CN111615736A

CN111615736A - Input device

Info

Publication number: CN111615736A
Application number: CN201880086615.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 大辻智嗣
Original assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co Ltd
Current assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co Ltd
Priority date: 2018-01-19
Filing date: 2018-10-18
Publication date: 2020-09-01
Also published as: WO2019142421A1; EP3742463A4; JPWO2019142421A1; EP3742463A1

Abstract

An input device (1) is provided with: an operation unit (10) that rotates about a rotation axis and tilts in the + X direction or the-X direction; a tilting mechanism having a tilting portion (46) mechanically connected to the operation portion (10), wherein the tilting portion (46) tilts in the + X direction by tilting the operation portion (10) in the + X direction and tilts in the-X direction by tilting the operation portion (10) in the-X direction; a first detection part having a first detection member (34a) which moves in a Z direction along the direction of the rotation axis by tilting a tilting part (46) in the-X direction, and a first pressing part (24a) which presses the first detection member (34a) by tilting the tilting part (46) in the-X direction; and a second detection part having a second detection member (34b) which moves in the Z direction along the direction of the rotation axis by the tilting part (46) tilting in the + X direction, and a second pressing part (24b) which presses the second detection member (34b) by the tilting part (46) tilting in the Z direction.

Description

Input device

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an input device for inputting to various electronic apparatuses.

Background

As a conventional input device, for example, patent document 1 is known. In such a conventional input device, an operator rotates an operation body or swings the operation body in a forward direction or a backward direction.

The conventional input device includes an operation body, a rotary encoder, and two push-button switches. The operation body has a shaft portion and a knob. And a knob disposed at an upper end of the shaft portion and rotated about the rotation axis. And a shaft portion that tilts the knob forward to tilt forward and backward to tilt backward. The rotary encoder is rotated by rotation of the knob. Two push-button switches are respectively arranged at the lower end side of the shaft part. One of the two push-button switches is pressed by a shaft portion inclined in the forward direction, and the other is pressed by a shaft portion inclined in the backward direction.

(Prior art document)

(patent document)

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open publication No. 2006-79407

However, the conventional input device is configured such that the push switch is pressed at the lower end of the shaft portion connected to the knob, and the push switch is easily pressed even if the shaft portion is slightly tilted. Therefore, the conventional input device is prone to erroneous input. In particular, in the conventional input device, when the knob is rotated, the shaft portion is erroneously tilted to press the push switch, and thus erroneous input is likely to occur.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an input device capable of suppressing erroneous input. In particular, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an input device capable of suppressing erroneous pressing of a detection member such as a push switch when a knob is rotated.

In order to achieve the above object, an input device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: an operation unit that rotates about a rotation axis, tilts in a first direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and tilts in a second direction opposite to the first direction; a tilting mechanism having a tilting portion mechanically connected to the operation portion, the tilting portion tilting in the first direction by the operation portion tilting in the first direction and tilting in the second direction by the operation portion tilting in the second direction; a first detection unit including a first detection member that moves in a third direction along the direction of the rotation shaft by the tilting portion tilting in the second direction, and a first pressing portion that is located in the third direction than the first detection member and presses the first detection member by the tilting portion tilting in the second direction; and a second detection unit including a second detection member that moves in a fourth direction along the direction of the rotation axis when the tilt unit tilts in the first direction, and a second pressing unit that is positioned in the fourth direction than the second detection member and presses the second detection member when the tilt unit tilts in the fourth direction.

The present disclosure includes a first detection member and a second detection member that are moved by a tilting mechanism in a direction different from the tilting direction of an operation unit. Therefore, the tilting of the operation portion is reduced by the tilting mechanism. Accordingly, the present disclosure can suppress erroneous pressing of the detection member when the knob is rotated.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a schematic external view of an input device according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the input device according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the input device according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the input device according to embodiment 1 as viewed from below.

Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of a shaft portion and a bearing portion of the combination input device according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 6A is a side view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a steady state.

Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a steady state.

Fig. 7A is a side view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a left-tilted state.

Fig. 7B is a sectional view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a left-tilted state.

Fig. 8A is a side view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a right-tilted state.

Fig. 8B is a sectional view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a right-tilted state.

Fig. 9A is a side view of the pressed state of the input device according to embodiment 1.

Fig. 9B is a sectional view of the input device according to embodiment 1 in a pressed state.

Fig. 10A is a schematic external view of an input device according to modification 1 of embodiment 1.

Fig. 10B is a perspective view showing the configuration of an input device according to modification 1 of embodiment 1.

Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of an input device according to modification 1 of embodiment 1.

Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a frame structure of an input device according to modification 1 of embodiment 1.

Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a rotation portion of an input device according to modification 1 of embodiment 1.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments show a specific example of the present disclosure. In other words, the numerical values, shapes, materials, constituent elements, arrangement positions of constituent elements, connection forms, steps, and the order of steps shown in the embodiments are merely examples, and do not limit the spirit of the present disclosure. Among the components of the embodiments, components not described in the embodiment showing the highest concept will be described as arbitrary components.

(embodiment mode 1)

[1-1. outline of input device 1 ]

An outline of the input device 1 according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to fig. 1 to 5. Fig. 1 is a schematic external view of an input device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 and 3 are exploded perspective views showing the configuration of the input device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the input device according to the present embodiment as viewed from below. Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the shaft portion and the bearing portion of the combination input device according to the present embodiment.

