membrane 18 is then improved.
  • the present invention also makes it possible to increase the stroke of the lever 13. It is then possible to mount various membranes 18 such as single-acting silicone membranes or even double-acting silicone membranes generating two peaks of effort P1, P2 during their race ( Figure 6c). Such membranes are characteristic of a touch called "soft feeling" and are used in particular for the electric controls of windows.
  • control device of the present invention thus makes it possible to use any type of membrane, in particular silicone membranes of "soft feeling" type.
  • the control device 10 integrates these double-acting silicone membranes it is possible to propose a tactile response with two "clicks". Indeed, when the user presses in the same direction, it will feel two peaks of consecutive efforts. Each of these two peaks results in a different action.
  • the first click provides the same functionality as on a conventional navigation joystick, such as incrementally moving up or down in a list.
  • the second click allows access to a second level of action and allows to develop features such as the "Page Up / Page Down" comparable to those used on keyboards (one page jump up or down in a list).
  • the double "click” can consist of additional contextual help or even allow a faster navigation in the navigation map of a navigation system, or even activate another function available on a window different from the one initially activated (thus to "jump" quickly from an active window to another window, without having to return to a main menu).
  • the present invention proposes to cleverly use this race to make the appearance of the menus dynamic or to vary the speed of scrolling through a list when the user continues to press the command button 11.
  • the continuous acquisition of the present invention provides an additional wealth of information by allowing the electronics to permanently know the position of the lever 13 through two potentiometers 20. Knowledge of the permanent position of the lever 13 thus makes it possible to develop an intention management. Even before the first support arrives, the electronics detects the intention of the user. It is then possible to anticipate the needs of the user to display for example graphic effects on the screen during the passage from one object to another, from one window to another, from one menu to another ...

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device (10) for an electronic apparatus, that comprises a lever (13), a control button (11) having a lower face (112) and connected in translation and rotation to the lever, and a printed circuit (30). The device is characterised in that it further comprises: a mobile table (15) mechanically coupled to the lever (13), located between the lower face (112) and the printed circuit (30) so as to be positioned in parallel to said lower face (112), and including a plurality of facets (153), each of the facets (153) corresponding to a direction that can be selected by the actuation of the control button (11), a plurality of membranes (18) each positioned opposite a facet (153) of the table (15), a plurality of pistons (16) each in contact with a facet (153) of the table (15) and located opposite the corresponding membrane (18), characterised in that each membrane (18) is adapted to be actuated by the corresponding piston (16) upon a movement of the lever (13) in a direction selected by the actuation of the control button (11) in order to mechanically disengage each mechanical action of the control button (11). The invention can particularly be used in the automotive industry.

