JP2014191654A - Input device and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve resolution of position estimation of a detection object and to expand a detectable range from a sensor to the detection object.SOLUTION: An input device (1) includes a main electrode (D), and a pair of a sub-electrode (S1) and a sub-electrode (S2) arranged on both opposite edge sides of the main electrode (D). Further, the input device (1) includes a capacity ratio detection circuit (11) which detects the capacitance ratio (C2/C1) of capacitance(C1) between the main electrode (D) and the sub-electrode (S1) to capacitance (C2) between the main electrode (D) and the sub-electrode (S2); and a distance ratio estimation part (12) which estimates the distance ratio (L2/L1) of a distance between a detection object and the center of the sub-electrode (S1) to a distance between the detection object and the center of the sub-electrode (S2) from the detected capacity ratio (C2/C1) based upon previously estimated relation between the distance ratio (L2/L1) and capacitance ratio (C2/C1).

Description

  The present invention relates to an input device and an electronic device that accept an input operation to an electronic device by estimating a spatial position or a movement of a detection object using capacitance.

  An input device that uses an optical device is well known as an input device that accepts a movement of a finger or hand as an input operation. Such an optical device needs to be provided with a window for allowing light to pass therethrough, and thus there is a problem in that downsizing of the device is limited or restrictions are imposed on the design. An example of an input device that solves such a problem is a sensor using capacitance.

  For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method of generating an electrical signal corresponding to the position of a detection target using a capacitance sensor array formed in a matrix on a sensor pad.

US Patent No. 8054300 (issued November 8, 2011)

  However, in the method described in Patent Document 1, since the position of the detection target is estimated by obtaining the change in capacitance of each node of the sensor matrix, the resolution is limited by the grid size of the matrix. Furthermore, since the electrodes forming the sensor array are relatively small when the lattice size is small, there is a problem that the detectable distance in the vertical direction from the sensor pad to the detection target is small.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to improve the resolution of position estimation of the detection target and to expand the detectable range from the sensor to the detection target.

  In order to solve the above problems, an input device according to an aspect of the present invention includes a main electrode, a pair of first sub-electrode and second sub-electrode disposed on opposite sides of the main electrode, Capacitance ratio detection means for detecting a first capacitance ratio between a first capacitance between the main electrode and the first sub electrode and a second capacitance between the main electrode and the second sub electrode. A first distance ratio between the distance between the detection object and the center of the first sub electrode, and a distance between the detection object and the center of the second sub electrode, and the first capacitance ratio. Distance ratio estimating means for estimating the first distance ratio from the detected capacity ratio based on the previously estimated relationship.

  Therefore, according to the aspect of the present invention, it is possible to improve the resolution of the position estimation of the detection target and to expand the detectable range from the sensor to the detection target.

(A) is a figure which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 1 and 5 of this invention, (b) is a top view which shows the structure of the electrode in the said input device. It is a graph which shows an example of the relationship between ratio of two electrostatic capacitances used with the said input device, and ratio of the distance of two electrodes used with the said input device, and a detection target. It is a figure which shows the relationship of the distance of the detection target object in which a position is estimated by the said input device, and two electrodes. It is a circuit diagram which shows the structure of the capacitance ratio detection circuit in the said input device. It is a timing chart which shows operation | movement of the said capacitance ratio detection circuit. (A) is a figure which shows the structure of the input device of the modification concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention, (b) is a top view which shows the structure of the electrode in the said input device. It is a figure which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the position of the detection target estimated by the input device of FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the input device of the modification which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. (A) is a figure which shows the drive state (1st phase) of the electrode by the input device of FIG. 11, (b) is a figure which shows the other drive state (2nd phase) of the electrode by the input device of FIG. is there. It is a graph which shows the relationship of two electrostatic capacitances used with the input device which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. 10 is a graph showing a relationship between a ratio of a difference between the two capacitances and the minimum value of each capacitance and a ratio of a distance between two electrodes of the input device according to the fifth embodiment and a detection target. . It is a circuit diagram which shows the structure of the capacitance ratio detection circuit in the input device which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a circuit diagram which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the position of the detection target estimated with the input device of FIG. FIG. 17A is a circuit diagram illustrating an operation state when the ratio of the two capacitances of the input device of FIG. 16 is estimated, and FIG. 17B is a sum of the two capacitances of the input device of FIG. It is a circuit diagram which shows the operation | movement state in the case of estimating ratio with a reference capacity. It is a graph which shows the relationship between said 2 electrostatic capacitance and the distance from an electrode to a detection target object. It is a figure which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the input device which concerns on Embodiment 8 of this invention. (A) And (b) is a figure which shows the motion of the finger | toe as a detection target detected by the input device of FIG. It is a top view which shows the structure of the smart phone which concerns on Embodiment 9 of this invention.

[Embodiment 1]
Embodiment 1 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  1A is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a plan view illustrating a configuration of electrodes D, S1, and S2 in the input device 1. FIG. is there. FIG. 2 is a graph showing an example of the relationship between the ratio of the two capacitances C1 and C2 used in the input device 1 and the ratio of the distance between the two sub-electrodes S1 and S2 used in the input device 1 and the object to be detected. It is. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the distance between the detection object whose position is estimated by the input device 1 and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2. FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 in the input device 1. FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing the operation of the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11.

[Configuration of input device]
As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the input device 1 includes a main electrode D, sub-electrodes S 1 and S 2, a capacitance ratio detection circuit 11, and a distance ratio estimation unit 12.

<Electrode configuration>
As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the main electrode D (main electrode) is a planar electrode having a large rectangular area. The pair of sub-electrodes S1, S2 has an area smaller than that of the main electrode D, and is formed in an elongated rectangle. The sub-electrode S1 (first sub-electrode) is adjacent to the side of the main electrode D on the same plane as the plane on which the main electrode D is arranged and in the vicinity of the short side of the main electrode D, but spaced from the short side. Are arranged. The sub electrode S2 (second sub electrode) is opposite to the side on which the sub electrode S1 is arranged, that is, on the side of the main electrode D on the same plane as the plane on which the main electrode D is arranged and the main electrode D. In the vicinity of other short sides, the short sides are arranged in close proximity to each other.

<Principle of position estimation of detection target>
A drive signal Vdri is applied to the main electrode D. Thereby, electric lines of force are generated between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1, S2. When a detection object such as a finger F is brought close to the main electrode D, electric lines of force are also generated between the main electrode D and the finger F, so that electric lines of force between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are generated. , Change under the influence. Therefore, the electrostatic capacity C1 (first electrostatic capacity) between the main electrode D and the sub-electrode S1 and the electrostatic capacity C2 (second electrostatic capacity) between the main electrode D and the sub-electrode S2 are: It changes in accordance with changes in the lines of electric force between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1, S2. Therefore, the position of the finger F can be estimated based on the ratio (C2 / C1) of the capacitances C1 and C2.

  Here, the distance ratio L2 / L1 between the distance L1 between the finger F and the center of the sub-electrode S1 and the distance L2 between the finger F and the center of the sub-electrode S2 is C2 as shown in FIG. It is expressed by a function of / C1. In FIG. 2, when the distances L1 and L2 are equal, the capacitances C1 and C2 are also equal due to geometric symmetry (the distance ratio L2 / L1 and the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 are both 1). However, actually, the capacitances C1 and C2 may not be equal when the distances L1 and L2 are equal due to the asymmetry of the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 and the surrounding environment.

  As described above, since the distance ratio L2 / L1 can be estimated from the capacitance ratio C2 / C1, if the distance between the finger F and the center of the sub-electrode S1 is 1, as shown in FIG. The distance A from the center of the electrode S2 is a distance ratio L2 / L1. Therefore, it can be estimated that the finger F is located on a spherical surface that satisfies the relationship that the ratio of the distances from the centers of the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 is 1: A.

  Even on the spherical surface, the position of the finger F is estimated because it is difficult to affect the lines of electric force between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 in the outer range outside the main electrode D. Difficult to do.

<Configuration of capacitance ratio detection circuit>
The capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 is a circuit for detecting the capacitance ratio C2 / C1. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 includes switches SW1 and SW2, a differential integration circuit 111, a quantizer 112, a calculation unit 113, and a switching control circuit 114.

(Differential integration circuit)
The differential integration circuit 111 is a circuit that integrates the amount of change in charge stored in the capacitances C1 and C2 and converts it into a voltage, and includes a differential amplifier 111a and two integration capacitors Cf1 and Cf2. Yes.

  The differential amplifier 111a has a positive input terminal Inp and a negative input terminal Inn as two input terminals, and has a positive output terminal and a negative output terminal as two output terminals. The positive output terminal corresponds to the negative input terminal Inn, and the negative output terminal corresponds to the positive input terminal Inp. A positive analog output voltage Vo + is output from the positive output terminal of the differential amplifier 111a, and a negative analog output voltage Vo− is output from the negative output terminal.

  The input terminal Inp of the differential amplifier 111a is connected to the switch SW1 and is connected to the negative output terminal via the integration capacitor Cf1. The input terminal Inn of the differential amplifier 111a is connected to the switch SW2 and is connected to the positive output terminal via the integration capacitor Cf2.

