CA2335962A1 - Switch - Google Patents
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- Publication number
- CA2335962A1 CA2335962A1 CA002335962A CA2335962A CA2335962A1 CA 2335962 A1 CA2335962 A1 CA 2335962A1 CA 002335962 A CA002335962 A CA 002335962A CA 2335962 A CA2335962 A CA 2335962A CA 2335962 A1 CA2335962 A1 CA 2335962A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- detection
- electrode
- chargeable
- switch
- detection electrode
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
- H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
- H03K17/00—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking
- H03K17/94—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking characterised by the way in which the control signals are generated
- H03K17/965—Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch
- H03K17/975—Switches controlled by moving an element forming part of the switch using a capacitive movable element
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
- H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
- H03K17/00—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking
- H03K17/94—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking characterised by the way in which the control signals are generated
- H03K17/96—Touch switches
- H03K17/962—Capacitive touch switches
Landscapes
- Push-Button Switches (AREA)
- Switches That Are Operated By Magnetic Or Electric Fields (AREA)
Abstract
A switch capable of being operated over a wide range and a switch capable of being set arbitrarily in its operating area, the switch having electrode members (20, 30) each consisting of a detection electrode and an earth electrode insulated from the detection electrode, a charged sheet (11) insulated from the detection electrode and the earth electrode, disposed so that at least a part thereof is located in the detection area of the detecti on electrode and forming an operating area, a charged layer (5) provided on the inner side of a wall paper (6) and a detection circuit for detecting a chang e in capacitance produced between the detection electrode and the earth electrode by the presence of an operating member in the operating area.</SDO AB>
Description
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SPECIFICATION
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
SWITCH
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a switch that is aduated by sensing a contact or approach of an object, and more particularly to a switch that can be operated over a wide range.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Among conventional switches that can be operated over a wide range, there has been known a push type switch as disclosed in Laid-0pen Japanese Patent Publication NO. H8-171833. Such a push type switch can be formed by disposing two band-shaped electrode plates that face with each other with a prescribed distance apart, and extending both plates over a wide range.
When an art~itrary point of the press type switch is pressed, the pressed electrode plate makes contact with the other electrode plate and the system furx~ions as a switch.
In addition to the above type, an electrostatic capaatance type switch is also .
known. An electrostatic capaatanoe type switch has a detection electrode and a ground elec~rnde that are insulated from each other, and includes a detection tircuit that can detect a change in the electrostatic capaatanoe between the detection elecc~rode and the ground electrode.
When a manipulator such as a finger is brought into contact with or makes an approach to the detection electrode, the detection electrode is charged due to the charges on the human body, thus increasing the amount of electric charge on the detection electrode. This causes an increase in the electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode. By detecting the increase in the electrostatic capaatance with the detection circuit, the system functions as a switch.
In the press type switch as described above, it is necessary to give a prescribed spaang between an electrode plate to be pressed and the other electrode plate.
This raises a problem that it is difficult to form the switch itself in a thin form.
Besides, the press type switch has a problem in that, although it is possible to extend it along a plane or a gentry curved surface, it is extremely difficult to form and dispose an electrode plate so as to be able to be pressed at a comer part or the like where a plane meets another plane at right angles.
On the other hand, the electrostatic capacitance type switch as described above has a problem that it becomes extremely difficult to detect contact or approach of a finger or the like when the detection electrode and the ground electrode are extended over a wide range.
Namely, when the areas of the detection electrode and the ground electrode are extended, the elec~-ostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in a static state (where a finger or the like is not brought into contact with or made approach to the detection electrode) is extremely large.
The amount of elec~ic charge on the detection electrode in a charged state (where a finger or the like is not brought into contact with or made approach to the detection electrode) is extremely small as compared with the amount of charge on the detection electrode in the static state described above.
. ,..
SPECIFICATION
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
SWITCH
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a switch that is aduated by sensing a contact or approach of an object, and more particularly to a switch that can be operated over a wide range.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Among conventional switches that can be operated over a wide range, there has been known a push type switch as disclosed in Laid-0pen Japanese Patent Publication NO. H8-171833. Such a push type switch can be formed by disposing two band-shaped electrode plates that face with each other with a prescribed distance apart, and extending both plates over a wide range.
When an art~itrary point of the press type switch is pressed, the pressed electrode plate makes contact with the other electrode plate and the system furx~ions as a switch.
In addition to the above type, an electrostatic capaatance type switch is also .
known. An electrostatic capaatanoe type switch has a detection electrode and a ground elec~rnde that are insulated from each other, and includes a detection tircuit that can detect a change in the electrostatic capaatanoe between the detection elecc~rode and the ground electrode.
When a manipulator such as a finger is brought into contact with or makes an approach to the detection electrode, the detection electrode is charged due to the charges on the human body, thus increasing the amount of electric charge on the detection electrode. This causes an increase in the electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode. By detecting the increase in the electrostatic capaatance with the detection circuit, the system functions as a switch.
In the press type switch as described above, it is necessary to give a prescribed spaang between an electrode plate to be pressed and the other electrode plate.
This raises a problem that it is difficult to form the switch itself in a thin form.
Besides, the press type switch has a problem in that, although it is possible to extend it along a plane or a gentry curved surface, it is extremely difficult to form and dispose an electrode plate so as to be able to be pressed at a comer part or the like where a plane meets another plane at right angles.
On the other hand, the electrostatic capacitance type switch as described above has a problem that it becomes extremely difficult to detect contact or approach of a finger or the like when the detection electrode and the ground electrode are extended over a wide range.
Namely, when the areas of the detection electrode and the ground electrode are extended, the elec~-ostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in a static state (where a finger or the like is not brought into contact with or made approach to the detection electrode) is extremely large.
The amount of elec~ic charge on the detection electrode in a charged state (where a finger or the like is not brought into contact with or made approach to the detection electrode) is extremely small as compared with the amount of charge on the detection electrode in the static state described above.
.,.
Because of this, the detection tircuit has to detect an extremely small inaease in the amount of charge, which will impair the detection stability or make the detection impossible.
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a switch that is operable over a wide range while resolving the problems associated with the depression type switch and the electrostatic capaatance type switch, as well as to provide a switch that allows an arbitrary setting of the operation region.
A switch defined in Claim 1, comprises:
a detection electrode extended over a region to form an operation region;
a ground electrode disposed so as to face to a part of the detection electrode, the ground electrode being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection arcuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
According to the switch of this invention described above, the ground electrode is disposed so as to face a part of the detection electrode extended over the operation region. As a resuti, the switch of the invention can form an operation region with a wide range without being accompanied by an increase in the electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state.
Aocorclingly, it is possible to realize a switch that is operable over a wide range.
The electrostatic capacitance betmeen the detection electrode and the ground elec~r~ode in the static state is proportional to the area over which the detection electrode and the ground electrode are faang with each other Accordingly, even if only the area of the detection electrode is extended without accompanied by an extension in the area of the ground electrode, the electrostatic capadtance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state will not be increased. This is because the facing area between both the electrodes is unchanged even in such a case.
The charge on the detection electrode in the charged state is distributed over the entire detection electrode. Accordingly, the electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode increases even though the ground electrode is not faced with the entirety of the detection electrode. By detecting the increase in the electrostatic capaatance by the detection tircuit, the system can function as a switch.
tt should be noted that the total amount of charge on the detection electrode in the charged state remains constant even if the area of the detection electrode is extended. Accordingly, when the area of the detection electrode is extended, the charge is distributed over the entire detection electrode, and the amount of charge per unit area of the detection electrode decreases. Because of this, theoretically speaking, when the area of only the detection electrode is increased, the amount of increase in the electrostatic capaatanoe between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the charged state decreases. However, the decrease in the increment of the electrostatic capadtance is actually extremely small, and can be handled satisfactorily by adjusting the detection threshold of the detection ar~cuit so that it will be of no problem.
Here, what is meant by the detection of a change in the ele~tatic capaahance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode includes the case of detecting an increase in the electrostatic capaatance befin~een both electrodes caused by a contact with or an approach to the detection electrode of a finger or the like, and the a case of detecting a decrease in the electrostatic capaatance caused by a removal of a finger or the like from the detection electrode.
A switch defined in Claim 2, comprises:
a detection electrode that forms an operation region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a shield member for limfing the operation region, the shield member being grounded and being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection drcuit that detects a change in electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode caused by the presence of a manipulator in the operation region.
According to the present invention described above, the switch indudes the shield member for limiting the operation region. This making it possible to set an operation region in an arbitrary operation region formed by the detection electrode.
Since the shield member is grounded, the charge on the detection electrode generated by the contact or approach of a finger or the like is leaked to the ground. This prevents the inaease in the charge on the detection electrode in a portion where the shield member is provided.
Accordingly, no change will take place in the amount of charge on the detection electrode, even if a finger or the like is brought into contact with or is made to approach to the shield member That is, the portion forms an inoperable region of the switch, and the portion where the shield member is not installed forms the operation region.