Description

Dispositif de commande d'un appareil électronique Device for controlling an electronic device
La présente invention concerne le domaine des dispositifs de commande, plus connus sous le nom de joysticks, utilisés en environnement automobile pour le contrôle d'appareils électroniques tels que, par exemple, un système de navigation.The present invention relates to the field of control devices, better known as joysticks, used in automotive environment for the control of electronic devices such as, for example, a navigation system.
Les automobiles possèdent aujourd'hui de plus en plus de fonctions multimédia telles que le téléphone, la navigation, le lecteur de DVD. Afin de limiter l'encombrement de leurs commandes, il est d'usage de regrouper l'ensemble des commandes de ces appareils électroniques au sein d'un unique dispositif de commande, par exemple du type joystick. Classiquement, un joystick permet : - de se déplacer dans des menus selon au moins quatre directions (haut, bas, droite, gauche),Automobiles nowadays have more and more multimedia functions such as telephone, navigation, DVD player. In order to limit the size of their controls, it is customary to group all the controls of these electronic devices in a single control device, for example of the joystick type. Classically, a joystick allows: - to move in menus in at least four directions (up, down, right, left),
- de se déplacer rapidement dans une liste par rotation rapide du joystick autour de son axe ("scrolling" en anglais) ou bien encore,- to move quickly in a list by rapid rotation of the joystick around its axis ("scrolling" in English) or even,
- de valider une sélection par appui vertical sur un bouton de validation (par exemple).to validate a selection by pressing a validation button vertically (for example).
Classiquement, de par leur conception, ces joysticks imposent l'utilisation de membranes de réponse tactile nerveuse et bruyante en réponse à un appui. Ces membranes sont plus connues sous le nom de membranes "sharp feeling".Conventionally, by their design, these joysticks impose the use of nerve and nerve tactile response membranes in response to a support. These membranes are better known as "sharp feeling" membranes.
Une telle sensation tactile tranche avec la sensation de douceur des autres commandes de véhicule basées sur l'emploi de membranes douces en silicone (plus connues sous le nom de membranes "soft feeling") classiquement utilisées pour la commande de lève-vitres ou de climatisation.Such a tactile sensation contrasts with the feeling of softness of the other vehicle controls based on the use of soft silicone membranes (better known as "soft feeling" membranes) conventionally used for the control of window regulators or air conditioning .
Il est déjà connu des joysticks présentant une sensation de toucher "bruyant" caractéristique de l'emploi de membranes "sharp feeling". La structure de tels joysticks se compose d'un encodeur à contact, d'un indexeur à lame déformable et divers contacts électriques. Pour chaque direction (haut, bas, droite, gauche par exemple) ainsi que pour une validation verticale, la sensation tactile est fournie par un unique dôme (ou membrane) métallique à paroi mince en contact avec un levier solidaire d'un bouton de commande situé dans l'habitacle véhicule. Ce levier à un profil particulier permettant de provoquer la déformation du dôme métallique unique quelle que soit l'action effectuée et ainsi réaliser un contact électrique avec une piste d'un circuit imprimé dédié aux commandes du joystick.Joysticks are already known with a "noisy" feeling of touch characteristic of the use of "sharp feeling" membranes. The structure of such joysticks consists of a contact encoder, a deformable blade indexer and various electrical contacts. For each direction (up, down, right, left for example) as well as for a vertical validation, the tactile sensation is provided by a single dome (or membrane) thin walled metal in contact with a lever secured to a control button located in the vehicle cockpit. This lever to a particular profile to cause the deformation of the single metal dome regardless of the action performed and thus make an electrical contact with a track of a printed circuit dedicated to the controls of the joystick.
L'avantage de ce joystick est son faible nombre de pièces.The advantage of this joystick is its small number of parts.
Par contre, pour chaque action, il est créé une forte interaction entre les courses du levier et les efforts du levier sur la membrane. II est, en outre, nécessaire d'utiliser un dôme (ou membrane) à grande endurance puisque à toute action du levier correspond obligatoirement un effort du levier sur le dôme.By cons, for each action, it is created a strong interaction between the races of the lever and the efforts of the lever on the membrane. It is, moreover, necessary to use a dome (or membrane) with high endurance since any action of the lever necessarily corresponds to a force of the lever on the dome.
Il est à noter que ce type de joysticks présente une sensation de floue perçue autour de sa position neutre, du fait d'un jeu trop important entre les divers éléments et de faibles valeurs d'effort résistant autour de la position neutre.It should be noted that this type of joystick has a perceived fuzziness around its neutral position, due to too much play between the various elements and low values of resistant force around the neutral position.
La sensation de toucher bruyant caractéristique de l'emploi de membranes "sharp feeling" provient quant à elle de la déformation du dôme métallique dont la raideur, sous l'action du levier, est quasi linéaire jusqu'à s'effondrer brutalement provoquant alors un bruit de claquement.The sensation of noisy touch characteristic of the use of membranes "sharp feeling" comes from the deformation of the metal dome whose stiffness, under the action of the lever, is almost linear until it collapses suddenly causing a click sound.
Enfin, de par sa structure, la course du levier est très faible, ce qui interdit l'emploi de membranes "soft feeling" à longue course.Finally, because of its structure, the lever travel is very low, which prohibits the use of long-stroke "soft feeling" membranes.
La présente invention a notamment pour objectif de fournir un dispositif de commande permettant de pallier ces inconvénients. Notamment l'invention cherche à créer un dispositif de commande d'interface multimédia embarqué dans un véhicule présentant un toucher doux de type "soft feeling" identique à celui des autres commandes du véhicule, sans la zone de floue autour de la position neutre et d'une durée de vie plus importante. Un tel dispositif de commande doit également être en mesure de fonctionner dans un environnement automobile (vibrations, poussières ).The present invention particularly aims to provide a control device to overcome these disadvantages. In particular the invention seeks to create a multimedia interface control device embedded in a vehicle having a soft feel like "soft feeling" identical to that of other controls of the vehicle, without the blurred area around the neutral position and a longer life. Such a control device must also be able to operate in an automotive environment (vibrations, dust).
A cet effet l'invention propose un moyen de commande d'un appareil électronique comportant : un levier muni d'une première extrémité et d'une seconde extrémité, un bouton de commande muni d'une face inférieure, le dit bouton étant solidaire en translation et rotation du levier, un circuit imprimé positionné parallèlement à la face inférieure, la dite première extrémité du levier étant perpendiculaire à ladite face inférieure et le levier traversant perpendiculairement le circuit imprimé de part en part. L'invention se caractérise par le fait que le dispositif de commande comporte en outre : - une table mobile:For this purpose the invention proposes a control means for an electronic device comprising: a lever provided with a first end and a second end, a control button provided with a lower face, said button being secured in translation and rotation of the lever, a printed circuit positioned parallel to the lower face, said first end of the lever being perpendicular to said lower face and the lever traversing perpendicularly the printed circuit from one side. The invention is characterized in that the control device further comprises: - a mobile table:
• couplée mécaniquement au levier,• mechanically coupled to the lever,
• située entre la face inférieure et le circuit imprimé, de façon à être positionnée parallèlement à ladite face inférieure,Located between the lower face and the printed circuit, so as to be positioned parallel to said lower face,
• comportant une pluralité de facettes, chacune des facettes correspondant à une direction sélectionnable par l'actionnement du bouton de commande, une pluralité de membranes, chacune positionnée en regard d'une facette de la table, une pluralité de pistons chacun en contact d'une facette de la table et placé en regard de la membrane correspondante, et en ce que chaque membrane est adaptée pour être actionnée par le piston correspondant lors du mouvement du levier selon une direction sélectionnée par l'actionnement du bouton de commande, afin de découpler mécaniquement chaque membrane et chaque action mécanique du bouton de commande.Having a plurality of facets, each of the facets corresponding to a direction selectable by the actuation of the control knob, a plurality of membranes, each positioned facing a facet of the table, a plurality of pistons each in contact with a facet of the table and placed opposite the corresponding membrane, and in that each membrane is adapted to be actuated by the corresponding piston during the movement of the lever in a direction selected by the actuation of the control button, to mechanically decouple each membrane and each mechanical action of the control button.
