Behr-Hella Thermocontrol GmbH

Germany

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United States - USPTO
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Date
2023 4
2022 10
2021 6
2020 5
2019 8
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IPC Class
B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs 24
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer 19
B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments 17
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means 16
H03K 17/96 - Touch switches 10
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Status
Pending 8
Registered / In Force 49
Found results for  patents

1.

DEVICE FOR DISPLAYING INFORMATION, IN PARTICULAR FOR A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 18018917
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-08-05
First Publication Date 2023-09-28
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Siekkinen, Tuomas
  • Bergmann, Remi

Abstract

The device for displaying information, in particular for a vehicle, is provided with a display unit having a plurality of pixels and having a front side forming the display surface for displaying information and a rear side facing away from the front side. Furthermore, the device comprises a backlighting unit for emitting backlight towards the rear side of the display unit for backlighting the same, and an adjustable transreflective layer between the backlighting unit and the display unit. The adjustable transreflective layer has an array of segments, each of which is controllable by means of an electric control signal to adjust the degree of transmission and/or reflection and is thus dimmable. The contrast of information shown on the display surface can be adjusted by dimming, as a result of controlling the segments, those pixels of the display unit which are arranged in alignment with the segment or segments concerned and are assigned to the same.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G09G 3/34 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G09G 3/36 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix by control of light from an independent source using liquid crystals
  • G02F 1/137 - Devices or arrangements for the control of the intensity, colour, phase, polarisation or direction of light arriving from an independent light source, e.g. switching, gating or modulating; Non-linear optics for the control of the intensity, phase, polarisation or colour based on liquid crystals, e.g. single liquid crystal display cells characterised by the electro-optical or magneto-optical effect, e.g. field-induced phase transition, orientation effect, guest-host interaction or dynamic scattering
  • F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems
  • G02F 1/1347 - Arrangement of liquid crystal layers or cells in which the final condition of one light beam is achieved by the addition of the effects of two or more layers or cells
  • G02F 1/13357 - Illuminating devices

2.

OPERATING UNIT FOR A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 17928555
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-04-19
First Publication Date 2023-09-07
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Fust, Winfried

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle includes an operating element having an operating surface movable in an actuating direction from a rest position into a function-triggering position and from the function-triggering position back to the rest position by means of depressing. A parallel guiding device ensures that the operating surface moves in parallel. The parallel guiding device is provided with at least one pair of engaging first and second levers which are mounted in an articulated manner with play on support elements being in turn connected to the operating element. The support elements are axially guided on a carrier element. The levers are pivotably mounted on bearing blocks, substantially free of play, so that the operating element behaves substantially free of play in directions transverse to the depressing movement. The parallel guiding device is designed in compliance with tolerances that are comparatively easy to realize in terms of manufacture.

IPC Classes  ?

3.

EXTENDABLE AND RETRACTABLE DISPLAY DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 18018111
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-09-23
First Publication Date 2023-08-24
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Landgräber, Björn

Abstract

The extendable and retractable display device is provided with a flexible display foil which is stiffened by a flexible display foil carrier. The display foil and the display foil carrier can be moved into a housing and back out of this housing by being bent. This is implemented by means of at least one actuator, the lower end of which is supported in the housing and the upper end of which is connected to the upper end of the display foil carrier. The housing comprises a guiding means for deflecting the display foil and the display foil carrier when retracting and extending the display.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05K 5/02 - Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus - Details

4.

OPERATING DEVICE INTENDED TO BE INSTALLED IN A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 17921246
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-04-26
First Publication Date 2023-04-06
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Nagel, Dirk
  • Stallein, Matthias

Abstract

The operating device (10,10′) intended to be installed in a vehicle is provided with a housing (12) and an operating element (14,14′) which is movably mounted in and/or on the housing (12) and can be manually transferred from a rest position to a function-triggering position. Furthermore, the operating device (10, 10′) is provided with a switch (22) which is adapted to be actuated by the operating element (14, 14′) when it is manually transferred to the function-triggering position, a holding-force generation unit (26, 26′) for generating a holding force with which the operating element (14, 14′) is held in its rest position, and a control unit (32) for electrically controlling the holding-force generation unit for the purpose of setting the holding force.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05K 5/00 - Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
  • H01F 7/20 - Electromagnets; Actuators including electromagnets without armatures

5.

Display device having integrated, optically operating proximity sensor system

      
Application Number 17760687
Grant Number 11953770
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-21
First Publication Date 2022-12-08
Grant Date 2024-04-09
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Sanchez Castillo, Alberto
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Hofman, Willem
  • Wu, Jeah-Sheng
  • Schmidt, Rüdiger

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device having an integrated, optically operating proximity sensor system (76) for detecting an object present within an observation space in front of the display device, such as a hand or a finger of a hand of a person. The display device is provided with a display unit (11) which has a front side (60) having an information-displaying display surface (62) and having an edge region (64), which adjoins said display surface and is not used for the display of information, and a rear side. The display device also has a proximity sensor system (76) having at least one transmitter (78) for emitting sensor radiation towards the observation space and having at least one receiver (74) for receiving sensor radiation reflected from the observation space. Said proximity sensor system (76) is arranged at least partially in the edge region (64) of the front side (60) of the display unit (11) in which at least one receiver of the proximity sensor system (76) is arranged in thin-film technology. The at least one transmitter (78) of the proximity sensor system (76) can be integrated either below the display unit (11) or therein.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G02F 1/1333 - Constructional arrangements
  • G02F 1/1335 - Structural association of cells with optical devices, e.g. polarisers or reflectors
  • G02F 1/1362 - Active matrix addressed cells
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer

6.

Operating device for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17762555
Grant Number 11756753
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-29
First Publication Date 2022-10-27
Grant Date 2023-09-12
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kleine-Hollenhorst, Holger
  • Arens, Michael

Abstract

The operating device for a vehicle is provided with a housing having a front wall. At least one operating element is arranged on the front wall and can be manually actuated starting from a rest position for the purpose of entering a command or activating a function. The operating element is associated with a switch having a switching member on which the operating key acts during manual operation. Furthermore, a support element is arranged in the housing at a distance from the operating element, on which support element the switch associated with the operating element is arranged, the support element having a bending bar with an upper side facing the operating element and a lower side facing away from the upper side, and the switch being arranged on the bending bar. Finally, the operating device is provided with an adjustment member acting on the bending bar for adjusting the bending position of the bending bar relative to the operating element in its resting position and for maintaining and thus stabilizing the bending bar in its adjusted bending position when the operating element acts on the switching member. The adjustment member comprises a threaded sleeve with an internal thread and a self-tapping adjustment screw with a threaded shaft, wherein the internal thread of the threaded sleeve and the external thread of the threaded shaft of the self-tapping adjustment screw have the same or substantially the same pitch.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01H 13/14 - Operating parts, e.g. push-button
  • H01H 13/04 - Cases; Covers
  • H01H 13/70 - Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch having a plurality of operating members associated with different sets of contacts, e.g. keyboard
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs

7.

Operating unit for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17608900
Grant Number 11691513
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-05-11
First Publication Date 2022-09-15
Grant Date 2023-07-04
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Stallein, Matthias
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Bandlow, Bastian

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating unit for a vehicle, provided with an operating element (12) having an operating interface (14) with multiple symbol fields (16), to which are assigned operating functions that can be triggered with the actuation of the operating element (12). The operating element (12) is arranged on a support structure (18) such that it can be pressed down in a resettable manner and by means of an actuation object, in particular by means of the finger of a hand. The operating unit (10) is also provided with a mechanical switch (22) which can be actuated when pressing down the operating element (12), a controllable press-down force threshold switching device (34) for switching the force to be overcome to press down the operating element (12) between a first threshold value and a second threshold value that is smaller in comparison to the first threshold value, an actuation sensor system (30) for detecting whether, when the operating element (12) is actuated, the actuation object contacts same within one of the symbol fields (16) of the operating interface (14), and an evaluation and control unit (32) which receives signals from the actuation sensor system (30) or, inter alia, from the actuation sensor system (30), and which only causes the press-down force threshold switching device (34) or, inter alia, the press-down force threshold switching device (34) to switch from the first threshold value to the second threshold value by changing its control, when the actuation object within one of the symbol fields is in contact with the operating interface (14) within one of the symbol fields (16) with an actuation of the operating element (12). An electromagnet or permanent holding electromagnet (40) is used as the press-down force threshold switching device (34).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs

8.