  Further, the positive output terminal and the negative output terminal of the differential amplifier 111 a are connected to the input terminal of the quantizer 112.

  The integration capacitor Cf1 is a capacitance for integrating the amount of change in the electric charge stored in the capacitance C1, one end of which is connected to the switch SW1 and the input terminal Inp, and the other end is a negative output of the differential amplifier 111a. Connected to the terminal. The integration capacitor Cf2 is a capacitance for integrating the amount of change in the electric charge stored in the capacitance C2, one end of which is connected to the switch SW2 and the input terminal Inn, and the other end is a positive output of the differential amplifier 111a. Connected to the terminal.

(Quantizer)
The quantizer 112 quantizes (digitizes) the differential output voltage Vo as an analog signal input from the differential integration circuit 111, and outputs a quantized signal Do as a digital signal. Specifically, the quantizer 112 calculates the difference between the positive analog output voltage Vo + and the negative analog output voltage Vo− of the differential integration circuit 111, that is, Vo = (Vo +) − (Vo−). The value of the quantized signal Do is determined by comparing the determined value of the differential output voltage Vo as a differential signal with the threshold voltage Vth. The quantizer 112 is an AD (Analog-Digital) converter and can be realized by a known comparator circuit.

  The quantizer 112 compares the differential output voltage Vo with a predetermined threshold voltage Vth at the falling timing of the clock signal Clk supplied to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11. When the value of the differential output voltage Vo is equal to or lower than the threshold voltage Vth at the falling timing of the clock signal Clk, the quantizer 112 determines the value of the quantized signal Do as the value of the quantized signal Do at the falling timing of the clock signal Clk. Do = 0 is output (see FIG. 5 described later).

  On the other hand, when the value of the differential output voltage Vo exceeds the threshold voltage Vth at the falling timing of the clock signal Clk, the quantizer 112 outputs the quantized signal Do at the falling timing of the clock signal Clk. As a value, Do = 1 is output (see FIG. 5).

(Switch and switching control circuit)
The switch SW1 is a switching circuit that selectively connects the sub-electrode S1 to the common mode terminal COM and the differential integration circuit 111. The switch SW2 is a switching circuit that selectively connects the sub electrode S2 to the common mode terminal COM and the differential integration circuit 111. A common mode voltage Vc is applied to the common mode terminal COM.

  Specifically, the fixed terminal of the switch SW1 is connected to the sub-electrode S1, one switching terminal of the switch SW1 is connected to the input terminal Inp of the differential amplifier 111a, and the other switching terminal of the switch SW1 is the common mode terminal COM. Connected with. The fixed terminal of the switch SW2 is connected to the sub-electrode S2, one switching terminal of the switch SW2 is connected to the input terminal Inn of the differential amplifier 111a, and the other switching terminal of the switch SW2 is connected to the common mode terminal COM. ing.

  The switches SW1 and SW2 connect the sub electrodes S1 and S2 to the common mode terminal COM when the clock signal Clk has a low value. The switch SW1 connects the sub electrode S1 to the differential integration circuit 111 when the clock signal Clk has a high value and the quantized signal Do output from the quantizer 112 has a high value. Further, the switch SW2 connects the sub electrode S1 to the differential integration circuit 111 when the clock signal Clk has a high value and the quantized signal Do has a low value.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when the clock signal Clk has a low value, the switching control circuit 114 supplies a low value switching control signal Clk × Do to the switch SW1, and also provides a low value switching control signal Clk × Do_b. Apply to switch SW2. The switch SW1 receives the control signal Clk × Do and connects the sub electrode S1 to the common mode terminal COM. The switch SW2 receives the switching control signal Clk × Do_b and connects the sub electrode S2 to the common mode terminal COM.

  When the clock signal Clk has a high value and the quantized signal Do has a high value, the switching control circuit 114 provides a switch control signal Clk × Do having a high value to the switch SW1, and a switching control signal having a low value. Clk × Do_b is applied to the switch SW2. The switch SW1 receives the control signal Clk × Do and connects the sub electrode S1 to the differential integration circuit 111. Further, the switch SW2 receives the control signal Clk × Do_b and maintains the state in which the sub electrode S2 is connected to the common mode terminal COM.

  If the quantized signal Do is a low value when the clock signal Clk has a high value, the switching control circuit 114 provides the switch SW1 with a low value switching control signal Clk × Do, and also switches a high value switching control signal. Clk × Do_b is applied to the switch SW2. The switch SW1 receives the control signal Clk × Do and maintains the state where the sub electrode S1 is connected to the common mode terminal COM. The switch SW2 receives the control signal Clk × Do_b and connects the sub electrode S2 to the differential integration circuit 111.

  As described above, the switching control circuit 114 outputs the switching control signals Clk × Do and Clk × Do_b based on the binary clock signal Clk and the quantized signal Do, and thus can be configured by a logic circuit.

(Calculation unit)
The arithmetic unit 113 controls the switching control circuit 114 to switch the switches SW1 and SW2 as described above, so that the quantization signal Do becomes the high number K during the N periods of the clock signal Clk. Based on this, the capacity ratio C2 / C1 is calculated. Specifically, when the drive signal Vdri is a signal that alternately repeats the voltage Vr and the common mode voltage Vc (Vr> Vc) in synchronization with the clock signal Clk, the following equation holds.

C1 (Vr−Vc) × K = C2 (Vr−Vc) × (N−K)
If the quantized signal Do is a high value, the charge of C1 (Vr−Vc) is integrated by the integration capacitor Cf1, and the differential output voltage Vo decreases by C1 (Vr−Vc) / Cf1. On the other hand, if the quantized signal Do is a low value, the charge of C2 (Vr−Vc) is integrated by the integration capacitor Cf2, and the differential output voltage Vo increases by C2 (Vr−Vc) / Cf2. These actions form a negative feedback from the differential output voltage Vo. Therefore, the differential output voltage Vo is held in the vicinity of 0 V as in the operation described later. This means that when the number of times that the quantized signal Do becomes the High value is K times during the N period of the clock signal Clk, the following equation is approximately established.

C1 (Vr−Vc) × K / Cf1 = C2 (Vr−Vc) × (NK) / Cf2
Here, since Cf1 = Cf2, the above equation is established. Therefore, the capacity ratio is calculated from the above equation as represented by the following equation (1).

C2 / C1 = K / (N−K) (1)
The calculation unit 113 includes a first counter that counts the clock signal Clk and a second counter that counts the High value of the quantized signal Do during a period in which the first counter counts the clock signal Clk. Further, the calculation unit 113 calculates the capacity ratio C2 / C1 using the above equation (1) based on the count value N of the first counter and the count value K of the second counter.

<Distance ratio estimation unit>
The distance ratio estimator 12 calculates the distance ratio L2 from the capacity ratio C2 / C1 calculated by the calculator 113 based on the relationship between the capacity ratio C2 / C1 and the distance ratio L2 / L1 shown in FIG. / L1 is estimated. Here, the relationship between the capacity ratio C2 / C1 and the distance ratio L2 / L1 is estimated in advance by measurement or simulation. For example, the distance ratio estimation unit 12 has a lookup table in which the capacity ratio C2 / C1 and the distance ratio L2 / L1 are associated with each other based on the relationship between the capacity ratio C2 / C1 and the distance ratio L2 / L1. The distance ratio L2 / L1 corresponding to the capacity ratio C2 / C1 input to the lookup table is output.

[Operation of input device]
Next, the operation of the input device 1 configured as described above will be described.

  First, as shown in FIG. 4, a drive signal Vdri that changes in synchronization with the clock signal Clk is input to the main electrode D. The drive signal Vdri becomes the voltage Vr when the clock signal Clk has a low value, and becomes the common mode voltage Vc when the clock signal Clk has a high value. Here, there is a relationship of Vr> Vc.

  In the first half period (Low period) of one cycle of the clock signal Clk, the voltage Vr is applied to the main electrode D, and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are connected to the common mode terminal COM by the switches SW1 and SW2, respectively. A voltage Vc is applied. Thereby, with reference to the terminal connected to the differential integration circuit 111 in the switches SW1 and SW2, charges C1 (Vr−Vc) are stored in the capacitance C1, and C2 (Vr−) is stored in the capacitance C2. Vc) is stored.

  In the latter half period (High period) of one cycle of the clock signal Clk, if the quantized signal Do has a High value, the sub electrode S1 is connected to the differential integration circuit 111 via the switch SW1. At this time, since the charge stored in the capacitance C1 changes to C1 (Vc−Vc) = 0, C1 (Vr−Vc), which is the amount of change in charge from the first half period of the clock signal Clk, is input. When input to the differential integration circuit 111 through the terminal Inp, integration is performed by the integration capacitor Cf1. The differential output voltage Vo (analog output voltage) by this integration operation changes as represented by the following equation.

Vo = (Vo +) − (Vo−)
= -C1 (Vr-Vc) / Cf1
As described above, when the quantized signal Do has a high value, the differential output voltage Vo decreases.