A switch defined in Claim 3, comprises:
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
According to the switch of this invention described above, the chargeable member is disposed such that a part of the chargeable member is situated in the detection region of the detection electrode. This makes it possible to form a wide range of operation region without accompanied by an inaease in the electrostatic capaatance befin~en the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state.
Accordingly, it is possible to realize a switch which is operable in a wide range.
When a finger or the like is brought into contact with or made approach to the chargeable member, the charge on the chargeable member is increased, and an electric field is generated in the surroundings of the chargeable member Since the chargeable member is insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode, the charge on the chargeable member does not flow into these electrodes as a currer>t.
Since, however, a part of the chargeable member is situated within the detection region of the detection electrode, the amount of charge on the detection electrode is increased as a result of generation of the electric field. Due to the increase in the amount of charge, the elec~tafic capaatance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode is increased. When the increase in the electrostatic capacitance exceeds the detection threshold of the detection circuit, the detection arcuit detects the contact or approach of a finger or the like, and functions as a switch.
Further, according to the present invention described above, the chargeable member is insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode. Thus, the electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state is not affected even if the area of the chargeable member is increased.
Furthermore, since there is no need for extending the detection electrode itself over a wide range, the switch has an advantage that it is less liable to the effect of the external noise. This is because when the detection electrode itself is extended over a wide range, the detection electrode forms a sort of an antenna, and the charge on the detection electrode is sometimes varied due to the external noise. Such a variation in the charge will sometimes induce a malfunction of the detection tircuit.
However, when the chargeable member alone is extended and the area of the detection electrode is reduced, the variation in the charge is attenuated befiNeen the chargeable member and the detection electrode even if the charge on the chargeable member is varied due to the external noise. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a malfunction of the detection circuit Moreover, by providing the chargeable member, it is possible to prevent the damage to the detection tircuit due to electi-ostabc sparks. Namely, when the air is dry, the amount of charge on the human body or the like is extremely large. Thus, if the detection tircuit is exposed, electrostatic sparks are generated between the detection electrode and a finger or the like, and its high voltage current will instanthr damage the detection tircuit which is connected to the detection electrode.
However, since in this invention the sensor is provided with the chargeable member insulated from the detection electrode, even when electrosta~c sparks are v generated between the chargeable member and a finger or the like, the high voltage current will not flow into the detection circuit via the detection electrode.
In this connection, the high voltage current due to electrostatic sparks is dispersed from the comer parts or the like of the chargeable member where the charges tend to concentrate to the surroundings of the chargeable member.
Here, the material and the shape of the chargeable member are not limited.
That is, the chargeable member may be an insulator or a semiconductor that generates an induced polarization, in addition to a conductor that generates electrostatic induction.
Further, the diargeable member also indudes, for example, a material that forms a magnetic field, such as a magnetized iron piece.
In the switch defined in Claim 4, the chargeable member is detachably disposed within the detection region.
According to the switch of this invention described above, the chargeable member that forms an operation region is detachably disposed. As a result of this arrangement, the switch is enabled to operate when the chargeable member is disposed within the detection region, and the switch is disabled to operate when the chargeable member is removed from the detection region. Further, according to the switch of this invention, it is possible to readily change the operation region of the switch by removing the chargeable member from one position of the detection region of the detection electrode and installing it to another position.
In the switch defined in Claim 5, the chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region.
In the switch defined in Claim 6, the chargeable member indudes at least iwo v conductors, in which the conductors are arranged in such a way that the conductors face each other across an insulator at least in a part.
The switch defined in Claim 7 comprises at least iwo sets of a detection electrode, a ground electrode and a detection circuit, wherein the chargeable member is disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of each of the detection electrodes.
According to the switch described above, the chargeable member that forms the detection region is not connected to respective detection arcuits. Therefore, even if a single chargeable member is shared in the sensor, it is possible to prevent mutual interference between the detection arcuits.
The switch defined in Claim 8 further comprises a shield member for limiting the operation region which is insulated from both the chargeable member and the detection electrode and which is grounded.
In the switch defined in Claim 9, the shield member is detachably provided.
In the switch defined in Claim 10, the shield member is slidabiy provided.
A switch defined in Claim 11, canprises:
a detection electrode extended over a predetermined region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection erode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection tircuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the detection region.
According to the switch described above, a predetermined area of the chargeable member is situated within the detection region of the detection electrode. As a result of this arrangement, an operation region is formed by the chargeable member, so that the operation region is set in an arbitrary portion of the detection region of the detection electrode.
In the switch defined in Claim 12, the chargeable member is disposed detachably within the detection region.
A switch defined in Claim 14, comprises:
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a first chargeable member extended in a predetermined region, the first chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground ele~rode, and the first chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the first chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode;
a second chargeable member that forms an operafion region, the second chargeable member being insulated from all of the detection eledr-ode, the ground electrode and the first chargeable member, and the second chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the second chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the first chargeable member, and a detection tircuit that detects a change in the electrostatic capaatance generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
According to the switch described above, a predetermined area of the second chargeable member is situated within the detection region of the first chargeable member As a result this arrangement, it is possible to form an operation region with the second chargeable member, and set an operation region in an arbitrary portion of the detection region of the first chargeable member.
In the switch defined in Claim 15, the second chargeable member is detachably disposed within the detection region of the first chargeable member In the switch defined in Claim 15, the second chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region of the first chargeable member Fig. 1 is a perspective view which shows a first embodiment of a switch according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a sectional view which shows a switch main body 10 in Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a tircuit diagram of the switch in Fig. 1;
Fig. 4 is a front view of an elevator provided with a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention;
Fig. 5 is a horizontal sectional view which shows the positional relationship between a chargeable member 71 and a rail member 80 in Fig. 4;
Fig. 6 is a side view of a chargeable member 71 in Fig. 4;
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a printer provided with a third embodiment of the switch according to the invention;
Fig. 8 is a vertical sectional view which shows a chargeable pin 100 and the surroundings of a hole 92;
Fig. 9 is a perspective view which shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention; and Fig. 10 is a sectional view along line A A of the switch 110 in Fig. 9.
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
First, a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 1 - 3. This embodiment is directed to a switch used for performing fuming oNoff of an indoor luminaire and illumination adjustment.
Reference numeral 10 indicates a switch main body attadied to the wall surface, which comprises a cover 11, a chargeable plate 12 disposed at the central part of the cover 11 in an exposed state, an insulating member 13 that fixes the.chargeable plate 12 and a detection arcuit unit 15 to the cover 11, a first electrode member 20 disposed on the upper near surface of the cover 11, a second ele~rode member 30 disposed on the lower rear surface of the cover 11, and the detection circuit unit 15 including a first detection arcuit 40 and a second detection drcuit 50. Reference numeral 14 indicates a screw for attaching the switch main body 10 to the wall surface.
The wall into which the switch main body 10 is to be installed includes a building body 1, a panel 3 foced to the building body 1 via a frame body 2, a synthetic resin film 4 studs to the surface of the panel 3, and a wallpaper 6 studs to the surface of the film 4.
On the surface of the film 4, a chargeable layer 5 with a coating formed by evaporating aluminum is extended.
The first electrode member 20 is formed by laminating a first detection electrode plate 21, an insulator 22, a first ground electrode plate 23, and an insulator 24. This first electrode member 20 is fixed to the cover 11 by adhering the rear surface of the insulator 24 onto the rear surface of the cover 11.
The second electrode member 30 has the same constitution that of the first electrode member 20. Specifically, the second electrode member 30 is formed by laminating a second detection electrode plate 31, an insulator 32, a second ground electrode plate 33, and an insulator 34. This second electrode member 30 is fixed to the cover 11 by adhering the rear surface of the insulator 34 onto the rear surface of the cover 11.
The first and second detection electrode plates 21 and 31 are respectively disposed so as to face areas 7 and 8 to be detected (each of which is a part of the chargeable layer 5) across tfie wallpaper 6. (Hereinafter, the area to be detected of the chargeable layer 5 is referred to as a "detection area.' The detection area 7 is situated within a detection region of the first detection electrode plate 21, and the detection area 8 is situated within the detection region of the second detection electrode plate 31.
The chargeable plate 12 is electrically connected to the chargeable layer 5 via a lead wire (not shown). However, the chargeable plate 12 is insulated from the electrode members 20 and 30 and other members with the insulating member 13. In addition, the chargeable layer 5 is insulated from the electrode members 20 and 30 and other members with the film 4 and the wallpaper 6.
Next, the first and second detection tircuit 40 and 50 in the first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. The first electrode plate 21 is connected to the first detection tircuit 40, and the second electrode plate 31 is connected to the second detection tircuit 50. Further, the first and second ground electrode plates 23 and 33 are grounded to a building or the like.