Ce dispositif est remarquable en ce que le levier est couplé mécaniquement à une table mobile située en regard de la face inférieure du bouton de commande et traversée perpendiculairement par le levier, la table étant adaptée pour transmettre, par l'intermédiaire du levier, le mouvement du bouton de commande à une membrane selon une direction sélectionnée par l'actionnement du bouton de commande. Les autres membranes sont découplées de l'action mécanique appliquée à la membrane sélectionnée.This device is remarkable in that the lever is mechanically coupled to a movable table located opposite the underside of the control button and traversed perpendicularly by the lever, the table being adapted to transmit, via the lever, the movement from the control knob to a diaphragm in a direction selected by actuation of the control knob. The other membranes are decoupled from the mechanical action applied to the selected membrane.
Ainsi il existe autant de membranes que de directions sélectionnables par le levier. En outre l'actionnement du levier selon une des directions possibles n'actionne qu'une seule membrane, l'ensemble des autres membranes restant inactives (découplage mécanique entre les membranes). On évite ainsi qu'une seule et même membrane soit activée selon plusieurs directions distinctes, ce qui tend à la fragiliser.Thus, there are as many membranes as there are directions selectable by the lever. In addition, actuation of the lever in one of the possible directions actuates only one membrane, all the other membranes remaining inactive (mechanical decoupling between the membranes). This prevents one and the same membrane is activated in several distinct directions, which tends to weaken.
Avantageusement, à chaque membrane correspond un piston en contact de la table et placé en regard de ladite membrane.Advantageously, each membrane corresponds to a piston in contact with the table and placed opposite said membrane.
Un tel dispositif de commande permet avantageusement de découpler chaque action mécanique du bouton de commande grâce à l'utilisation d'une membrane pour chacune des directions. Ainsi, à chaque action mécanique correspond un appui sur une membrane correspondante. Pour un même type de membrane, la durée de vie du dispositif de commande selon l'invention est alors augmentée par rapport à un dispositif de commande classique utilisant une seule membrane (ou dôme) pour l'ensemble des directions. De par sa conception, le dispositif selon la présente invention permet en outre, l'utilisation de membranes souples de type "soft feeling", permettant ainsi par rapport à l'art antérieur connu la sensation de commande "douce".Such a control device advantageously allows to decouple each mechanical action of the control button through the use of a membrane for each of the directions. Thus, with each mechanical action corresponds a support on a corresponding membrane. For the same type of membrane, the life of the control device according to the invention is then increased compared to a conventional control device using a single membrane (or dome) for all directions. By its design, the device according to the present invention also allows the use of flexible membranes type "soft feeling", thus allowing compared to the known prior art the sensation of "soft" control.
De même, la sensation de commande floue autour de la position neutre (présente dans l'art antérieur connu) est supprimée, car chaque mouvement du levier est étroitement guidé, ce qui réduit les jeux de fonctionnement.Likewise, the fuzzy control sensation around the neutral position (present in the known prior art) is eliminated, since each movement of the lever is closely guided, which reduces the operating clearances.
De manière préférentielle, la table est solidaire d'un guide en translation et le levier est placé sensiblement au centre de la table. De manière avantageuse, chaque membrane est réalisée dans un matériau en silicone et est logée dans un logement de membrane correspondant. De manière préférentielle, la table comporte au moins un système d'entraînement relié mécaniquement à un potentiomètre et solidaire en rotation d'un moyen de guidage en translation de la table.Preferably, the table is integral with a guide in translation and the lever is placed substantially in the center of the table. Advantageously, each membrane is made of a silicone material and is housed in a corresponding membrane housing. Preferably, the table comprises at least one drive system mechanically connected to a potentiometer and integral in rotation with a guide means in translation of the table.
Avantageusement, le dispositif de commande comporte un encodeur à effet Hall.Advantageously, the control device comprises a Hall effect encoder.
Dans la suite de la description, l'invention est mise en œuvre en tant que dispositif de commande pour appareil électronique embarqué, tel un système de navigation. Il est évident cependant que l'invention ne se limite pas à cette application particulière, mais peut également être mise en œuvre dans de nombreux autres appareils électroniques embarqués ou non.In the following description, the invention is implemented as a control device for embedded electronic device, such as a navigation system. It is obvious, however, that the invention is not limited to this particular application, but can also be implemented in many other electronic devices embedded or not.
D'autres objets, caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre à titre d'exemple non limitatif, et à l'examen des dessins annexés dans lesquels : la figure 1 est une vue schématique en perspective du dispositif de commande selon l'invention,Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent on reading the following description given by way of nonlimiting example, and on examining the appended drawings in which: FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the control device according to the invention,
- la figure 2 est une vue schématique en coupe du dispositif de commande selon l'invention, - la figure 3 est une vue schématique illustrant le montage des membranes du dispositif de commande selon l'invention,FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of the control device according to the invention, FIG. 3 is a schematic view illustrating the mounting of the membranes of the control device according to the invention,
- la figure 4 est une vue schématique illustrant le mécanisme d'interaction entre les pistons de la table et les membranes,FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the mechanism of interaction between the pistons of the table and the membranes,
- la figure 5 est une vue schématique illustrant un éclaté de l'ensemble du dispositif de commande selon l'invention, etFIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating an exploded view of the entire control device according to the invention, and
- les figures 6a à 6c montrent un graphique de l'effort de la membrane sur le levier en fonction de la course de la table pour une membrane à simple course de type "sharp feeling" (figure 6a), pour une membrane à simple course de type "soft feeling" (figure 6b) ainsi que pour une membrane à double course de type "soft feeling" (figure 6c).FIGS. 6a to 6c show a graph of the force of the membrane on the lever as a function of the travel of the table for a single-stroke membrane of the "sharp feeling" type (FIG. 6a), for a single-stroke membrane of "soft feeling" type (FIG. 6b) as well as for a "soft feeling" double-course membrane (FIG. 6c).
La figure 1 illustre un dispositif de commande 10 d'un appareil électronique selon l'invention.FIG. 1 illustrates a device 10 for controlling an electronic device according to the invention.
Classiquement (figure 2), ce dispositif comporte un carter supérieur 12 de protection du dispositif de commande 10 et un bouton de commande 11 situé approximativement au centre d'une face supérieure 121 du carter 12.Classically (Figure 2), this device comprises an upper casing 12 for protecting the control device 10 and a control knob 11 located approximately in the center of an upper face 121 of the housing 12.
Le bouton de commande 1 1 se loge dans une ouverture 113 (figure 3) du carter 12. Ce bouton de commande 11 comporte une partie supérieure 111 en forme de demi-sphère rejoignant une partie inférieure 112 plane. La partie inférieure 112 est en outre parallèle à la face supérieure 121 du carter 12.The control knob 1 1 is housed in an opening 113 (FIG. 3) of the casing 12. This control button 11 has an upper portion 111 in the form of a half-sphere joining a lower portion 112 plane. The lower part 112 is furthermore parallel to the upper face 121 of the casing 12.
Une première extrémité 131 d'un levier 13, moulée dans la matière du bouton de commande 11 , permet de rendre solidaire en rotation et en translation le levier 13 et le bouton de commande 11.A first end 131 of a lever 13, molded in the material of the control knob 11, makes it possible to make the lever 13 and the control knob 11 integral in rotation and in translation.
De manière préférentielle, le levier 13 est placé perpendiculairement à la partie inférieure 1 12 du bouton de commande 1 1.Preferably, the lever 13 is placed perpendicular to the lower part 1 12 of the control knob 1 January.