The input device 1 includes an operation unit 10, a tilting mechanism, a first detection unit, and a second detection unit. The operation unit 10 rotates about a rotation axis, and tilts in a first direction and a second direction. Here, the first direction is a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis. The second direction is a direction opposite to the first direction and orthogonal to the rotation axis. Hereinafter, the first direction is referred to as the + X direction, and the second direction is referred to as the-X direction.

The pouring mechanism has a pouring section 46. The tilting portion 46 is constituted by the holding portion 42 and the circuit board 30, which will be described later in detail. The tilting portion 46 tilts in the + X direction by tilting of the operation portion 10 in the + X direction, and tilts in the-X direction by tilting of the operation portion 10 in the-X direction.

The first detection unit includes a first detection member 34a and a first pressing portion 24 a. The first detection member 34a moves in the third direction along the rotation axis direction by tilting the tilting portion 46 in the-X direction. First pressing portion 24a is located in the third direction with respect to first detecting member 34 a. Then, the first pressing portion 24a presses the first detection member 34a by tilting the tilting portion 46 in the-X direction.

The second detection unit includes a second detection member 34b and a second pressing portion 24 b. The second detection member 34b moves in the fourth direction along the rotation axis direction by tilting the tilting portion 46 in the + X direction. Second pressing portion 24b is located in the fourth direction with respect to second detection member 34 b. The first pressing portion 24b presses the second detection member 34b by tilting the tilting portion 46 in the + X direction.

Here, the third direction may be the same direction as the fourth direction. That is, the third direction and the fourth direction may be a + Z direction, and the third direction and the fourth direction may be a-Z direction. The third direction may be a direction opposite to the fourth direction. That is, it is also possible that the third direction is the + Z direction and the fourth direction is the-Z direction, and it is also possible that the third direction is the-Z direction and the fourth direction is the + Z direction.

In this way, the input device 1 tilts the tilting portion 46 in the same direction as the tilting direction of the operation portion 10 by tilting the operation portion 10. When the operation unit 10 is tilted in the + X direction, the tilting portion 46 moves the second detection member 34b in the fourth direction and is pressed by the second pressing portion 24 b. When the operation unit 10 is tilted in the-X direction, the tilting portion 46 moves the first detection member 34a in the third direction and is pressed by the first pressing portion 24 a.

That is, the tilting portion 46 moves the first detection member 34a and the second detection member 34b in a direction different from the tilting direction of the operation portion 10. In particular, the first and

second detection members

34a and 34b move in a direction orthogonal to the tilting direction of the operation unit 10. Therefore, the input device 1 can reduce the influence of the tilting mechanism on the first detection member 34a and the second detection member 34b even if the operation unit 10 is slightly tilted. Therefore, the input device 1 can suppress erroneous pressing of the first detection member 34a and the second detection member 34b when the operation portion is rotated.

[1-2. detailed Structure of input device 1 ]

The input device 1 according to embodiment 1 will be described in more detail with reference to fig. 1 to 5. The input device 1 includes an operation unit 10, a housing, a tilting mechanism, a first detection unit, a second detection unit, and a third detection unit 32. For simplicity of explanation, the first direction is set as the + X direction, the third direction is set as the + Z direction, and a direction orthogonal to the first direction and a direction orthogonal to the third direction is set as the + Y direction. The direction opposite to the first direction is defined as a-X direction, the direction opposite to the third direction is defined as a-Z direction, and the direction orthogonal to the first direction and the direction opposite to the direction orthogonal to the third direction is defined as a-Y direction.

The operation unit 10 is mechanically connected to the tilting mechanism so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis and tiltable in the + X direction and the-X direction. The operation unit 10 is pushed in the-Z direction and moves in the-Z direction. The operation portion 10 is formed of a material such as a resin material, a ceramic material, or a metal material. The operation portion 10 is formed in a shape such as a cylinder, a cone, a square column, a square cone, a square truncated cone, or a sphere. The operation portion 10 has a cavity 12 opening in the-Z direction. Here, the cavity 12 is formed on the rotation axis of the operation portion 10.

The operation unit 10 may be biased by an elastic member (not shown) such as a spring or rubber, and may be returned from the tilted state and the pressed state to the original position. The operation unit 10 may be configured not to be movable in the ± Z direction.

The housing includes a substrate 20 and a base 22. The substrate 20 has an opening that penetrates from one main surface to the other main surface of the substrate 20. A base 22 is disposed on the other principal surface of the substrate 20. The base 22 is mechanically connected to the substrate 20 by, for example, bonding, screwing, welding, fitting, or the like. The substrate 20 and the base 22 are formed of a material such as a resin material, a ceramic material, or a metal material.

The substrate 20 and the base 22 may not be formed of the same material. The substrate 20 and the base 22 may be integrally formed.

The tilting mechanism includes two bearing portions 26, a tilting portion 46, and a shaft portion 44. Each of the two bearing portions 26 has an opening 28 and a projection 50. The opening 28 of each of the two bearings 26 is formed in the base 22. In other words, the two bearing portions 26 are formed integrally with the base 22. One of the openings 28 is located at a position in either the + Y direction or the-Y direction relative to the other opening 28. In other words, the two openings 28 are disposed so as to face each other.

The inner wall of the opening 28 on the + Z direction side has a flat region. The inner wall of the opening 28 on the-Z direction side has a flat region. The flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28 faces the flat region on the-Z direction side of the opening 28. The flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28 is curved so as to be recessed in the X direction via a region located in the X direction and more recessed than the flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28, and the flat region on the-Z direction side of the opening 28. The flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28 is connected to the flat region on the-Z direction side of the opening 28 via a region that is located in the-X direction and is curved so as to be recessed in the-X direction than the flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28.