The first detection tircuit 40 includes a pulse signal generation tircuit 41, a drfferential amplifier 42, an AC/DC convertor 43, and a comparator 44 which are connected in series. A pulse signal V1 output from the pulse signal generation tircuit 41 is split, and then the fi-equency of the split pulse signal is reduced due to the resistance of a resistor 45 and the increase in the electrostatic capadtance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23.
The differential amplifier 42 amplifies the voltage difference between the pulse signal V1 and a pulse signal V2 that is affiected by the change in the electrostatic capacitance. Then, the output V3 from the differential amplifier 42 is converted to a DC
current by the convertor 43. Next, the comparator 44 compares the output V4 from the convertor 43 with a predetermined threshold, and then transmits a detection signal to a control tircuit 16 when the value of the output V4 is larger than the threshold.
The second detection tircuit 50 has the same elements those of the first detection tircuit 40. Spedfically, the second detection tircuit 50 indudes a pulse signal generator 51, a drffierential amplifier 52, an AC/DC convertor 53, a comparator 54 and a resistor 55.
In this connection, it is to be noted that in the second detection tircuit 50, the pulse signal V1 and the pulse signal V2 is input into the differential amplifier 52 in a manner opposite to that in the first detection circuit 40. Accordingly, in the case of the second detection circuit 50, a detection signal is transmitted to the control tircuit 16 when the etatic capaatance befiween the second detection electrode plate 31 and the second ground eledr-ode plate 33 is decreased.
In order to situate the chargeable layer 5 within the detection regions of the first and second detection tircuit 21 and 31, either the threshold or the distance from the detection elec~nde plates 21 and 31 to the surface of the chargeable layer 5 is adjusted.
When the control tircuit 16 has received a detection signal from either the first detection tircuit 40 or the second detection circuit 50, the control tircuit 16 carties out the tum oNoff operation, so that the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on or off.
Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. When an operator touches his finger to the operation region (i.e., a part of the wallpaper 6 where there e~asts the chargeable layer 5 on the rear side thereof) in a state that the indoor luminaire 17 is in an offi state, an induced polarization is generated in that portion of the wallpaper, and an electric field is fom~ed on the rear surface of that portion of the wallpaper 6.
As a result of the formation of the electric field, an electrostatic induction is generated in the chargeable layer 5, and thus the total amount of the charge on the chargeable layer 5 is increased. The inaease in the amount of charge on the chargeable layer 5 causes an electric filed to be fom~ed on the detecction areas 7 and 8 of the chargeable layer 5.
As a result of the formation of the electric field on the detection surfaces 7 and 8, an electrostatic induction is generated in the first detection electrode plate 21 and the second detection electrode plate 31, and thus the amour>ts of charge on both detection electrode plates 21 and 31 increase. Because of this, the electrostatic capaatance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23, and the elec~tatic capaatance between the second detec6ion electrode plate 31 and the second ground electrode plate 33 increase.
As a result of the ina-ease in the electrostatic capaatance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23, the first detection tircuit 40 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. Upon receipt of the detection signal from the first detection tircuit 40, the control ar~cuit 16 starts to supply power to the indoor luminaire 17, and then the indoor luminaire 17 is turned on.
On the other hand, in the second detection circuit 50, the electrostatic capacitance between the second detection electrode plate 31 and the second ground electrode plate 33 incease, that is, do not decease. Therefore, in the case described above, the second detection tircuit 50 will not transmit a detection signal to the control tircuit 16.
Next, after the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on, when the operator takes off his finger from the operation region, both of the electrostatic capacitance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23, and the elec6-ostatic capaatanoe between the second detection electrode plate 31 and the second ground electrode plate 33 decease. As a result, the second detection tircuit 50 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. In this case, the first detection tircuit 40 will not transmit a detection signal.
When the detection signal is transmitted from the second detection tircuit 50 within a predetermined time (about 2 seconds) after receipt of the detection signal from the first detection circuit 40, the control tircuit 16 continues to supply power to the indoor luminaire 17 while holding the maximum illuminance of the indoor luminaire 17.
On the other hand, after lighting of the indoor luminaire 17, when the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region for more than a predetermined time, the control tircuit 16 gradually lowers the voltage of the power to be supplied to the indoor luminaire 17. As a result of this operation, the illuminance of the indoor luminaire 17 is reduced as the voltage of the power to be supplied to the indoor luminaire 17 is lowered.
In this case, if the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region still longer, the control circuit 16 continues to lower the voltage of supplied power until a predetermined minimum illuminance is attained. After the minimum illuminance is readied, the control circuit 16 gradually raises the voltage of the supplied power until a ma~amum illuminanoe is attained. The descent and ascent of the voltage will be continued as long as the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region.
When the operator removes his finger from the wallpaper portion, a detection signal is transmitted from the second detection tircuit 50, and the control tircuit 16 stops immediately the lowering and raising of the voltage of the supplied power In this case, the control circuit 16 continues the supply of the power to the indoor luminaire 17 while holding the voltage at the time the finger was removed.
Next, when the operator touches his finger to the operation region in the state where the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on, the first detection tircuit 40 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. In this case, when the operator removes his finger from the operation region within a predetermined time, the second detection circuit 50 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. Upon receipt of the detection signal from the first detection circuit 50, the control tircuit 16 stops supply of the power to the indoor luminaire 17, and thus the luminaire 17 is turned off.
On the other hand, if the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region for more than the predetermined time in the state where the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on, the control tircuit 16 repeats the process of lovnering and raising of the voltage of the power to tie supplied until the second detection tircuit 50 transmits a detection signal.
Then, when the operator removes his finger from the operation region, a detection signal is transmitted from the second detection tircuit 50, and then the control tircuit 16 immediately stops the lowering and raising process of the voltage of the power to be supplied. As a result of this control, the control circuit 16 continues supply of power to the indoor luminaire 17 while holding the voltage at the lime of removal of the finger According to the switch of this embodiment, the entire wall surface over which the chargeable layer 5 is extended forms an operation region. In addifion, the chargeable plate 12 electrically connected to the chargeable layer 5 also fom~s the operation region. This is because when a finger is brought into contact with the chargeable plate 12, the increased charge on the chargeable plate 12 moves as a current to the chargeable layer 5 through the lead wire.
Although in the switch of this embodiment the chargeable layer 5 is invisible from the outside, even a person who is not aware of the presence of the chargeable layer can operate the indoor luminaire 17 by touching his/her finger to the chargeable plate 12.
Further, in this embodiment, two sets of electrode member and detection tircuit, that is, the first electrode member 20 and the first detection circuit 40, and the second electrode member 30 and the second detection tircuit 50, are used. Even in such a switch having these electrodes and detection arcuits; mutual interference does not occur, since the first detection electrode plate 21 and the second detection electrode plate 31 are not connected electrically Accordingly, it is possible to maintain extremely high detection stabilit)r.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the high voltage current is dispersed from the edge parts of the chargeable layer 5 where the charge concentrates, and thus will not flow into the detection circuits 40 and 50. Therefore, even if elect~tatic sparks arise between the chargeable plate 12 and the finger, the high voltage current will not give damage to the detection drcuits 40 and 50.
In extending the operation region by the chargeable layer 5 in the horizontal direction of the wall surface by juxtaposing synthetic resin films 4 with a prescribed width, equipped with the chargeable layer 5 of this embodiment, in the horizontal direction of the wall surface, it can be accomplished by overlapping the side portion of each film 4 with the side portion of another film 4 by about several cm, and adhering them to a panel 3.
In this case, another film 4 is overlapped on the surface of the chargeable layer situated at a side portion of one film 4, so the chargeable layer 5 of one film 4 and the chargeable layer 5 of another film 4 are insulated by another film 4.
However, an increase in the charge on the chargeable layer 5 of another film 4 generates an induced polarization in another film 4. Because of this, there is generated an electrostatic induction in the chargeable layer 5 of one film 4 that is present on the rear face of the side portion of another film 4. In this way, by disposing in parallel a part of each chargeable layer 5 composed of a conductor via a film 4 that is an insulator, it is possible to extend the operation region.
Next, a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention is descn'bed with reference to Figs. 4 - 6. This embodiment is directed to a switch used for an asoent/desoent operation of an elevator installed in a general building.
Speaficalty, the switch in this embodiment is used for moving the elevator located on another floor to the floor of operation, and for opening the door of an elevator looted on the operating floor The switch in this embodiment utilizes the same detection circuit as in the first embodiment described above. fn Fig. 4, reference numeral 61 shows a door of the elevator, and reference numeral 62 shows an iron panel for housing the door 61.
Reference numeral 70 is an ascent/descent switch of an elevator 60, which indudes a hollow dome-shaped chargeable member 71 fom~ed of aluminum, and a rail member 80 disposed on the panel 62 of the elevator 60. The surface 72 of the chargeable member 71 is subjected to a plating.
The chargeable member 71 indudes two magnets 77 disposed inside, a protrusion 75 disposed in the vertical direction on a bottom part 73, and a felt sheet 76 adhered to the bottom part 73 and the protrusion 75. The bottom part 73 fom~ed integrally with the protrusion 75 is connected electrically to the dome-shaped surFace 72 with screws 74.