  If the quantized signal Do is a low value in the latter half of one cycle of the clock signal Clk, the sub electrode S2 is connected to the differential integrating circuit 111 via the switch SW2. At this time, since the charge stored in the capacitance C2 changes to C2 (Vc−Vc) = 0, C2 (Vr−Vc), which is the change in charge from the first half period of the clock signal Clk, is input. When input to the differential integration circuit 111 through the terminal Inn, integration is performed by the integration capacitor Cf2. The differential output voltage Vo by this integration operation changes as represented by the following equation.

Vo = (Vo +) − (Vo−)
= C2 (Vr-Vc) / Cf2
Thus, when the quantized signal Do has a low value, the differential output voltage Vo increases.

  If the differential output voltage Vo is a positive value at the fall of the clock signal Clk, the quantized signal Do becomes a High value during one cycle from the fall of the clock signal Clk, and the differential output is output in the latter half of the cycle. The voltage Vo decreases. On the other hand, if the differential output voltage Vo is a negative value at the fall of the clock signal Clk, the quantized signal Do becomes a Low value during one cycle from the fall of the clock signal Clk, and in the latter half of the cycle. The differential output voltage Vo increases.

  With the above operation, it can be seen that the differential output voltage Vo is maintained at a value close to zero, as shown in FIG.

  Here, the arithmetic unit 113 counts the number of periods N of the clock signal Clk, and also counts the number K at which the quantized signal Do has a high value during the period in which the number of periods N is counted. Is used to calculate the capacity ratio C2 / C1 based on the above equation (1).

  Further, when the capacity ratio C2 / C1 calculated as described above is input to the distance ratio estimation unit 12, the distance ratio L2 / L1 corresponding to the capacity ratio C2 / C1 is output.

[Effects of input device]
As described above, the input device 1 according to this embodiment includes the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 disposed on both sides thereof. Thereby, the capacitance C1 between the main electrode D and the sub electrode S1 and the capacitance C2 between the main electrode D and the sub electrode S2 are caused by the finger F (detection target) approaching the main electrode D. Change. The input device 1 detects the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 that is the ratio of the capacitances C1 and C2 by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11, and further, the distance ratio estimation unit 12 detects the distance ratio from the detected capacitance ratio C2 / C1. Estimate L2 / L1.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 3, a spherical surface formed by a set of points where the finger F satisfies a relationship in which the ratio of the distances from the centers of the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 is 1: A (A = L2 / L1). It can be estimated that it is located above. If the position of the finger F can be limited to a spherical surface based on the distance ratio L2 / L1, it is possible to distinguish which of the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 is closer to the finger F (in which of the two regions). The position of the finger F can be input as binary information. Therefore, it is possible to improve the resolution of the position estimation of the detection target and to expand the detectable range from the sensor to the detection target.

[Modification]
Subsequently, a modified example of the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 2 of a modification according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 6B is a plan view illustrating a configuration of electrodes in the input device 2.

  As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the input device 2 according to this modification example is similar to the above-described input device 1, and the main electrode D, the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 and the distance. A ratio estimation unit 12 is provided.

  The sub-electrodes S1 and S2 in the input device 2 are arranged on the detection surface of the main electrode D so as to overlap. Specifically, the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are in the vicinity of both the short sides of the main electrode D, and the main electrode D and the insulation are secured on the detection surface of the main electrode D along the short side. Is arranged in.

  As described above, in the input device 2, even if the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are arranged on the main electrode D, the capacitance C1 between the main electrode D and the sub-electrode S1, There is a capacitance C2 between the electrode D and the sub-electrode S2. Accordingly, the input device 2 detects the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 and estimates the distance ratio L2 / L1 based on the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 by the distance ratio estimation unit 12 as in the input device 1. By doing so, the position of the finger F can be estimated on the spherical surface.

  Further, in the input device 2, since the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are disposed on the main electrode D, a region for disposing the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 in the input device 1 is not necessary. Therefore, the electrode installation area can be reduced.

  On the other hand, in the input device 1, although the electrode installation area becomes large, the main electrode D and the sub electrodes S1, S2 are arranged on the same plane (layer), so the main electrode D and the sub electrodes S1, S2 are formed. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a multilayer substrate.

[Embodiment 2]
Embodiment 2 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 3 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the position of the detection target estimated by the input device 3.

  In the present embodiment, components having functions equivalent to those of the components in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
As illustrated in FIG. 7, the input device 3 includes a main electrode D, sub-electrodes S1 to S4, capacitance ratio detection circuits 31 and 32, distance ratio estimation units 33 and 34, and an arc calculation unit 35.

<Electrode configuration>
As shown in FIG. 7, the configuration and arrangement of the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are the same as those of the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 in the input device 1 described above. To do. The sub-electrodes S3 and S4 have a smaller area than the main electrode D, and are formed in an elongated rectangle. The sub-electrode S3 (third sub-electrode) is close to the side of the main electrode D on the same plane as the plane on which the main electrode D is arranged and in the vicinity of the long side of the main electrode D, but spaced from the long side. Are arranged. Further, the sub electrode S4 wave (fourth sub electrode), the side opposite to the side where the sub electrode S3 is arranged, that is, the side of the main electrode D on the same plane as the plane where the main electrode D is arranged and the main electrode D In the vicinity of the other long side, the long side is arranged close to the long side.

<Principle of position estimation of detection target>
A drive signal Vdri is applied to the main electrode D1. As a result, electric lines of force are generated not only between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, but also between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4. When a detection object such as a finger F is brought close to the main electrode D, electric lines of force are also generated between the main electrode D and the finger F, so that electric lines of force between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 are generated. , Change under the influence. Therefore, the electrostatic capacitance C3 between the main electrode D and the sub electrode S3 and the electrostatic capacitance C4 between the main electrode D and the sub electrode S4 are the electric current between the main electrode D and the sub electrodes S3 and S4. It changes according to the change of field lines. Therefore, the position of the finger F can be estimated based on the ratio (C4 / C3) of the capacitances C3 and C4.

  Here, the distance ratio L4 / L3 between the distance L3 between the finger F and the center of the sub-electrode S3 and the distance L4 between the finger F and the center of the sub-electrode S4 is also C2 / C1 shown in FIG. Like the function, it is represented by a C4 / C3 function.

  As described above, since the distance ratio L4 / L3 can be estimated from the capacitance ratio C4 / C3, if the distance between the finger F and the center of the sub-electrode S3 is 1, similarly to the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 shown in FIG. The distance B between the finger F and the center of the sub electrode S4 is a distance ratio L4 / L3. Therefore, it can be estimated that the finger F is located on a spherical surface that satisfies the relationship that the ratio of the distances from the centers of the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 is 1: B. Further, as already described in the first embodiment, it can be estimated that the finger F is located on a spherical surface that satisfies the relationship in which the ratio of the distances from the centers of the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 is 1: A. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, the finger F is a spherical SP1 estimated based on the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 of the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, and the capacitance ratio of the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4. It can be estimated that the spherical surface SP2 estimated based on C4 / C3 is located on the arc AR.

  In addition, on the spherical surfaces SP1 and SP2, the electric field lines between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 to S4 are hardly affected in the outer range outside the main electrode D. It is difficult to estimate the position.

<Configuration of capacitance ratio detection circuit>
The capacitance ratio detection circuit 31 is a circuit for detecting the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 and is configured similarly to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 in the input device 1 of the first embodiment. The capacitance ratio detection circuit 32 is a circuit for detecting the capacitance ratio C4 / C3, and is similar to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 except that the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 are connected. It is configured.

<Configuration of distance ratio estimation unit>
The distance ratio estimation unit 33 estimates the distance ratio L2 / L1 from the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 32, and the distance ratio estimation unit 34 is detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 33. The distance ratio L4 / L3 is estimated from the capacity ratio C4 / C3. The distance ratio estimation units 33 and 34 are both configured in the same manner as the distance ratio estimation unit 12 in the input device 1 of the first embodiment.

<Configuration of arc calculation unit>
The arc calculation unit 35 calculates the aforementioned arc AR based on the distance ratios L2 / L1 and L4 / L3 estimated by the distance ratio estimation units 33 and 34. Specifically, the circular arc calculation unit 35 includes a coincidence detection comparator that detects a coincidence between the distance ratio L2 / L1 and the distance ratio L4 / L3, and an output circuit that outputs both values where the coincidence is detected. ing.

[Operation of input device]
Next, the operation of the input device 3 configured as described above will be described.

  When the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 between the main electrode D1 and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 is detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 31, the distance ratio L2 / L1 is calculated based on the capacitance ratio C2 / C1. Is estimated by On the other hand, when the capacitance ratio C4 / C3 between the main electrode D1 and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 is detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 32, the distance ratio L4 / L3 is estimated based on the capacitance ratio C4 / C3. Estimated by the unit 34.

  Based on the estimated distance ratios L2 / L1, L4, and L3, the arc calculation unit 35 calculates an arc AR that intersects the spherical surfaces SP1 and SP2.