En outre, le levier 13 est solidaire en translation d'une table 15 au moyen d'une liaison de type rotule à glissière 14 (figures 4 et 5). Avantageusement, la table 15 comporte une ouverture sphérique 152 (figure 4) recevant le levier 13.In addition, the lever 13 is integral in translation with a table 15 by means of a ball joint type connection 14 (Figures 4 and 5). Advantageously, the table 15 comprises a spherical opening 152 (FIG. 4) receiving the lever 13.
Classiquement, un circuit imprimé 30 dédié aux fonctions électroniques du joystick comporte une ouverture 31 le traversant de part en part. L'ouverture 31 se trouve sensiblement au centre du dispositif de commande 10. Une fois la table 15 positionnée, l'ouverture 152 de la table 15 se trouve en regard de l'ouverture 31 du circuit imprimé 30.Conventionally, a printed circuit 30 dedicated to the electronic functions of the joystick has an opening 31 passing therethrough. The opening 31 is substantially in the center of the control device 10. Once the table 15 is positioned, the opening 152 of the table 15 is opposite the opening 31 of the printed circuit 30.
Particulièrement, la table est guidée en translation grâce à un moyen de guidage en translation 84 comportant également une ouverture sphérique 841 située en regard de l'ouverture 31 du circuit imprimé 30. De manière préférentielle, la liaison rotule à glissière 14 est réalisée au moyen d'une sphère rigide 14 logée dans une cavité formée lors l'assemblage de la table 15 et du moyen de guidage en translation 84 de la table 15 (figure 2).In particular, the table is guided in translation by means of translation guiding means 84 also comprising a spherical opening 841 facing the opening 31 of the printed circuit 30. Preferably, the ball joint connection 14 is made by means of a rigid sphere 14 housed in a cavity formed during assembly of the table 15 and the translation guide means 84 of the table 15 (Figure 2).
La sphère 14 (figure 5) comporte en outre un alésage 141 la traversant complètement et permettant le passage du levier 13 au centre de la sphère. Ainsi, une fois la table 15 et le moyen de guidage en translation 84 assemblés, les ouvertures du circuit imprimé (31 ) de la sphère (141), de la table (152) et du moyen de guidage (841 ) se situent en regard les unes des autres. Le levier 13 traverse l'ensemble de ces ouvertures (31 , 141 , 152, 841 ) pour être positionné perpendiculairement à la sphère 14, la table 15, le circuit imprimé 30 et le moyen de guidage en translation 84 de la table 15.The sphere 14 (Figure 5) further comprises a bore 141 passing through it completely and allowing the passage of the lever 13 in the center of the sphere. Thus, once the table 15 and the translation guide means 84 assembled, the openings of the printed circuit (31) of the sphere (141), the table (152) and the guide means (841) are located opposite each other. The lever 13 passes through all of these openings (31, 141, 152, 841) to be positioned perpendicular to the sphere 14, the table 15, the printed circuit 30 and the translation guide means 84 of the table 15.
Par ailleurs, pour chaque direction sélectionnable par le levier 13 correspond un piston 16 en contact plan avec une facette 153 correspondante de la table 15 (figure 4).Moreover, for each direction selectable by the lever 13 corresponds a piston 16 in plane contact with a corresponding facet 153 of the table 15 (Figure 4).
Ainsi, la table 15 comporte autant de facettes 153 que de directions sélectionnables par Pactionnement du levier 13. Dans l'exemple représenté le levier peut prendre quatre directions distinctes et peut être entraîné en rotation et en translation verticale. Bien entendu en variantes le nombre de facettes et de membranes pourrait être différents de quatre.Thus, the table 15 has as many facets 153 as selectable directions by actuation of the lever 13. In the example shown the lever can take four distinct directions and can be driven in rotation and in translation vertical. Of course in variants the number of facets and membranes could be different from four.
En regard de chaque piston 16 est disposé un logement de membrane 17 adapté à recevoir une membrane 18 (figure 3). Le levier 13 comporte également une seconde extrémité 132 reliée à un dispositif de rotation 80 du bouton de commande 11 (figures 2 et 5).Opposite each piston 16 is a membrane housing 17 adapted to receive a membrane 18 (FIG. 3). The lever 13 also has a second end 132 connected to a rotation device 80 of the control knob 11 (Figures 2 and 5).
Ce dispositif de rotation 80 (figure 2) se compose d'un bloc supérieur 81 de forme cylindrique et d'un bloc inférieur 82 de forme cylindrique également. Une fois assemblés, ces deux blocs 81 et 82 sont solidaires entre eux et forment une cavité 90 adaptée à recevoir la seconde extrémité 132 du levier 13.This rotation device 80 (Figure 2) consists of an upper block 81 of cylindrical shape and a lower block 82 also cylindrical. Once assembled, these two blocks 81 and 82 are integral with each other and form a cavity 90 adapted to receive the second end 132 of the lever 13.
La seconde extrémité 132 comporte en outre deux ergots 133 permettant d'assurer une liaison de type sphérique à doigt.The second end 132 further comprises two lugs 133 for ensuring a spherical finger type connection.
Situé en regard et en contact du bloc inférieur 82, une plateforme 83 guidée en translation se trouve également en contact d'un bouton de validation verticale 50. L'ensemble des éléments (validation verticale 50, dispositif de rotation 80, 81 , 82 et plateforme 83) sont logés et maintenus dans un élément inférieur 122 du carter 12.Located facing and in contact with the lower block 82, a platform 83 guided in translation is also in contact with a vertical validation button 50. The set of elements (vertical validation 50, rotation device 80, 81, 82 and platform 83) are housed and held in a lower element 122 of the housing 12.
Le moyen de guidage en translation 84 comporte des rainures (non représentées) coopérant avec d'autres rainures (non représentées) d'une partie inférieure 842 du moyen de guidage en translation 84. Cette partie inférieure 842 est solidaire du circuit imprimé 30. Bien évidemment, cette partie inférieure 842 comporte également une ouverture 843 située en regard des ouvertures (31 , 141 ,152, 841 ). Le levier 13 traverse donc également la partie inférieure 842.The translation guiding means 84 comprises grooves (not shown) cooperating with other grooves (not shown) of a lower portion 842 of the translational guiding means 84. This lower portion 842 is integral with the printed circuit board 30. Good obviously, this lower portion 842 also has an opening 843 facing the openings (31, 141, 152, 841). The lever 13 therefore also passes through the lower portion 842.
Avantageusement, le dispositif de commande 10 comporte, en outre, deux potentiomètres 20 (figure 4) situés symétriquement de part et d'autre d'une direction sélectionnable par l'utilisateur lors de l'appui sur le bouton de commande 11.Advantageously, the control device 10 further comprises two potentiometers 20 (FIG. 4) located symmetrically on either side of a direction that can be selected by the user when the control button 11 is pressed.
Chaque potentiomètre 20 comporte un système d'entraînement 21 de type engrenage.Each potentiometer 20 comprises a drive system 21 of the gear type.
Bien évidement, chaque potentiomètre 20 est relié aux pistes (non représentées) du circuit imprimé 30. A chaque système d'entraînement 21 de chaque potentiomètre 20 correspond également un système d'entraînement 19 (de type engrenage) de la table 15.Of course, each potentiometer 20 is connected to the tracks (not shown) of the printed circuit 30. Each drive system 21 of each potentiometer 20 also corresponds to a drive system 19 (of the gear type) of the table 15.
En outre, chaque système d'entraînement 19 est solidaire de la partie inférieure 842 du moyen de guidage en translation 84 de la table 15.In addition, each drive system 19 is integral with the lower portion 842 of the translation guide means 84 of the table 15.
Chaque système d'entrainement 19 est également relié mécaniquement à la table 15 au moyen d'une liaison de type linéaire annulaire. Préférentiellement, cette liaison linéaire annulaire est réalisée au moyen d'un ergot d'entraînement 191 glissant dans une rainure 151 de la table 15 lors du mouvement de la table 15 (figure 4).Each drive system 19 is also mechanically connected to the table 15 by means of an annular linear type connection. Preferably, this annular linear connection is made by means of a drive pin 191 sliding in a groove 151 of the table 15 during the movement of the table 15 (Figure 4).
Le dispositif de commande 10 comporte un encodeur à effet Hall 60 (figure 2) composé d'au moins trois capteurs de champs magnétique 62 et d'un aimant sphérique 61 solidaire du bloc de rotation 80.The control device 10 comprises a Hall effect encoder 60 (FIG. 2) composed of at least three magnetic field sensors 62 and a spherical magnet 61 integral with the rotation block 80.
Ces capteurs de champ magnétique 62 sont fixés directement sur une face inférieure 32 du circuit imprimé 30 et placés en regard de l'aimant sphérique 61.These magnetic field sensors 62 are fixed directly on a lower face 32 of the printed circuit 30 and placed opposite the spherical magnet 61.
Le fonctionnement du dispositif de commande selon l'invention est décrit ci- après.The operation of the control device according to the invention is described below.