The rail member 80 is made of a synthetic resin, and has a U-shaped aoss-section. At the center of the rail member 80, a trench 81 formed so as to correspond to the protrusion 75 is extended in the length direction. Inside sidewalk of the rail member 80 which face each other across the trench 81, two sets of electrode members 82 are extended in the length direction of the rail member 80.
The electrode members 82 are sealed inside the rail member 80. Each of the electrode members 82 k formed by laminating a detection electrode plate 83, an insulator 84, and a ground electrode plate 85. Each detection electrode plate 83 is arranged so as to face the sidewall of the trench 81, namely, the sidewall of the protrusion 75 of the chargeable member 71.
The chargeable member 71 is attadied to the panel 62 by the magnetic force of the magnets 77 so that the protrusion 75 is housed in the trench 81. In this regard, it is possible to slide the diargeable member 71 in the length direction of the rail member 80 while housing its protrusion 75 in the trench 81, since the chargeable member 71 is provided with the sheet 76. Further, since the chargeable member 71 is attached to the panel 62 by the magnets 77, it is easy to attach and detach it to and from the panel 62.
Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. When an operator brings his finger dose to the dome-shaped surface 72 of the chargeable member 71 that is an operation region, an electrostatic induction is generated in the chargeable member 71 and an electric field is formed on the surface of the protrusion 75.
As a result of the formation of the electric field, the amount of charge on each of the detection electrode plates 83 is increased. Because of this, the electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode plate 83 and the ground elec~Ode plate 85 is increased, and the detection tircuit transmits a detection signal to a cor~-ol device (not shown in the drawings) of the elevator. Then, the control device moves the elevator cage to the operating floor or opens the elevator door In the meantime, when a hand or the like is brought into contact with the surface of the rail member 80, an elec~tatic induction is generated on the end face of the detection electrode plate 83 at the side of the rail member 80. In this connection, the distance from the end face of the detection electrode plate 83 to the surface of the rail member 80 is equal to the distance from the surface of the detection electrode plate 83 to the sidewall of the protrusion 75. However, the amount of inaease in the charge on the detection electrode plate 83 generated by the electrostatic induction is small compared with the amount of increase in the charge when a finger or the like is brought into contact with the chargeable member 71.
This is because the area of the end face of the detection electrode plate 83 is extremely small cornpar~ed with the area of the portions of the two detection electrode plates 83 faring the protrusion 75. Accordingly, by setting the detection threshold of the detection arcuit to be larger than the eledr-ostatic capadtance between the detection electrode plate 83 and the ground electrode plate 85 that is increased by the touch of the hand or the like to the surface of the rail member 80, the detection arcuit will not transmit a detection signal to the control arcuit even when a hand or the like is brought into contact with the surface of the rail member 80.
According to the switch of this embodiment described above, a predetermined area of both sidewalk of the protrusion 75 of the chargeable member 71 is situated within the detection region of the detection eledr-ode plate 83 extended in a predetermined region. This arrangement makes it possible to form an operation region on the chargeable member 71. Further, it is possible to form an operation region in an arbitrary portion of the detection region of the detection electrode plate 83.
Further, according to the switch of this embodiment, it is possible to move the chargeable member 71 to a higher place to prevent operation of the elevator by a child or the like. In addition, by detaching the chargeable member 71, it is also possible to make the elevator inoperable on the operating floor.
Moreover, in this embodiment, the detection electrode plate is extended.
However, a chargeable plate may be extended instead of the detection electrode, and a detection electrode insulated from the chargeable plate may be disposed in a part of the chargeable plate. In this case, when a prescribed area of the second chargeable member (which is the chargeable member 71 ) is positioned in the detection region of the first chargeable member (which is the chargeable plate), it is possible to make the second chargeable member form an arbitrary detection region.
Next, a third embodiment of the switch according to the invention will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8. This embodiment is directed to a power supply switch of a printer 90 to be connected to a computer. In this connection, the switch in this embodiment utilizes the same detection arcuit in the first embodiment In the vianity of lower comer parts of a front and both side surfaces 91 made of a synthetic resin of a printer 90, a plurality of drcular holes 92 are formed.
Each of the holes 92 has a diameter of about 8mm and a depth of about 8mm. Further, each of the holes 92 is formed so as to be able to detachably hold a chargeable pin 100 (that will be described later). On the bottom surface of each hole 92, there is provided a electrode member 103.
The chargeable pin 100 is made of iron and it is plated on its surface. A head 101 of the chargeable pin 100 forms a detection region in a state where the chargeable pin 100 is inserted to the hole 92.
The electrode member 103 is formed into a arcular shape, and has diameter of about 18mm. This electrode member 103 indudes an insulating plate 105, a detection electrode layer 104 provided on the front surface of the insulating plate 105, and a ground electrode layer 106 provided on the rear surface of the insulating plate 105.
The detection electrode layer 104 is arranged so as to face the bottom surface 102 of the chargeable pin 100. A plurality of elec~ode members 103 which are respectively , provided for each hole 92 are connected in parallel to the detection circuit Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. A
chargeable pin 100 is inserted to one of the pluralit)r of holes 92, that is, a hole 92 located at a position easy to operate. The bottom part 102 of the inserted chargeable pin 100 is situated within the detection region of the detection electi-ode layer 104.
That is, the bottom part 102 is posfioned within a distance L (about 2mm) that enables deted'ron.
Accordingly, when touching a finger to the chargeable pin 100, the electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode layer 104 and the ground electrode layer 106 is increased. As a result, the detection arcuit transmits a detection signal, and the power supply to the printer 90 is fumed on (or off).
Now, it is to be noted that a finger cannot be inserted into the other hole 92 to which the chargeable pin 100 is not inserted, because the diameter of the hole is small compared with the diameter of the finger Further, since the detectable distance L is about 2mm from the surface of the detection electrode layer 104 positioned on the bottom part of the hole 92, the detection arcuit will never transmit a detection signal to the control arcuit even if a finger is pressed against a hole to which the chargeable pin 100 is not inserted.
Next, a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention will be descn'bed with reference to Figs. 9 and 10. This embodiment is directed to a general purpose switch for industry. As the detection arcuit for the switch in this embodiment, the detection arcuit 40 in the first embodiment described above will be used.
A switch 110 indudes a plurality of shield pieces 111 and a main body 112 made of aluminum. The shield pieces 111 can be fit detachably to sections 118 formed in series along the length direction of the main body 112.
The shield pieces 111 are made of aluminum, and have a notch 117 and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 115 provided on the rear surface. The notch 117 is for insertion of the tip of a screwdriver or the like in taking out the shield piece 111 from the secfion 118 of the main body 112.
In a state that the shield piece 111 is fitted onto the main body 112, the side portions of the shield piece 111 is in contact with the sidewalls of the section 108 and the side portions of the adjacent shield pieces 111. This means the shield piece 111 is electrically connected with the body 112.
The main body 112 has a U-shaped cross-section, and is grounded so as to act as a ground electrode. On the upper surface of the body 112, a release layer 116, a detection electrode layer 113, and an insulating layer 114 are laminated in series. This main body 112 is insulated from a detection electrode layer with an insulating layer 114.
A pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 121 is disposed on the rear surface of the body 112, and a release paper 122 is attached to the surface of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 121. According to the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 121, it is possible to stick the main body 112 to a desired position.
Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. One or more of the shield pieces 111 (each of which acts as a shield member for limiting the operation region) are removed from the main body 112. A section 118 from which the shield piece 111 has been removed serves as the detection region.
When a finger is brought into contact with the section 118, an induced polarization is generated in a release layer 116, and the amount of charge on the detection electrode layer 113 situated on the rear surface of the release layer 116 is increased. Then, the elec~rostabc capacitance befinneen the detection electrode layer 113 and the main body 112 is increased. As a result, the detection tircuit transmits a detection signal to the control arcuit.
Now, even if a finger is brought into contact with the shiek! piece 111 fitted into the main body 112, the amount of charge on the detection electrode layer 113 is not increased. This is because the charge on the finger is grounded via the main body 112.
Accordingly even in such a case, no detection signal will be transmitted from the detection tircuit In the switch of this embodiment, the portion where a shield piece is attached forms an undetectable region, and the portion where no shield piece is disposed forms a detection region. According to such a switch, it is possible to change the detection region to other section by simply attaching again the shield piece 111 to the original section 118.
Although the detection electrode layer is extended in this embodiment, the chargeable layer may be extended instead of the detection electrode layer, and a detection electrode insulated from the chargeable layer may be provided in a part of the chargeable layer INDUSTRIAL UTILIZATION
As described in the above, the switch according to the present invention is adapted to a use in such a case where it is necessary to operate a switch over a wide range, and in the case where it is necessary to set the detection region of a switch arbitrarily
Because of this, the detection tircuit has to detect an extremely small inaease in the amount of charge, which will impair the detection stability or make the detection impossible.