[Effects of input device]
As described above, the input device 3 according to the present embodiment not only estimates the distance ratio L2 / L1 based on the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 obtained from the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, but also the main electrode D and the sub-electrode. The distance ratio L4 / L3 is estimated from the capacitance ratio C4 / C3 obtained from the electrodes S3 and S4. Thus, by estimating the position of the finger F in two directions orthogonal to the direction in which the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 face each other and the direction in which the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 face each other, the finger F is placed on the arc AR. It can be estimated that it is located.

  Therefore, multi-value information can be input according to the position of the intersection between the arc AR and the main electrode D. Information can also be input according to the direction of movement of the intersection of the arc AR and the main electrode D.

[Modification]
Subsequently, a modified example of the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 4 according to a modified example of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the input device 4 according to this modification example is similar to the above-described input device 3. And an arc calculator 35.

  The sub-electrodes S1 to S4 in the input device 4 are arranged on the detection surface of the main electrode D so as to overlap. Specifically, the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are in the vicinity of both the short sides of the main electrode D, and the main electrode D and the insulation are secured on the detection surface of the main electrode D along the short side. Is arranged in. Further, the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 are arranged in the vicinity of both long sides of the main electrode D in a state where insulation with the main electrode D is secured on the detection surface of the main electrode D so as to follow the long side. ing.

  Thus, in the input device 4, even if the sub-electrodes S <b> 1 to S <b> 4 are arranged on the main electrode D, the capacitance C <b> 1 between the main electrode D and the sub-electrode S <b> 1, A capacitance C2 between the electrode D and the sub electrode S2, a capacitance C3 between the main electrode D and the sub electrode S3, and a capacitance C4 between the main electrode D and the sub electrode S4. Has occurred. As a result, the input device 4 detects the capacitance ratios C2 / C1, C4 / C3 by the capacitance ratio detection circuits 31, 32, and the capacitance ratio C2 / C1, C4 by the distance ratio estimation units 33, 34, similarly to the input device 3. The distance ratios L2 / L1, L4 / L3 are estimated based on / C3, and the arc AR is calculated by the arc calculation unit 35 based on the distance ratios L2 / L1, L4 / L3. Thereby, the position of the finger F can be estimated to the arc AR on the spherical surfaces SP1 and SP2.

  Further, in the input device 4, the sub electrodes S <b> 1 to S <b> 4 are arranged on the main electrode D, so that the region for arranging the sub electrodes S <b> 1 to S <b> 4 in the input device 3 is not necessary. Therefore, the electrode installation area can be reduced.

  On the other hand, in the input device 3, although the electrode installation area becomes large, the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 to S4 are arranged on the same plane (layer), so the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 to S4 are formed. Therefore, it is not necessary to use a multilayer substrate.

[Embodiment 3]
Embodiment 3 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 5 according to the third embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, components having functions equivalent to those of the components in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
As shown in FIG. 10, the input device 5 includes an electrode module 51, a capacitance ratio detection circuit 52, and a distance ratio estimation unit 53.

<Configuration of electrode module>
As shown in FIG. 10, the electrode module 51 includes a touch panel sheet 51 a and a plurality of electrodes X and Y.

  The touch panel sheet 51a is a transparent substrate formed in a rectangular shape, and is made of a plate-like or film-like material such as translucent glass or plastic. A plurality of transparent electrodes X (first linear electrodes) are formed on one surface of the touch panel sheet 51a so as to extend in parallel to each other in the same direction (longitudinal direction of the touch panel sheet 51a). On the other hand, a plurality of transparent electrodes Y (second linear electrodes) are formed on the other surface of the touch panel sheet 51a so as to extend in parallel to each other in the same direction (direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the touch panel sheet 51a). Yes. The surface on which the electrodes X and Y of the touch panel sheet 51a are formed is protected by a hard coat.

  The electrode X has a configuration in which a number of squares are arranged in the longitudinal direction so that two opposing corners are aligned on a straight line. Similarly, the electrode Y has a configuration in which a large number of squares are arranged in the longitudinal direction so that two opposing corners are aligned in a straight line.

  In the touch panel sheet 51a, the electrodes X and Y are formed so as to be orthogonal to each other. Specifically, a rectangular portion of the electrode Y is arranged in a hexagonal region formed between two adjacent electrodes X, and an electrode is formed in the hexagonal region formed between two adjacent electrodes Y. A square portion of X is arranged. Further, the electrodes X and Y are arranged so as to cover the touch panel sheet 51a with a slight gap between adjacent electrodes X and Y.

  Usually, an AC signal for driving is supplied to the electrode X and the electrode Y from a controller constituted by an IC (not shown). Accordingly, the position of the detection target object on the touch panel sheet 51a is detected by sequentially scanning the electrodes X and Y arranged in a matrix to detect a change in capacitance. In the input device 5 of the present embodiment, unlike the normal usage method, the above-described main electrode D and sub-electrodes S1, S2 are configured using the electrodes X, Y.

  Specifically, the main electrode D is configured by connecting the ends of all the electrodes Y to each other, and the drive signal Vdri is input to the ends. The sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are configured by connecting the ends of the three electrodes X to each other on both short sides of the touch panel sheet 51a.

<Configuration of capacitance ratio detection circuit and distance ratio estimation unit>
The capacitance ratio detection circuit 52 is a circuit for detecting the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 of the capacitances C1 and C2 obtained by the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, and the capacitance ratio in the input device 1 of the first embodiment. The configuration is the same as that of the detection circuit 11. The input terminal of the capacitance ratio detection circuit 52 is connected to the end where the electrodes X constituting the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are connected to each other.

  The distance ratio estimation unit 53 estimates the distance ratio L2 / L1 from the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 52, and is configured similarly to the distance ratio estimation unit 12 in the input device 1. .

[Operation and effects of input device]
Next, the operation of the input device 3 configured as described above will be described.

  When the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 between the main electrode D1 and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 is detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 52, the distance ratio L2 / L1 is determined based on the capacitance ratio C2 / C1. Is estimated by Thereby, it can be estimated that the position of the detection target is on a spherical surface formed by a set of points specified by L2 / L1 = A, as in the input device 1.

  Thereby, the position of a detection target object can be limited using few detection circuits.

  The number of electrodes Y constituting the main electrode D and the number of electrodes X constituting the sub-electrodes S1, S2 are not limited to the above example, and may be selected as appropriate. For example, the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 may not be configured by the electrodes X positioned on both short sides, but may be configured by the electrodes X positioned away from the short sides.

[Embodiment 4]
Embodiment 4 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 6 according to the fourth embodiment. 12A is a diagram showing an electrode driving state (first phase) by the input device 6, and FIG. 12B is another electrode driving state (second phase) by the input device 6. FIG. FIG.

  In the present embodiment, components having the same functions as those in the above-described second and third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
As shown in FIG. 11, the input device 6 includes an electrode module 61, a switch matrix 62, a capacitance ratio detection circuit 63, a capacitance ratio estimation unit 64, a register 65, and an arc calculation unit 66.

<Configuration of electrode module>
As shown in FIG. 11, the electrode module 61 includes a touch panel sheet 61 a and a plurality of electrodes X and Y.

  The touch panel sheet 61a is a transparent substrate formed in a rectangular shape, like the touch panel sheet 51a in the input device 5 of the third embodiment, and a plurality of electrodes X are formed in parallel with each other on one side, while the other side A plurality of electrodes Y are formed in parallel on the surface. The electrodes X and Y are arranged so as to be orthogonal to each other.

  Unlike the electrodes X and Y in the touch panel sheet 51a, the electrodes X and Y in the touch panel sheet 61a are independently connected to the switch matrix 62 without being connected to each other.

<Configuration of switch matrix>
The switch matrix 62 is an aggregate of switches provided for each of the electrodes X and Y, and each switch is connected to the electrodes X and Y and a drive terminal to which the drive signal Vdri is applied or the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63. Selectively connect to the output terminal. Accordingly, a predetermined number of electrodes X and a predetermined number of electrodes Y among the electrodes X are selected, and the drive signal Vdri is applied or connected to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63. Can do. In the present embodiment, the switch matrix 62 selects specific electrodes X and Y as follows.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12A, the switch matrix 62 configures the main electrode D1 corresponding to the main electrode D by selecting all the electrodes Y in the first phase. The drive signal Vdri is applied to the selected electrode Y. In the first phase, the switch matrix 62 configures the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 by selecting the three electrodes X on both short sides of the touch panel sheet 61a in the first phase, and the selected electrode X is used as the capacitance ratio detection circuit. 63.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12 (b), the switch matrix 62 configures and selects the main electrode D2 corresponding to the aforementioned main electrode D by selecting all the electrodes X in the second phase. A drive signal Vdri is applied to the electrode X. In the second phase, the switch matrix 62 configures the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 by selecting the two electrodes Y on both long sides of the touch panel sheet 61a, and the selected electrode Y is connected to the capacitance ratio detection circuit. 63.

<Configuration of capacitance ratio detection circuit and distance ratio estimation unit>
The capacitance ratio detection circuit 63 includes a capacitance ratio C2 / C1 of capacitances C1 and C2 obtained by the main electrode D1 and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, and a capacitance C3 obtained by the main electrode D2 and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4. This is a circuit for detecting the capacitance ratio C4 / C3 of C4. The capacitance ratio detection circuit 63 is configured in the same manner as the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 in the input device 1 of the first embodiment. The output terminal of the switch matrix 62 is connected to the input terminal of the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63.