The projections 50 of the two bearing portions 26 are disposed on the inner wall of the opening 28. The projection 50 is disposed in the center of the flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28. The projection 50 projects in the + -Y direction. One of the projections 50 is located in the + Y direction than the other projection 50, and is disposed to face each other.

The opening 28 may be provided separately from the base 22. In other words, the bearing portion 26 may be provided separately from the base 22. The shape of the opening 28 may be circular, elliptical, or racetrack.

Further, the projection 50 may not be provided. When the projection 50 is provided, the projection 50 may be disposed in the center of the flat region on the-Z direction side of the opening 28. The projection 50 may be disposed in both the center of the flat region on the + Z direction side of the opening 28 and the center of the flat region on the-Z direction side of the opening 28. The protrusion on the + Z direction side and the protrusion on the-Z direction side may be arranged so as to face each other.

The tilting portion 46 includes the holding portion 42 and the circuit board 30. The holding portion 42 has a substantially rectangular shape elongated in the ± X direction in a plan view, and a concave portion recessed in the-Z direction is formed on the main surface on the + Z direction side. The circuit board 30 includes a wiring board 30a and a lead-out wiring 36. The wiring board 30a is fitted into and held in a recess formed in the holding portion 42. The wiring board 30a is, for example, a printed board, a flexible printed board, or the like.

The lead wiring 36 is electrically connected to the circuit board 30. The lead wiring 36 is, for example, a flexible printed board, a flexible printed line, a conductive line, a lead wire, or the like. The lead-out wiring 36 is electrically connected to, for example, a terminal for outputting an input signal from the input device 1, an electronic device receiving an input from the input device 1, another wiring board provided separately from the wiring board 30a, an electronic component, and the like.

The shape of the holding portion 42 may be circular, elliptical, triangular, quadrangular, pentagonal, or other polygonal shape. The holding portion 42 may be formed integrally with the circuit board 30. The holding portion 42 may not hold the circuit board 30. For example, the holding portion 42 may hold an electronic component. The holding portion 42 may hold a plurality of electronic components electrically connected by a wiring member such as a flexible printed wiring, a conductive wire, or a lead wire. Accordingly, in the input device 1, the wiring board 30a can be omitted. For example, when an input signal is wirelessly input from the input device 1 to the electronic apparatus, the lead-out wiring 30 can be omitted. In other words, the dumping part 46 may not have the circuit board 30.

The shaft portion 44 has a shape extending in the ± Y direction and passing through the central portion in the ± X direction of the substantially rectangular holding portion 42 when the shaft portion 44 is viewed in a plan view. The shaft portion 44 is connected to the-Z side surface of the holding portion 42 and is formed integrally with the holding portion 42. Both ends of the shaft 44 are inserted into the openings 28, respectively. That is, the shaft portion 44 is a portion that serves as a shaft when the tilting portion 46 is tilted.

The shaft portion 44 has a first surface 46a, a second surface 46b, a first curved surface 48a, and a second curved surface 48 b. The first surface 46a is located on the + Z direction side of the shaft 44. The first surface 46a is formed flat. The second surface 46b is formed flat at a position facing the first surface 46 a. In other words, the second surface 46b is located on the-Z direction side of the shaft portion 44. The first curved surface 48a is located in the + X direction than the first surface 46 a. The first curved surface 48a is curved so as to be convex in the + X direction, and connects the first surface 46a and the second surface 46 b. And a second curved surface 48b located in the-X direction more than the first surface 46 a. The second curved surface 48b is curved so as to be convex in the-X direction, and connects the first surface 46a and the second surface 46 b.

The shaft portion 44 may be formed to protrude from both sides of the holding portion 42 in the ± Y direction, for example. In other words, one end of the shaft portion 44 inserted into the opening 28 and the other end of the shaft portion 44 inserted into the opening 28 may be separated by the holding portion 42. In this case, the first surface 46a, the second surface 46b, the first curved surface 48a, and the second curved surface 48b may be formed at least in a region facing the inner wall of the opening 28. Further, the shaft portion 44 may be formed with only one of the first surface 46a and the second surface 46 b. The shaft portion 44 may be provided separately from the holding portion 42. For example, the bearing portion 26 (opening 28) may be formed in the holding portion 42, and the shaft portion 44 may be formed in the base 22.

The shaft portion 44 may be mechanically coupled to the holding portion 42 in the ± Z direction with respect to the holding portion 42. The shaft 44 may not pass through the center of the holding portion 42 in the ± X direction. Preferably, the shaft portion 44 corresponds to the shape of the opening 28. Therefore, the shaft portion 44 may have, for example, a cylindrical shape, an elliptic cylindrical shape, a racetrack shape, a tapered shape, or a frustum shape.

Instead of providing the protrusion 50 on the inner wall of the opening 28, the first surface 46a or the second surface 46b may have the protrusion 50. When the projection 50 is provided on the inner wall of one opening 28 and the projection 50 is not provided on the inner wall of the other opening 28, the shaft portion 44 may have a projection on the surface of the first surface 46a and the second surface 46b facing the inner wall of the other opening 28. In this case, the projection 50 and the projection of the shaft 44 may be positioned on the same axis in the ± Y direction. The tilting mechanism for tilting may be biased by a spring, an elastic member (not shown) such as rubber, or the like, and may be configured to return to its original position.