Display device for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17613313
Grant Number 11966253
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-05-27
First Publication Date 2022-07-21
Grant Date 2024-04-23
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Hagen, Andreas
  • Fust, Winfried

Abstract

The display device (12) for a vehicle is provided with a display (18) having a display surface (20) on a front side and having a rear side facing away from the latter and a cover screen (14) arranged in front of the display surface (20). Furthermore, the display device (12) has a decorative frame (16) which is connected to the edge of the cover screen (14) and protrudes on all sides over the edge of the display (18), and a rear-side housing shell (17) which has a rear wall (36) with an edge web (38) rising from the latter. The rear wall (36) of the housing shell (17) is arranged at a distance from the rear side of the display (18), wherein the edge web (38) of the housing shell (17) is connected to the decorative frame (16) by means of an adhesive.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 35/50 - Instruments characterised by their means of attachment to or integration in the vehicle (B60K 35/231 takes precedence)
  • B60K 35/22 - Display screens

9.

OPERATING UNIT FOR A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 17612408
Status Pending
Filing Date 2020-05-25
First Publication Date 2022-07-14
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Hagen, Andreas
  • Treuguth, Udo

Abstract

The operating unit (10) for a vehicle is provided with a housing (12) with a front panel (14), which has a recess (16), a display (24) arranged in the housing (12) and having a display area (26), and a fastening device (36) for fastening the display (24) in the housing (12). The fastening device (36) has a holding part (28) for the display (24), which is arranged in the housing (12) so as to be pivotable between a preassembly position and an installation position. The housing (12) also has at least one bearing axle (40). The holding part (28) has at least one bearing shell assembly (32) having at least two gripping-around protrusions (48, 50) for mounting on the bearing axle (40). The bearing axle (40) has a circumferential area along the longitudinal extent and in at least one mounting portion (57) with an outer contour which deviates from a shape complementary to the bearing shell area (52) of the gripping-around protrusions (48, 50) of the at least one bearing shell assembly (32). The bearing axle (40) is also arranged in the housing (12) so as to be oriented in such a way that the at least one bearing shell assembly (32) can be mounted on the bearing axle (40) in the preassembly position of the holding part (28) and, starting from the preassembly position, is pivotable into the installation position. The installation position of the holding part (28) is defined by bearing parts (60, 34) of the housing (12) and holding part (28) abutting on each other. The fastening device also has at least one fastening element (58) for fixing the holding part (28) in its installation position in and/or on the housing (12).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
  • B60R 11/02 - Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof

10.

Operating device for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17284575
Grant Number 11669188
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-07-31
First Publication Date 2022-06-23
Grant Date 2023-06-06
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Kemppinen, Pasi

Abstract

The operating device for a vehicle is provided with a housing having a front face with a receiving opening being delimited by an opening edge, and having a rear wall, and with an operating element being arranged in the receiving opening at a distance from the opening edge thereof and having an operating surface, said operating element having a front face provided with the operating surface, a rear face, and a delimiting edge region. The operating device further comprises a holding element having a bottom wall and support parts which protrude from the bottom wall and end below the delimiting edge region of the operating element and are mechanically coupled to the operating element in the delimiting edge region. The bottom wall of the holding element has a central region which is spaced from the support parts and within which the bottom wall of the holding element is supported against the rear wall of the housing. A manual actuation of the operating element is detected by multiple actuation sensors which are arranged between the bottom wall of the holding element and the rear wall of the housing within the surrounding region that surrounds the central region of the bottom wall of the holding element and is arranged at a distance from the rear wall of the housing. An evaluation unit receives the signals from the actuation sensors and evaluates said signals for the purpose of detecting a manual actuation of the operating element performed with a predefinable minimum pressing force.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems

11.

Operating unit for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17435871
Grant Number 11888372
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-02-13
First Publication Date 2022-05-12
Grant Date 2024-01-30
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kirsch, Stefan
  • Kemppinen, Pasi

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle is provided with a housing and an operating element elastically mounted in and/or on the housing, wherein the elastically mounted operating element forms a spring-mass system having a construction-related resonance frequency. The operating unit is further provided with an actuator for pulse-shaped mechanical excitation of the operating element, and a control unit for controlling the actuator when manually actuating the operating element. The resonance frequency is, due to construction, above the highest cut-off frequency that can typically still be detected by receptors for haptic feedback and/or for tactile sensation of a person. The frequency spectrum of the mechanical pulse at the resonance frequency and/or at one of the harmonics of the resonance frequency has no frequency components in that the power density spectrum above the cut-off frequency is energy-free or substantially energy-free.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02K 35/00 - Generators with reciprocating, oscillating or vibrating coil system, magnet, armature or other part of the magnetic circuit
  • G06F 3/039 - Accessories therefor, e.g. mouse pads
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

12.

Operating device for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17426772
Grant Number 11740700
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-01-30
First Publication Date 2022-03-31
Grant Date 2023-08-29
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kirsch, Stefan
  • Kemppinen, Pasi

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle comprises a housing with an operating element on the front side, wherein the operating element has a display with a display surface and a cover plate, which defines an operating surface of the operating element, and has at least one projection region projecting laterally over the display, and is elastically laterally moveably mounted on and/or in the housing. An actuator is arranged below the cover plate, said actuator having a drive and a control element driven by the drive. The operating unit is also provided with an elastic actuation arm which protrudes from the cover plate and which is mechanically acted upon by the control element of the actuator at a force application point of the actuation arm. The actuation arm has a displacement portion, reaching between the cover plate and the force application point, for laterally shifting the cover plate, and is extended from the displacement portion thereof beyond the force application point, as well as being provided with an extension portion, within which the actuation arm is elastically and mechanically fixed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • H03K 17/965 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch

13.

DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE TEMPERATURE IN THE INTERIOR OF A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 17274634
Status Pending
Filing Date 2019-07-31
First Publication Date 2022-02-17
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Kleine-Hollenhorst, Holger

Abstract

The device for measuring the temperature in the interior of a vehicle is provided with a plug-in housing for plugging into a receiving means on the rear side of a cover element adjacent to the interior, wherein the receiving means comprises a receiving space and the cover element comprises a through-going opening inside the receiving space and the plug-in housing comprises a plug-in end for plugging into the receiving means. Further, the device comprises a locking means for lockingly connecting the plug-in housing to the receiving means when the plug-in end of the plug-in housing is plugged into the receiving space. The device comprises an interior temperature sensor arranged at and/or in the plug-in end of the plug-in housing, wherein the interior temperature sensor projects beyond the plug-in end of the plug-in housing. The device is provided with a biasing means for biasing the plug-in housing away from the cover element for assuming a defined plug-in position of the plug-in housing when the plug-in end of the plug-in housing, when locked with the receiving means, is plugged into the receiving space of the latter and the interior temperature sensor is arranged in the through-going opening of the cover element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01K 1/14 - Supports; Fastening devices; Arrangements for mounting thermometers in particular locations

14.

Method and device for controlling an armature solenoid

      
Application Number 17294734
Grant Number 11961665
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-11-21
First Publication Date 2022-01-20
Grant Date 2024-04-16
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GmbH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kirsch, Stefan
  • Bandlow, Bastian

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for controlling armature solenoid provided with a DC voltage source (14), at least one buffer capacitor (18), which is connected in parallel to the DC voltage source (14) and has a known capacitance (C), and a first switch (28), which is arranged between the DC voltage source (14) and the buffer capacitor (18). The exciter coil (16) and a second switch (30) arranged in series therewith are connected in parallel to the buffer capacitor (18). A control and evaluation unit (22), when the buffer capacitor (18) is charged, opens the first switch (28) and closes the second switch (30) in order to determine, on the basis of the measurement voltage (20), the frequency of the resonant circuit having the capacitance (C) of the buffer capacitor (18) and the inductance (L) of the armature solenoid (12). The inductance (L) of the armature solenoid (12) is determined on the basis of the frequency, and the air gap width (h) of the armature solenoid (12) is determined on the basis of the inductance. The PWM control signal with which the armature solenoid (12) is operable in order to generate a predefined force to be applied by the armature solenoid (12) is applied to the second switch (30) on the basis of a look-up table or a mathematical modelling of the electromagnetic behavior of the armature solenoid (12).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 35/10 - Input arrangements, i.e. from user to vehicle, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor
  • G01R 27/26 - Measuring inductance or capacitance; Measuring quality factor, e.g. by using the resonance method; Measuring loss factor; Measuring dielectric constants
  • H01F 7/18 - Circuit arrangements for obtaining desired operating characteristics, e.g. for slow operation, for sequential energisation of windings, for high-speed energisation of windings
  • B60K 35/25 - using haptic output

15.