  The distance ratio estimation unit 64 estimates the distance ratios L2 / L1 and L4 / L3 from the capacitance ratios C2 / C1, C4 / C3 detected by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63, respectively. The distance ratio estimation unit 64 is configured in the same manner as the distance ratio estimation unit 12 in the input device 1.

<Register configuration>
The register 65 temporarily stores the distance ratio L2 / L1 estimated by the distance ratio estimation unit 12 in the first phase and the distance ratio L4 / L3 estimated by the distance ratio estimation unit 12 in the second phase. Is provided.

<Configuration of arc calculation unit>
The arc calculation unit 66 calculates the aforementioned arc AR based on the distance ratios L2 / L1 and L4 / L3 stored in the register 65. The arc calculation unit 66 is configured in the same manner as the arc calculation unit 35 in the input device 3 in the second embodiment.

[Operation of input device]
Next, the operation of the input device 6 configured as described above will be described.

  First, in the first phase, as shown in FIG. 12A, the switch matrix 62 selects all the electrodes Y to form the main electrode D1, and the three electrodes X on both short sides are Sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are configured by selection. The drive signal Vdri is applied to the main electrode D1, while the sub electrodes S1 and S2 are connected to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63. In this state, the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63 detects the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 of the capacitances C1 and C2 generated between the main electrode D1 and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2. The distance ratio L2 / L1 is estimated by the distance ratio estimation unit 64 based on the detected capacity ratio C2 / C1 and stored in the register 65.

  In the subsequent second phase, as shown in FIG. 12B, the switch matrix 62 selects all the electrodes X to form the main electrode D2, and selects the two electrodes Y on both long sides. Thus, sub-electrodes S3 and S4 are formed. The drive signal Vdri is applied to the main electrode D2, while the sub electrodes S3 and S4 are connected to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63. In this state, the capacitance ratio detection circuit 63 detects the capacitance ratio C4 / C3 of the capacitances C3 and C4 respectively generated between the main electrode D2 and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4. The distance ratio L4 / L3 is estimated by the distance ratio estimation unit 64 based on the detected capacity ratio C4 / C3 and stored in the register 65.

  Then, the arc calculation unit 66 calculates an arc AR that intersects the spherical surfaces SP1 and SP2 based on the capacity ratios C2 / C1 and C4 / C3 read from the register 65 (see FIG. 8).

[Effects of input device]
As described above, the input device 6 according to the present embodiment not only estimates the distance ratio L2 / L1 based on the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 obtained from the main electrode D1 and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, but also the main electrode D2 and the sub-electrode. The distance ratio L4 / L3 is estimated from the capacitance ratio C4 / C3 obtained from the electrodes S3 and S4. Thereby, like the input device 3 of the second embodiment, by estimating the position of the finger F in two directions orthogonal to the direction in which the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 face each other and the direction in which the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 face each other. It can be estimated that the finger F is positioned on the arc AR.

  Therefore, multi-value information can be input according to the position of the intersection between the arc AR and the main electrodes D1 and D2. Information can also be input according to the direction of movement of the intersection between the arc AR and the main electrodes D1, D2.

  In addition, the input device 6 uses the electrodes X and Y arranged in a matrix used in a general capacitive touch panel as the main electrodes D1 and D2 and the sub electrodes S1 and S2 using the switch matrix 62. be able to. As a result, the touch panel can be used as a normal touch sensor, or can be used as a sensor for inputting multi-value information as described above.

[Embodiment 5]
Embodiment 5 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1, 13, 14, and 15.

  FIG. 13 is a graph showing the relationship between the two capacitances C1 and C2 used in the input device 1 according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 14 shows the ratio of the difference between the capacitances C1 and C2 and the minimum values C10 and C20 of the respective capacitances C1 and C2, and the ratio of the distance between the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 of the input device 1 and the object to be detected. It is a graph which shows the relationship. FIG. 15 is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration of the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11A in the input device 1 according to the fifth embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, components having functions equivalent to those of the components in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
This embodiment demonstrates improving the estimation precision of distance ratio L2 / L1 using the input device 1 of Embodiment 1. FIG.

  First, there is a relationship as shown in FIG. 13 between the capacitances C1 and C2 and the distance ratio L2 / L1. Specifically, when the detection target is at a position close to the sub-electrode S1, the capacitance C1 with respect to the distance ratio L2 / L1 at this time increases and the capacitance C2 decreases. On the contrary, when the detection target is located near the sub-electrode S2, the capacitance C2 with respect to the distance ratio L2 / L1 at this time increases, and the capacitance C1 decreases. If the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are formed symmetrically, when L2 / L1 = 1 (L1 = L2), C1 = C2.

  Capacitances C1 and C2 have minimum values C10 and C20, respectively. The minimum value C10 is a capacitance formed between the regions of the side surfaces of the main electrode D and the sub electrode S1 that directly face each other. The minimum value C20 is a capacitance formed between the regions of the side surfaces of the main electrode D and the sub electrode S2 that directly face each other. Here, it is assumed that the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are formed completely symmetrically, and the minimum values C10 and C20 are equal.

  In the present embodiment, the capacity ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) is used instead of the capacity ratio C2 / C1 used in the estimation of the distance ratio L2 / L1 in the first embodiment.

<Configuration of capacitance ratio detection circuit>
Here, the input device 1 includes a capacitance ratio detection circuit 11A instead of the above-described capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 in order to detect the capacitance ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10).

  The capacitance ratio detection circuit 11A is configured by adding switches SW3 and SW4 and capacitances C10 and C20 corresponding to the minimum values C10 and C20 to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 in the input device 1.

  Capacitances C10 and C20 are formed in the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11A. One electrode of each of the capacitances C10 and C20 is connected to the main electrode D.

  The switch SW3 is a switching circuit that selectively connects the capacitance C10 to the common mode terminal COM and the differential integration circuit 111. The switch SW4 is a switching circuit that selectively connects the capacitance C20 to the common mode terminal COM and the differential integration circuit 111.

  Specifically, the fixed terminal of the switch SW3 is connected to the other electrode of the capacitance C10, one switching terminal of the switch SW3 is connected to the input terminal Inn of the differential amplifier 111a, and the other switching terminal of the switch SW3. Are connected to a common mode terminal COM. The fixed terminal of the switch SW4 is connected to the other electrode of the capacitance C20, one switching terminal of the switch SW4 is connected to the input terminal Inp of the differential amplifier 111a, and the other switching terminal of the switch SW4 is common mode. It is connected to the terminal COM.

  The switches SW3 and SW4 connect the capacitances C10 and C20 to the common mode terminal COM when the clock signal Clk has a low value. The switch SW3 connects the capacitance C10 to the differential integration circuit 111 when the clock signal Clk has a high value and the quantized signal Do output from the quantizer 112 has a high value. Further, the switch SW4 connects the capacitance C10 to the differential integration circuit 111 when the clock signal Clk has a high value and the quantized signal Do has a low value.

  Therefore, the switching control circuit 114 provides the switching control signal Clk × Do and the switching control signal Clk × Do_b not only to the switches SW1 and SW2 but also to the switches SW3 and SW4.

[Operation of input device]
Next, the operation of the input device 1 including the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11A will be described.

  First, in the first half period (Low period) of one cycle of the clock signal Clk, the voltage Vr is applied to the main electrode D, and the sub-electrodes S1, S2 and the capacitances C10, C20 are respectively switched by the switches SW1, SW2, and SW3. , SW4 are connected to the common mode terminal COM, and the common mode voltage Vc is applied. As a result, with reference to the terminals connected to the differential integration circuit 111 in the switches SW1 and SW2 and the switches SW3 and SW4, a charge C1 (Vr−Vc) is stored in the capacitance C1, and the capacitance C2 is stored. Is stored with a charge of C2 (Vr-Vc), a charge of C10 (Vr-Vc) is stored in the capacitance C10, and a charge of C20 (Vr-Vc) is stored in the capacitance C20.

  In the latter half period (High period) of one cycle of the clock signal Clk, if the quantized signal Do is a High value, the sub electrode S1 is connected to the main electrode D of the capacitance C10 via the switch SW1. The non-side electrodes are respectively connected to the differential integration circuit 111 via the switch SW3. At this time, the charge stored in the capacitance C1 changes to C1 (Vc−Vc) = 0, and the charge stored in the capacitance C10 changes to C10 (Vc−Vc) = 0. Thus, C1 (Vr−Vc) and C10 (Vr−Vc), which are the amount of change in charge from the first half period of the clock signal Clk, are respectively input to the differential integration circuit 111 through the input terminal Inp and the input terminal Inn. The input is integrated by the integration capacitor Cf1 and the integration capacitor Cf2. The differential output voltage Vo (analog output voltage) by this integration operation changes as represented by the following equation. Here, Cf1 = Cf2 = Cf.

Vo = (Vo +) − (Vo−)
= C10 (Vr-Vc) / Cf2-C1 (Vr-Vc) / Cf1
=-(C1-C10) (Vr-Vc) / Cf
As described above, when the quantized signal Do has a high value, the differential output voltage Vo decreases.