Lorsque l'utilisateur déplace le bouton de commande 11 selon une direction parallèle à la face supérieure 121 du carter 12, par exemple vers la droite, le levier 13 déplace la table 15 d'autant vers la droite, parallèlement à la face supérieure 121. Le piston 16 correspondant à la direction sélectionnée vient alors appuyer sur la membrane 18 correspondante. Sous l'action du piston 16, la membrane 18 se déforme permettant ainsi au levier 13 et à la table 15 de décrire une certaine course.When the user moves the control button 11 in a direction parallel to the upper face 121 of the housing 12, for example to the right, the lever 13 moves the table 15 to the right, parallel to the upper face 121. The piston 16 corresponding to the selected direction then presses on the corresponding diaphragm 18. Under the action of the piston 16, the diaphragm 18 is deformed thereby allowing the lever 13 and the table 15 to describe a certain stroke.
Pour assurer le guidage en translation du logement de membrane 17, chaque logement comporte une rainure (non représentée) adaptée à guider le piston 16 correspondant lors de l'appui de la table 15 sur le piston 16. Particulièrement, ce guidage en translation permet un appui homogène du piston 16 sur la membrane 18 correspondante.To ensure the translational guidance of the membrane housing 17, each housing comprises a groove (not shown) adapted to guide the piston 16 corresponding to the support of the table 15 on the piston 16. In particular, this guide in translation allows a homogeneous support of the piston 16 on the corresponding membrane 18.
A chaque déplacement de la table 15 correspond ainsi une rotation simultanée d'au moins deux potentiomètres 20 par coopération des systèmes d'entrainements 19 et 21. De manière avantageuse, chaque système d'entraînement 19 est relié mécaniquement à la table 15 au moyen d'un ergot d'entraînement 191 adapté à glisser dans la rainure 151 de la table 15 (figure 4).Each movement of the table 15 thus corresponds to a simultaneous rotation of at least two potentiometers 20 by cooperation of the drive systems 19 and 21. Advantageously, each drive system 19 is mechanically connected to the table 15 by means of a drive pin 191 adapted to slide in the groove 151 of the table 15 (Figure 4).
Ainsi, lorsque la table 15 se déplace en translation sous l'action du levier 13, la table 15 provoque la rotation du système d'entrainement 19 grâce à cette liaison de type linéaire annulaire. Le système d'entraînement 21 transmet alors ce mouvement de rotation du système d'entrainement 19 vers le potentiomètre 20 correspondant.Thus, when the table 15 moves in translation under the action of the lever 13, the table 15 causes the rotation of the drive system 19 by means of this annular linear type connection. The drive system 21 then transmits this rotational movement of the drive system 19 to the corresponding potentiometer 20.
Bien évidement, chaque potentiomètre 20 est relié électriquement aux pistes adéquates du circuit imprimé 30.Of course, each potentiometer 20 is electrically connected to the appropriate tracks of the printed circuit board 30.
A chaque mouvement de la table 15 correspond un mouvement d'une des membranes 18 selon la direction sélectionnée à l'aide du bouton de commande par un utilisateur. L'utilisation de potentiomètres 20 couplés mécaniquement à la table 15 permet ainsi d'éviter la connexion électrique de chaque membrane 18 aux pistes du circuit imprimé 30. Ainsi, ce sont les potentiomètres 20 qui permettent de détecter les mouvements de la table 15 et les retransmettent au circuit électronique pour traitement, et non la déformation des membranes 18 qui vient refermer un circuit (contact) sur le circuit imprimé 30. Les membranes 18 n'ont donc qu'une fonction mécanique et pas de fonction électrique.Each movement of the table 15 corresponds to a movement of one of the membranes 18 in the direction selected by the control button by a user. The use of potentiometers 20 mechanically coupled to the table 15 thus makes it possible to avoid the electrical connection of each membrane 18 to the tracks of the circuit 30. Thus, it is the potentiometers 20 that detect the movements of the table 15 and retransmits them to the electronic circuit for processing, and not the deformation of the membranes 18 which closes a circuit (contact) on the printed circuit 30. The membranes 18 therefore have only a mechanical function and no electrical function.
Il est à noter que le mouvement de la table 15 est notamment possible grâce à l'existence d'une liaison sphérique à doigt entre la seconde extrémité 132 du levier 13 et le bloc de rotation 80. En effet, la cavité 90 entourant la seconde extrémité 132 permet le basculement du levier 13 suivant la direction sélectionnée par l'utilisateur lors de l'actionnement du bouton de commande 11.It should be noted that the movement of the table 15 is possible thanks to the existence of a spherical connection finger between the second end 132 of the lever 13 and the rotation block 80. Indeed, the cavity 90 surrounding the second end 132 allows the lever 13 to tilt in the direction selected by the user when the control button 11 is actuated.
De même, lors d'un déplacement horizontal de la table 15, pour que celle-ci puisse revenir en position centrale (position initiale), il est indispensable qu'elle subisse uniquement l'effort de la membrane 18 comprimée pendant l'action en cour. Les pistons 16 agissant sur les autres membranes 18 du dispositif de commande 10 (figure 4) ne doivent pas exercer d'efforts sous peine d'empêcher le retour en position verticale du levier 13. Des jeux sont alors nécessaires entre ces pistons 16 et la table 15. Ils doivent être suffisants pour empêcher cette action non voulue mais rester minimes pour ne pas dégrader la qualité perçue.Similarly, during a horizontal movement of the table 15, so that it can return to the central position (initial position), it is essential that it undergoes only the force of the diaphragm 18 compressed during the action. court. The pistons 16 acting on the other membranes 18 of the control device 10 (FIG. 4) must not exert any effort, otherwise the lever 13 may be returned to the vertical position. Games are then required between these pistons 16 and the piston. table 15. They must be sufficient to prevent this unwanted action but remain minimal so as not to degrade perceived quality.
De manière préférentielle, le carter 12 sert de butée aux pistons 16 et doit être précisément positionné par rapport au circuit imprimé 30. Le carter 12 utilisé en butée permet également la précontrainte des membranes 18 en fournissant les efforts de rappel en position centrale suffisants pour combattre l'action du levier 13.Preferably, the casing 12 serves as a stop for the pistons 16 and must be precisely positioned relative to the printed circuit 30. The casing 12 used in abutment also allows the prestressing of the membranes 18 by providing the central return forces sufficient to combat the action of the lever 13.
Enfin, pour assurer le guidage en translation de la table 15, la partie inférieure 842 du moyen de guidage en translation 84 de la table 15 comporte des rainures (non représentées) coopérant avec des rainures (non représentées) dudit moyen de guidage.Finally, to provide translation guidance for the table 15, the lower portion 842 of the translation guide means 84 of the table 15 comprises grooves (not shown) cooperating with grooves (not shown) of said guide means.
De manière préférentielle, chaque système d'entraînement 19 comporte un axe de rotation fixé sur la partie inférieure 842 du moyen de guidage en translation 84 de la table 15.Preferably, each drive system 19 comprises an axis of rotation fixed on the lower part 842 of the translation guide means 84 of the table 15.
Par appui vertical sur le bouton de commande 11 , le levier 13 est également adapté à se déplacer en translation selon une direction perpendiculaire à la face supérieure 121 du carter 12. En effet, la liaison entre la table 15 et le levier 13 est une liaison de type rotule à glissière. Le levier 13 peut ainsi coulisser perpendiculairement à la table 15 lors d'un appui vertical sur le bouton de commande 11. L'extrémité 132 du levier 13 pouvant également se déplacer en translation perpendiculairement à la table 15 dans la cavité 90, le levier 13 vient ainsi appuyer sur le bloc inférieur 82 du bloc de rotation 80. Cet appui permet le déplacement de la plateforme 83 pour finalement transmettre un appui homogène sur le bouton de validation verticale 50. Pour des raisons d'intégrations électriques et de cinématiques, le centre de rotation du levier 13 doit être placé en dessous du circuit imprimé 30. Cette disposition entraîne alors un problème de raccordement électrique du bouton de validation verticale 50 au circuit imprimé 30. La solution proposée consiste alors à utiliser un encodeur à effet Hall 60, particulier, constitué d'un aimant 61 disposé en regard d'au moins trois capteurs de champ magnétique 62.By vertically pressing the control button 11, the lever 13 is also adapted to move in translation in a direction perpendicular to the upper face 121 of the housing 12. In fact, the connection between the table 15 and the lever 13 is a connection ball-type slide. The lever 13 can thus slide perpendicular to the table 15 during a vertical support on the control button 11. The end 132 of the lever 13 can also move in translation perpendicularly to the table 15 in the cavity 90, the lever 13 thus presses the lower block 82 of the rotation block 80. This support allows the displacement of the platform 83 to finally transmit a homogeneous support on the vertical validation button 50. For reasons of electrical integration and kinematics, the center of rotation of the lever 13 must be placed below the printed circuit 30. This arrangement then causes a problem of electrical connection of the vertical validation button 50 to the printed circuit 30. The solution proposed is then to use a particular Hall effect encoder 60 consisting of a magnet 61 arranged facing at least three magnetic field sensors 62.