The first detection unit includes a first detection member 34a and a first pressing portion 24 a. The first detecting member 34a moves the tilting portion 46 in the-X direction and thus in the + Z direction. Then, the first detection member 34a moves the tilt portion 46 in the + X direction and moves in the-Z axis direction. The first detection member 34a is disposed on the + Z direction side surface of the wiring board 30a, and is electrically connected to the wiring board 30 a. The first detection member 34a is located in the + X direction with respect to the rotation axis of the operation unit 10.

The first pressing portion 24a is formed integrally with the base 22. The first pressing portion 24a protrudes from the base 22 in a convex shape in the-Z-axis direction. The first pressing portion 24a is located in the + Z axis direction than the first detection member 34 a. First pressing portion 24a is located in the + X direction with respect to the rotation axis of operation portion 10. Then, the first pressing portion 24a presses the first detection member 34a by moving the tilting portion 46 in the-X direction. The first pressing portion 24a may be separate from the base 22. The first pressing portion 24a may not protrude from the base 22.

The first detection unit may be configured as follows. The first pressing portion 24a may be disposed on the surface of the wiring board 30a on the-Z direction side, and a hole may be formed in the holding portion 42 so as to be exposed from the holding portion 42. In this case, the first pressing portion 24a is located in the-X direction with respect to the rotation axis. The first pressing portion 24a is disposed in the-Z axis direction than the first detection portion 24 a. Accordingly, when the tilting portion 46 moves in the-X axis direction, the first detection portion 34a moves in the-Z axis direction and is pressed by the first pressing portion 24 a.

The second detection unit includes a second detection member 34b and a second pressing portion 24 b. The second detection member 34b moves the tilting portion 46 in the + X direction, and thus moves in the + Z axis direction. The second detection member 34b moves the tilting portion 46 in the-X direction and thus in the-Z axis direction. The second detection member 34b is disposed on the + Z direction side surface of the wiring board 30a, and is electrically connected to the wiring board 30 a. The second detecting member 34b is located in the-X direction from the rotation axis of the operation unit 10.

The second pressing portion 24b is formed integrally with the base 22. The second pressing portion 24b protrudes from the base 22 in a convex shape in the-Z-axis direction. The second pressing portion 24b is located in the + Z axis direction than the second detection member 34 b. Second pressing portion 24b is located in the + X direction with respect to the rotation axis of operation portion 10. Then, the second pressing portion 24b presses the second detection member 34b by moving the tilting portion 46 in the + X direction. The second pressing portion 24b may be separate from the base 22. The second pressing portion 24b may not protrude from the base 22.

The second detection unit may have the following configuration. The second pressing portion 24b is disposed on the surface of the wiring board 30a on the-Z direction side, and a hole is formed in the holding portion 42 so as to be exposed from the holding portion 42. In this case, the second pressing portion 24b is located in the + X direction with respect to the rotation axis. The second pressing portion 24b is arranged in the-Z axis direction at a position higher than the second detection portion 24 b. Accordingly, when the tilting portion 46 moves in the + X axis direction, the second detection portion 34b moves in the-Z axis direction and is pressed by the second pressing portion 24 b.

The first detection unit may use, for example, a pressure sensor, a push switch, or a membrane switch as the first detection member 34 a. The first detection portion 34a may be, for example, an electrode pad that is electrically connected to the first pressing portion 24a in contact therewith. The second detection unit may use, for example, a pressure sensor, a push switch, or a membrane switch as the second detection member 34 b. The second detection portion 34b may be, for example, an electrode pad that is electrically connected to the second pressing portion 24b in contact therewith. The first detection member 34a and the second detection member 34b may not be electrically connected to the wiring board 30 a. For example, the first detecting member 34a and the second detecting member 34b may be held by the holding portion 42.

The third detection unit 32 is disposed on the + Z direction side of the wiring board 30a, and is electrically connected to the wiring board 30 a. The third detection unit 32 includes a rotation unit 32a and a main body unit 32 b. The rotating portion 32a is inserted into the opening of the base plate 20, fitted into the cavity 12 of the operation portion 10, and mechanically connected to the operation portion 10. In other words, the operation unit 10 is mechanically connected to the tilting mechanism via the third detection unit 32. The rotating portion 32a is rotated by the rotation of the operating portion 10. The rotating portion 32a is moved in the-Z direction by the movement of the operating portion 10 in the-Z direction. The rotating portion 32a may be formed integrally with the operation portion 10. The rotating portion 32a may not be configured to move in the ± Z direction.

The main body portion 32b rotatably holds the rotating portion 32 a. Inside the main body portion 32b, for example, an electrode pattern and a resistance pattern are formed. The rotation portion 32a of the main body portion 32b causes electrical contact and disconnection and a change in resistance value. The main body 32b includes a switch such as a push switch and a membrane switch that is pressed in the-Z direction and electrically connected by the rotating portion 32a moving in the-Z direction, and a pressure-sensitive sensor that changes a resistance value. The third detection unit 32 may be an encoder having a push switch, a variable resistor having a push switch, or the like.

In addition, in the case where the operation unit 10 is not configured to be pushed in the-Z direction and moved in the-Z direction, the rotation unit 32a may not be moved in the-Z direction. The main body 32b may not have a switch or a pressure sensor therein. Further, even if the operation unit 10 is configured to be pushed in the-Z direction and moved in the-Z direction, the main body unit 32b may not have a switch or a pressure sensor therein, unless the pushing of the operation unit 10 in the-Z direction is used as an input. In such a case, the third detection unit 32 may be formed of, for example, an encoder having the rotation unit 32a formed in a ring shape, a variable resistor, or the like. When the third detecting means 32 is intended to detect the movement of the operating unit 10 in the-Z axis direction while suppressing the movement of the operating unit 10 in the-Z direction, it is sufficient to use a pressure sensor, a membrane switch, or the like.