  If the quantized signal Do is a low value in the second half period (High period) of one cycle of the clock signal Clk, the sub-electrode S2 is not connected to the electrode D of the capacitance C20 via the switch SW2. The electrodes on the side are respectively connected to the differential integration circuit 111 via the switch SW4. At this time, the charge stored in the capacitance C2 changes to C2 (Vc−Vc) = 0, and the charge stored in the capacitance C20 changes to C20 (Vc−Vc) = 0. As a result, C2 (Vr−Vc) and C20 (Vr−Vc), which are the amount of change in charge from the first half period of the clock signal Clk, pass through the input terminal Inn and the input terminal Inp, respectively, and the differential integration circuit 111. Is integrated by the integration capacitor Cf2 and the integration capacitor Cf1. The differential output voltage Vo (analog output voltage) by this integration operation changes as represented by the following equation. Here, Cf1 = Cf2 = Cf.

Vo = (Vo +) − (Vo−)
= C2 (Vr-Vc) / Cf2-C20 (Vr-Vc) / Cf1
= (C2-20) (Vr-Vc) / Cf
Thus, when the quantized signal Do has a low value, the differential output voltage Vo increases.

  If the differential output voltage Vo is a positive value at the fall of the clock signal Clk, the quantized signal Do becomes a High value during one cycle from the fall of the clock signal Clk, and the differential output is output in the latter half of the cycle. The voltage Vo decreases. On the other hand, if the differential output voltage Vo is a negative value at the fall of the clock signal Clk, the quantized signal Do becomes a Low value during one cycle from the fall of the clock signal Clk, and in the latter half of the cycle. The differential output voltage Vo increases.

  With the above operation, it can be seen that the differential output voltage Vo is maintained at a value close to zero, as shown in FIG.

  Here, the arithmetic unit 113 counts the number of periods N of the clock signal Clk, and also counts the number K at which the quantized signal Do has a high value during the period in which the number of periods N is counted. Is used to calculate the capacity ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) based on the above equation (1).

  Further, when the capacity ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) calculated as described above is input in the distance ratio estimation unit 12, the capacity ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10). A distance ratio L2 / L1 corresponding to is output.

[Effect of input device]
By using the capacitance ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) as described above, the following effects can be obtained.

  When the maximum value of the capacitance C1 is C11, the relationship C10 <C1 <C11 is established, and when the maximum value of the capacitance C2 is C21, C20 <C2 <C21 is established. Therefore, the relationship of C20 / C11 ≦ C2 / C1 ≦ C21 / C10 holds for the change in the capacity ratio C2 / C1. Here, as shown in FIG. 14, the minimum value of the capacitance ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) approaches 0 when the capacitance C2 approaches the minimum value C20, and thus becomes smaller than C20 / C11. . On the other hand, the maximum value of the capacitance ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) becomes larger than C21 / C10 because the capacitance C1 increases infinitely as the capacitance C1 approaches the minimum value C10.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 14, the change in the capacity ratio (C2-C20) / (C1-C10) with respect to the distance ratio L2 / L1 is the change in the capacity ratio C2 / C1 with respect to the distance ratio L2 / L1 shown in FIG. Compared to Accordingly, the distance ratio L2 / L1 can be estimated with higher accuracy.

[Embodiment 6]
Embodiment 6 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 16 is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 7 according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the position of the detection target estimated by the input device 7. 18A is a circuit diagram showing an operation state when the ratio of the capacitances C1 and C2 of the input device 7 is estimated, and FIG. 18B is a circuit diagram of the capacitances C1 and C2 of the input device 7. It is a circuit diagram which shows the operation | movement state in the case of estimating the ratio of the sum of these and reference capacity | capacitance Cr. FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the capacitances C1 and C2 and the distance from the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 to the detection target.

  In addition, in this embodiment, about the component which has a function equivalent to the component in above-mentioned Embodiment 1-5, while attaching the same code | symbol, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
As illustrated in FIG. 16, the input device 7 includes a main electrode D and sub-electrodes S <b> 1 to S <b> 4, similar to the input device 3 of the second embodiment. The input device 7 includes a capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71 and a position estimation unit 72.

<Identification of the position of the object to be detected by the input device>
As described in the second embodiment, the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 determined by the capacitances C1 and C2 between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, and between the main electrode D and the sub-electrodes S3 and S4 Using the capacitance ratio C4 / C3 determined by the capacitances C3 and C4, the position of the detection object can be estimated on the arc AR where the two spherical surfaces SP1 and SP2 intersect (see FIG. 8). In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the distance H (vertical distance) between the main electrode D and the detection target is estimated together with the estimation of the arc AR, so that the distance H on the arc AR The point P is specified as the position of the detection target.

  As shown in FIG. 19, since the distance H has a specific relationship with the sum (C1 + C2) of the capacitances C1 and C2, the distance H can be estimated by calculating the capacitance sum C1 + C2.

  Since the distance H has a specific relationship with the sum of the capacitances C3 and C4 (C3 + C4), the distance H can be estimated by calculating the capacitance sum C3 + C4.

<Configuration of capacitance ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit>
The capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71 operates in a first mode for estimating the capacitance ratios C2 / C1 and C4 / C3 and a second mode for estimating the distance H. The capacitance ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit 71 includes switches SW1 and SW2, a differential integration circuit 111, and a quantizer 112, similar to the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 in the input device 1 of the first embodiment. The capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71 includes a reference capacitance Cr, a switching circuit 711, a switching control circuit 712, a calculation unit 713, and mode switching switches SW11 and SW12.

(Reference capacity)
The reference capacitor Cr has one end connected to the main electrode D and the other end connected to the input terminal of the mode switch SW12. The reference capacitance Cr is formed inside the integrated circuit constituting the capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71 or on a circuit board constituting the capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71.

(Switching circuit)
The switching circuit 711 is a switch that selectively switches the connection between the sub-electrodes S1 and S2, the sub-electrodes S3 and S4, and the switches SW1 and SW2 in the first mode. Specifically, the switching circuit 711 connects the sub-electrodes S1 and S2 and the switches SW1 and SW2 when detecting the capacitance ratio C2 / C1, and detects the capacitance ratio C4 / C3. , S4 and the switches SW1, SW2. The switching operation of the switching circuit 711 is controlled by a selection control signal given from the switching control circuit 712.

(Mode switch)
The mode switch SW11 is a switch that selectively connects the sub-electrodes S2 and S4 to the switches SW1 and SW2 according to the mode. Specifically, the mode switch SW11 connects the sub electrode S2 or the sub electrode S4 and the fixed terminal of the switch SW2 via the switching circuit 711 in the first mode. Further, the mode changeover switch SW11 connects the sub-electrode S2 or the sub-electrode S4 and the fixed terminal of the switch SW1 via the change-over circuit 711 in the second mode.

  The mode changeover switch SW12 is a switch that opens in the first mode and closes in the second mode between the reference capacitor Cr and the fixed terminal of the switch SW2.

(Switching control circuit)
In the first mode, the switching control circuit 712 gives a switching control signal for controlling the operation of the switches SW1 and SW2 to the switches SW1 and SW2, similarly to the switching control circuit 114 in the input device 1 of the first embodiment. In addition, the switching control circuit 712 gives a control signal for controlling the operation of the mode selector switches SW11 and SW12 to the mode selector switches SW11 and SW12 according to the mode. Further, the switching control circuit 712 gives the above-described selection control signal to the switching circuit 711.

(Calculation unit)
In the first mode, the arithmetic unit 713 outputs a high value between the quantized signal Do output from the quantizer 112 and the N period of the clock signal Clk in the same manner as the arithmetic unit 113 in the input device 1. The capacity ratios C2 / C1 and C4 / C3 are calculated on the basis of the number K of the periods that become. Further, in the second mode, the calculation unit 713 calculates the capacity ratio Cr / (C1 + C2) in the same procedure as that for calculating the capacity ratio C2 / C1, and uses the capacity ratio Cr / (C1 + C2) as the reference capacity Cr. The capacitance sum C1 + C2 is calculated using the known capacitance value.

<Distance ratio estimation unit>
The position estimation unit 72 estimates the distance ratios L2 / L1, L4 / L3 from the capacity ratios C2 / C1, C4 / C3, similarly to the distance ratio estimation units 33, 34 in the input device 3 of the second embodiment. The position estimation unit 72 calculates the above-described arc AR based on the distance ratios L2 / L1 and L4 / L3, similarly to the arc calculation unit 35 in the input device 3.

  Further, the position estimation unit 72 estimates the distance H based on the above-described capacitance sum C1 + C2 obtained by the calculation unit 713. Here, the relationship between the capacitance sum C1 + C2 and the distance H shown in FIG. 19 is estimated in advance by measurement or simulation. For example, the position estimation unit 72 has a capacitance sum C1 + C2, a distance H, and a lookup table based on the relationship between the capacitance sum C1 + C2 and the distance H, and the capacitance sum C1 + C2 input to the lookup table. The distance H corresponding to is output.

