阅读说明：本技术 用于车辆的操作元件 (Operating element for a vehicle ) 是由 J·艾希豪恩 于 2018-05-30 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种用于车辆(100)的操作元件(102)。所述操作元件(102)构造成在驻车状态(210)和行驶状态(220)之间进行切换。在此操作元件(102)构造成在驻车状态(210)中允许用户将车辆(100)从驻车状态转换到行驶准备状态。此外,操作元件(102)通过从驻车状态(210)切换到行驶状态(220)开启由车辆(100)用户选择车辆(100)的行驶级(221)的可能性。(The invention relates to an operating element (102) for a vehicle (100). The operating element (102) is configured to be switched between a parking state (210) and a driving state (220). The operating element (102) is configured to allow a user to switch the vehicle (100) from a parking state to a travel-ready state in a parking state (210). Furthermore, the operating element (102) opens up the possibility of selecting a travel stage (221) of the vehicle (100) by a user of the vehicle (100) by switching from the parking state (210) to the travel state (220).)

1. Operating element (102) for a vehicle (100), wherein,

-the operating element (102) is configured to switch between a parking state (210) and a driving state (220);

-the operating element (102) is configured to allow a user to switch the vehicle (100) from a parking state to a travel-ready state in the parking state (210); and is

-the operating element (102) opens up the possibility of selecting a driving level (221) of the vehicle (100) by a user of the vehicle (100) by switching from the parking state (210) to the driving state (220).

2. The operating element (102) according to claim 1, wherein the operating element (102) is configured to allow at least partially different inputs in a parking state (210) and a driving state (220) for controlling a transmission (103), a parking brake (105) and/or a drive motor (104) of a vehicle (100).

3. The operating element (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating element (102) is in a parking state (210)

-is configured to detect only an input for switching the vehicle (100) from the parking state to the travel-prepared state; and/or

-disallowing an input relating to switching a driving level (221) of the vehicle (100); and/or

-not allowing input only to a transmission locking device releasing the transmission (103) of the vehicle (100).

4. The operating element (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating element (102) is in a driving state (220)

-is configured to detect an input for switching the vehicle (100) from a travel-ready state to a parking state; and/or

-not allowing input only to a transmission locking device activating the transmission (103); and/or

-not allowing input only to the drive motor (104) stopping the vehicle (100).

5. Operating element (102) according to one of the preceding claims,

-the operating element (102) comprises a touch sensitive screen;

-the screen is configured to display a start-up operating section (201) in the parking state (210) of the operating element (102), which allows the user to switch the vehicle (100) from the parking state to the travel-ready state by operating the start-up operating section (201); and is

-the screen is configured to display a driving level operating section (203) in a driving state (220) of the operating element (102), which allows a user to set different driving levels (221) of the vehicle (100) by operating the driving level operating section (203).

6. The operating element (102) according to claim 5, wherein the screen is configured to display a parking operating section (202) in the driving state (220) of the operating element (102), which allows a user to switch the vehicle (100) from the driving-ready state to the parking state, in particular from any driving stage (221), by operating the parking operating section (202).

7. The operating element (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating element (102) comprises an operating body (301) which can be moved out of a surface (302) of a vehicle (100) and back again; and is

-the operating body (301) of the operating element (102) is moved out of the surface (302) of the vehicle (100) for switching from the parking state (210) to the driving state (220); and/or

-the operating body (301) of the operating element (102) is moved back to the surface (302) of the vehicle (100) for switching from the driving state (220) to the parking state (210).

8. Operating element (102) according to claim 7,

-the operating body (301) is movably arranged in a removed state; and is

-the operating element (102) is configured to allow a user of the vehicle (100) to switch a driving level (221) of the vehicle (100) by moving the operating body (301).

9. Operating element (102) according to one of the preceding claims,

-the operating element (102) comprises an operating part (406) which is movable relative to a base part (405) of the operating element (102);

-the base part (405) comprises a parking state face (401) and a driving state face (403);

-the operating member (406) is configured to be rotated by a user from the parking state face (402) to the driving state face (403) in order to switch the vehicle (100) from the parking state to the driving preparation state; and is

-the operating member (406) is configured to be moved (421) along the driving state surface (403) by a user in order to switch the driving level (221) of the vehicle (100).

10. The operating element (102) according to claim 9, wherein the operating member (406) is configured to be rotated (411) by a user from a driving state surface (403) to a parking state surface (402), in particular starting from any driving step (221) of the vehicle (100), in order to switch the vehicle (100) from a driving ready state to a parking state.

11. The operating element (102) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating element (102) comprises a control unit (101) which is configured to generate control signals for the drive motor (104), for the control electronics of the drive motor (104), for the transmission (103) and/or for a parking brake (105) of the vehicle (100) as a function of an input of a user on the operating element (102).

12. Operating element (102) according to claim 11,

-in a parking state of the vehicle (100) a transmission locking device of the transmission (103) is closed; and is

-the control unit (101) is configured to generate a control signal to open a transmission locking device of the transmission (103) in response to a user input on the operating element (102) designed to switch the vehicle (100) from the parking state to the travel-ready state.

13. The operating element (102) according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the control unit (101) is configured to switch the operating element (102) from the parking state (210) to the driving state (220) when the vehicle (100) is switched from the parking state to the driving preparation state.

14. Operating element (102) according to one of the preceding claims,

-in a parking state, a transmission locking device of the transmission (103) of the vehicle (100) is closed, a parking brake (105) of the vehicle (100) is tightened and the drive motor (104) and/or control electronics of the drive motor (104) are deactivated; and is

-in the driving state, a transmission locking device of the transmission (103) of the vehicle (100) is open and the drive motor (104) and/or the control electronics of the drive motor (104) are active.