De manière préférentielle, cet aimant 61 est constitué de seulement deux pôles dont l'intensité du champ magnétique varie de manière sinusoïdale le long de la circonférence. Lorsque les capteurs de champ magnétique 62 détectent simultanément une variation de champ magnétique, il en est déduit automatiquement une variation de hauteur de l'aimant 61 et donc du levier 13. Un appui vertical sur le bouton de commande 11 est alors détecté. Cette information est ensuite traitée électroniquement. Le bouton de validation verticale 50 n'a alors qu'une fonction purement mécanique et non électrique. De manière analogue, l'acquisition de la rotation du bouton de commande 11 est également détectée par l'encodeur à effet hall 60. A chaque rotation du bloc de rotation 80 et donc de l'aimant 61 correspond une variation sinusoïdale distincte pour chacun des capteurs de champ magnétique 62.Preferably, this magnet 61 consists of only two poles whose intensity of the magnetic field varies sinusoidally along the circumference. When the magnetic field sensors 62 simultaneously detect a magnetic field variation, it is automatically deduced a change in height of the magnet 61 and therefore the lever 13. A vertical support on the control button 11 is then detected. This information is then processed electronically. The vertical validation button 50 then only has a purely mechanical and non-electrical function. Similarly, the acquisition of the rotation of the control knob 11 is also detected by the hall effect encoder 60. Each rotation of the rotation block 80 and thus of the magnet 61 corresponds to a distinct sinusoidal variation for each of the magnetic field sensors 62.
Comme déjà énoncé précédemment, les joysticks actuellement sur le marché reposent sur l'utilisation d'un bouton au toucher bruyant de type "sharp feeling". Classiquement, de tels joysticks permettent une sélection d'au moins quatre directions (haut, bas, droite, gauche), une validation par appui vertical sur un bouton de commande et une rotation crantée du bouton de commande pour réaliser un défilement rapide de liste encore appelé "scrolling" de liste. Cependant, du fait qu'il s'agit d'un unique dôme métallique fournissant l'ensemble des actions, un tel joystick impose une dépendance des efforts en validation verticale ainsi que lors des déplacements dans les différentes directions. La durée de vie du dôme et donc du joystick est ainsi très limitée.As already stated above, the joysticks currently on the market rely on the use of a noisy touch button type "sharp feeling". Conventionally, such joysticks allow a selection of at least four directions (up, down, right, left), a validation by pressing a vertical button on a control button and a notched rotation of the control button to make a quick scrolling list still called "scrolling" list. However, because it is a single metal dome providing the set of actions, such a joystick imposes a dependence of efforts in vertical validation and when traveling in different directions. The life of the dome and therefore the joystick is very limited.
La figure 6a montre le comportement mécanique d'une membrane dite "sharp feeling" telle qu'utilisée dans l'art antérieur connu. Le comportement bruyant caractéristique d'une telle membrane provient essentiellement de la déformation du dôme métallique. Celui-ci possède une raideur quasi linéaire. Il se déforme linéairement jusqu'à s'effondrer brutalement (F1 ) provoquant alors un bruit de claquement. La course de ce type de membrane est courte.FIG. 6a shows the mechanical behavior of a so-called "sharp feeling" membrane as used in the known prior art. The characteristic noisy behavior of such a membrane comes essentially from the deformation of the metal dome. It has an almost linear stiffness. It deforms linearly until it collapses sharply (F1), causing a clicking sound. The stroke of this type of membrane is short.
Le comportement mécanique d'une telle membrane dite "sharp feeling" est à comparer à celui d'une membrane dite "soft feeling" connue (figure 6b) restituant une sensation de douceur tactile. Une telle membrane se caractérise notamment par une variation fortement non linéaire des efforts pendant la course (figure 6b). Le rapport F1/F2 (encore appelé "click ratio") est de l'ordre de 80%, plus élevé que celui des touches "sharp feeling" dont la valeur du rapport F1/F2 est d'environ 50%.The mechanical behavior of such a so-called "sharp feeling" membrane is to be compared to that of a known so-called "soft feeling" membrane (FIG. 6b) rendering a sensation of tactile softness. Such a membrane is characterized in particular by a highly non-linear variation of the forces during the race (FIG. 6b). The F1 / F2 ratio (Also called "click ratio") is of the order of 80%, higher than that of the "sharp feeling" keys whose value of the ratio F1 / F2 is about 50%.
La cinématique du dispositif de commande 10 selon la présente invention est basée sur le principe du "bras de levier". La présente invention permet avantageusement de découpler mécaniquement l'ensemble des actions mécaniques en rendant indépendant l'effort du levier 13 sur la membrane 18 lors d'un appui selon une direction sélectionnée. La durée de vie de chaque membrane 18 s'en trouve alors améliorée.The kinematics of the control device 10 according to the present invention is based on the principle of the "lever arm". The present invention advantageously makes it possible to mechanically decouple all the mechanical actions by making the force of the lever 13 on the membrane 18 independent during a support in a selected direction. The life of each membrane 18 is then improved.
La présente invention permet également d'augmenter la course du levier 13. Il est alors possible de monter des membranes 18 variées telles que des membranes silicones à simple action ou bien encore des membranes silicones à doubles actions générant deux pics d'effort P1 , P2, pendant leur course (figure 6c). De telles membranes sont caractéristiques d'un toucher dit "soft feeling" et sont notamment utilisées pour les commandes électriques de vitres.The present invention also makes it possible to increase the stroke of the lever 13. It is then possible to mount various membranes 18 such as single-acting silicone membranes or even double-acting silicone membranes generating two peaks of effort P1, P2 during their race (Figure 6c). Such membranes are characteristic of a touch called "soft feeling" and are used in particular for the electric controls of windows.
La structure du dispositif de commande de la présente invention permet ainsi d'utiliser n'importe quel type de membranes, en particulier des membranes silicones de type "soft feeling".The structure of the control device of the present invention thus makes it possible to use any type of membrane, in particular silicone membranes of "soft feeling" type.
Lorsque le dispositif de commande 10 intègre ces membranes silicones à doubles actions il est possible de proposer une réponse tactile à deux "clicks". En effet, lorsque l'utilisateur appuie selon une même direction, il va sentir deux pics d'efforts consécutifs. Chacun de ces deux pics se traduit par une action différente. Par exemple, le premier click fournit les mêmes fonctionnalités que sur un joystick de navigation conventionnel comme le déplacement incrémental vers le haut ou le bas dans une liste. Ensuite, le deuxième click permet un accès à un deuxième niveau d'action et permet de développer des fonctionnalités telles que le "page Up/page Down" comparable à celles utilisées sur les claviers (saut d'une page vers le haut ou le bas dans une liste). Egalement, pour les actions gauche ou droite, le double "click" peut consister en une aide contextuelle supplémentaire ou bien encore permettre une navigation plus rapide dans la carte de navigation d'un système de navigation, voire d'activer une autre fonction disponible sur une fenêtre différente de celle initialement activée (donc de "sauter" rapidement d'une fenêtre active à une autre fenêtre, sans avoir à revenir vers un menu principal).When the control device 10 integrates these double-acting silicone membranes it is possible to propose a tactile response with two "clicks". Indeed, when the user presses in the same direction, it will feel two peaks of consecutive efforts. Each of these two peaks results in a different action. For example, the first click provides the same functionality as on a conventional navigation joystick, such as incrementally moving up or down in a list. Then, the second click allows access to a second level of action and allows to develop features such as the "Page Up / Page Down" comparable to those used on keyboards (one page jump up or down in a list). Also, for the left or right actions, the double "click" can consist of additional contextual help or even allow a faster navigation in the navigation map of a navigation system, or even activate another function available on a window different from the one initially activated (thus to "jump" quickly from an active window to another window, without having to return to a main menu).