  Further, the position estimation unit 72 estimates the position of the detection target object by specifying a point on the arc AR where the distance from the main electrode D is the distance H from the arc AR and the distance H. Specifically, the position estimation unit 72 specifies the arc distance from the main electrode D to the position of each point in the arc AR, and detects the position in the arc AR specified by the arc distance that matches the distance H. Estimated as the position of.

[Operation of input device]
Next, the operation of the input device 1 configured as described above will be described.

  First, as shown in FIG. 18A, in the first mode, the mode changeover switch SW11 connects the subelectrode S2 or the subelectrode S4 and the switch SW2 via the changeover circuit 711 (“mode1” in the figure). "side). When detecting the capacitance ratio C2 / C1, the sub electrode S1 and the switch SW1 are connected via the switching circuit 711, while the sub electrode S2 and the switch SW2 are connected. Further, when detecting the capacitance ratio C4 / C3, the sub electrode S3 and the switch SW1 are connected via the switching circuit 711, while the sub electrode S4 and the switch SW2 are connected. The detection of the capacitance ratios C2 / C1 and C4 / C3 is performed in the same manner as the detection of the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 performed by the capacitance ratio detection circuit 11 of the input device 1. At this time, the mode switch SW12 is in an open state.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 18B, in the second mode, the mode changeover switch SW11 connects the sub electrode S2 and the switch SW1 via the changeover circuit 711 (“mode2” side in the figure). The sub-electrodes S1 and S2 are connected to the switch SW1. Further, when the mode changeover switch SW12 is closed, the reference capacitor Cr is connected to the switch SW2. Accordingly, the capacitance ratio Cr / (C1 + C2) is detected by the same operation as the detection operation of the capacitance ratio C2 / C1 by the differential integration circuit 111, the quantizer 112, the switching control circuit 712, and the calculation unit 713.

  The arithmetic unit 713 estimates the distance ratios L2 / L1, L4 / L3 from the capacity ratios C2 / C1, C4 / C3 detected in the first mode, and further estimates the arc AR from the distance ratios L2 / L1, L4 / L3. Is done. Further, the calculation unit 713 obtains the capacitance sum C1 + C2 from the detected capacitance ratio Cr / (C1 + C2) using the known capacitance value of the reference capacitance Cr.

  Then, the position estimation unit 72 estimates the distance H based on the capacitance sum C1 + C2, and the position of the detection target is estimated from the distance H and the arc AR.

[Effects of input device]
As described above, the input device 7 according to the present embodiment estimates the distance H by using the capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71 and the position estimation unit 72, thereby generating the arc based on the arc AR and the capacitance sum C1 + C2. A point at a distance H from the main electrode D on the AR can be estimated as the position of the detection target. Thereby, the position of a detection target object can be estimated more correctly.

  Further, the capacitance ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 71 can detect the capacitance ratio C2 / C1, C4 / C3 and the capacitance ratio Cr / (C1 + C2) by including the mode changeover switches SW11 and SW12. This makes it possible to detect these capacitance ratios while minimizing the expansion of the circuit scale.

[Embodiment 7]
Embodiment 7 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 8 according to the seventh embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, components having the same functions as the components in the above-described third embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
As shown in FIG. 20, the input device 8 includes an electrode module 81, a switch matrix 82, a capacitance ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit 83, and the like. The switch matrix 82 has the same function as the switch matrix 62 in the input device 6 of the fourth embodiment. The capacity ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit 83 has the same function as the capacity ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit 71 in the input device 7 of the sixth embodiment.

<Configuration of electrode module>
As shown in FIG. 20, the electrode module 81 has a touch panel sheet 81a, and a plurality of electrodes X and Y are formed in a matrix like the touch panel sheet 61a in the input device 6 of the fourth embodiment. . In addition, lead lines Xa and Ya drawn from one end of each electrode X and Y are formed on the touch panel sheet 81a. Furthermore, a shield 81b that shields the lead lines Xa and Ya is formed on the touch panel sheet 81a with a copper foil or the like.

[Effects of input device]
As described above, in the input device 8 according to this embodiment, the electrode module 81 includes the shield 81b that shields the lead lines Xa and Ya of the electrodes X and Y.

  The electrodes X and Y of the touch panel sheet 81a are connected to an integrated circuit including a switch matrix 82, a capacitance ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit 83, and the like via lead lines Xa and Ya. When the leader lines Xa and Ya become longer, the electrostatic capacity between the leader lines Xa and Ya and the electrodes X and Y, and the electrostatic capacity between the leader lines Xa and Ya and the detection object become electrostatic capacity C1. Since the value of C2 is affected, the error between the capacitances C1 and C2 increases. Therefore, by shielding at least the side of the leader lines Xa and Ya toward the detection target with the shield 81b, it is possible to reduce the capacitance error.

[Embodiment 8]
An eighth embodiment according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22.

  FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the input device 9 according to the eighth embodiment. FIGS. 22A and 22B are diagrams illustrating the movement of the finger F as a detection target detected by the input device 9.

  In the present embodiment, components having functions equivalent to the components in the above-described second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

[Configuration of input device]
As shown in FIG. 21, the input device 9 includes a main electrode D, sub-electrodes S1 to S4, a capacitance ratio / capacitance sum detection circuit 71, and a position estimation unit 72, like the input device 7 of the sixth embodiment. Furthermore, a moving direction estimation unit 91 is provided.

<Configuration of moving direction estimation unit>
The moving direction estimation unit 91 includes a memory that stores a plurality of positions of the detection target estimated by the position estimation unit 72. The movement direction estimation unit 91 sequentially compares two adjacent positions of the detection object stored in the memory, and estimates the movement direction M of the detection object from the amount of change based on the height and the horizontal plane direction.

[Effects of input device]
As described above, the input device 9 according to the present embodiment includes the moving direction estimation unit 91, thereby estimating the moving direction M of the detection target and controlling the device based on the moving direction M. For example, as shown in FIG. 22A, when the finger F as the detection target is moving in the horizontal direction on the main electrode D, the height and direction are estimated together. Further, as shown in FIG. 22B, when the finger F as the detection target moves so as to approach the main electrode D, the changing height and direction are estimated together.

  The position estimation unit 72 repeatedly performs estimation of the position of the detection target with a period of about 10 msec. Thereby, the direction of movement of the finger F as a detection target can be accurately captured.

[Embodiment 9]
Embodiment 9 according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

  In the present embodiment, components having functions equivalent to those in the above-described first to eighth embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 23 is a plan view showing a configuration of a smartphone 201 according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 23, a smartphone 201 (electronic device) as an electronic device is configured by incorporating a liquid crystal panel 203 and a touch panel 204 into a housing 202. In the smartphone 201, the liquid crystal panel 203 is provided on the operation surface side of the housing 202. The touch panel 204 is provided on the liquid crystal panel 203.

  The smartphone 201 includes any of the input devices 1 to 9 described above, and includes a main electrode D and sub-electrodes S1 to S4 as the touch panel 204.

  Thereby, the smart phone 201 can utilize each excellent function of the input devices 1 to 9.

[Summary]
The input devices (1-9) according to the first aspect of the present invention include a main electrode (D), a pair of first sub-electrodes (S1) and a second pair disposed on opposite sides of the main electrode. The first capacitance ratio of the sub-electrode (S2), the first capacitance between the main electrode and the first sub-electrode, and the second capacitance between the main electrode and the second sub-electrode A capacitance ratio detection circuit (11) for detecting the distance between the detection object (finger F) and the center of the first sub electrode, and between the detection object and the center of the second sub electrode A distance ratio estimation unit (12) that estimates the first distance ratio from the detected first capacity ratio based on a first distance ratio to the distance and a previously estimated relationship of the first capacity ratio. ing.

  In the above configuration, the first capacitance between the main electrode and the first sub-electrode and the second capacitance between the main electrode and the second sub-electrode change depending on the detection object approaching the main electrode. To do. The first capacitance ratio of the first and second capacitances is detected by the capacitance ratio detection means, and further, the first distance ratio is estimated from the detected first capacitance ratio by the distance ratio estimation means.

  The detection object may be positioned on a spherical surface formed by a set of points satisfying a relationship in which a ratio of distances from the centers of the first and second sub-electrodes is 1: A (A = first distance ratio). Can be estimated. If the position of the detection object can be limited to a spherical surface based on the first distance ratio, it is determined whether the detection object is closer to the first or second sub-electrode (in which of the two regions). Since it can distinguish, the position of a detection target object can be input as binary information.

  A second corresponding input device is the input device according to the first aspect, wherein a pair of first electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the main electrode where the first sub electrode and the second sub electrode are not disposed. 3 sub-electrodes (S3) and a fourth sub-electrode (S4), wherein the capacitance ratio detection circuit includes a third capacitance (C3) between the main electrode and the third sub-electrode, and the main electrode. A second capacitance ratio (C4 / C3) to the fourth capacitance (C4) between the fourth sub electrode and the fourth sub electrode is further detected, and the distance ratio estimation unit is configured to detect the detection target and the third sub electrode. Detected based on a second distance ratio between a distance between the center and a distance between the detection object and the center of the fourth sub electrode, and a preliminarily estimated relationship between the second capacitance ratio. It is preferable that the second distance ratio is further estimated from the second capacity ratio.