15. Vehicle (100) comprising:

-a drive motor (104) for driving one or more wheels of the vehicle (100);

-a transmission (103) configured for changing the coupling between a drive motor (104) and the one or more vehicles; and is

-an operating element (102) according to any of the preceding claims.

16. Operating element (102) according to claim 8, wherein the movement of the operating body (301) comprises:

-a translational movement of the operating body (301); or

-a rotational movement of the operating body (301).

17. Operating element (102) according to claim 8 or 16, wherein the movement of the operating body (301) comprises one or more discrete detent positions of the operating body (301), the travel stage (221) of the vehicle (100) being selectively switched depending on the selected detent position.

18. Operating element (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating element (102) is prevented from accidental operation.

Technical Field

The invention relates to an operating element for a vehicle, in particular for providing driving readiness of the vehicle.

Background

Vehicles typically have a start-stop operating element (typically a button) to start or stop a drive motor of the vehicle. Furthermore, the vehicle may comprise a mechanical or electrical parking brake with dedicated operating elements, by means of which one or more wheels of the vehicle may be locked for parking. In addition, vehicles with automatic transmissions may include a selector lever by means of which the driver can set different driving stages (such as forward (D), reverse (R), transmission lock (P) or neutral (N)).

Thus, vehicles often include a number of different operating elements that must be operated before or after travel.

Disclosure of Invention

The technical task involved here is to provide an operating element for a vehicle, by means of which the operating comfort of the user at the start and/or end of the journey can be increased.

The object is achieved by the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims. It should be pointed out that additional features of the claims dependent on the independent claims, without the features of the independent claims or in combination with only some of the features of the independent claims, may constitute an independent invention independent of the combination of all the features of the independent claims, which may be a solution to the independent claims, to divisional applications or to subsequent applications. The same applies to the technical teaching described in the description, which may form an invention independent of the features of the independent claims.

According to one aspect, an operating element for a vehicle, in particular for a road vehicle, is described. The operating element can be arranged in the vehicle in such a way that a driver sitting at the driver's position of the vehicle can operate the operating element with one hand. For example, the operating element can be arranged on or near the steering device, in particular the steering wheel, or on a center console of the vehicle.

The operating element is configured to switch between a parking state and a driving state. The operating element can be designed to allow at least partially different inputs in the parking state and in the driving state for controlling the transmission, the parking brake, the drive motor (e.g., electric drive motor) and/or the control electronics of the drive motor of the vehicle. Thus, an operating element may be provided which allows different inputs depending on whether it is in the parking state or in the driving state. When the vehicle in which the operating element is provided is in a parked or stopped state, the operating element may be in a parked state. On the other hand, when the vehicle is in the travel prepared state, the operation element may be in the travel state. Thus, the one or more inputs that may be made by the operating element may depend on whether the operating element is in a parked state or a driving state or whether the vehicle is in a parked state or a driving-ready state.

The drive motor and/or the control electronics for the drive motor may be part of a drive unit, which for example comprises an electric drive motor and/or an internal combustion engine. For example, a hybrid drive unit may include a drive motor and an internal combustion engine. The drive unit may comprise an on-board electrical system having a (high-voltage) energy store for storing electrical energy for the electric drive motor. Thus, the operating element may be configured to allow one or more inputs relating to the vehicle drive unit.

In the parked state of the vehicle, for example, a transmission lock of the vehicle transmission can be closed (this is usually done today by engaging the gear lever into the driving position P). Furthermore, in the parked state of the vehicle, the (electric) parking brake of the vehicle may be tightened (e.g. in order to lock at least one wheel of the vehicle). If necessary, the parking brake can be applied as a function of environmental data relating to the immediate surroundings of the vehicle. The environmental data may be detected, for example, by one or more environmental sensors of the vehicle. The environmental data may be, for example, the gradient of the road, the base friction coefficient of the road, the humidity and/or the temperature of the vehicle environment. It may then be determined once or cyclically or repeatedly whether the parking brake is to be applied or released in the parking state of the vehicle.

Furthermore, the drive motor and/or the control electronics of the drive motor can be deactivated in the parked state of the vehicle. For example, the internal combustion engine may be deactivated. Alternatively or additionally, an energy store for storing electrical energy for operating the electric drive motor may be separate from the inverter of the electric drive motor.

On the other hand, in the running preparation state of the vehicle, the transmission lock device of the vehicle transmission may be opened. In particular, in the ready-to-travel state, travel stage R, N or D can be engaged. Furthermore, the drive motor and/or the control electronics of the drive motor can be activated in the travel-ready state. For example, an internal combustion engine may be activated. Alternatively or additionally, an energy store for storing electrical energy for operating the electric drive motor may be coupled to an inverter of the drive motor.

The operating element is configured to allow a user to switch the vehicle from the parking state to the travel-ready state in the parking state. In this case, it is preferably sufficient to switch the vehicle from the parking state to the driving readiness state only once. The transmission locking device of the transmission can then be automatically opened and the drive motor and/or the control electronics of the drive motor can be activated. The parking brake may continue to remain tightened if necessary to prevent the vehicle from rolling. The parking brake may be automatically released when necessary when a user of the vehicle operates an accelerator pedal of the vehicle to accelerate the vehicle.

The operating element can release the possibility of a selection of a driving stage of the vehicle (in particular of the transmission) by a vehicle user by switching from the parking state to the driving state. In other words, the operating element may allow selection of a travel stage (particularly travel stage N, D or R) of the vehicle based on switching from the park state to the travel state of the operating element. On the other hand, the actuating element can be designed such that in the parking state, selection of a driving stage is not permitted.