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a switch that is operable over a wide range while resolving the problems associated with the depression type switch and the electrostatic capaatance type switch, as well as to provide a switch that allows an arbitrary setting of the operation region.
A switch defined in Claim 1, comprises:
a detection electrode extended over a region to form an operation region;
a ground electrode disposed so as to face to a part of the detection electrode, the ground electrode being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection arcuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
According to the switch of this invention described above, the ground electrode is disposed so as to face a part of the detection electrode extended over the operation region. As a resuti, the switch of the invention can form an operation region with a wide range without being accompanied by an increase in the electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state.
Aocorclingly, it is possible to realize a switch that is operable over a wide range.
The electrostatic capacitance betmeen the detection electrode and the ground elec~r~ode in the static state is proportional to the area over which the detection electrode and the ground electrode are faang with each other Accordingly, even if only the area of the detection electrode is extended without accompanied by an extension in the area of the ground electrode, the electrostatic capadtance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state will not be increased. This is because the facing area between both the electrodes is unchanged even in such a case.
The charge on the detection electrode in the charged state is distributed over the entire detection electrode. Accordingly, the electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode increases even though the ground electrode is not faced with the entirety of the detection electrode. By detecting the increase in the electrostatic capaatance by the detection tircuit, the system can function as a switch.
tt should be noted that the total amount of charge on the detection electrode in the charged state remains constant even if the area of the detection electrode is extended. Accordingly, when the area of the detection electrode is extended, the charge is distributed over the entire detection electrode, and the amount of charge per unit area of the detection electrode decreases. Because of this, theoretically speaking, when the area of only the detection electrode is increased, the amount of increase in the electrostatic capaatanoe between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the charged state decreases. However, the decrease in the increment of the electrostatic capadtance is actually extremely small, and can be handled satisfactorily by adjusting the detection threshold of the detection ar~cuit so that it will be of no problem.
Here, what is meant by the detection of a change in the ele~tatic capaahance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode includes the case of detecting an increase in the electrostatic capaatance befin~een both electrodes caused by a contact with or an approach to the detection electrode of a finger or the like, and the a case of detecting a decrease in the electrostatic capaatance caused by a removal of a finger or the like from the detection electrode.
A switch defined in Claim 2, comprises:
a detection electrode that forms an operation region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a shield member for limfing the operation region, the shield member being grounded and being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection drcuit that detects a change in electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode caused by the presence of a manipulator in the operation region.
According to the present invention described above, the switch indudes the shield member for limiting the operation region. This making it possible to set an operation region in an arbitrary operation region formed by the detection electrode.
Since the shield member is grounded, the charge on the detection electrode generated by the contact or approach of a finger or the like is leaked to the ground. This prevents the inaease in the charge on the detection electrode in a portion where the shield member is provided.
Accordingly, no change will take place in the amount of charge on the detection electrode, even if a finger or the like is brought into contact with or is made to approach to the shield member That is, the portion forms an inoperable region of the switch, and the portion where the shield member is not installed forms the operation region.
A switch defined in Claim 3, comprises:
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
According to the switch of this invention described above, the chargeable member is disposed such that a part of the chargeable member is situated in the detection region of the detection electrode. This makes it possible to form a wide range of operation region without accompanied by an inaease in the electrostatic capaatance befin~en the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state.
Accordingly, it is possible to realize a switch which is operable in a wide range.
When a finger or the like is brought into contact with or made approach to the chargeable member, the charge on the chargeable member is increased, and an electric field is generated in the surroundings of the chargeable member Since the chargeable member is insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode, the charge on the chargeable member does not flow into these electrodes as a currer>t.
Since, however, a part of the chargeable member is situated within the detection region of the detection electrode, the amount of charge on the detection electrode is increased as a result of generation of the electric field. Due to the increase in the amount of charge, the elec~tafic capaatance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode is increased. When the increase in the electrostatic capacitance exceeds the detection threshold of the detection circuit, the detection arcuit detects the contact or approach of a finger or the like, and functions as a switch.
Further, according to the present invention described above, the chargeable member is insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode. Thus, the electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode in the static state is not affected even if the area of the chargeable member is increased.
Furthermore, since there is no need for extending the detection electrode itself over a wide range, the switch has an advantage that it is less liable to the effect of the external noise. This is because when the detection electrode itself is extended over a wide range, the detection electrode forms a sort of an antenna, and the charge on the detection electrode is sometimes varied due to the external noise. Such a variation in the charge will sometimes induce a malfunction of the detection tircuit.
However, when the chargeable member alone is extended and the area of the detection electrode is reduced, the variation in the charge is attenuated befiNeen the chargeable member and the detection electrode even if the charge on the chargeable member is varied due to the external noise. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a malfunction of the detection circuit Moreover, by providing the chargeable member, it is possible to prevent the damage to the detection tircuit due to electi-ostabc sparks. Namely, when the air is dry, the amount of charge on the human body or the like is extremely large. Thus, if the detection tircuit is exposed, electrostatic sparks are generated between the detection electrode and a finger or the like, and its high voltage current will instanthr damage the detection tircuit which is connected to the detection electrode.
However, since in this invention the sensor is provided with the chargeable member insulated from the detection electrode, even when electrosta~c sparks are v generated between the chargeable member and a finger or the like, the high voltage current will not flow into the detection circuit via the detection electrode.
In this connection, the high voltage current due to electrostatic sparks is dispersed from the comer parts or the like of the chargeable member where the charges tend to concentrate to the surroundings of the chargeable member.
Here, the material and the shape of the chargeable member are not limited.
That is, the chargeable member may be an insulator or a semiconductor that generates an induced polarization, in addition to a conductor that generates electrostatic induction.
Further, the diargeable member also indudes, for example, a material that forms a magnetic field, such as a magnetized iron piece.
In the switch defined in Claim 4, the chargeable member is detachably disposed within the detection region.
According to the switch of this invention described above, the chargeable member that forms an operation region is detachably disposed. As a result of this arrangement, the switch is enabled to operate when the chargeable member is disposed within the detection region, and the switch is disabled to operate when the chargeable member is removed from the detection region. Further, according to the switch of this invention, it is possible to readily change the operation region of the switch by removing the chargeable member from one position of the detection region of the detection electrode and installing it to another position.
In the switch defined in Claim 5, the chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region.
In the switch defined in Claim 6, the chargeable member indudes at least iwo v conductors, in which the conductors are arranged in such a way that the conductors face each other across an insulator at least in a part.
The switch defined in Claim 7 comprises at least iwo sets of a detection electrode, a ground electrode and a detection circuit, wherein the chargeable member is disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of each of the detection electrodes.
According to the switch described above, the chargeable member that forms the detection region is not connected to respective detection arcuits. Therefore, even if a single chargeable member is shared in the sensor, it is possible to prevent mutual interference between the detection arcuits.
The switch defined in Claim 8 further comprises a shield member for limiting the operation region which is insulated from both the chargeable member and the detection electrode and which is grounded.
In the switch defined in Claim 9, the shield member is detachably provided.
In the switch defined in Claim 10, the shield member is slidabiy provided.
A switch defined in Claim 11, canprises:
a detection electrode extended over a predetermined region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection erode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection tircuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the detection region.
According to the switch described above, a predetermined area of the chargeable member is situated within the detection region of the detection electrode. As a result of this arrangement, an operation region is formed by the chargeable member, so that the operation region is set in an arbitrary portion of the detection region of the detection electrode.
In the switch defined in Claim 12, the chargeable member is disposed detachably within the detection region.
A switch defined in Claim 14, comprises:
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a first chargeable member extended in a predetermined region, the first chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground ele~rode, and the first chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the first chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode;
a second chargeable member that forms an operafion region, the second chargeable member being insulated from all of the detection eledr-ode, the ground electrode and the first chargeable member, and the second chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the second chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the first chargeable member, and a detection tircuit that detects a change in the electrostatic capaatance generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
According to the switch described above, a predetermined area of the second chargeable member is situated within the detection region of the first chargeable member As a result this arrangement, it is possible to form an operation region with the second chargeable member, and set an operation region in an arbitrary portion of the detection region of the first chargeable member.
In the switch defined in Claim 15, the second chargeable member is detachably disposed within the detection region of the first chargeable member In the switch defined in Claim 15, the second chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region of the first chargeable member Fig. 1 is a perspective view which shows a first embodiment of a switch according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 is a sectional view which shows a switch main body 10 in Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a tircuit diagram of the switch in Fig. 1;
Fig. 4 is a front view of an elevator provided with a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention;
Fig. 5 is a horizontal sectional view which shows the positional relationship between a chargeable member 71 and a rail member 80 in Fig. 4;
Fig. 6 is a side view of a chargeable member 71 in Fig. 4;
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a printer provided with a third embodiment of the switch according to the invention;
Fig. 8 is a vertical sectional view which shows a chargeable pin 100 and the surroundings of a hole 92;
Fig. 9 is a perspective view which shows a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention; and Fig. 10 is a sectional view along line A A of the switch 110 in Fig. 9.
PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
First, a first embodiment of the switch according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. 1 - 3. This embodiment is directed to a switch used for performing fuming oNoff of an indoor luminaire and illumination adjustment.
Reference numeral 10 indicates a switch main body attadied to the wall surface, which comprises a cover 11, a chargeable plate 12 disposed at the central part of the cover 11 in an exposed state, an insulating member 13 that fixes the.chargeable plate 12 and a detection arcuit unit 15 to the cover 11, a first electrode member 20 disposed on the upper near surface of the cover 11, a second ele~rode member 30 disposed on the lower rear surface of the cover 11, and the detection circuit unit 15 including a first detection arcuit 40 and a second detection drcuit 50. Reference numeral 14 indicates a screw for attaching the switch main body 10 to the wall surface.
The wall into which the switch main body 10 is to be installed includes a building body 1, a panel 3 foced to the building body 1 via a frame body 2, a synthetic resin film 4 studs to the surface of the panel 3, and a wallpaper 6 studs to the surface of the film 4.
On the surface of the film 4, a chargeable layer 5 with a coating formed by evaporating aluminum is extended.
The first electrode member 20 is formed by laminating a first detection electrode plate 21, an insulator 22, a first ground electrode plate 23, and an insulator 24. This first electrode member 20 is fixed to the cover 11 by adhering the rear surface of the insulator 24 onto the rear surface of the cover 11.
The second electrode member 30 has the same constitution that of the first electrode member 20. Specifically, the second electrode member 30 is formed by laminating a second detection electrode plate 31, an insulator 32, a second ground electrode plate 33, and an insulator 34. This second electrode member 30 is fixed to the cover 11 by adhering the rear surface of the insulator 34 onto the rear surface of the cover 11.
The first and second detection electrode plates 21 and 31 are respectively disposed so as to face areas 7 and 8 to be detected (each of which is a part of the chargeable layer 5) across tfie wallpaper 6. (Hereinafter, the area to be detected of the chargeable layer 5 is referred to as a "detection area.' The detection area 7 is situated within a detection region of the first detection electrode plate 21, and the detection area 8 is situated within the detection region of the second detection electrode plate 31.
The chargeable plate 12 is electrically connected to the chargeable layer 5 via a lead wire (not shown). However, the chargeable plate 12 is insulated from the electrode members 20 and 30 and other members with the insulating member 13. In addition, the chargeable layer 5 is insulated from the electrode members 20 and 30 and other members with the film 4 and the wallpaper 6.
Next, the first and second detection tircuit 40 and 50 in the first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. The first electrode plate 21 is connected to the first detection tircuit 40, and the second electrode plate 31 is connected to the second detection tircuit 50. Further, the first and second ground electrode plates 23 and 33 are grounded to a building or the like.
The first detection tircuit 40 includes a pulse signal generation tircuit 41, a drfferential amplifier 42, an AC/DC convertor 43, and a comparator 44 which are connected in series. A pulse signal V1 output from the pulse signal generation tircuit 41 is split, and then the fi-equency of the split pulse signal is reduced due to the resistance of a resistor 45 and the increase in the electrostatic capadtance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23.
The differential amplifier 42 amplifies the voltage difference between the pulse signal V1 and a pulse signal V2 that is affiected by the change in the electrostatic capacitance. Then, the output V3 from the differential amplifier 42 is converted to a DC
current by the convertor 43. Next, the comparator 44 compares the output V4 from the convertor 43 with a predetermined threshold, and then transmits a detection signal to a control tircuit 16 when the value of the output V4 is larger than the threshold.
The second detection tircuit 50 has the same elements those of the first detection tircuit 40. Spedfically, the second detection tircuit 50 indudes a pulse signal generator 51, a drffierential amplifier 52, an AC/DC convertor 53, a comparator 54 and a resistor 55.
In this connection, it is to be noted that in the second detection tircuit 50, the pulse signal V1 and the pulse signal V2 is input into the differential amplifier 52 in a manner opposite to that in the first detection circuit 40. Accordingly, in the case of the second detection circuit 50, a detection signal is transmitted to the control tircuit 16 when the etatic capaatance befiween the second detection electrode plate 31 and the second ground eledr-ode plate 33 is decreased.
In order to situate the chargeable layer 5 within the detection regions of the first and second detection tircuit 21 and 31, either the threshold or the distance from the detection elec~nde plates 21 and 31 to the surface of the chargeable layer 5 is adjusted.
When the control tircuit 16 has received a detection signal from either the first detection tircuit 40 or the second detection circuit 50, the control tircuit 16 carties out the tum oNoff operation, so that the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on or off.
Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. When an operator touches his finger to the operation region (i.e., a part of the wallpaper 6 where there e~asts the chargeable layer 5 on the rear side thereof) in a state that the indoor luminaire 17 is in an offi state, an induced polarization is generated in that portion of the wallpaper, and an electric field is fom~ed on the rear surface of that portion of the wallpaper 6.
As a result of the formation of the electric field, an electrostatic induction is generated in the chargeable layer 5, and thus the total amount of the charge on the chargeable layer 5 is increased. The inaease in the amount of charge on the chargeable layer 5 causes an electric filed to be fom~ed on the detecction areas 7 and 8 of the chargeable layer 5.
As a result of the formation of the electric field on the detection surfaces 7 and 8, an electrostatic induction is generated in the first detection electrode plate 21 and the second detection electrode plate 31, and thus the amour>ts of charge on both detection electrode plates 21 and 31 increase. Because of this, the electrostatic capaatance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23, and the elec~tatic capaatance between the second detec6ion electrode plate 31 and the second ground electrode plate 33 increase.
As a result of the ina-ease in the electrostatic capaatance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23, the first detection tircuit 40 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. Upon receipt of the detection signal from the first detection tircuit 40, the control ar~cuit 16 starts to supply power to the indoor luminaire 17, and then the indoor luminaire 17 is turned on.
On the other hand, in the second detection circuit 50, the electrostatic capacitance between the second detection electrode plate 31 and the second ground electrode plate 33 incease, that is, do not decease. Therefore, in the case described above, the second detection tircuit 50 will not transmit a detection signal to the control tircuit 16.
Next, after the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on, when the operator takes off his finger from the operation region, both of the electrostatic capacitance between the first detection electrode plate 21 and the first ground electrode plate 23, and the elec6-ostatic capaatanoe between the second detection electrode plate 31 and the second ground electrode plate 33 decease. As a result, the second detection tircuit 50 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. In this case, the first detection tircuit 40 will not transmit a detection signal.
When the detection signal is transmitted from the second detection tircuit 50 within a predetermined time (about 2 seconds) after receipt of the detection signal from the first detection circuit 40, the control tircuit 16 continues to supply power to the indoor luminaire 17 while holding the maximum illuminance of the indoor luminaire 17.
On the other hand, after lighting of the indoor luminaire 17, when the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region for more than a predetermined time, the control tircuit 16 gradually lowers the voltage of the power to be supplied to the indoor luminaire 17. As a result of this operation, the illuminance of the indoor luminaire 17 is reduced as the voltage of the power to be supplied to the indoor luminaire 17 is lowered.
In this case, if the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region still longer, the control circuit 16 continues to lower the voltage of supplied power until a predetermined minimum illuminance is attained. After the minimum illuminance is readied, the control circuit 16 gradually raises the voltage of the supplied power until a ma~amum illuminanoe is attained. The descent and ascent of the voltage will be continued as long as the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region.
When the operator removes his finger from the wallpaper portion, a detection signal is transmitted from the second detection tircuit 50, and the control tircuit 16 stops immediately the lowering and raising of the voltage of the supplied power In this case, the control circuit 16 continues the supply of the power to the indoor luminaire 17 while holding the voltage at the time the finger was removed.
Next, when the operator touches his finger to the operation region in the state where the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on, the first detection tircuit 40 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. In this case, when the operator removes his finger from the operation region within a predetermined time, the second detection circuit 50 transmits a detection signal to the control tircuit 16. Upon receipt of the detection signal from the first detection circuit 50, the control tircuit 16 stops supply of the power to the indoor luminaire 17, and thus the luminaire 17 is turned off.
On the other hand, if the operator keeps his finger in contact with the operation region for more than the predetermined time in the state where the indoor luminaire 17 is fumed on, the control tircuit 16 repeats the process of lovnering and raising of the voltage of the power to tie supplied until the second detection tircuit 50 transmits a detection signal.