VEHICLE OPERATING UNIT WITH TACTILE FEEDBACK

      
Application Number 17272386
Status Pending
Filing Date 2019-09-04
First Publication Date 2021-10-21
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kemppinen, Pasi
  • Kirsch, Stefan

Abstract

The operating unit comprises an operating element which is adapted to be mechanically excited by means of a piezo driver. The piezo driver comprises a piezo actuator made from a piezoelectric material. The longitudinal extension ends of the piezo actuator have mechanically coupled thereto a conversion gear for converting a length change of the piezo actuator occurring in the effective direction of the piezo actuator into a movement of an element, which is coupled to the conversion gear and to be moved, at an angle not equal to 0 degree relative to the longitudinal extension of the piezo actuator. The conversion gear comprises a first bracket which is of an elastic configuration and/or comprises an elastic material and which, in the area of the longitudinal extension ends of the piezo actuator, is mechanically coupled to the latter. The first bracket is provided with a first and a second end portion, where the first bracket is respectively mechanically coupled to the piezo actuator, and between the two end portions, is provided with an oblique first inclined portion and an oblique second inclined portion which is shorter as compared to the first inclined portion. These portions of the bracket extend like the sides of a triangle with an imaginary connecting line extending between the end portions of the bracket as a basis and are elastically connected to each other.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • H01L 41/053 - Mounts, supports, enclosures or casings
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer

16.

Operating unit for a device, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 16330555
Grant Number 11314331
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-08-23
First Publication Date 2021-09-16
Grant Date 2022-04-26
Owner Behr-Hella Thermocontrol GmbH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Pankratz, Harri

Abstract

The operating unit for a device, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with a housing (10) that has a control panel (12) and is provided for attaching in an apparatus, in particular a vehicle dashboard or vehicle center console, the control panel (12) being elastically mounted on the housing (10). Furthermore provided is an actuator (16) for mechanically exciting exclusively the control panel (12) when use of the control panel (12) is detected, the control panel forming the front side of a touch-sensitive touch panel (13). Finally, the operating unit also comprises a vibration compensation mass (20) that is mechanically excitable by the or by an actuator (16) when use of the control panel (12) is detected and is elastically mounted in and/or on the housing (10) and is movable to essentially compensate for a movement of the housing (10) when activating the actuator (16) that can mechanically excite the control panel (12). The operating unit has a backlit display (17) that has a display unit (32) and a backlight unit (34) separate therefrom. The backlight unit (34) or the display unit (32) can operate individually or together as vibration compensation masses (20).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

17.

Operating device for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17053252
Grant Number 11604532
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-05-07
First Publication Date 2021-08-05
Grant Date 2023-03-14
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Trapp, Ralph
  • Steinkamp, Michael

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating device for a vehicle, comprising a display with a touch-sensor system for inputting a command and additionally a retaining device which retains the display. The retaining device has a base face and a free area which is defined by support elements protruding from the base face. The operating device is additionally provided with at least one actuation sensor for detecting a bend of the display upon being manually actuated and an analysis unit which is connected to the touch sensor system and the at least one actuation sensor for analyzing the signals of the touch sensor system and the at least one actuation sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer

18.

DISPLAY DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A VEHICLE

      
Application Number 17046894
Status Pending
Filing Date 2019-04-11
First Publication Date 2021-06-17
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Siekkinen, Tuomas
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Schmidt, Rüdiger
  • Sanchez Castillo, Alberto

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device (210) which is provided with a display (212) and a backlighting unit (218) arranged behind the display (212). The backlighting unit (218) comprises a light guide plate (222) which has an upper light guide plate element (222a) and a lower light guide plate element (222b). Backlight (230) of light sources (220) is fed laterally into the upper light guide plate element (222a), which is emitted from the light emission side (228) of the light guide plate (222) after deflection and scattering within the light guide plate element (222a). Sensor radiation is fed into the lower light guide plate element (222b) by means of proximity sensor system transmitter elements (236), wherein said sensor radiation is likewise emitted from the light emission side (228) of the light guide plate (222) after reflection and scattering. Both light guide plate elements (222a, 222b) are optimized for the wavelengths of the radiation which is fed into the latter. The lateral arrangement of the proximity sensor system transmitter elements (236) and the light sources (220) results in a space-saving arrangement. After reflection on an object located in front of the display (212), the sensor radiation reaches the proximity sensor system receiver elements (238).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments

19.

Operating unit for a device, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 17092544
Grant Number 11458843
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-11-09
First Publication Date 2021-02-25
Grant Date 2022-10-04
Owner Behr-Hella Thermocontrol GmbH (USA)
Inventor
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Bandlow, Bastian
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with a housing (10) which has an operating element (12), such as a display for example, and is designed to be secured in a device, in particular in a vehicle dashboard. The operating element (12) is elastically mounted on the housing (10). An actuator (16) is additionally provided for mechanically exciting the operating element (12) when an operation of the operating element (12) has been detected. Finally, the operating unit also has a vibration compensating mass (20) which can be mechanically excited by the actuator or by one actuator (16) when an operation of the operating element (12) has been detected and/or which is mounted on the housing (10) and can be moved in order to substantially compensate for forces acting on the housing (10) when the operating element (12) is moved.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/02 - Arrangement of instruments

20.

Control device for a vehicle

      
Application Number 17046092
Grant Number 11225146
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-04
First Publication Date 2021-02-04
Grant Date 2022-01-18
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Lamminger, Egbert

Abstract

The operating device (10) for a vehicle is provided with a housing (12) having a front wall (14). On the front wall (14) there is at least one operating element (18) which can be operated manually starting from an initial position for the purpose of inputting a command or activating a function. The operating element (18) has associated therewith a switch (32) having a switching member (36) upon which the operating key acts when manually operated. A supporting element (24) is also situated in the housing (12) at a distance from the operating element (18), on which supporting element (24) the switch (32) associated with the operating element (18) is situated, wherein the supporting element (24) has a flexible bar (40) having an upper surface (42) facing the operating element (18) and a lower surface (44) facing away from the upper surface (42), and the switch (32) is situated on the flexible bar. Finally, the operating device (10) is provided with an adjustment member (46) which acts upon the flexible bar (40) to adjust the bending position of the flexible bar (40) relative to the operating element (18) in the initial position thereof and to maintain and thus stabilize the flexible bar (40) in the adjusted bending position thereof when the operating element (18) acts upon the switching member (36).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches

21.

Operating unit for a vehicle

      
Application Number 16966556
Grant Number 11320908
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-01-21
First Publication Date 2020-11-19
Grant Date 2022-05-03
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kemppinen, Pasi
  • Teikari, Vesa

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating unit for a vehicle, comprising a touchscreen, an actuator for mechanically exciting the touchscreen upon detection of a valid manual actuation of the touchscreen when an operating command is input, and a counterweight. The actuator is designed as a drive unit with a stator and a translator which move in opposite directions either away from each other or towards each other, namely into an end position, starting from a rest position when the drive unit is actuated and which move back into the rest position from the end position after the actuation has ended, in particular in an automatic manner. The stator is coupled to the touchscreen, and the translator is coupled to the counterweight or vice versa.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs

22.

Display device having integrated, optically operating proximity sensor system

      
Application Number 16629416
Grant Number 11281037
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-07-12
First Publication Date 2020-05-14
Grant Date 2022-03-22
Owner Behr-Hella Thermocontrol GmbH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Schmidt, Rüdiger
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Tarnowski, Tomasz

Abstract

The invention relates to a display device having an integrated, optically operating proximity sensor system (30) for detecting an object present within an observation space in front of the display device, such as a hand a finger of a hand of a person. The display device is provided with a display unit (22), which has a front side having an information-displaying display surface (20) and having an edge region (18), which adjoins said display surface and is not used for the display of information, and a rear side. The display device also has a proximity sensor system (30) having at least one transmitter (32) for emitting sensor radiation toward the observation space and having at least one receiver (34) for receiving sensor radiation reflected from the observation space. The proximity sensor system (30) is arranged in the edge region (18) of the front side or the at least one transmitter (32) is arranged on the rear side of the display unit (22) or facing the rear side of the display unit (22) or in the display unit (22) and the at least one receiver (34) is arranged on the front side of the display unit (22) in the edge region (18) adjoining the display surface (20).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G02F 1/1333 - Constructional arrangements
  • G06F 3/042 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by opto-electronic means

23.