The selectable driving steps in the driving state of the operating element can be limited to a driving step N, one or more driving steps for forward driving (D) and/or one or more driving steps for reverse driving (R). If necessary (while the operating element remains in the driving state), the driving stage P for activating the transmission locking device cannot be selected specifically.

Thus, a (single, associated) operating element is described, which can be switched into different states (in particular into a parking state and a driving state) in order to provide different limited numbers of possible inputs depending on the state of the vehicle. In this case, the operating element can in particular only distinguish between the parked state and the driving state, i.e. between the parked state and the driving-ready state of the vehicle. Thereby improving the operational comfort of the vehicle user.

It should be noted that different travel stages may be provided in the vehicle even without the transmission. For example, the (electric) drive motor can provide two different directions of rotation for forward travel (in travel stage D) and reverse travel (in travel stage R). The operating element can be configured to allow switching between the driving stages in the driving state, thereby causing the drive motor to change its direction of rotation. The change of the direction of rotation of the (electric) drive motor can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the control electronics of the drive motor.

The operating element may be configured to detect only an input for shifting the vehicle from the parking state to the travel prepared state in the parking state. In other words, the operating element can be limited to a single input in the parking state, which automatically switches the vehicle from the parking state to the travel-ready state (no further input is required for this purpose). If necessary, for reasons of safety or incorrect operation (if necessary under certain conditions), it may be necessary to simultaneously operate an unlocking (Unlock) button or a brake pedal of the vehicle in order to automatically switch the vehicle from the parking state to the driving readiness state.

In particular, the operating element may not allow an input in the parking state, which is associated with switching a driving range of the vehicle (in particular of the transmission). Furthermore, the actuating element can be designed such that in the parked state no input is allowed solely for releasing the transmission locking device of the vehicle transmission. A particularly high level of operating comfort can thus be achieved, since all the necessary measures for switching the vehicle to the driving-ready state are automatically carried out in response to a single actuation of the operating element.

The operating element may be configured to detect an input for switching the vehicle from the travel-ready state to the parking state in the travel state. Furthermore, a single-operation operating element is sufficient to switch the vehicle from the (full) travel-ready state to the (full) parking state. On the other hand, the operating element may be configured not to allow an input only for activating a transmission locking device of the transmission (without deactivating the drive motor and/or the control electronics of the drive motor and, if necessary, also without applying the parking brake). Furthermore, the operating element may be configured not to allow input only to the drive motor of the stopped vehicle and/or to the control electronics of the drive motor (in the case of non-activation of the transmission locking device of the transmission and/or non-application of the parking brake).

The operating element can therefore be limited in the driving state to the switching of the vehicle drive position (if necessary to the drive positions N, D and R or to the drive positions D and R) and to the switching of the vehicle from the drive-ready state to the parking state. Optionally, a switching of the driving mode of the vehicle (e.g. a sport mode or an eco mode or a hybrid drive strategy configuration) can be initiated in the driving state. Other input possibilities can be excluded from the driving state. Thereby further improving the operation comfort. In particular, erroneous inputs can be avoided.

The operating element may comprise a touch-sensitive screen (e.g. on the surface of an operating body of the operating element). The screen may have a matrix of pixels in order to display different symbols or graphic elements by means of individual pixels. Alternatively or additionally, the screen may have different graphics areas (for different operating sections). The screen may be configured to display different symbols in different zones. Further, the screen may be configured to detect a touch of a region or symbol by a vehicle user.

In particular, the operating element, preferably the touch-sensitive screen, can be prevented from being accidentally operated. For example, the operating element may be configured to detect a touch as an operation when the touch has a predetermined minimum duration and/or a predetermined minimum pressure. Alternatively or additionally, the operation can be detected by means of a pressure sensor, for example by means of a pressure switch or a pressure-sensitive display element. Furthermore, in addition or alternatively, other sensors for detecting operation, such as capacitive sensors, optical sensors and/or piezoelectric elements, may be provided. In this specification, "touching" of, for example, an operation element is understood to mean "operating".

The screen may be configured to display a start-up operating section (e.g., with a corresponding symbol) that allows a user to switch the vehicle from the parked state to the travel-ready state by operating the start-up operating section in the parked state of the operating element and/or while the vehicle is in the parked state. The start-up operating section can preferably be the only operating section that is displayed and/or provided for operation to the user in the parking state of the operating element. Thus, the operation comfort can be improved.

Furthermore, the screen may be configured to display and/or provide a travel level operation section that allows the user to set different travel levels of the vehicle (limited to the travel levels N, D and R, if necessary) by operating the travel level operation section in the travel state of the operation element and/or when the vehicle is in the travel-ready state.

The start operation section cannot be provided in the driving state. On the other hand, the screen may be configured to display a parking operation section (if necessary in the same position as the start operation section) in the driving state of the operating element, which allows the user to switch the vehicle from the driving-ready state to the parking state, in particular from any driving stage (e.g. N, D and R), by operating the parking operation section. Thus, the vehicle can be placed in a parking state in a comfortable manner (i.e., with a minimum of operation steps) to complete driving. In particular, the shift from the travel-ready state to the parking state can be effected by a single actuation of the parking actuation section.

The operating element may comprise an operating body which can be moved out of the surface of the vehicle (for example from the center console of the vehicle) and back again. In the moved-in state, a surface of the operating body may be substantially flush with a surface of the vehicle. On the other hand, the operating body may protrude from the operating body surface (e.g., 2cm, 5cm, or more) in the removed state. The surface of the actuating body can have a touch-sensitive screen, for example, to provide a start-up operating region or a parking operating region and/or to display different driving steps (depending on the state of the actuating element) of the vehicle, in particular of the transmission.