[1-3. operation of input device 1 ]

The operations of the input device 1 during rotation, tilting, and pressing will be described below. In the input device 1, when the operation unit 10 rotates, the third detection unit 32 generates electrical contact and disconnection and a change in resistance value. Therefore, the input device 1 can input the electric signal corresponding to the rotation direction and the rotation speed of the operation unit 10 to the electronic apparatus connected to the input device 1, based on the waveform of the electric signal output from the third detection unit 32 and the voltage output from the third detection unit 32.

The input device 1 detects the tilting direction of the operation unit 10 based on the electrical states of the first detection member 34a and the second detection member 34 b. The detection of the tilting direction of the operation unit 10 will be described below with reference to fig. 6A to 9B. Fig. 6A is a side view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment in a steady state. Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment in a steady state. Fig. 7A is a side view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment in a tilted state in the + X direction. Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment in a tilted state in the + X direction. Fig. 8A is a side view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment in a tilted state in the-X direction. Fig. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment in a tilted state in the-X direction.

The first and second detecting

members

34a and 34b are pressure sensors, and the description will be given by way of example. In the pressure sensor, the resistance value is lower as the pressing force is larger. When the operation unit 10 is not tilted in both the + X direction and the-X direction (fig. 6A and 6B), the holding unit 42 of the tilting mechanism 40 is not tilted in both the + X direction and the-X direction (hereinafter, referred to as an initial state). In the initial state, the shaft portion 44 is in a state where the flat surface 46 is in contact with the opening 28. Further, first detection member 34a contacts first pressing portion 24a, and second detection member 34b contacts second pressing portion 24 b. Here, the pressing force applied to the first detection member 34a by the first pressing portion 24a is substantially the same as the pressing force applied to the second detection member 34b by the second pressing portion 24 b. The resistance value of the first detection member 34a in the initial state is set to α 0, and the resistance value of the second detection member 34b in the initial state is set to β 0.

Moreover, first detecting member 34a does not need to contact first pressing portion 24a, and second detecting member 34b does not need to contact second pressing portion 24 b. That is, the first detecting member 34a and the second detecting member 34b may be pressed in this state, or may not be pressed in advance, and when pressed, the amounts of force applied to the first detecting member 34a and the second detecting member 34b may be different.

In addition, when first detection member 34a is configured by a switch such as a push switch or a membrane switch, for example, first pressing portion 24a may be in contact with first detection member 34a and first pressing portion 24a may not be in contact with first detection member 34a in the initial state. When first pressing portion 24a is in contact with first detection member 34a in the initial state, first detection member 34a is preferably switched off. Further, in the case where second detection member 34b is configured by a switch such as a push switch or a membrane switch, for example, second detection member 34b may be in contact with second pressing portion 24b or second detection member 34b may not be in contact with second pressing portion 24b in the initial state. When second detecting member 34b is in contact with second pushing portion 24b in this state, second detecting member 34b is preferably switched off.

When the operation unit 10 is tilted in the + X direction (fig. 7A and 7B), the tilting mechanism tilts the tilting portion 46 (the holding portion 42) in the + X direction about the second curved surface 48B as a fulcrum (hereinafter, referred to as a + X tilting state). In the + X tilted state, the shaft 44 and the second surface 46b do not contact the opening 28, and one point of the first curved surface 48a contacts the opening 28. The shaft 44 also contacts the projection 50. In other words, the tilting mechanism tilts in the + X direction about one point of the curved surface 48a as a fulcrum, and the amount of rotation is limited by the protrusion 50.

Then, the first detection member 34a moves in the + Z direction and is pressed by the first pressing portion 24a, and the resistance value of the first detection member 34a changes to α 1(α 1 < α 0). On the other hand, the second detecting member 34b moves in the-Z direction. Therefore, the pressing force applied from second pressing portion 24b decreases, and the resistance value of second detection member 34b changes to β 1(β 1 > β 0).

When the operating unit is tilted in the + X direction with the second detecting member 34b not pressed in the initial state, the resistance value β 1 of the second detecting member 34b is equal to or substantially equal to the resistance value β 0 of the second detecting member 34b in the steady state (β 1 ≈ β 0).

When the projection 50 is not formed in the opening 28, the shaft portion 44 is restricted by the opening 28 above the curved surface 48b opposite to the curved surface 48a serving as a fulcrum. Accordingly, the operation unit 10, the rotation unit 32, and the tilting mechanism can stably tilt the tilting unit 46 (the holding unit 42) in the + X direction.

When the first detection member 34a is configured by a switch such as a push switch or a membrane switch, for example, in the + X tilt state, the first detection member 34a is pressed by the first pressing portion 24a to turn on the switch. On the other hand, when the second detection member 34b is configured by a switch such as a push switch or a membrane switch, for example, in the + X tilt state, the second detection member 34b and the second pressing portion 24b are farther from each other than in the steady state, and the second detection member 34b is turned off.