L'utilisation de membranes silicones à doubles actions permet donc d'obtenir un dispositif de commande 10 disposant d'un appui supplémentaire après le premier appui. Entre ces deux appuis consécutifs, il existe ainsi une course du levier 13 plus ou moins importante suivant le type de membrane utilisé.The use of double-acting silicone membranes thus makes it possible to obtain a control device 10 that has additional support after the first support. Between these two consecutive supports, there is thus a stroke of the lever 13 more or less important depending on the type of membrane used.
La présente invention propose d'utiliser astucieusement cette course pour rendre dynamique l'apparition des menus ou bien encore faire varier la vitesse de défilement dans une liste lorsque l'utilisateur continue d'appuyer sur le bouton de commande 11.The present invention proposes to cleverly use this race to make the appearance of the menus dynamic or to vary the speed of scrolling through a list when the user continues to press the command button 11.
Pour réaliser une telle fonctionnalité, il est cependant nécessaire de réaliser une acquisition continue par détection en permanence de la variation de la position du levier 13. Cette acquisition continue de la position du levier 13 est notamment réalisée au moyen des deux potentiomètres 20. A chaque déplacement de la table 15 correspond une valeur délivrée par les potentiomètres 20.To achieve such a function, however, it is necessary to perform a continuous acquisition by continuously detecting the variation of the position of the lever 13. This continuous acquisition of the position of the lever 13 is in particular carried out by means of the two potentiometers 20. At each displacement of the table 15 corresponds to a value delivered by the potentiometers 20.
Contrairement aux systèmes existants réalisant uniquement l'acquisition d'une position par course, l'acquisition continue de la présente invention fournit une richesse supplémentaire d'informations en permettant à l'électronique de connaître en permanence la position du levier 13 grâce aux deux potentiomètres 20. La connaissance de la position permanente du levier 13 permet ainsi de développer une gestion d'intention. Avant même que le premier appui arrive, l'électronique détecte l'intention de l'utilisateur. Il est alors possible d'anticiper les besoins de l'utilisateur pour afficher par exemple des effets graphiques à l'écran lors du passage d'un objet à un autre, d'une fenêtre à une autre, d'un menu à un autre...Unlike existing systems that only acquire one position per stroke, the continuous acquisition of the present invention provides an additional wealth of information by allowing the electronics to permanently know the position of the lever 13 through two potentiometers 20. Knowledge of the permanent position of the lever 13 thus makes it possible to develop an intention management. Even before the first support arrives, the electronics detects the intention of the user. It is then possible to anticipate the needs of the user to display for example graphic effects on the screen during the passage from one object to another, from one window to another, from one menu to another ...
Bien entendu, la présente invention ne se limite pas à la forme de réalisation préférentielle décrite ci-dessus à titre d'exemple non limitatif. Elle concerne également toutes les variantes de réalisation possibles dans le cadre des revendications ci-après. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiment described above by way of non-limiting example. It also relates to all possible embodiments within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1] Dispositif de commande (10) d'un appareil électronique comportant: un levier (13) muni d'une première extrémité (131 ) et d'une seconde extrémité (132), un bouton de commande (11 ) muni d'une face inférieure (112) le dit bouton étant solidaire en translation et rotation du levier, un circuit imprimé (30) positionné parallèlement à la face inférieure (112), la dite première extrémité (131 ) du levier étant perpendiculaire à ladite face inférieure (112) et le levier (13) traversant perpendiculairement le circuit imprimé (30) de part en part, - une table (15) mobile :1] A control device (10) for an electronic apparatus comprising: a lever (13) having a first end (131) and a second end (132), a control button (11) having a lower face (112) said button being integral in translation and rotation of the lever, a printed circuit (30) positioned parallel to the lower face (112), said first end (131) of the lever being perpendicular to said lower face (112); ) and the lever (13) traversing perpendicularly the printed circuit (30) from one side to the other, - a mobile table (15):
- couplée mécaniquement au levier (13),- mechanically coupled to the lever (13),
- située entre la face inférieure (112) et le circuit imprimé (30) de façon à être positionnée parallèlement à ladite face inférieure (112),located between the lower face (112) and the printed circuit (30) so as to be positioned parallel to said lower face (112),
- comportant une pluralité de facettes (153), chacune des facettes (153) correspondant à une direction sélectionnable par l'actionnement du bouton de commande (11 ), une pluralité de membranes (18), chacune positionnée en regard d'une facette (153) de la table (15),having a plurality of facets (153), each of the facets (153) corresponding to a direction selectable by the actuation of the control knob (11), a plurality of membranes (18), each positioned facing a facet ( 153) of the table (15),
- une pluralité de pistons (16) chacun en contact d'une facette (153) de la table (15) et placé en regard de la membrane (18) correspondante, de telle manière que chaque membrane (18) est adaptée pour être actionnée par le piston (16) correspondant lors du mouvement du levier (13) selon une direction sélectionnée par l'actionnement du bouton de commande (11 ), afin de découpler mécaniquement chaque membrane et chaque action mécanique du bouton de commande (11 ), caractérisé en ce que la table (15) comporte au moins un système d'entraînement (19) relié mécaniquement à un potentiomètre (20), afin de détecter tout mouvement du levier (13) et de le retransmettre au circuit imprimé (30) pour traitement.a plurality of pistons (16) each in contact with a facet (153) of the table (15) and placed facing the corresponding membrane (18), in such a way that each membrane (18) is adapted to be actuated by the piston (16) corresponding to the movement of the lever (13) in a direction selected by the actuation of the control knob (11), in order to mechanically decouple each membrane and each mechanical action of the control button (11), characterized in that the table (15) comprises at least one drive system (19) mechanically connected to a potentiometer (20), in order to detect any movement of the lever (13) and to retransmit it to the printed circuit (30) for processing .
2] Dispositif de commande selon l'une des revendications 1 ou 2 caractérisé en ce que chaque membrane (18) est logée dans un logement de membrane (17). 3] Dispositif de commande selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3 caractérisé en ce que chaque membrane (18) est réalisée dans un matériau en silicone. 4] Dispositif de commande selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4 caractérisé en ce que la table (15) est couplée mécaniquement à un moyen de guidage en translation (84). 5] Dispositif de commande selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5 caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte en outre un dispositif de rotation (80) du bouton de commande (1 1 ) positionné en dessous et en regard du circuit imprimé (30), ladite seconde extrémité (132) du levier (13) étant couplée mécaniquement au dispositif de rotation (80).2] Control device according to one of claims 1 or 2 characterized in that each membrane (18) is housed in a membrane housing (17). 3] Control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 characterized in that each membrane (18) is made of a silicone material. 4] Control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that the table (15) is mechanically coupled to a translation guide means (84). 5] Control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 characterized in that it further comprises a rotation device (80) of the control button (1 1) positioned below and facing the printed circuit (30), said second end (132) of the lever (13) being mechanically coupled to the rotation device (80).
6] Dispositif de commande selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de rotation comporte en outre un encodeur à effet Hall (60).6] Control device according to claim 6 characterized in that the rotation device further comprises a Hall effect encoder (60).
7] Dispositif de commande selon la revendication 7 caractérisé en ce que l'encodeur à effet Hall (60) comporte un aimant (61 ) et au moins trois capteurs de champ magnétique7] Control device according to claim 7 characterized in that the Hall effect encoder (60) comprises a magnet (61) and at least three magnetic field sensors
(62). (62).
PCT/EP2008/010175 2007-12-04 2008-12-01 Control device for electronic apparatus WO2009071258A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0708459A FR2924529B1 (en) 2007-12-04 2007-12-04 DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
FR0708459 2007-12-04