The actuating body of the actuating element can be moved out of the surface of the vehicle (i.e. moved into the moved-out state) in order to switch from the parking state to the driving state. On the other hand, the actuating element of the actuating element can be moved back to the surface of the vehicle (i.e. moved into the retracted state) in order to switch from the driving state to the parking state. In the moved-in state of the actuating body, the actuating element may, if appropriate, only allow the vehicle to be transferred from the parking state into the travel-ready state (for example by means of a start-up actuating section provided on the surface of the actuating body).

On the other hand, the operating element in the extended state of the operating body can allow the selection of the driving position. In particular, the actuating body can be arranged movably in the extended state (e.g. monostable or multistable). The actuating element can then be designed to allow a user of the vehicle to shift a driving stage of the vehicle (in particular of the transmission) by moving the actuating body. The driving steps selectable by the operator can be limited to the driving step N, one or more driving steps for forward driving and one or more driving steps for reverse driving. In particular, the operating element may not allow the parking position P to be selected (for locking the transmission locking device).

Furthermore, the operating element can allow the vehicle to be transferred from the travel-ready state to the parking state in the extended state of the operating body (for example by means of a parking operating section provided on the surface of the operating body).

The parking state and the driving state of the operating element can thus be provided by the operating body, which is in the moved-in state in the parking state of the operating element and in the moved-out state in the driving state of the operating element. By using a removable operating element, the different states of the operating element can be distinguished in a reliable manner, in particular visually and tactually.

The operating element can comprise an operating part which can be moved, in particular rotated and/or moved in a translational direction, relative to a base part of the operating element. The base part may be, for example, a lever arranged on the steering wheel. The base part may have different surfaces, in particular a parking state surface and a driving state surface. The base part may be configured, for example, as a cuboid and the parking state surface and the driving state surface may be arranged on different sides of the cuboid.

The operating member may be configured to be rotated from the parking state surface to the running state surface by a user so as to shift the vehicle from the parking state to the running preparation state. In particular, the marking on the operating element can be rotated from the parking position to the driving position. When the actuating element (in particular the marking of the actuating element) is oriented toward the parking state surface and the actuating element is thus in the parking state, the rotation can possibly be the only movement possible of the actuating element. In particular, in the parking state of the actuating element, a translational movement of the actuating element may not be permitted.

Furthermore, the operating element can be configured to be moved by the user along the driving surface (in a translational movement) in order to switch the driving stage of the vehicle (in particular of the transmission). The operating element (in particular the marking of the operating element) can be in the driving state when it faces the driving state.

The operating member may also be configured to be rotated by the user from the driving state plane to the parking state plane, in particular starting from any driving stage of the vehicle (and thus starting from any possible movement of the operating member), in order to switch the vehicle from the driving-ready state to the parking state.

By providing an operating member which can perform different movements (rotational and/or translational movements) in different states of the operating element, an operating element with a high operating comfort can be provided.

The operating element may comprise a control unit which is designed to generate control signals for the drive motor, for the control electronics of the drive motor, for the transmission and/or for the parking brake of the vehicle as a function of user inputs on the operating element. In particular, control signals for switching the vehicle from the parking state to the travel-ready state (and vice versa) or for switching the travel stage can be generated.

As described above, the transmission lock device of the transmission is normally closed in the parked state of the vehicle. The control unit of the operating element may be configured to generate a control signal to open a transmission locking device of the transmission in response to a user input on the operating element designed to switch the vehicle from the parking state into the driving-ready state. The vehicle in driving class N or D may then be provided (without further input from the user).

The control unit may be configured to switch the operating element from the parking state to the driving state (or vice versa) when the vehicle is switched from the parking state to the driving preparation state (or vice versa). Thus, it is possible to ensure that the operating element in the parked state is provided to the user of the vehicle when the vehicle is in the parked state, and the operating element in the running state is provided to the user of the vehicle when the vehicle is in the running preparation state.

According to another aspect, a road motor vehicle (in particular a car, van or bus) is described, comprising an operating element as described herein. Furthermore, the vehicle may comprise a drive motor (in particular an electric drive motor) for driving one or more wheels of the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle may include a (if necessary automatic) transmission configured to change the coupling between the drive motor and one or more wheels.

It should be noted that the methods, devices, and systems described herein can be used not only alone, but also in combination with other methods, devices, and systems described herein. Additionally, any aspects of the methods, apparatus and systems described herein may be combined with one another in a variety of ways. Especially the features of the claims, may be combined with each other in various ways.

Drawings

The present invention is explained in detail below with reference to examples. The attached drawings are as follows:

FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary components of a vehicle;

fig. 2a shows an operating element with different operating sections;

FIG. 2b shows the operating elements of FIG. 2a in a park state;

fig. 2c and 2d show the operating elements of fig. 2a in a driving state;

fig. 3 shows a removable operating element;

fig. 4a shows an operating element with a rotatably mounted operating part;

FIG. 4b shows the operating elements of FIG. 4a in a park state;

FIG. 4c shows the operating elements of FIG. 4a in a driving state;

FIG. 5 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method for bringing a vehicle into a travel-ready state;

fig. 6a to 6d show different states of an exemplary operating element;

FIGS. 7a to 7d show different states of another exemplary operating element;

FIGS. 8 a-8 d illustrate different states of another exemplary operating element;

FIGS. 9a to 9g show different states of another exemplary operating element; and

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary state diagram in accordance with various embodiments of operational elements.

Detailed Description

As mentioned above, the present document relates to improving the operating comfort of a vehicle, in particular when switching the vehicle to a travel-ready state and/or when switching the vehicle to a parking state.