When the operation unit 10 is tilted in the-X direction (fig. 8A and 8B), the tilting mechanism tilts the tilting portion 46 in the-X direction about one point of the first curved surface 48A as a fulcrum. In the-X tilted state, the fulcrum is substantially symmetrical with respect to the center axis of the opening 28 in the Z-axis direction with respect to the fulcrum when the operation unit 10 is tilted in the + X direction.

In the-X tilted state, shaft 44 does not contact opening 28 of second surface 46b in opening 28 of bearing 26, and one point of first curved surface 48a contacts opening 28. The shaft 44 also contacts the projection 50. In other words, the tilting mechanism tilts in the-X direction about one point of the second curved surface 48b as a fulcrum, and the amount of rotation is restricted by the projection 50.

When the projection 50 is not formed in the opening 28, the shaft portion 44 is restricted by the opening 28 above the first curved surface 48a on the opposite side of the second curved surface 48b serving as a fulcrum. Accordingly, the tilting mechanism 40 can tilt the tilting portion 46 (holding portion 42) in the-X direction in a stable manner.

Then, second detecting member 34b moves in the + Z direction and is pressed by second pressing portion 24b, and the resistance value of second detecting member 34b changes to β 2(β 2 < β 0). On the other hand, the first detecting member 34a moves in the-Z direction. Therefore, the pressing force applied from first pressing portion 24a decreases, and the resistance value of first detection member 34a changes to α 2(α 2 > α 0). When the state in which the first detection member 34a is not pressed is set to the steady state and the operation unit is tilted in the-X direction, the resistance value α 2 of the first detection member 34a is equal to or substantially equal to the resistance value α 0 of the first detection member 34a in the steady state (α 2 ≈ α 0).

In addition, when first detecting member 34a is configured by a switch such as a push switch or a membrane switch, for example, in this state, first detecting member 34a and first pressing portion 24a are farther from each other than in the steady state, and second detecting member 34b is turned off. On the other hand, when the second detection member 34b is formed of a switch such as a push switch or a membrane switch, for example, in this state, the second detection member 34b is pushed by the second pushing portion 24b to turn on the switch.

In the input device 1, the operation unit 10 is pressed in, and the switch disposed in the main body unit 32 of the third detection unit 32 is turned on, or the resistance value of the pressure sensor is decreased. Therefore, the input device 1 can input an electric signal corresponding to the pressing of the operation unit 10 and the pressing force applied to the operation unit 10 to the electronic apparatus connected to the input device 1. Fig. 9A is a side view of the pressed state of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 9B is a sectional view of the pressed state of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment.

In the input device 1, when the operation unit 10 is pushed in the-Z direction from a steady state, the head unit 32a is pushed in the-Z direction with respect to the body unit 32b in the rotation unit 32. Therefore, the inclination of the tilting mechanism does not change, and therefore, the first pressing portion 24a and the first detection member 34a, and the second pressing portion 24b and the second detection member 34b maintain a contact state. In other words, the input device 1 presses the operation unit 10 in the-Z direction while maintaining the stable state. The head portion 32a is pressed into the body portion 32b, and a switch, for example, disposed inside the rotating portion 32 is turned on. When the pressure sensor is disposed inside the rotating portion 32, the resistance value of the pressure sensor decreases.

Here, the shaft portion 44 has a second flat surface 46b, and the second flat surface 46b is in surface contact with the flat portion of the opening portion 28. Therefore, when the operation unit 10 is pushed in, the tilting mechanism is less likely to tilt in the ± X direction, and a stable posture can be maintained. In other words, even if the operation unit 10 is pushed in, the operation unit 10 and the rotation unit 32 are less likely to be tilted in the ± X direction. Therefore, the contact state of each of the first pressing portion 24a and the first detection member 34a, and the contact state of each of the second pressing portion 24b and the second detection member 34b can be stably maintained. Accordingly, the input device 1 can perform a stable switching operation when the operation unit 10 is pushed in to perform switching.

In the present embodiment, the operation portion 10 is configured to be tiltable in the + X direction and the-X direction, which are one axial direction, but may be tiltable in other plural directions, such as in a cross-shaped direction of the + X direction, the-X direction, the + Y direction, and the-Y direction. For example, the-Z side of the pouring section 46 may be held by a curved surface. Accordingly, the tilting portion 46 can tilt in any direction such as three, four, eight, and the like. In this case, the number of detection means for detecting the direction of falling may be arranged in the falling portion 46.

The operation portion 10 may be formed of a material having light transmittance, or may be internally formed as a cavity, and a light emitting element such as an LED is disposed in the cavity to change light emission according to the type of operation.

The input device 1 may be disposed on a desk or the like so that the XY direction is horizontal, or may be attached to a wall or the like so that the X direction or the Y direction is vertical, for example. In this case, the substrate 20 may be used by being attached to a wall surface so that the surface of the substrate is flush with the wall surface. Such an input device 1 can be used, for example, in an illumination system for adjusting the brightness and type of illumination, an air conditioning system for switching and adjusting the temperature, the air volume, and the hot and cold air.

[1-4. Effect, etc. ]

As described above, according to the input device of the present embodiment, when the operation unit 10 is pushed in, the second flat surface 46b of the shaft portion 44 comes into surface contact with the flat portion of the opening portion 28, and therefore, the operation unit 10, the rotating portion 32, and the tilting mechanism 40 can maintain a stable posture. Accordingly, the contact state of each of the first pressing portion 24a and the first detection member 34a, and the contact state of each of the second pressing portion 24b and the second detection member 34b can be stably maintained. Therefore, the input device 1 can perform a stable input operation.