  In the above configuration, not only the first distance ratio is estimated by the first capacitance ratio obtained from the main electrode and the first and second sub-electrodes, but also the second capacitance obtained from the main electrode and the third and fourth sub-electrodes. The second distance ratio is estimated from the ratio. Thereby, the position of the detection target can be estimated in two directions orthogonal to the direction in which the first and second sub electrodes face each other and the direction in which the third and fourth sub electrodes face each other. Therefore, it is estimated that the detection target is located on an arc intersecting with the spherical surface that can estimate the position of the detection target with the first distance ratio and the spherical surface with the position of the detection target estimated with the second distance ratio. be able to.

  Therefore, multi-value information can be input according to the position of the intersection between the arc and the main electrode. Information can also be input according to the direction of movement of the intersection of the arc and the main electrode.

  An input device according to a third aspect includes a touch panel sheet in which a plurality of first linear electrodes and a plurality of second linear electrodes arranged to cross each other are formed in the input device according to the first aspect, The main electrode is configured such that one of the first linear electrode and the second linear electrode is connected to each other, and the first sub electrode and the second sub electrode are the first linear electrode and the It is preferable that the other of the second linear electrodes is configured to be connected to an arbitrary number of opposite sides of the touch panel sheet.

  In the above configuration, the first and second linear electrodes arranged in a matrix used in a general capacitive touch panel can be used as the main electrode, the first sub electrode, and the second sub electrode. . As a result, the touch panel can be used as a normal touch sensor, or can be used as a sensor for inputting multi-value information as described above.

  The input device according to a fourth aspect is the input device according to the second aspect, wherein the touch panel sheet on which a plurality of first linear electrodes and a plurality of second linear electrodes are arranged so as to cross each other, The first linear electrodes are connected to each other so as to constitute a main electrode, and any number of the first electrodes on the opposite sides of the touch panel sheet so as to constitute the first sub electrode and the second sub electrode. The two linear electrodes are connected to each other, the second linear electrodes are connected to each other so as to constitute the main electrode, and the touch panel sheet is configured to constitute the first sub electrode and the second sub electrode. It is preferable to include electrode connecting means for connecting an arbitrary number of the first linear electrodes on both opposite sides.

  In the above configuration, the first and second linear electrodes arranged in a matrix used in a general capacitive touch panel are connected to the main electrode, the first sub electrode, and the second sub electrode using the electrode connecting means. It can be used as an electrode. As a result, the touch panel can be used as a normal touch sensor, or can be used as a sensor for inputting multi-value information as described above.

  In the input device according to each aspect, the capacitance ratio detection unit includes a value obtained by subtracting a first fixed capacitance from the first capacitance, and a value obtained by subtracting a second fixed capacitance value from the second capacitance. It is preferable to detect the third capacity ratio.

  In the above configuration, the change in the third capacitance ratio relative to the first distance ratio is larger than the change in the first capacitance ratio. Therefore, the first distance ratio can be estimated with higher accuracy.

  In the input device according to the second or fourth aspect, the main electrode based on the first distance ratio, the second distance ratio, and a capacitance sum of the first capacitance and the second capacitance. It is preferable to include a vertical distance estimating means for estimating a vertical distance between the object and the detection object.

  In the above configuration, by estimating the vertical distance by the vertical distance estimating means, the point that is the vertical distance from the main electrode on the arc is estimated as the position of the detection object based on the aforementioned arc and the sum of the capacities. Can do. Thereby, the position of a detection target object can be estimated more correctly.

  In the input device, it is preferable that the capacitance ratio detecting unit detects a ratio between the capacitance sum and a known reference capacitance.

  In the above configuration, by detecting the ratio between the capacitance sum and the reference capacitance, the capacitance sum can be detected from the ratio and the known reference capacitance. Further, since the capacitance ratio detection means detects the ratio between the capacitance sum and the reference capacitance, it is possible to detect these capacitance ratio and capacitance sum while minimizing the expansion of the circuit scale.

  In the input device according to the third or fourth aspect, it is preferable that the input device includes a shield that shields the lead line drawn from the first linear electrode and the second linear electrode on the touch panel sheet.

  In the above configuration, since the capacitance between the leader line and the linear electrode and the capacitance between the leader line and the detection object affect the values of the first to fourth capacitances. The error of the first to fourth capacitances becomes large. Therefore, by shielding at least the side of the leader line that faces the detection target, a capacitance error can be reduced.

  The input device preferably includes a movement estimation unit that estimates the movement of the detection object by repeatedly estimating the position of the detection object.

  With the above configuration, the moving direction of the detection target can be estimated, and the device can be controlled based on the moving direction.

  An electronic apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes any one of the input devices.

  Thereby, each excellent function of each input device can be used.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means disclosed in different embodiments. Is also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, a new technical feature can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment.

  The present invention can be suitably used for a proximity sensor or a gesture sensor using a reflective optical sensor.

1-9 Input device 11 Capacity ratio detection circuit 11A Capacity ratio detection circuit 12 Distance ratio estimation unit 31, 32 Capacity ratio detection circuit 33, 34 Distance ratio estimation unit 35 Arc calculation unit 51 Electrode module 51a Touch panel sheet 52 Capacity ratio detection circuit 53 Distance ratio estimation unit 61 Electrode module 61a Touch panel sheet 62 Switch matrix (electrode connection means)
63 Capacity ratio detection circuit 64 Distance ratio estimation unit 65 Register 66 Arc calculation unit 71 Capacity ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 72 Position estimation unit 81 Electrode module 81a Touch panel sheet 81b Shield 82 Switch matrix 83 Capacity ratio / capacity sum detection circuit 91 Movement direction Estimator 201 Smartphone (electronic device)
204 Touch panel C1 to C4 Capacitance C2 / C1 Capacitance ratio C4 / C3 Capacitance ratio C1 + C2 Capacitance sum D Main electrode F Finger (detection object)
S1 Sub electrode (first sub electrode)
S2 Sub electrode (second sub electrode)
S3 Sub electrode (third sub electrode)
S4 Sub electrode (4th sub electrode)
X and Y electrodes

Claims (10)

A main electrode;
A pair of first and second sub-electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the main electrode;
Capacitance ratio detection means for detecting a first capacitance ratio between a first capacitance between the main electrode and the first sub electrode and a second capacitance between the main electrode and the second sub electrode. When,
The first distance ratio between the distance between the detection object and the center of the first sub electrode and the distance between the detection object and the center of the second sub electrode, and the first capacitance ratio in advance. An input device comprising: distance ratio estimating means for estimating the first distance ratio from the detected first capacity ratio based on the estimated relationship. A pair of third and fourth sub-electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the main electrode where the first and second sub-electrodes are not disposed;
The capacitance ratio detection means includes a second capacitance ratio between a third capacitance between the main electrode and the third sub electrode and a fourth capacitance between the main electrode and the fourth sub electrode. Detect further,
The distance ratio estimation means includes a second distance ratio between a distance between the detection object and the center of the third sub electrode and a distance between the detection object and the center of the fourth sub electrode, and The input device according to claim 1, wherein the second distance ratio is further estimated from the detected second capacity ratio based on a previously estimated relationship of the second capacity ratio. Comprising a touch panel sheet on which a plurality of first linear electrodes and a plurality of second linear electrodes arranged to cross each other are formed;
The main electrode is configured by connecting one of the first linear electrode and the second linear electrode to each other,
The first sub-electrode and the second sub-electrode are configured such that the other of the first linear electrode and the second linear electrode is connected to any number on the opposite sides of the touch panel sheet. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: A touch panel sheet on which a plurality of first linear electrodes and a plurality of second linear electrodes arranged to cross each other are formed;
The first linear electrodes are connected to each other so as to constitute the main electrode, and any number of the sides on opposite sides of the touch panel sheet so as to constitute the first sub electrode and the second sub electrode The second linear electrodes are connected to each other, while the second linear electrodes are connected to each other so as to constitute the main electrode, and the touch panel sheet is configured to constitute the first sub electrode and the second sub electrode The input device according to claim 2, further comprising electrode connecting means for connecting an arbitrary number of the first linear electrodes on both opposite sides of each other.   The capacitance ratio detection means detects a third capacitance ratio between a value obtained by subtracting a first fixed capacitance from the first capacitance and a value obtained by subtracting a second fixed capacitance value from the second capacitance. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein:   A vertical distance between the main electrode and the detection target is estimated based on the first distance ratio, the second distance ratio, and a capacitance sum of the first capacitance and the second capacitance. The input device according to claim 2, further comprising a vertical distance estimating unit.   The input device according to claim 6, wherein the capacitance ratio detection unit detects a ratio between the capacitance sum and a known reference capacitance.   5. The input device according to claim 3, further comprising a shield that shields a leader line drawn from the first linear electrode and the second linear electrode on the touch panel sheet.   The input apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a movement estimation unit that estimates a movement of the detection target object by repeatedly estimating a position of the detection target object. . An electronic apparatus comprising the input device according to claim 1.

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