Operator control unit for a device

      
Application Number 16629387
Grant Number 11016571
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-07-10
First Publication Date 2020-05-07
Grant Date 2021-05-25
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Trapp, Ralph

Abstract

The operator control unit (10) for a device is provided with an operator control element (14) which has a touch-sensitive operator control surface (16). The operator control element (14) is, for the purpose of being automatically returned to its inoperative position after being deflected out of said inoperative position, elastically mounted in said inoperative position. The mechanical excitation of the operator control element (14) out of its inoperative position for the purpose of tactile feedback in response to operation of the operator control element (14) is performed by means of an actuator (24). A sensor (26) identifies the movement of the operator control element (14) and/or an acceleration and/or force acting on the operator control element (14). When a movement of the operator control element (14) and/or an acceleration and/or force acting on the operator control element (14) are/is identified without sensing contact with the operator control surface (16), the evaluation and actuation unit (22) actuates the actuator (24) to maintain the inoperative position of the operator control element (14) and/or to move the operator control element (14) back to its inoperative position and/or to stabilize the operator control element (14).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60L 53/14 - Conductive energy transfer
  • B60L 53/31 - Charging columns specially adapted for electric vehicles
  • B60L 53/18 - Cables specially adapted for charging electric vehicles
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60L 11/18 - using power supplied from primary cells, secondary cells, or fuel cells
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • H02G 11/00 - Arrangements of electric cables or lines between relatively-movable parts
  • H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
  • H02G 3/04 - Protective tubing or conduits, e.g. cable ladders or cable troughs

24.

Display and operating device for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 16594152
Grant Number 10960763
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-10-07
First Publication Date 2020-01-30
Grant Date 2021-03-30
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The invention relates to a display and operating device (10) for at least one vehicle component, in particular a radio, a CD and/or DVD player or similar audio and/or video player, a navigation device, an infotainment device, a heating, ventilating or aid condition control unit, or a human-machine interface, which is provided with a mechanical control element (18) for setting an operational parameter of at least one first vehicle component and a touch screen (12) for outputting information, and control keys (14) and/or other operational parameters for the first vehicle component and/or at least one second vehicle component. The touch screen (12) comprises a recess (16) and the mechanical operating element (18) is arranged in the recess (16) of the touch screen (12).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • F16H 59/02 - Selector apparatus
  • F16H 63/42 - Ratio indicator devices

25.

Operating unit for a vehicle component, in particular human-machine interface for a vehicle

      
Application Number 16485482
Grant Number 10866644
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-02-16
First Publication Date 2020-01-23
Grant Date 2020-12-15
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kirsch, Stefan
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Kessler, Jan Henning
  • Langener, Sascha

Abstract

The operating unit (10) for a vehicle component is provided with a housing (14) having a frame (16) and a display (62) having a transparent cover pane (18) with an edge (22). A plurality of actuators (24) for introducing flexural waves into the cover pane (18) is arranged along the edge (22) of the cover pane (18). A contact surface (34) is assigned to each actuator (24) on the cover pane (18), by means of which contact surface the actuator (24) acts on the cover pane (18) in order to introduce flexural waves into the cover pane (18). The flexural waves introduced into the cover pane (18) by the actuators (24) are superposed in the cover pane (18) and give the cover pane (18) a tactilely sensible, locally resolved surface structure. The contact surfaces (34) are each arranged at a distance from the frame (16) of the housing (14), and consequently the introduction of flexural waves into the cover pane (18) and/or the propagation of flexural waves in the cover pane (18) is damped for wavelengths or frequencies resulting from the magnitude of the distance. The distance is selected in such a way that flexural waves having frequencies in the audible frequency range are damped.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G06F 3/043 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using propagating acoustic waves

26.

Operating device for a motor vehicle

      
Application Number 16480611
Grant Number 10754451
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-12
First Publication Date 2019-12-26
Grant Date 2020-08-25
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Fischer, Christoph
  • Schwab, Tobias

Abstract

The operating device for a vehicle comprises a capacitively operating touch panel having an upper face with a touch sensitive surface, and an operating unit having a movable operating element which can be grasped manually and has an electrically conductive surface and a plate shaped holding element, provided with an upper face and a lower face facing away from the upper face, on which the operating element is movably arranged and which for its part is arranged on the touch-sensitive surface of the upper face of the touch panel. The operating element comprises at least one wiper, electrically connected to the electrically conductive surface of the operating element, sliding along a sensing path of the upper face of the holding element when the operating element is moved. The holding element comprises alternately successively arranged first sections and second sections along the sensing path. The upper and lower face of the holding element are connected to each other in an electrically conductive manner in each of the first sections and are electrically insulated from each other in each of the second sections.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G09G 5/00 - Control arrangements or circuits for visual indicators common to cathode-ray tube indicators and other visual indicators
  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

27.

Operating unit for a device, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 16481703
Grant Number 11001147
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-30
First Publication Date 2019-12-26
Grant Date 2021-05-11
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kirsch, Stefan
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Nagel, Dirk

Abstract

The operating unit comprises an actuator, which mechanically excites an operating element. The actuator comprises a support strip made of a resilient material. Piezo elements, which are connected to the support strip in a shear-resistant manner, are located on both outer surfaces of the support strip. As a result of the alternate arrangement of the piezo elements, the support strip assumes an undulating form when moving out of its inactivated state. One side of the support strip is mechanically connected to the operating element and the other side is mechanically connected to a counterbalance. The support strip itself is mechanically fixed in the housing. In its inactivated state, the operating element and the counterbalance are at a different distance from one another than in the undulating activated state, wherein they move in opposite directions and thus lead to a compensation of dynamic forces acting on the housing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches

28.

Operating unit for a vehicle

      
Application Number 16315695
Grant Number 10635177
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-07-10
First Publication Date 2019-10-03
Grant Date 2020-04-28
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Pankratz, Harri

Abstract

An infotainment system having an operating element for a vehicle is disclosed. The operating element is mounted in a spring-elastic manner with springs on and/or in a housing along a vertical axis of movement. One or more sensors for detecting an actuating movement of the operating element can also be included. The operating unit can further have an actuator arranged in and/or on the housing for feedback movement of the operator control element. Torques acting at a center of mass of the operating element as a result of the return spring elements can cancel one another out, with the result that during the feedback movement of the operating element along the axis of effective movement of the drive element of the actuator said operating element does not additionally rotate or tilt.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G09G 5/00 - Control arrangements or circuits for visual indicators common to cathode-ray tube indicators and other visual indicators
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G06F 3/0338 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of limited linear or angular displacement of an operating part of the device from a neutral position, e.g. isotonic or isometric joysticks
  • G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum position; Providing feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
  • B06B 1/04 - Processes or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with electromagnetism

29.

Operating device for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 16346695
Grant Number 11097616
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-10-27
First Publication Date 2019-09-12
Grant Date 2021-08-24
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Masthoff, Klaus-Martin
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Stallein, Matthias

Abstract

The operating device for a vehicle component, in particular a human machine interface (HMI) for vehicles, is provided with a housing, comprising a front wall having a front face in particular with a display surface and a rear face facing away from the front face, and an operating element unit which is positioned and/or can be positioned on and/or in front of the front wall of the housing for manually triggering operating functions and/or for manually adjusting parameters of operating functions for a vehicle component. The operating element unit comprises at least one operating element, a display element and/or a display device, an evaluating and control unit assigned to the at least one operating element and to the display element or the display device, and an energy supply unit. In order to supply electric energy to the energy supply unit of the operating element unit, at least one first coil is arranged so as to face the rear face of the front wall, wherein at least one second coil, which is inductively coupled to the at least one first coil and is connected to the energy supply unit, is arranged in and/or on the operating element unit.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60R 16/03 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for supply of electrical power to vehicle subsystems
  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • G06F 3/038 - Control and interface arrangements therefor, e.g. drivers or device-embedded control circuitry
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • H01F 38/18 - Rotary transformers
  • H03K 17/00 - Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and -breaking
  • G08C 17/00 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
  • B60Q 3/14 - Arrangement of lighting devices for vehicle interiors; Lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle interiors for dashboards lighting through the surface to be illuminated
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
  • G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • G05G 1/08 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by rotary movement, e.g. hand wheels

30.