Vehicles today typically include an ignition switch or start-stop button to start or activate the ignition of the internal combustion engine of the vehicle. If the vehicle does not have an internal combustion engine (but only an electric motor) and/or if the vehicle has an automatic motor start-stop device, it is generally not necessary to start or stop the drive motor of the vehicle.

Furthermore, the vehicle may have an (electric) parking brake and/or a transmission locking device, which must optionally be released manually by means of a special operating element before driving is started or must be engaged or engaged for parking. Furthermore, there may be uncertainty as to the state of the parking brake or transmission locking device.

Fig. 1 illustrates exemplary components of a vehicle 100. Fig. 1 shows, in particular, an operating element 102, which allows a user of vehicle 100 to make an input in order to bring vehicle 100 into a travel-ready state or to transfer vehicle 100 from a travel-ready state to a parked state. Further, the vehicle 100 includes a (automatic) transmission 103, a drive motor 104, and a parking brake 105.

The operating element 102 may transmit a control signal related to a user input to the control unit 101 of the vehicle 100. The operating element 102 may comprise a control unit 101, if necessary. The control unit 101 may be configured to control the transmission 103, the drive motor 104 and/or the parking brake 105 in dependence on control signals.

Furthermore, the control unit 101 may be configured to determine a state of the vehicle 100. For example, it may be determined whether the vehicle 100 is in a travel-ready state or a parked state. The control unit 101 may then adjust one or more inputs obtainable through the operating element 102 according to the state of the vehicle 100.

Fig. 2a shows an exemplary operating element 102 with different operating sections 201, 202, 203, 204, which can be activated or deactivated depending on the state of the operating element 102 or depending on the state of the vehicle 100. The different operating sections 201, 202, 203, 204 can be provided, for example, as sections of a touch-sensitive screen. The action sections 201, 202, 203, 204 may be marked as active or inactive (e.g., a de-glossing display of a symbol may indicate that the respective action section 201, 202, 203, 204 is inactive). Input is typically not available through the deactivated operating sections 201, 202, 203, 204.

The operating element 102 shown in fig. 2a comprises a start-up operating section 201, which allows a user to switch the vehicle 100 from a parking state to a travel-ready state. In addition, the operating elements 102 shown in fig. 2a comprise a parking operating element 202, which allows the user to switch the vehicle 100 from a travel-ready state to a parking state. Furthermore, the actuating element 102 can comprise a drive-stage actuating section 203, by means of which different drive stages (e.g. D, N or R) of the transmission 103 can be set. Furthermore, the operating element 102 can comprise a travel mode operating section 204, by means of which different travel modes (such as sport mode, comfort mode or eco mode) can be selected.

Fig. 2b shows the operating element 102 of fig. 2a in a parking state 210, in which the vehicle 100 is in the parking state and cannot be driven. As indicated in fig. 2b by the dashed boxes of the operating sections 203, 204, the driving level operating section 203 and the optional driving mode operating element 204 can be concealed and deactivated. The parking operation section 202 may also be hidden if necessary. On the other hand, the parking actuation section 202 can be used in the parking state 210 to indicate the state of the parking brake 105 and/or the transmission locking device of the transmission 103 (this is illustrated by the dashed box of the parking actuation section 202).

In a parked state of the vehicle 100, for example

The parking brake 105 may be tightened;

the transmission locking device 103 may be active; and/or

The drive motor 104 and/or the control electronics of the drive motor 104 may be deactivated.

The vehicle 100 can be switched from the parking state to the travel-ready state by operating the start operation section 201. In the travel-ready state, for example

The transmission locking device 103 may be deactivated; and/or

The drive motor 104 and/or the control electronics of the drive motor 104 may be active.

The parking brake 105 may continue to be tightened as necessary to prevent the vehicle 100 from rolling.

When the vehicle 100 is in the travel-ready state, the operating element 102 can be transferred into a travel state 220, in which the operating sections 202, 203, 204 are activated or deactivated. Fig. 2c and 2d show different variants of the actuating element 102 after the vehicle 100 has been transferred into the travel-ready state. As can be seen from fig. 2c and 2d, the start control element 201 is deactivated in the driving state 220 of the control element 102 (indicated by the dashed box). On the other hand, the travel stage operating element 203 and the parking operating element 202 and optionally the travel mode operating element 204 are activated.

In the case of a shift from the parking state to the travel-ready state of vehicle 100, transmission 103 can be automatically shifted to travel stage 221 "N" (as shown in fig. 2 c) or travel stage 221 "D" (as shown in fig. 2D) (for example, only by actuating operating section 201). As described above, the release of the transmission locking device may be automatically caused. The operating comfort of the vehicle 100 can thus be improved. In particular, a manual switching from the driving stage 221 "P" to the driving stage 221 "N" or "D" can be dispensed with.

The parking brake 105, which may still be applied, may be automatically released when the vehicle 100 is being driven, i.e. when the accelerator pedal of the vehicle 100 is operated, if necessary.

To shift the vehicle 100 from the travel prepared state to the parking state, the user of the vehicle 100 may operate the parking operation section 202. This can be done from any of the driving stages 221, if necessary. Automatically in response to operation of the parking operating member 202

-tightening the parking brake 105;

-activating a transmission locking device; and/or

Deactivating the drive motor 104 and/or the control electronics of the drive motor 104.

The operation of the parking actuation element 202 or the change over of the vehicle 100 from the travel-ready state to the parking state can, if necessary, only take place when the vehicle 100 is stationary.