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2009071258A1 true WO2009071258A1 (en) 2009-06-11

Family

ID=39619326

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2008/010175 WO2009071258A1 (en) 2007-12-04 2008-12-01 Control device for electronic apparatus

Country Status (2)

Country Link
FR (1) FR2924529B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2009071258A1 (en)

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0016886A1 (en) * 1979-03-29 1980-10-15 Atari Inc. X-Y controller
US4469330A (en) * 1982-01-07 1984-09-04 Atari, Inc. Controller unit for video game
DE3930754C1 (en) * 1989-09-14 1991-04-11 Leopold Kostal Gmbh & Co Kg, 5880 Luedenscheid, De Electrical four-way switch - has joystick moving block operating leaf springs of snap-action switches
EP0466298A1 (en) * 1990-07-11 1992-01-15 Williams Electronics Games, Inc. Improved optical dual-function joystick for electronic games
US20020000971A1 (en) * 1992-03-05 2002-01-03 Armstrong Brad A. Image controller
EP1215556A2 (en) * 2000-12-13 2002-06-19 Marquardt GmbH Electric switch
EP1715401A1 (en) * 2005-04-22 2006-10-25 Marquardt GmbH Electric switch
US20070077058A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2007-04-05 Masaki Kontani Multi-directional operation switch and switch device using the same

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0016886A1 (en) * 1979-03-29 1980-10-15 Atari Inc. X-Y controller
US4469330A (en) * 1982-01-07 1984-09-04 Atari, Inc. Controller unit for video game
DE3930754C1 (en) * 1989-09-14 1991-04-11 Leopold Kostal Gmbh & Co Kg, 5880 Luedenscheid, De Electrical four-way switch - has joystick moving block operating leaf springs of snap-action switches
EP0466298A1 (en) * 1990-07-11 1992-01-15 Williams Electronics Games, Inc. Improved optical dual-function joystick for electronic games
US20020000971A1 (en) * 1992-03-05 2002-01-03 Armstrong Brad A. Image controller
EP1215556A2 (en) * 2000-12-13 2002-06-19 Marquardt GmbH Electric switch
EP1715401A1 (en) * 2005-04-22 2006-10-25 Marquardt GmbH Electric switch
US20070077058A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2007-04-05 Masaki Kontani Multi-directional operation switch and switch device using the same

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2924529B1 (en) 2012-05-11
FR2924529A1 (en) 2009-06-05

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3201713B1 (en) Control device with knob
EP2033063B1 (en) Electrical control (control-by-wire) device
EP2204719B1 (en) Joystick comprising Hall sensor and production process.
EP4154089A1 (en) Control interface with haptic feedback
FR2899719A1 (en) ELECTRICAL SWITCH WITH MULTIPLE SWITCHES
EP0001031B1 (en) Push button switch with snap action
FR2860097A1 (en) KEYBOARD PROVIDED WITH BUTTONS AND BUTTON EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A KEYBOARD, PARTICULARLY FOR A CONTROL PANEL OF A MOTOR VEHICLE.
EP2372915B1 (en) Human machine interface, in particular, for a vehicle
EP0189338B1 (en) Device for the detection of gear changing for a clutch control system linked to a gearbox
FR2942052A1 (en) MINI-JOYSTICK HALL EFFECT WITH DETECTION OF SUPPORT, AND CORRESPONDING CONTROL DEVICE
EP2710443B1 (en) Multifunction button and apparatus
WO2021170956A1 (en) Control device intended to control a function of a motor vehicle
EP0383688B1 (en) Manual gearbox ratio-detecting device associated with a linkage of a control system for an automatic clutch
EP2342728B1 (en) Keypad with long key travel and improved touch feeling
WO2009071258A1 (en) Control device for electronic apparatus
EP1803046B1 (en) Lever control device, in particular for controlling units of a motor vehicle
WO2019053066A1 (en) Control device for a human-machine interface, comprising electroactive elements
WO2015086926A1 (en) Proximity detector
EP1662531A2 (en) Control knob for mechanical encoder
EP3827455B1 (en) Control module with toggle switches
WO2010046495A1 (en) Control device with haptic feedback
FR2998414A1 (en) "IMPROVED DRUM CONTROL DEVICE AND MULTIPLE SWITCHING PATH"
FR3077416A1 (en) MANUAL CONTROL DEVICE AND WHEEL EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE
FR3077417A1 (en) MANUAL CONTROL DEVICE AND WHEEL EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE
EP1607268B1 (en) Mechanical indexing, especially for an electrical switch

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 08857481

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 08857481

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1