Operating unit for a device, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 16323864
Grant Number 10732716
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-07-10
First Publication Date 2019-05-30
Grant Date 2020-08-04
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Schwab, Tobias
  • Pankratz, Harri

Abstract

The operating unit for a device, particularly for a vehicle component, is provided with a housing that has an operating panel and is provided for attachment in an apparatus, particularly a vehicle dashboard or vehicle center console, the operating panel being elastically mounted on the housing. Further, an actuator for mechanically exciting the operating panel when use of the operating panel is detected is provided. Finally, the operating unit also has a vibration compensation mass that is mechanically excitable by the or by an actuator when use of the operating panel is detected and is elastically mounted in and/or on the housing and is movable to essentially compensate for a motion of the housing when the actuator mechanically exciting the operating panel is activated. The operating unit has a backlit display that has a display unit and a backlight unit separate therefrom. The backlight unit serves as a vibration compensation mass.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/00 - Dashboards

31.

Operating unit for a device, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 16082806
Grant Number 10864821
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-03-20
First Publication Date 2019-03-21
Grant Date 2020-12-15
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Bandlow, Bastian
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with a housing (10) which has an operating element (12), such as a display for example, and is designed to be secured in a device, in particular in a vehicle dashboard. The operating element (12) is elastically mounted on the housing (10). An actuator (16) is additionally provided for mechanically exciting the operating element (12) when an operation of the operating element (12) has been detected. Finally, the operating unit also has a vibration compensating mass (20) which can be mechanically excited by the actuator or by one actuator (16) when an operation of the operating element (12) has been detected and/or which is mounted on the housing (10) and can be moved in order to substantially compensate for forces acting on the housing (10) when the operating element (12) is moved.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60K 37/02 - Arrangement of instruments
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments

32.

Operating unit for vehicle

      
Application Number 15759910
Grant Number 10503260
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-09-12
First Publication Date 2019-02-14
Grant Date 2019-12-10
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Bandlow, Bastian
  • Stallein, Matthias
  • Heeper, Lars

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle is provided with a housing with a front face and an operating element which is arranged on the front face of the housing and has an operating surface. The operating element is mounted in a spring-elastic manner. Furthermore, at least one sensor is provided for detecting an actuation movement of the operating element. The operating unit additionally has at least one actuator for the feedback movement of the operating element in the case of an actuation movement of the operating element detected by the sensor as well as an analysis and control unit which is connected to the at least one sensor and to the actuator. The actuator is designed as an armature-type electromagnet with a first stator which has a first excitation coil, and an armature as a drive element. Furthermore, the armature is provided with a measuring coil to which a measuring voltage is applied when the magnetic flux generated by the first excitation coil flows through the armature. The first excitation coil and the measuring coil are connected to the analysis and control unit, and with the analysis and control unit it is possible to apply open-loop and/or closed-loop control to the force with which the armature of the actuator can move towards the first stator and/or the displacement movement of the armature out of its rest position and the return movement of the armature back into its rest position are adapted to be controlled and/or regulated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum position; Providing feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
  • H01F 7/16 - Rectilinearly-movable armatures
  • G05G 1/02 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by linear movement, e.g. push buttons
  • B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention

33.

Operating unit for a vehicle

      
Application Number 16072764
Grant Number 10514764
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-01-24
First Publication Date 2019-01-31
Grant Date 2019-12-24
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Vogt, Frank
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Karliczek, Markus
  • Treuguth, Udo

Abstract

An operating unit for a vehicle, e.g., an infotainment system for controlling diverse vehicle components, can include a housing and an operating element mounted in a spring-elastic manner on and/or in the housing along a vertical axis of movement extending substantially orthogonally to the operating surface and along a lateral axis of movement extending substantially transversely to the vertical axis of movement. The operating unit can also include at least one sensor for detecting an actuating movement of the operating element in the direction of the vertical axis of movement and an actuator arranged in and/or on the housing for the feedback movement of the operating element at least also in the lateral axis of movement during a detected actuating movement of the operating element, and a spring frame for the spring-elastic mounting of the operating element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G09G 5/00 - Control arrangements or circuits for visual indicators common to cathode-ray tube indicators and other visual indicators
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum position; Providing feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means

34.

Indictor apparatus for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 15776857
Grant Number 10343521
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-11-18
First Publication Date 2018-11-15
Grant Date 2019-07-09
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Beschnitt, Alexander

Abstract

The indicator apparatus (30) for a vehicle component, in particular for a human-human interface for the indicator and, where necessary, for entering operating parameters for a vehicle component, is provided with a housing (12) comprising a front side (14) and a display unit (10), which is arranged on the front side (14) of the housing (12) and/or forms the front side (14) of the housing (12), for displaying operating parameters of a vehicle component and possibly symbols fields for entering commands and operating parameters for a vehicle component. The indicator apparatus (30) is furthermore provided with a deformable delay element (32), arranged in the housing (12) behind the display unit (10), for delaying acceleration movements that act on the display unit (10) in the direction of the interior of the housing (12) as a result of an object striking the display unit (10). The delay element (32) has a greater stiffness in a center region (34) that is in alignment with the region of the center of the display unit (10) than in a region (36, 38) of the delay element (32) that is in alignment with a region of the display unit (10) that adjoins the region of the center of the display unit (10) and extends in the direction of the edge of the display unit (10) and/or as far as the edge thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16F 7/12 - Vibration-dampers; Shock-absorbers using plastic deformation of members
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs

35.

Operating unit for a vehicle

      
Application Number 15759926
Grant Number 10558276
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-09-06
First Publication Date 2018-09-06
Grant Date 2020-02-11
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Beschnitt, Alexander

Abstract

The operating unit for a vehicle is provided with a housing with a front face and an operating element arranged on the front face of the housing and having a center of gravity and an operating surface. Said operating element is mounted on and/or in the housing in a spring-elastic manner along a vertical axis of movement extending essentially orthogonally to the operating surface and along a lateral movement axis extending essentially transversely with respect thereto. At least one sensor for detecting an actuation movement of the operating element in the direction of the vertical movement axis is provided. Also, the operating unit comprises an actuator arranged in and/or on the housing for feedback movement of the operating element at least also in the lateral movement axis during a detected actuating movement of the operating element, wherein the actuator comprises an electromagnetically controllable drive element which is mechanically coupled to the operating element which can be moved back and forth along a movement axis. The center of gravity of the operating element lies on the movement axis of the drive element of the actuator.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/0338 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of limited linear or angular displacement of an operating part of the device from a neutral position, e.g. isotonic or isometric joysticks
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum position; Providing feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs

36.

Display and operating device for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 15568401
Grant Number 10464422
Status In Force
Filing Date 2016-05-06
First Publication Date 2018-04-12
Grant Date 2019-11-05
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The invention relates to a display and operating device (10) for at least one vehicle component, in particular a radio, a CD and/or DVD player or similar audio and/or video player, a navigation device, an infotainment device, a heating, ventilating or aid condition control unit, or a human-machine interface, which is provided with a mechanical control element (18) for setting an operational parameter of at least one first vehicle component and a touch screen (12) for outputting information, and control keys (14) and/or other operational parameters for the first vehicle component and/or at least one second vehicle component. The touch screen (12) comprises a recess (16) and the mechanical operating element (18) is arranged in the recess (16) of the touch screen (12).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • F16H 59/02 - Selector apparatus
  • F16H 63/42 - Ratio indicator devices

37.