Thus, an operating element 102 is described which distinguishes only between a parking state and a travel-ready state of the vehicle 100. In the driving state 220 of the operating element 102, the operating element 102 geometrically and/or visually opens a degree of freedom for selecting a driving stage 221 (forward, backward or neutral). This degree of freedom is not available in the park state 210 of the operating element 102.

As shown in fig. 3, the operating element 102 can be configured to be telescopic. In particular, when the operating element 102 is switched from the parking state 210 to the driving state 220, the actuating body 301 of the operating element 102 can be moved out of the surface 302 (indicated by an arrow 310), for example from the surface 302 of the center console of the vehicle 100. On the other hand, when the operating element 102 is transferred from the driving state 220 into the parking state 210, the operating body 301 of the operating element 102 can be moved back (e.g. flush with the surface 302). The movement back of the operating body 301 is illustrated by the arrow 320.

The removal of the actuating body 301 can be brought about, for example, by pressing an actuating operating element 201 (for example by means of a correspondingly designed mechanism) which is displayed on the surface of the actuating body 301. Further, the operating body 301 may be caused to move back by pressing the parking operating element 202 displayed on the surface of the operating body 301.

Fig. 4a shows an operating element 102, which can be configured, for example, as a lever on a steering column of the vehicle 100 (similar to the lever used for controlling the wipers of the vehicle 100). The operating element 102 comprises a base part 405, which is configured as a rod, for example. Furthermore, the operating element 102 comprises an operating member 406 which can be rotated and/or moved relative to the base member 405 in order to perform an input. The base part 405 may be embodied as a cuboid, wherein the base part 405 has a parking surface 401 and a driving surface 403.

Fig. 4b shows the operating element 102 in the parking state 210. The operating member 406 may have a marking 407 indicating that the operating member 406 is oriented towards the parking state face 401. By rotating 411 the actuating element 406, the actuating element 102 can be switched into the driving state 220 (see fig. 4c) such that the marking 407 faces the driving surface 403. In the driving state 220, the operating element 403 can be moved 421 laterally relative to the base element 405 in order to select different driving classes 221. The operating element 102 can be switched back to the parking state 210 again by rotating the operating element 406 back, in order to switch the vehicle from the travel-ready state to the parking state.

Fig. 5 shows a flowchart of an exemplary method 500 for switching the vehicle 100 from the parking state to the travel-ready state by means of the operating element 102 described herein. The method 500 may be performed, for example, by the control unit 101 and/or the operating element 102 of the vehicle 100. The method 500 includes determining 501: the operating element 102 has been operated to switch the vehicle 100 from the parking or parking state to the travel-ready state. In this case, merely one actuation of the actuating element 102 (e.g., merely one actuation of the start-up actuating section 201 and/or merely one rotation of the actuating element 406 from the parking state surface 401 to the driving state surface 403) is sufficient to bring about a transition from the parking state to the driving-ready state.

Further, the method 500 includes controlling 502 the transmission 103 of the vehicle 100 to release the transmission locking device 103 of the transmission 103 directly in response to the determination 501. The transmission 103 can be shifted directly into the drive stage 221N or D. In other words, the vehicle 100 may transition directly into the travel stage 221N or D in the travel-ready state without further input from the user.

Fig. 6a to 6d, 7a to 7d and 8a to 8d show different states of different exemplary operating elements 102 in perspective view. Fig. 6a to 6d show different states of the operating element 102 described in connection with fig. 4a to 4 c. Fig. 6a shows the operating element 102 in the parking state 210. The mark 407 of the operation member 406 faces the parking state surface 401. The operating element 406 is marked 407 by rotation 411, so that it can be oriented toward the driving surface 403 of the base element 405 (see fig. 6b to 6 d). After rotating 411 the operating element 406, the driving position 221N can first be set (as shown in fig. 6 b). In the driving state 220, the operating element 102 allows a translational movement 421 of the operating element 406 in order to set the driving stage 221D (see fig. 6c) or the driving stage 221R (see fig. 6D). The operating element 102 can be switched to the parking state 210 again by a rotational movement 411 of the operating member 406. In the parking state 210, the translational movement 421 of the actuating element 406 is generally not possible.

Fig. 7a to 7d show different states of the operating element 102, which includes aspects of fig. 2a to 2d and 3. In particular, the actuating element 102 comprises an actuating body 301, which can be in a retracted state (see fig. 7a and 7b) or in an extended state (see fig. 7c and 7 d). In particular, the operating body 301 may be removed from a frame on the surface 302 of the vehicle 100 (e.g., on a center console).

The surface of the operating body 301 visible to the user of the operating element 102 in the moved-in state of the operating body 301 may be configured to display one or more symbols. In particular, the surface of the operating body 301 may have a (possibly touch-sensitive) screen. Alternatively or additionally, a graphical element (in particular for display) may be provided, which emits light or does not emit light depending on the state of the operating element 102.

Fig. 7a shows the operating element 102 in a rest state 710. The stationary state 710 may exist, for example, when there is no user in the vehicle and/or when a central locking device of the vehicle 100 is activated. For example, the control unit 101 may be configured to detect: whether the driver is in the driver position of the vehicle 100. If this is the case, the operating element 102 can be switched from the rest state 710 to the parking state 210. Otherwise the operating element 102 may remain in the stationary state 710. In the rest state 710, if necessary, no operating section 201, in particular no start-up operating section 201, may be provided on the operating element 102 (for example, to reduce the energy consumption of the operating element 102). Thus, the operating element 102 may be configured to not allow any input in the resting state 710.

Fig. 7b shows the operating element 102 in the parking state 210. The operating element 102 comprises a start-up operating section 201 which can be operated by a user in order to switch the vehicle 100 from the parking state to the travel-ready state. Furthermore, the state of the parking brake 105 and/or the transmission locking device of the transmission 103 of the vehicle 100 may be displayed if necessary.