Then, when the operator removes his finger from the operation region, a detection signal is transmitted from the second detection tircuit 50, and then the control tircuit 16 immediately stops the lowering and raising process of the voltage of the power to be supplied. As a result of this control, the control circuit 16 continues supply of power to the indoor luminaire 17 while holding the voltage at the lime of removal of the finger According to the switch of this embodiment, the entire wall surface over which the chargeable layer 5 is extended forms an operation region. In addifion, the chargeable plate 12 electrically connected to the chargeable layer 5 also fom~s the operation region. This is because when a finger is brought into contact with the chargeable plate 12, the increased charge on the chargeable plate 12 moves as a current to the chargeable layer 5 through the lead wire.
Although in the switch of this embodiment the chargeable layer 5 is invisible from the outside, even a person who is not aware of the presence of the chargeable layer can operate the indoor luminaire 17 by touching his/her finger to the chargeable plate 12.
Further, in this embodiment, two sets of electrode member and detection tircuit, that is, the first electrode member 20 and the first detection circuit 40, and the second electrode member 30 and the second detection tircuit 50, are used. Even in such a switch having these electrodes and detection arcuits; mutual interference does not occur, since the first detection electrode plate 21 and the second detection electrode plate 31 are not connected electrically Accordingly, it is possible to maintain extremely high detection stabilit)r.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the high voltage current is dispersed from the edge parts of the chargeable layer 5 where the charge concentrates, and thus will not flow into the detection circuits 40 and 50. Therefore, even if elect~tatic sparks arise between the chargeable plate 12 and the finger, the high voltage current will not give damage to the detection drcuits 40 and 50.
In extending the operation region by the chargeable layer 5 in the horizontal direction of the wall surface by juxtaposing synthetic resin films 4 with a prescribed width, equipped with the chargeable layer 5 of this embodiment, in the horizontal direction of the wall surface, it can be accomplished by overlapping the side portion of each film 4 with the side portion of another film 4 by about several cm, and adhering them to a panel 3.
In this case, another film 4 is overlapped on the surface of the chargeable layer situated at a side portion of one film 4, so the chargeable layer 5 of one film 4 and the chargeable layer 5 of another film 4 are insulated by another film 4.
However, an increase in the charge on the chargeable layer 5 of another film 4 generates an induced polarization in another film 4. Because of this, there is generated an electrostatic induction in the chargeable layer 5 of one film 4 that is present on the rear face of the side portion of another film 4. In this way, by disposing in parallel a part of each chargeable layer 5 composed of a conductor via a film 4 that is an insulator, it is possible to extend the operation region.
Next, a second embodiment of the switch according to the present invention is descn'bed with reference to Figs. 4 - 6. This embodiment is directed to a switch used for an asoent/desoent operation of an elevator installed in a general building.
Speaficalty, the switch in this embodiment is used for moving the elevator located on another floor to the floor of operation, and for opening the door of an elevator looted on the operating floor The switch in this embodiment utilizes the same detection circuit as in the first embodiment described above. fn Fig. 4, reference numeral 61 shows a door of the elevator, and reference numeral 62 shows an iron panel for housing the door 61.
Reference numeral 70 is an ascent/descent switch of an elevator 60, which indudes a hollow dome-shaped chargeable member 71 fom~ed of aluminum, and a rail member 80 disposed on the panel 62 of the elevator 60. The surface 72 of the chargeable member 71 is subjected to a plating.
The chargeable member 71 indudes two magnets 77 disposed inside, a protrusion 75 disposed in the vertical direction on a bottom part 73, and a felt sheet 76 adhered to the bottom part 73 and the protrusion 75. The bottom part 73 fom~ed integrally with the protrusion 75 is connected electrically to the dome-shaped surFace 72 with screws 74.
The rail member 80 is made of a synthetic resin, and has a U-shaped aoss-section. At the center of the rail member 80, a trench 81 formed so as to correspond to the protrusion 75 is extended in the length direction. Inside sidewalk of the rail member 80 which face each other across the trench 81, two sets of electrode members 82 are extended in the length direction of the rail member 80.
The electrode members 82 are sealed inside the rail member 80. Each of the electrode members 82 k formed by laminating a detection electrode plate 83, an insulator 84, and a ground electrode plate 85. Each detection electrode plate 83 is arranged so as to face the sidewall of the trench 81, namely, the sidewall of the protrusion 75 of the chargeable member 71.
The chargeable member 71 is attadied to the panel 62 by the magnetic force of the magnets 77 so that the protrusion 75 is housed in the trench 81. In this regard, it is possible to slide the diargeable member 71 in the length direction of the rail member 80 while housing its protrusion 75 in the trench 81, since the chargeable member 71 is provided with the sheet 76. Further, since the chargeable member 71 is attached to the panel 62 by the magnets 77, it is easy to attach and detach it to and from the panel 62.
Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. When an operator brings his finger dose to the dome-shaped surface 72 of the chargeable member 71 that is an operation region, an electrostatic induction is generated in the chargeable member 71 and an electric field is formed on the surface of the protrusion 75.
As a result of the formation of the electric field, the amount of charge on each of the detection electrode plates 83 is increased. Because of this, the electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode plate 83 and the ground elec~Ode plate 85 is increased, and the detection tircuit transmits a detection signal to a cor~-ol device (not shown in the drawings) of the elevator. Then, the control device moves the elevator cage to the operating floor or opens the elevator door In the meantime, when a hand or the like is brought into contact with the surface of the rail member 80, an elec~tatic induction is generated on the end face of the detection electrode plate 83 at the side of the rail member 80. In this connection, the distance from the end face of the detection electrode plate 83 to the surface of the rail member 80 is equal to the distance from the surface of the detection electrode plate 83 to the sidewall of the protrusion 75. However, the amount of inaease in the charge on the detection electrode plate 83 generated by the electrostatic induction is small compared with the amount of increase in the charge when a finger or the like is brought into contact with the chargeable member 71.
This is because the area of the end face of the detection electrode plate 83 is extremely small cornpar~ed with the area of the portions of the two detection electrode plates 83 faring the protrusion 75. Accordingly, by setting the detection threshold of the detection arcuit to be larger than the eledr-ostatic capadtance between the detection electrode plate 83 and the ground electrode plate 85 that is increased by the touch of the hand or the like to the surface of the rail member 80, the detection arcuit will not transmit a detection signal to the control arcuit even when a hand or the like is brought into contact with the surface of the rail member 80.
According to the switch of this embodiment described above, a predetermined area of both sidewalk of the protrusion 75 of the chargeable member 71 is situated within the detection region of the detection eledr-ode plate 83 extended in a predetermined region. This arrangement makes it possible to form an operation region on the chargeable member 71. Further, it is possible to form an operation region in an arbitrary portion of the detection region of the detection electrode plate 83.
Further, according to the switch of this embodiment, it is possible to move the chargeable member 71 to a higher place to prevent operation of the elevator by a child or the like. In addition, by detaching the chargeable member 71, it is also possible to make the elevator inoperable on the operating floor.
Moreover, in this embodiment, the detection electrode plate is extended.
However, a chargeable plate may be extended instead of the detection electrode, and a detection electrode insulated from the chargeable plate may be disposed in a part of the chargeable plate. In this case, when a prescribed area of the second chargeable member (which is the chargeable member 71 ) is positioned in the detection region of the first chargeable member (which is the chargeable plate), it is possible to make the second chargeable member form an arbitrary detection region.
Next, a third embodiment of the switch according to the invention will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8. This embodiment is directed to a power supply switch of a printer 90 to be connected to a computer. In this connection, the switch in this embodiment utilizes the same detection arcuit in the first embodiment In the vianity of lower comer parts of a front and both side surfaces 91 made of a synthetic resin of a printer 90, a plurality of drcular holes 92 are formed.
Each of the holes 92 has a diameter of about 8mm and a depth of about 8mm. Further, each of the holes 92 is formed so as to be able to detachably hold a chargeable pin 100 (that will be described later). On the bottom surface of each hole 92, there is provided a electrode member 103.
The chargeable pin 100 is made of iron and it is plated on its surface. A head 101 of the chargeable pin 100 forms a detection region in a state where the chargeable pin 100 is inserted to the hole 92.
The electrode member 103 is formed into a arcular shape, and has diameter of about 18mm. This electrode member 103 indudes an insulating plate 105, a detection electrode layer 104 provided on the front surface of the insulating plate 105, and a ground electrode layer 106 provided on the rear surface of the insulating plate 105.
The detection electrode layer 104 is arranged so as to face the bottom surface 102 of the chargeable pin 100. A plurality of elec~ode members 103 which are respectively , provided for each hole 92 are connected in parallel to the detection circuit Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. A
chargeable pin 100 is inserted to one of the pluralit)r of holes 92, that is, a hole 92 located at a position easy to operate. The bottom part 102 of the inserted chargeable pin 100 is situated within the detection region of the detection electi-ode layer 104.
That is, the bottom part 102 is posfioned within a distance L (about 2mm) that enables deted'ron.
Accordingly, when touching a finger to the chargeable pin 100, the electrostatic capaatance between the detection electrode layer 104 and the ground electrode layer 106 is increased. As a result, the detection arcuit transmits a detection signal, and the power supply to the printer 90 is fumed on (or off).