Operating unit for an electrical apparatus employing both tilt and pivot sensors

      
Application Number 15327669
Grant Number 10418992
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-07-08
First Publication Date 2018-02-01
Grant Date 2019-09-17
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Steinkamp, Michael

Abstract

An operating unit for an electrical apparatus is provided with a housing, an operating strip and a support element arranged in the housing. The operating strip is mounted on the support element about a tilt axis extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the operating strip. The support element is tiltable parallel to the longitudinal direction of the operating strip. The support element is elastically prestressed, into a pivot position, which is detected by a pivot position sensor. Two tilt detection sensors detect a tilting of the operating strip about the tilt axis when it is actuated. The operating unit is provided with a controller for receiving signals and determining the operating field on which a finger is applied with an actuating force required for adopting the pivot position of the support element and triggering the function associated with the determined operating field.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • H03K 17/965 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • H01H 23/12 - Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
  • H03K 17/97 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch using a magnetic movable element
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • H01H 23/04 - Cases; Covers

38.

Operating unit for an electrical apparatus, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 15327469
Grant Number 09979391
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-07-08
First Publication Date 2017-06-01
Grant Date 2018-05-22
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Beschnitt, Alexander
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Steinkamp, Michael
  • Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating unit (10) for an electrical apparatus, in particular a vehicle component such as, for example, a heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning installation, which is provided with a housing (12) having a front wall (14), with an operating strip (18) that projects beyond the front wall (14), which has an elongated operating surface (20) with a plurality of adjacently arranged operating fields (22, 24, 26, 28, 30), and with a support element (32) for the operating strip (18), which is arranged in the housing (12). The operating strip (18) is connected to the support element (32) by means of connecting webs (48) which protrude in the respective areas between the operating panels (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) of the operating strip (18). Flexible webs (50), which protrude from the operating strip (18) for each operating field and are connected to the support element (32), are arranged between the connecting webs (48), namely in an elastic manner and more flexible than the connections of the operating strip (18) to the support element (32) via the connecting webs (48). At least one operating field actuation sensor (70, 72) for detecting a local bending of the operating strip (18), when a manual actuating force is exerted on a operating field (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) of the operating strip (18), is arranged on the support element (32) for each flexible web (50). In addition, the operating unit (10) comprises an evaluation and operating unit (78) for receiving the signals of the operating panel actuating sensors (70, 72) and for determining, on the basis of said signals, the operating field (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) on which, upon manual actuation of the operating strip (18), the finger of one hand is applied, and for triggering an apparatus function that is associated with the respective operating field (22, 24, 26, 28, 30) corresponding to the determined operating field (22, 24, 26, 28, 30).

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • H01H 15/14 - Operating parts adapted for actuation at a limit or other predetermined position in the path of a body, the relative movement of switch and body being primarily for a purpose other than the actuation of the switch, e.g. door switch, limit switch, floor-levelling swi
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices

39.

Operating unit for an electrical apparatus

      
Application Number 15327452
Grant Number 10229795
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-07-10
First Publication Date 2017-05-25
Grant Date 2019-03-12
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Steinkamp, Michael

Abstract

The operating unit (10) for an electrical appliance, in particular a vehicle component such as a heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning system, is provided with an operating element (16) which can be pressed down in a direction of actuation (28), and a support element (24) which is mechanically coupled to the operating element (16) and on which the operating element (16) is elastically supported so as to be movable in the direction of actuation (28). The operating element (10) further comprises a sensor (30) for detecting the motion of the operating element (16) when the latter is pressed down, and/or for detecting a force applied to the operating element (16), an actuator (36) for moving the support element (24) and the operating element (16) coupled thereto, and an evaluation and drive unit (34) connected to the sensor (30) and to the actuator (36) for driving the actuator (36) when the sensor (30) detects the motion of the operating element (16) as a result of the latter being pressed down, and/or a force applied to the operating element (16). The support element (24) can be moved by the actuator (36) in at least one direction of movement (38) transverse to the direction of actuation (28) of the operating element (16).

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01H 13/10 - Bases; Stationary contacts mounted thereon
  • G05G 1/02 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by linear movement, e.g. push buttons
  • G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum position; Providing feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
  • G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
  • G06F 3/0362 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
  • H01H 13/14 - Operating parts, e.g. push-button
  • B60K 35/00 - Arrangement or adaptations of instruments
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs

40.

Operating device for an electrical apparatus, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 15102693
Grant Number 09698775
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-12-09
First Publication Date 2016-10-27
Grant Date 2017-07-04
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Marquas, Karsten

Abstract

The operating device for an electrical apparatus or a system, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with at least one elastically mounted operating element (12), a counter-element (14), relative to which the at least one operating element (12) is movable when actuated, thereby varying the distance, namely as seen in the movement direction, and at least one capacitor (38) which comprises a first carrier body (20) with a first capacitor electrode (34) and an elastically bendable second carrier body (22), designed as a bending bar, having a first end (26) and a second end (32) opposite said first end and having a second capacitor electrode (36) opposite the first capacitor electrode (34). Connected to the first and second capacitor electrode (34, 36) is an evaluation unit (42) for determining the capacitance and/or a change in the capacitance of the at least one capacitor (38) upon actuation of the at least one operating element (12).

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • H03K 17/975 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch using a capacitive movable element

41.

Capacitive sensor for detecting the movement of an object

      
Application Number 14409547
Grant Number 09638587
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-06-12
First Publication Date 2015-11-26
Grant Date 2017-05-02
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Marquas, Karsten
  • Steinkamp, Michael
  • Schluter, Dirk

Abstract

A capacitive sensor for detecting the movement of an object, such as actuation of a key of an operating unit, includes first and second electrodes that are provided for connection or mechanical coupling to or arrangement on the object, the distance of which second electrode from the first electrode changes when the object moves. The electrodes form a first capacitor with a volume between the electrodes, the size of which changes when the object moves. An evaluation unit determines a change of capacitance between the two electrodes resulting from a change of their spacing and volume. A deformable, non-gaseous first dielectric is arranged between the electrodes and defines at least one gas volume that is filled by a gaseous second dielectric that can escape from the gas volume when the two electrodes approach one another.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01L 1/00 - Measuring force or stress, in general
  • G01L 1/14 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in capacitance or inductance of electrical elements, e.g. by measuring variations of frequency of electrical oscillators
  • G01D 5/241 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying capacitance by relative movement of capacitor electrodes
  • G06F 3/0338 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user; Accessories therefor with detection of limited linear or angular displacement of an operating part of the device from a neutral position, e.g. isotonic or isometric joysticks
  • H01G 5/013 - Dielectrics
  • H03K 17/975 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch using a capacitive movable element

42.

Operating device, in particular for a vehicle component, and method for the production thereof

      
Application Number 14442916
Grant Number 09869344
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-11-13
First Publication Date 2015-11-19
Grant Date 2018-01-16
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Lamminger, Egbert
  • Treuguth, Udo

Abstract

The operating device, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with a rotary operating element (18), which can be rotated about a rotation axis (20) and is formed as a plastic injection-molded part, which is produced in a molding die (48) having a die separation plane (46), and with a bearing unit (12), on which the rotary operating element (18) is mounted such that it can rotate about the rotation axis (20). The bearing unit (12) has a first bearing element (14), which is formed as a plastic injection-molded part, which is produced in a molding die (28) having a die separation plane (34). The first bearing element (14) has a bearing surface (26), which extends in a radial plane to the rotation axis (20) and concentrically to same, and the rotary operating element (18) has a contact surface (36), which bears against the bearing surface (26) and likewise extends in a radial plane to the rotation axis (20) and concentrically to same. Either the bearing surface (26) of the first bearing element (14) or the contact surface (36) of the rotary operating element (18) is arranged outside the die separation plane (34; 46) of the injection-molding die (28; 48) for said relevant element (14; 18), and the other of the two surfaces (26; 36) is arranged in the die separation plane (34; 46) of the injection-molding die (28; 48) of said relevant element (14; 18).

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16C 43/02 - Assembling sliding-contact bearings
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • F16C 17/02 - Sliding-contact bearings for exclusively rotary movement for radial load only
  • B29C 45/00 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C 45/26 - Moulds
  • B29L 31/04 - Bearings
  • B29L 19/00 - Buttons or semi-finished parts of buttons
  • H01H 3/10 - Means for securing to shaft of driving mechanism

43.