For example, one key can be operated by the operating body 301 by pressing the surface of the operating body 301. In response to which the vehicle may then be transferred from the parked state to the travel prepared state. Furthermore, the operating body 301 can be moved (e.g. by a spring) into the removal state.

Fig. 7c and 7d show the operating element 102 in the driving state 220. The operating body 301 can be moved out to be transferred into the driving state 220. A driving level display element 703 can then be provided on the surface of the operating body 301, which displays the currently set driving level 221 (and, if applicable, the available driving level 221). The travel stage 221 of the vehicle 100 can be changed by a (translational) movement of the actuating body 301.

The operating element 102 can be designed such that the operating body 301 can be pressed by the user from the extended state into the extended state (for example, in order to overcome the spring force of a spring for extending the operating body 301). The operating element 102 can thus be switched from the driving state 220 to the parking state 210. Further, the vehicle 100 may be caused to shift from the travel prepared state to the parking state. Therefore, pressing back the operating body 301 may correspond to an input for shifting the vehicle 100 from the driving preparation state to the parking state.

Furthermore, in the example shown in fig. 7c and 7d, the operating element 102 comprises an optional parking interface element 702. The parking interface element 702 may be configured to indicate a status of the parking brake 105 (i.e., released or applied) and/or a status of a transmission locking device of the transmission 103 of the vehicle 100 (i.e., activated or deactivated). In particular, a combined display may be provided that displays both the state of the parking brake 105 and the state of the transmission locking device. Furthermore, separate parking interface elements 702, 702' (see fig. 9c) may be provided, which display the state of the parking brake 105 and the state of the transmission locking device separately from each other.

Further, parking interface element 702 may allow a user to change the state of parking brake 105 and/or the state of the transmission locking device (e.g., by touching parking interface element 702). Parking brake 105 may be tightened or released, for example, by operating parking interface element 702. Alternatively or additionally, the transmission locking device may be activated or deactivated by operating the parking interface element 702. Another state of the parking brake 105 and/or transmission locking device may be caused, for example, by operation of the parking interface element 702.

As described above, the vehicle 100 may include one or more environmental sensors for providing environmental data. The environmental data may include information regarding the grade and/or friction values of the road on which the vehicle 100 is located. In response to operation of the parking interface member 702, either only the parking brake 105 or only the transmission locking device, or both the parking brake 105 and the transmission locking device, may be controlled (to change respective states) in accordance with the environmental data.

Fig. 8a to 8d show different states of the actuating element 102 with the displaceable actuating body 301. The operating body 301 can be rotated in the extended state to set different travel levels 221. The travel stage D can be set, for example, by rotating forward (see fig. 8D) and the travel stage N can be set by rotating backward.

The operating element 102 of fig. 8a to 8d comprises a start-up operating section 201 which can be touched by a user in order to switch the vehicle 100 from the parking state to the driving readiness state. In response to a touch of the start operation section 201, the operation body 301 may be automatically switched (e.g., by an electric drive) from the in-state to the out-state. This may be done as part of the transition of the operating element 102 from the park state 210 to the drive state 220.

Then, in the driving state 220, the parking actuation section 202 can be provided on the surface of the actuating body 301 (for example, in the same position as the start actuation section 201). The operating body 301 can be switched (automatically if necessary) from the extended state to the extended state by touching the parking operation section 202.

Fig. 9a to 9g show different states of the actuating element 102 with the displaceable actuating body 301. Fig. 9a and 9b show the actuating body 301 in the moved-in state, and fig. 9c to 9g show the actuating body in the moved-out state or in a state actuated, for example, by the driver (see fig. 9d, 9 f).

The actuating body 301 can be rotated or tilted in the extended state in order to set different travel levels 221. For example, the travel stage D or N (see fig. 9D) can be set (starting from N or R) by rotating or tilting forward (i.e. in the direction of travel) and the travel stage N or R (starting from D or N) can be set by rotating or tilting backward (i.e. opposite to the direction of travel).

Furthermore, the operating body 301 may be movably arranged such that a movement (e.g. rotation or flipping) of the operating body 301 may be performed into one or more catch positions that are tactilely perceptible by the user. The drive stage can then be switched in a targeted manner as a function of the catch position selected by the user. For example, starting from drive position D, a first selected detent position of actuating element 301 can cause the selected drive position to be shifted to N and a second selected detent position of actuating element 301 can cause the selected drive position to be shifted to R.

The first and second latch positions may be distinguished based on different rotation or flip angles, such that the second latch position has a greater rotation or flip angle than the first latch position. Similarly, starting from the travel stage R, a first selected detent position of the actuating element 301 causes the selected travel stage to be shifted to N and a second selected detent position of the actuating element 301 causes the selected travel stage to be shifted to D. Furthermore, the available detent positions can be limited based on the selected travel level. For example, when the drive stage N is engaged, only one latching position is available in each of the two rotational or tilting directions, the control of which causes a switch to D or R, respectively.

The latching position described above can be provided in all the embodiments described, in particular also in conjunction with the translational movement of the actuating body 301.

The operating element 102 of fig. 9a to 9g comprises a start-up operating section 201 which can be operated by a user in order to switch the vehicle 100 from the parking state to the travel-ready state. In response to the operation of the start operation section 201, the operation body 301 may be automatically switched (e.g., by an electric drive) from the in-moving state to the out-moving state. This may be done as part of the transition of the operating element 102 from the park state 210 to the drive state 220.

Then, in the driving state 220, the parking actuation section 202 can be provided on the surface of the actuating body 301 (for example, in the same position as the start actuation section 201). The operating body 301 can be (automatically if necessary) transferred from the extended state to the extended state by operating the parking operating section 202.

Furthermore, in the example shown in fig. 9b to 9g, the operating element 102 may comprise an optional parking interface element 702. The parking interface element 702 may be configured to indicate a status of the parking brake 105 (i.e., released or applied) and/or a status of a transmission locking device of the transmission 103 of the vehicle 100 (i.e., activated or deactivated). In particular, a combined display may be provided that displays both the state of the parking brake 105 and the state of the transmission locking device. Fig. 9b shows an exemplary display of an activated parking interface element 702 indicating a tightened handbrake. A display indicating release of the handbrake is exemplarily shown in fig. 9c to 9 g.

Furthermore, a separate display may be provided, which indicates the state of the parking brake 105 in element 702 and the state of the transmission locking device P in a separate element 702'. In fig. 9c, separate elements 702 and 702 'are shown, wherein an active (e.g. illuminated) element 702' indicates an engaged transmission locking device p (einglegte getriebbeperre).

The parking interface element 702 shown in fig. 9c to 9g can also be actuated in the driving state 220 in order to brake or stop the vehicle 100 in a special or emergency situation by means of the parking brake 105. This may also be done by a secondary rider by operating the parking interface element 702, for example, when the driver is unable to do so. In providing a combined display indicating both the state of the parking brake 105 and the state of the transmission locking device, operation of the parking interface element 702 in such a special or emergency situation may first activate the parking brake 105 to brake the vehicle. After the vehicle 100 is parked, the transmission locking device is activated.

Fig. 10 shows an exemplary state diagram 800 illustrating different states and state transitions according to different embodiments of the operating elements. The state diagram is based on the operating element 102 described by way of example with reference to fig. 9a to 9g, but is also applicable to other embodiments (e.g. fig. 7a to 7d with a translatory movement). The display and operating functions described below for the various states should be understood as exemplary. Different or modified display and operating functions may be implemented in different embodiments.

The display states described below as "search light" or "functional light" are to be understood as being visually perceptible differently in order to be able to display the state or function. Hereinafter, "start/stop" refers to "starting the engine" or "engine stopping" as shown in fig. 9b and 9c, whereby a direction-independent transition between two states (e.g., from state 814 to state 816 and vice versa) may be described.

After the system is started (powered up), state 801 is entered. In state 801, the operating element 102 (or the operating body 301) is in the moved-in state and the display element is closed (see fig. 9a, not shown). After a predetermined time (e.g., 500ms), state 802 is reached. In state 802, the engine is "started" to search for light pulses indicating possible operation by the user, and additionally, the parking light is displayed with a functional light.

After the operation "start engine", a state 804 is reached, in which state 804 the operating element 102 or the operating body 301 is moved out. In state 804 "start engine" to search for light show, and the parking lights show in function light. Once the operating element 102 or the operating body 301 has reached the upper end position, a state 806 is reached.

In state 806, P displays with the functional light. Additionally, D, N and R, "Engine off" and parking lights search for the light display. The user can switch to one of the states 808, 810 and 812 by moving the operating element 102 or the operating body 301 (see fig. 10). The actuating element 102 or the actuating body 301 can be moved into a first latching position (e.g. "lower" or "upper") or past the first latching position into a second latching position (e.g. "lower" or "upper") (see fig. 9d, 9f), after which it automatically returns to the intermediate position (see fig. 9e, 9 g). Further, the state 816 may be shifted to by operating "Engine off".

In state 808, R displays in functional light. Additionally, D, N, "engine off" and parking lights search for light displays. The vehicle may move backward in a driving operation in state 808.

In state 810, N displays with the functional light. Additionally, D, R, "engine off" and parking lights are searched for light displays. The vehicle is in an idle state in state 808, with the motor activated or running. As described above, the user can switch to one of the states 808 or 812 (see state 806) by moving the operating element 102 or the operating body 301. By operating "START/STOP" (START/STOP), it is possible to switch back and forth between state 810 and state 814 (e.g., by operating "START engine" or "engine STOP" depending on the current state). In state 814, N is displayed in functional light. Additionally, D, R, "start engine", and parking lights are displayed in search of the light show, the vehicle is in an idle state in state 814 and the engine is off. State 814 is used, for example, to prepare the vehicle (e.g., in a car wash) when the parking brake or transmission lockout is not closed and the engine is not on or running.

In state 812, D displays with the functional light. Additionally, N, R, "engine off" and parking lights are searched for light displays. The vehicle can move forward in driving operation in state 812.

In state 816, the "engine is started" to search for a light flash and the operating element 102 or the operating body 301 is moved in. State 802 is entered once operating element 102 or operating body 301 has reached the lower end position.

The number of operating steps at start-up or at stop of the vehicle 100 may be reduced by the measures described herein. Thereby improving comfort for the user of the vehicle 100. Further, the cost of the vehicle 100 may be reduced.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and drawings are only intended to illustrate the principles of the proposed method, apparatus and system.

List of reference numerals

100 vehicle

101 control unit

102 operating element

103 speed variator

104 drive motor

105 speed variator

201 starting operation section

202 parking operation section

203 travel stage operation section

204 travel mode operation section

210 park state

220 driving state

221 selected driving level

301 operating body

302 surface

310. 320 arrow (moving direction)

401 parking state plane

403 running state surface

405 basic component

406 operating part

407 mark

411 is rotated

421 translational movement

500 method for switching a vehicle from a parked state to a travel-ready state

501. 502 method step

702. 702' parking interface element

703 driving level display element

710 static state