Now, it is to be noted that a finger cannot be inserted into the other hole 92 to which the chargeable pin 100 is not inserted, because the diameter of the hole is small compared with the diameter of the finger Further, since the detectable distance L is about 2mm from the surface of the detection electrode layer 104 positioned on the bottom part of the hole 92, the detection arcuit will never transmit a detection signal to the control arcuit even if a finger is pressed against a hole to which the chargeable pin 100 is not inserted.
Next, a fourth embodiment of the switch according to the present invention will be descn'bed with reference to Figs. 9 and 10. This embodiment is directed to a general purpose switch for industry. As the detection arcuit for the switch in this embodiment, the detection arcuit 40 in the first embodiment described above will be used.
A switch 110 indudes a plurality of shield pieces 111 and a main body 112 made of aluminum. The shield pieces 111 can be fit detachably to sections 118 formed in series along the length direction of the main body 112.
The shield pieces 111 are made of aluminum, and have a notch 117 and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 115 provided on the rear surface. The notch 117 is for insertion of the tip of a screwdriver or the like in taking out the shield piece 111 from the secfion 118 of the main body 112.
In a state that the shield piece 111 is fitted onto the main body 112, the side portions of the shield piece 111 is in contact with the sidewalls of the section 108 and the side portions of the adjacent shield pieces 111. This means the shield piece 111 is electrically connected with the body 112.
The main body 112 has a U-shaped cross-section, and is grounded so as to act as a ground electrode. On the upper surface of the body 112, a release layer 116, a detection electrode layer 113, and an insulating layer 114 are laminated in series. This main body 112 is insulated from a detection electrode layer with an insulating layer 114.
A pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 121 is disposed on the rear surface of the body 112, and a release paper 122 is attached to the surface of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 121. According to the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 121, it is possible to stick the main body 112 to a desired position.
Next, operations of the switch in this embodiment will be described. One or more of the shield pieces 111 (each of which acts as a shield member for limiting the operation region) are removed from the main body 112. A section 118 from which the shield piece 111 has been removed serves as the detection region.
When a finger is brought into contact with the section 118, an induced polarization is generated in a release layer 116, and the amount of charge on the detection electrode layer 113 situated on the rear surface of the release layer 116 is increased. Then, the elec~rostabc capacitance befinneen the detection electrode layer 113 and the main body 112 is increased. As a result, the detection tircuit transmits a detection signal to the control arcuit.
Now, even if a finger is brought into contact with the shiek! piece 111 fitted into the main body 112, the amount of charge on the detection electrode layer 113 is not increased. This is because the charge on the finger is grounded via the main body 112.
Accordingly even in such a case, no detection signal will be transmitted from the detection tircuit In the switch of this embodiment, the portion where a shield piece is attached forms an undetectable region, and the portion where no shield piece is disposed forms a detection region. According to such a switch, it is possible to change the detection region to other section by simply attaching again the shield piece 111 to the original section 118.
Although the detection electrode layer is extended in this embodiment, the chargeable layer may be extended instead of the detection electrode layer, and a detection electrode insulated from the chargeable layer may be provided in a part of the chargeable layer INDUSTRIAL UTILIZATION
As described in the above, the switch according to the present invention is adapted to a use in such a case where it is necessary to operate a switch over a wide range, and in the case where it is necessary to set the detection region of a switch arbitrarily
Claims (16)
1. A switch, comprising:
a detection electrode extended over a region to form an operation region;
a ground electrode disposed so as to face to a part of the detection electrode, the ground electrode being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
a detection electrode extended over a region to form an operation region;
a ground electrode disposed so as to face to a part of the detection electrode, the ground electrode being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
2. A switch, comprising:
a detection electrode that forms an operation region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a shield member for limiting the operation region, the shield member being grounded and being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode caused by the presence of a manipulator in the operation region.
a detection electrode that forms an operation region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a shield member for limiting the operation region, the shield member being grounded and being insulated from the detection electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode caused by the presence of a manipulator in the operation region.
3. A switch, comprising:
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
4. The switch as claimed in Claim 3, wherein the chargeable member is detachably disposed within the detection region.
5. The switch as claimed in Claim 3, wherein the chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region.
6. The switch as claimed in Claim 3, wherein the chargeable member includes at least two conductors, in which the conductors are arranged in such a way that the conductors face each other across an insulator at least in a part.
7. The switch as claimed in Claim 3, comprising at least two sets of a detection electrode, a ground electrode and a detection circuit, wherein the chargeable member is disposed such that at least a part of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of each of the detection electrodes.
8. The switch as claimed in Claim 3, further comprising a shield member for limiting the operation region which is insulated from both the chargeable member and the detection electrode and which is grounded.
9. The switch as claimed in Claim 2 or 8, wherein the shield member is detachably provided.
10. The switch as claimed in Claim 2 or 8, wherein the shield member is slidably provided.
11. A switch, comprising:
a detection electrode extended over a predetermined region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the detection region.
a detection electrode extended over a predetermined region;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a chargeable member that forms an operation region, the chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode, and the chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode; and a detection circuit that detects a change in electrostatic capacitance between the detection electrode and the ground electrode generated by the presence of a manipulator within the detection region.
12. The switch as chimed in Claim 11, wherein the chargeable member is disposed detachably within the detection region.
13. The switch as chimed in Claim 11, wherein the chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region.
14. A switch, comprising:
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a first chargeable member extended in a predetermined region, the first chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode, and the first chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the first chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode;
a second chargeable member that forms an operation region, the second chargeable member being insulated from all of the detection electrode, the ground electrode and the first chargeable member, and the second chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the second chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the first chargeable member, and a detection circuit that detects a change in the electrostatic capacitance generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
a detection electrode;
a ground electrode insulated from the detection electrode;
a first chargeable member extended in a predetermined region, the first chargeable member being insulated from both the detection electrode and the ground electrode, and the first chargeable member being disposed such that at least a part of the first chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the detection electrode;
a second chargeable member that forms an operation region, the second chargeable member being insulated from all of the detection electrode, the ground electrode and the first chargeable member, and the second chargeable member being disposed such that a predetermined area of the second chargeable member is situated within a detection region of the first chargeable member, and a detection circuit that detects a change in the electrostatic capacitance generated by the presence of a manipulator within the operation region.
15. The switch as claimed in Claim 14, wherein the second chargeable member is detachably disposed within the detection region of the first chargeable member
16. The switch as claimed in Claim 14, wherein the second chargeable member is slidably disposed within the detection region of the first chargeable member.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP20289598 | 1998-07-03 | ||
| JP10/202895 | 1998-07-03 | ||
| PCT/JP1999/003571 WO2000002216A1 (en) | 1998-07-03 | 1999-07-02 | Switch |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2335962A1 true CA2335962A1 (en) | 2000-01-13 |
Family
ID=16464988
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002335962A Abandoned CA2335962A1 (en) | 1998-07-03 | 1999-07-02 | Switch |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JP3837022B2 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU4396299A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2335962A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2000002216A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITPR20090001A1 (en) * | 2009-01-22 | 2010-07-23 | Unify Electronic Di Patterlini Anto Nio | ELECTRONIC DETECTION SYSTEM PRESENT MAN OR DEAD MAN TO BE INSERTED WITHIN A HANDLE, MANIPULATOR, JOYSTICK OR OTHER |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7660453B2 (en) | 2000-10-11 | 2010-02-09 | Imaging Therapeutics, Inc. | Methods and devices for analysis of x-ray images |
| JP4634906B2 (en) * | 2005-10-18 | 2011-02-16 | 株式会社フジクラ | Vehicle lighting device |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS53142680A (en) * | 1977-05-19 | 1978-12-12 | Tadao Ueki | Device for sensing subject |
| JPS62246209A (en) * | 1986-04-18 | 1987-10-27 | アイシン精機株式会社 | Seat settling detector |
| JPH05135654A (en) * | 1991-11-14 | 1993-06-01 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | El illuminated switch |
| DK10092D0 (en) * | 1992-01-28 | 1992-01-28 | Mogens Nicolaisen | TOUCH SENSITIVE CONTROL PANEL |
-
1999
- 1999-07-02 WO PCT/JP1999/003571 patent/WO2000002216A1/en active Application Filing
- 1999-07-02 JP JP2000558530A patent/JP3837022B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1999-07-02 CA CA002335962A patent/CA2335962A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1999-07-02 AU AU43962/99A patent/AU4396299A/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ITPR20090001A1 (en) * | 2009-01-22 | 2010-07-23 | Unify Electronic Di Patterlini Anto Nio | ELECTRONIC DETECTION SYSTEM PRESENT MAN OR DEAD MAN TO BE INSERTED WITHIN A HANDLE, MANIPULATOR, JOYSTICK OR OTHER |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU4396299A (en) | 2000-01-24 |
| WO2000002216A1 (en) | 2000-01-13 |
| JP3837022B2 (en) | 2006-10-25 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |