Patent ID: 8976125
Filing Date: 2015-03-10
Classification: B60K,G06F,H03K

Abstract:
1. An operator control apparatus comprising at least one operator control element for capturing user inputs; an approach detection device configured to sense an approach by an activation element, comprising a body part of a user, to the operator control element before the at least one operator control element is touched, wherein the approach detection device comprises a reflection light barrier comprising at least one lighting means for emitting electromagnetic detection radiation in front of the at least one operator control element into a spatially limited detection region which does not comprise an entire volume in front of the at least one operator control element; and a receiver element for detecting a portion of the detection radiation which is scattered and/or reflected at the activation element of the user when the at least one operator control element is approached, wherein the approach detection device is configured to detect an approach on the basis of the intensity of the received detection radiation, wherein the at least one lighting means is coupled to an optical device which deflects the emission of the detection radiation into a fan-shaped spatial region.