Capacitive sensor for detecting a relative movement of two adjacent bodies

      
Application Number 14443697
Grant Number 09464922
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-11-19
First Publication Date 2015-10-22
Grant Date 2016-10-11
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Marquas, Karsten

Abstract

A capacitive sensor for detecting relative movement of adjacent bodies includes a first electrode on a first electrode supporting body, and a second electrode opposite the first electrode on a second electrode supporting body. The second electrode supporting body is a resilient film element supported on the first electrode supporting body by spaced-apart support sections. A pressure body includes two pressure projections that rest, in the region between the support sections, against the side of the second electrode supporting body facing away from the second electrode and that press against the second electrode supporting body while bending it when there is a relative movement between the first electrode supporting body and the second pressure body. The second electrode is secured to the second electrode supporting body only in a securing section substantially in the center between pressure regions at which the pressure projections rest against the second electrode supporting body.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01R 27/26 - Measuring inductance or capacitance; Measuring quality factor, e.g. by using the resonance method; Measuring loss factor; Measuring dielectric constants
  • G01D 5/241 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying capacitance by relative movement of capacitor electrodes
  • G01L 1/14 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations in capacitance or inductance of electrical elements, e.g. by measuring variations of frequency of electrical oscillators

44.

Operating device for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 14443717
Grant Number 09592735
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-11-19
First Publication Date 2015-10-15
Grant Date 2017-03-14
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Marquas, Karsten

Abstract

The operating device (12) for a vehicle component, especially a radio, a CD and/or DVD player, a navigation device, an infotainment device, a controller for a heating or air-conditioning device, or a man-machine interface, comprises a housing (10) having a front face (14) and a longitudinally extending key body (26) that has an actuation end (24) projecting over the front face (14) of the housing (10) and a bearing end arranged inside the housing (10). The actuation end (24) has an upper side (42) and a lower side (46) that extend across the front face (14) at a non-zero angle and project therefrom, and can be actuated to input an operating command by manually exerting force onto the upper or lower side (42, 46). The operating device further comprises a support (28) which has a bearing end (30) by which the key body (26) can be moved in two spatial axes that are orthogonal to each other. The bearing (30) comprises at least three suspension elements (32, 34) by means of which the bearing end of the key body (26) is movably held on the support (28) and which are arranged in at least two spaced-apart suspension planes (36, 38) that extend in parallel to each other and to the length of the key body (26).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05G 1/00 - Controlling members, e.g. knobs or handles; Assemblies or arrangements thereof; Indicating position of controlling members
  • B60K 37/06 - Arrangement of fittings on dashboard of controls, e.g. control knobs
  • G05G 1/02 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by linear movement, e.g. push buttons
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • H03K 17/975 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch using a capacitive movable element
  • H01G 5/16 - Capacitors in which the capacitance is varied by mechanical means, e.g. by turning a shaft; Processes of their manufacture using variation of distance between electrodes

45.

Rotary/push operating device for a human-machine interface

      
Application Number 14346973
Grant Number 09372498
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-09-27
First Publication Date 2015-06-11
Grant Date 2016-06-21
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The rotary/push operating device (10) for a human-machine interface, in particular for a vehicle component, such as an air conditioning system, is provided with a rotary/push operating element (12) that can be rotated about a guide shaft (14) in a rotary movement and moved axially along the guide shaft (14). Furthermore, the rotary/push operating device (10) has a rolling bearing unit (30) having an outer bearing ring (32), an inner bearing ring (34) and rolling elements (36,38) arranged therebetween, wherein one of the bearing rings (32, 34) is connected with the rotary/push operating element (12) in a rotationally fixed manner and can be rotated therewith.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01H 25/06 - Operating part movable both angularly and rectilinearly, the rectilinear movement being along the axis of angular movement
  • G05G 5/05 - Means for returning or tending to return controlling members to an inoperative or neutral position, e.g. by providing return springs or resilient end-stops
  • G05G 1/02 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by linear movement, e.g. push buttons
  • G05G 1/08 - Controlling members for hand-actuation by rotary movement, e.g. hand wheels
  • G05G 5/06 - Means for preventing, limiting or returning the movements of parts of a control mechanism, e.g. locking controlling member for holding members in one or a limited number of definite positions only

46.

Device for inductively heating a heating element

      
Application Number 14536081
Grant Number 09615407
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-11-07
First Publication Date 2015-03-05
Grant Date 2017-04-04
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Thiemann, Hans-Joachim

Abstract

A device and method is provided for inductively heating a heating element, particularly via a magnetic field generated by an induction coil, having an induction coil connected to a resonant circuit, whereby the resonant circuit has at least one first capacitor and at least one first current source, and the coil has a specific inductance and a resistance, and the material of the heating element has a constant permeability at least in temperature subranges, and a method for determining a temperature of a heating element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05B 6/06 - Control, e.g. of temperature, of power
  • H05B 6/10 - Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications

47.

Modular induction fluid heater

      
Application Number 14518131
Grant Number 09924565
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-10-20
First Publication Date 2015-02-05
Grant Date 2018-03-20
Owner
  • MAHLE International GmbH (Germany)
  • Behr-Hella Thermocontrol GmbH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kohl, Michael
  • Pankratz, Harri
  • Trapp, Ralph

Abstract

A device for electrically heating a fluid, in particular for use in an electrically operated motor vehicle, comprising an induction coil, which is integrated in an oscillating circuit and produces an alternating magnetic field, and at least one first inductor, which is positioned within the alternating magnetic field. The inductor can be arranged inside a module, through which a fluid to be heated can flow, and the induction coil is arranged outside the module.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05B 6/10 - Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications
  • F24H 1/10 - Continuous-flow heaters, i.e. heaters in which heat is generated only while the water is flowing, e.g. with direct contact of the water with the heating medium
  • B60H 1/22 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices the heat being derived otherwise than from the propulsion plant
  • F24H 1/00 - Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters
  • F24H 9/00 - FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL - Details

48.

Heater

      
Application Number 14306982
Grant Number 09655171
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-06-17
First Publication Date 2014-12-25
Grant Date 2017-05-16
Owner
  • MAHLE International GmbH (Germany)
  • Behr-Hella Thermocontrol GmbH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Seewald, Wolfgang
  • Krumbach, Karl-Gerd
  • Kohl, Michael
  • Stallein, Matthias
  • Heeper, Lars
  • Marquas, Karsten

Abstract

A heater with a housing with a fluid channel, disposed therein, with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, whereby a coil, which generates an alternating magnetic field and is separated sealed from the fluid channel by a coil housing, is provided in the housing, whereby furthermore at least one metallic flat heating element is provided, which can be heated by the alternating magnetic field. The at least one flat heating element is disposed in the fluid channel, whereby the fluid channel is divided at least into a first channel and a second channel. Walls bounding the channels are formed by the coil housing and/or by a flat heating element.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H05B 6/10 - Induction heating apparatus, other than furnaces, for specific applications
  • H05B 6/36 - Coil arrangements
  • F24H 3/04 - Air heaters with forced circulation the air being in direct contact with the heating medium, e.g. electric heating element
  • F24H 9/00 - FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL - Details
  • B60H 1/22 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices the heat being derived otherwise than from the propulsion plant

49.

Latching device for a rotationally or translationally movable operator control element

      
Application Number 14362672
Grant Number 09651108
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-12-04
First Publication Date 2014-12-11
Grant Date 2017-05-16
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Lamminger, Egbert

Abstract

The latching device for a rotationally or translationally movable operating element is provided with a resiliently mounted latching projection and with a latching guideway which is in sliding contact with the latching projection and which has a plurality of latching depressions with latching elevations arranged between them. The latching depressions and the latching elevations form a substantially corrugated latching path along which the latching projection slides during a relative movement between latching guideway and latching projection. The latching projection has a surface which contacts the latching path along at least one contact line running substantially transversely to the longitudinal extent of the latching path. When sliding along the latching path, the latching projection experiences an upward and downward movement with periodic change of the orientation of its contact line with respect to the latching guideway.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05G 1/00 - Controlling members, e.g. knobs or handles; Assemblies or arrangements thereof; Indicating position of controlling members
  • F16D 71/04 - Mechanisms for bringing members to rest in a predetermined position providing for selection between a plurality of positions
  • G01S 11/14 - Systems for determining distance or velocity not using reflection or reradiation using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
  • G01S 15/93 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes
  • G01S 7/526 - Receivers

50.

Operating device for a vehicle component with a front wall associated with a capacitative proximity sensor

      
Application Number 14346428
Grant Number 09614522
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-09-18
First Publication Date 2014-11-27
Grant Date 2017-04-04
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Kleine-Hollenhorst, Holger
  • Stich, Bernd
  • Siebert, Rainer

Abstract

The operating device, such as a human-machine interface, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with a front wall having a front side that has several fixed symbol fields and having a rear side, a capacitive sensor system that has individual electrodes associated with the symbol fields, which electrodes are arranged on the rear side of the front wall, and a carrier plate that faces the rear side of the front wall and is arranged at a distance from the front wall.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
  • G06F 3/044 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means by capacitive means

51.

Operating device, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 14112603
Grant Number 09257243
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-04-17
First Publication Date 2014-05-08
Grant Date 2016-02-09
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Siebert, Rainer
  • Stich, Bernd
  • Kleine-Hollenhorst, Holger

Abstract

The operating device (10), in particular for a vehicle component or generally for a human/machine interface, is provided with at least one pushbutton (28), which has a depressible pushbutton element (26). In addition, the operating device (10) has a guide element (18), which defines an accommodating area (24) in which the pushbutton element (26) is at least partially accommodated and in which the pushbutton element (26) is guided, and a capacitive proximity sensor (36) with an electrode (34) for detecting an object approaching the pushbutton element (26), in particular a hand or a finger of a hand. The electrode (34) is arranged outside the accommodating area (24) of the guide element (18).

IPC Classes  ?

  • H01H 13/14 - Operating parts, e.g. push-button
  • H01H 9/54 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the switching device and for which no provision exists elsewhere
  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • H03K 17/965 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch

52.

Control unit, in particular for a vehicle component

      
Application Number 13991196
Grant Number 09331691
Status In Force
Filing Date 2011-11-29
First Publication Date 2013-10-03
Grant Date 2016-05-03
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Fust, Winfried
  • Vogt, Frank

Abstract

The control unit, in particular for a vehicle component, is provided with a manually actuable control element (12) for selecting and optionally for activating a control function, wherein the control element (12) can be moved manually into a selection and/or trigger position for selecting and optionally for activating a control function. In addition, the control unit has a capacitive tactile sensor (41) for identifying manual touching contact with the control element (12) and optionally identifying the event of a hand approaching the control element (12), wherein the tactile sensor (41) has a first and a second electrode (38, 40), which have electrode sides which substantially face one another and are spaced apart from one another. The first electrode (38) is arranged on the control element (12). The second electrode (40) is arranged immovably. The two electrodes (38, 40) extend with respect to one of the two dimensions thereof spanning the electrode sides parallel to the direction of the relative movement of the two electrodes (38, 40), said relative movement being performed as the control element (12) is moved manually into the selection and/or trigger position, wherein the size of the overlapping areas (34, 36) of the opposing electrode sides, which overlapping areas are provided during the relative movement of the two electrodes (38, 40), remains substantially the same.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H03K 17/96 - Touch switches
  • H03K 17/965 - Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch

53.

Electric heating system, in particular for a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle

      
Application Number 13504019
Grant Number 09089009
Status In Force
Filing Date 2011-03-29
First Publication Date 2012-10-25
Grant Date 2015-07-21
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Trapp, Ralph
  • Röhling, Hans-Dieter

Abstract

The electric heating system, in particular for a hybrid vehicle or electric vehicle, is provided with a heating module. The heating module is provided with an electrically insulating, heat conducting ceramic substrate which has a heating zone and a control zone which are spaced apart from one another. The heating module comprises an electrical resistance heating element which is arranged on the ceramic substrate, in the heating zone thereof, and which is embodied as a resistance heating conductor which is mounted on the ceramic substrate. Further, the heating module comprises a transistor for controlling the current through the resistance heating conductor, wherein the transistor and other optionally present electrical components and conductor tracks are arranged in the control zone on the ceramic substrate. The heating module is provided with a first cooling element which is thermally coupled to the heating zone of the ceramic substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60L 1/02 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles to electric heating circuits
  • H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base

54.

Solar sensor for the detection of the direction of incidence and the intensity of solar radiation

      
Application Number 12674370
Grant Number 08785858
Status In Force
Filing Date 2008-08-28
First Publication Date 2011-10-06
Grant Date 2014-07-22
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Knittel, Otto
  • Stich, Bernd
  • Trapp, Ralph
  • Nagel, Dirk

Abstract

A solar sensor for the detection of the direction of incidence and the intensity of solar radiation comprises a housing (12) made of a plastic material that is permeable to at least some of the solar radiation, the housing (12) having a curved side (14) facing the incident solar radiation and the housing (12) optically acting as a lens and having an internal focal plane (26) defined by the lens characteristics thereof. At least two photosensors (16) are embedded in the plastic material of the housing (12), each photosensor (16) having a sensor area (18) sensitive to at least the part of the radiation to which the plastic material is permeable, and the sensor areas (18) of the photosensors (16) being arranged in a substantially common plane (19) located in front of or behind the focal plane (26), seen from side (14) facing the incident solar radiation. The direction of incidence of the solar radiation is determinable based on the intensities of the solar radiation received by the sensor areas (18) of the photosensors (16).

IPC Classes  ?

55.

Rotary control unit, in particular nominal value rotary control unit, for a vehicle heating system and in particular vehicle air conditioning system

      
Application Number 12301863
Grant Number 08528878
Status In Force
Filing Date 2007-05-23
First Publication Date 2010-12-02
Grant Date 2013-09-10
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor Knittel, Otto

Abstract

The rotary control unit to which the invention relates, in particular nominal value rotary control unit for a vehicle heating system and in particular vehicle air conditioning system, is provided with a rotatable rotary control element (14), an electric motor (16) with a driveshaft (17) which is mechanically coupled to the rotary control element (14), an control circuit (24) for supplying the electric motor (16) with power for the purpose of generating a holding moment in order to prevent undesired rotation of the rotary control element (14) and/or to build up a resistance as the rotary control element is rotated, and a sensor unit (22) for detecting a hand which is approaching the rotary control element (14) or is touching the rotary control element (14). The control circuit (24) for supplying power to the electric motor (16) can be activated if the sensor unit (22) detects a hand which is approaching the rotary control element (14) or is touching the rotary control element (14).

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 31/02 - Operating means; Releasing devices magnetic

56.

Actuation member, and interface device with an icon

      
Application Number 29304486
Grant Number D0616461
Status In Force
Filing Date 2008-03-03
First Publication Date 2010-05-25
Grant Date 2010-05-25
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Dahm, Christian
  • Waldeyer, Alexander

57.

Method for the detection of the rotational position of the rotor of a DC motor with commutator

      
Application Number 11857025
Grant Number 07800321
Status In Force
Filing Date 2007-09-18
First Publication Date 2008-04-03
Grant Date 2010-09-21
Owner BEHR-HELLA THERMOCONTROL GMBH (Germany)
Inventor
  • Knittel, Otto
  • Kriener, Michael

Abstract

In a method for the detection of the rotational position of the rotor of a DC motor with commutator by evaluating the time development of a rotor current signal of the DC motor, said signal comprising a periodic waviness around an average value and comprising current ripples generated by commutation which are superimposed to said waviness, the rotor current signal of a current ripple detector unit (30) is supplied for detecting the current ripples of the rotor current signal. The rotor current signal is further supplied to a waviness detector unit (34) for detecting a half or full wave of the rotor current signal. The current ripple detector unit (30) is arranged to output a current ripple pulse for each detected current ripple. The waviness detector unit (34) is arranged to output a waviness pulse for each period of the waviness. The output signals of both detector units (30,34) are supplied to a logic OR unit (38) for generating a logic signal. Within a period of the rotor current signal, at least one of the detector units (30,34) will output a pulse. Thereby, the logic signal comprises a logic pulse for each period of the rotor current signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02K 27/00 - AC commutator motors or generators having mechanical commutator
  • H02P 1/24 - Arrangements for starting electric motors or dynamo-electric converters for starting dynamo-electric motors or dynamo-electric converters for starting an individual ac commutator motor
  • H02P 3/18 - Arrangements for stopping or slowing electric motors, generators, or dynamo-electric converters for stopping or slowing an individual dynamo-electric motor or dynamo-electric converter for stopping or slowing an ac motor
  • H02P 25/10 - Commutator motors, e.g. repulsion motors