A control unit (1) for switching and controlling functions (6) of household appliances has a continuous control surface (2) with operational areas (3) and a printed film (5). Several piezosensors (4) are arranged on a back of a plate forming the control surface (2), connected firmly and rigidly to the plate. The piezosensors (4) can be located in a film packet (9), for example, through which the piezosensors (4) are electrically connected to a processor (12). Through an offset arrangement of the piezosensors (4) in a matrix pattern direct illumination or back lighting of the printed film (5) can be achieved, thereby improving an operator's visual recognition while permitting accurate recognition of a function by the processor (12). An input filter (15) prevents operator error due to unintentional actuation of the control unit.