(modification 1 of embodiment 1)

[2-1. overview of input device 100 ]

Next, an input device 100 according to a modification of embodiment 1 will be described. The input device 100 according to the present embodiment differs from the input device 1 according to embodiment 1 in that a third detection unit 180 having an annular rotation portion 180b is provided instead of the third detection unit 32 shown in embodiment 1, a fourth detection unit 152 is provided below the third detection unit 32, and a device (MRF device) using a magnetic viscous fluid and a rotation detection unit are disposed in the ring of the third detection unit 32.

The input device 100 includes a rotation detection unit and an MRF device, and can change a tactile sensation such as switching of a switch when the operation unit 10 is rotated. Further, since the MRF apparatus is configured such that the magnetic viscous fluid is disposed inside the cylindrical encoder as described later, the input device 100 cannot be provided with a mechanism for pressing the operation unit 10 into the lower surface of the operation unit 10, as in the input device 1 described in embodiment 1. Thus, the input device 100 includes the fourth detection unit. The fourth detection portion 152 can detect the press-in operation of the operation portion 10.

[2-2. detailed Structure of input device ]

First, the structure of the input device 100 will be described. Fig. 10A is a schematic external view of the input device 100 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 10B is a perspective view showing the structure of the input device 100 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the input device 100 according to the present embodiment.

As shown in fig. 10A, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment includes an operation unit 10, a housing 110A, a housing bottom 110b, a tilting mechanism, a first detection unit, a second detection unit, a third detection unit 180, and a fourth detection unit 152. For simplicity of explanation, similarly to embodiment 1, the first direction is set to the + X direction, the third direction is set to the + Z direction, and a direction orthogonal to the first direction and a direction orthogonal to the third direction is set to the + Y direction. The direction opposite to the first direction is defined as a-X direction, the direction opposite to the third direction is defined as a-Z direction, and the direction orthogonal to the first direction and the direction opposite to the direction orthogonal to the third direction is defined as a-Y direction.

The operation unit 10 is mechanically connected to a tilting unit 146 of a tilting mechanism described later via a third detection unit 180, and is moved in a pressing direction by being pressed in the pressing direction along the rotation axis direction. The operation unit 10 is exposed from the housing 110a and the housing bottom 110 b. More specifically, the case 110a and the case bottom 110b are formed of plastic in a rectangular parallelepiped shape having a hollow inside, for example. The housing 110a has an opening on a surface facing the housing bottom 110b, the opening penetrating from the inside to the outside of the housing 110 a. The operation portion 10 is exposed from the opening of the housing 110 a.

The tilting mechanism includes two bearing

portions

120a and 120b, a tilting portion 146, and a shaft portion 144. The tilting portion 146 includes a holding portion 142 and a circuit board 150. In addition, the tilting portion 146 is provided with a first detection portion, a second detection portion, and a fourth detection portion 152. As will be described later in detail, the fourth detection unit is disposed at a position intersecting the rotation axis of the operation unit 10, and the first detection unit and the second detection unit are disposed at positions facing each other with the fourth detection unit 152 interposed therebetween.

As shown in fig. 10B and 11, the bearing portion 120a includes an opening 122a and a protrusion (not shown). The bearing portion 120b has an opening 122b and a protrusion (not shown). The configurations of the

openings

122a and 122b and the protrusions are the same as those of the openings 28 and the protrusions 50 described in embodiment 1, and therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted. As shown in fig. 10B, the bearing portions 120a and 120B are attached to the opposite sides of the housing bottom portion 110B by screws or the like. That is, when bearing

portion

120a or 120b is viewed in plan in the + Y direction or the-Y direction, the centers of

openings

122a and 122b are aligned.

The tilting portion 146 includes the holding portion 142 and the circuit board 150. The holding portion 142 is a holding portion that holds the circuit board 150. The holding portion 142 has a substantially rectangular shape elongated in the ± X direction when viewed in a plane in the-Z direction. A recess is formed on one main surface side of the holding portion 142. The circuit board 150 is fitted into and held in a recess formed in the holding portion 142. The shaft portion 144 is disposed on the other main surface side opposite to the one main surface side of the holding portion 142.

The shaft portion 144 has a shape extending in the ± Y direction through the center of the substantially rectangular holding portion 142 when viewed in a plane parallel to the-Z direction. The shaft portion 144 has both ends disposed inside the

openings

122a and 122b of the two bearing

portions

120a and 120b, respectively, and serves as a portion of the shaft when the tilting portion 146 is tilted in the + Z direction or the-Z direction.

The tilting portion 146 tilts about the shaft portion 144, and the circuit board 150 held by the holding portion 142, the first detection member 154a, the second detection member 154b, and the fourth detection portion 152 disposed on the circuit board 150, the frame 160 on which the rotating portion 180 is disposed, and the operation portion 10 also tilt in conjunction with each other. Accordingly, when the input device 1 is viewed in a plane in the-Z direction, the operation portion 10 moves in the + X direction or the-X direction with respect to the position where the shaft portion 144 is disposed. The configuration of the shaft portion 144 is the same as that of the shaft portion 44 shown in embodiment 1, and therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted.

The circuit board 150 is a substrate on which electronic components and the like are mounted. On the circuit board 150, a first detection member 154a constituting a first detection section, a second detection member 154b constituting a second detection section, and a fourth detection section 152 are arranged. As shown in fig. 11, the fourth detection unit 152 is disposed at a position intersecting the rotation axis of the operation unit 10. The first detection member 154a constituting the first detection unit and the second detection member 154b constituting the second detection unit are disposed at positions facing each other with the fourth detection unit 152 interposed therebetween.

The first detection portion is constituted by the first detection member 154a and the third pressing portion. The second detection portion is constituted by the second detection member 154b and the third pressing portion. The first detection member 154a and the second detection member 154b are similar in configuration to the first detection member 34a and the second detection member 34b described in embodiment 1, and therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted. The third pressing portion is constituted by the frame base plate 161 and the spacer 170. The third pressing portion is in contact with a first detection member 154a and a second detection member 154b, which will be described later, in the same manner as the first pressing portion 24a and the second pressing portion 24b shown in embodiment 1.

Further, the circuit board 130 is disposed between the shaft portion 144 and the case bottom portion 110 b. The circuit board 130 is a substrate on which electronic components and the like are mounted. The circuit board 130 includes a wiring board 130a and a lead wiring 136. The circuit board 130 includes a lead-out wiring 136 for outputting an operation input by an operator through the operation unit 10 to a corresponding device or the like as an electrical signal. The configuration of the lead-out wiring 136 is the same as that of the wiring group 36 shown in embodiment 1, and therefore, detailed description thereof is omitted.

The third detection unit 180 includes a rotation unit 180b that rotates by rotation of the operation unit 10. The third detection unit 180 will be described in detail later.

The fourth detection unit 152 is disposed at a position between the third detection unit 180 and the tilting unit 146.

The fourth detection unit 152 detects whether or not the operation unit 10 is pressed. The fourth detection unit 152 is located in the pressing direction than the third detection unit 180, and is pressed in the pressing direction by the movement of the operation unit 10 in the pressing direction. The fourth detection unit 152 is, for example, a pressure sensor. When the operation unit 10 is pushed in, the rotation unit 180 and the frame 160, which will be described later, are also pushed in conjunction with the operation unit 10. Accordingly, pressure is applied to the fourth detection part 152. The pressure change at this time is detected by the fourth detection portion 152, thereby detecting that the operation portion 10 is pressed in.

When the fourth detection unit 152 detects that the operation unit 10 is pressed, an electric signal is output from the lead-out wiring 136 disposed on the circuit board 130 to an external device or the like via the

circuit boards

130 and 150.

The input device 100 further includes a third pressing portion and a guide portion. The third pressing portion is constituted by the spacer 170 and the frame base plate 161 constituting a part of the frame 160 shown in fig. 11. And a third pressing portion that is disposed at a position between the third detection portion 180 and the fourth detection portion 152, holds the third detection portion 180, and presses the fourth detection portion 152 by moving the operation portion 10 in the pressing direction and moving the same in the pressing direction. The third pressing portion has at least two insertion holes.

The guide portion has a rail portion extending along the rotation axis and mechanically connecting the third pressing portion and the tilting mechanism. The rail portion has at least two rail members passing through the insertion holes.

For example, the guide portion is constituted by

insertion holes

166a, 166b, 166c, and 166d,

inner guides

164a, 164b, 164c, and 164d, and

rail members

168a, 168b, 168c, and 168d, which constitute a part of the frame 160, as described below. And a guide portion for guiding the movement of the third pressing portion in the pressing direction.

Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a frame 160 of the input device according to the present embodiment.

As shown in fig. 11 and 12, the frame 160 includes a frame base plate 161,

outer guides

162a, 162b, 162c, and 162d,

inner guides

164a, 164b, 164c, and 164d,

insertion holes

166a, 166b, 166c, and 166d, and

rail members

168a, 168b, 168c, and 168 d.

Insertion holes

166a, 166b, 166c, and 166d are formed at four corners of the frame base 161. In addition, the

outer guides

162a, 162b, 162c, and 162d are formed to extend from the frame substrate 161 in the direction of the tilting mechanism 140 in the region from the edges of the

insertion holes

166a, 166b, 166c, and 166d to the outside of the frame substrate 161 on the one main surface of the frame substrate 161 facing the tilting mechanism 140. Further, on the one main surface of the frame base plate 161 facing the tilting mechanism 140,

inner guides

164a, 164b, 164c, and 164d are formed to extend from the frame base plate 161 in the direction of the tilting mechanism 140 in regions from the edges of the

insertion holes

166a, 166b, 166c, and 166d toward the inner side of the frame base plate 161. At this time, the

outer guides

162a, 162b, 162c, and 162d are configured to extend from the frame base plate 161 to the tilting mechanism 140 longer than the

inner guides

164a, 164b, 164c, and 164 d. The number of insertion holes is not limited to four, and at least two insertion holes may be formed in frame base plate 161.

As shown in fig. 11, one end sides of the

rail members

168a, 168b, 168c, and 168d are movably inserted into the

insertion holes

166a, 166b, 166c, and 166d, respectively. The rail members may be formed in at least two on the frame base plate 161, and may be changed in number according to the number of insertion holes, instead of four.

The frame 160 is attached to the holding portion 142. More specifically, the other ends of

rail members

168a, 168b, 168c, and 168d constituting frame 160 are movably inserted into

holes

144a, 144b, 144c, and 144d formed in holding portion 142. Accordingly, since the frame base plate 161 moves along the

rail members

168a, 168b, 168c, and 168d when the operation unit 10 is pushed in the-Z direction, the frame 160 can move in the-Z direction without being displaced in a direction other than the-Z direction.

The third detection unit 180 is composed of a tactile mechanism 180a and a rotation unit 180 b. Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the third detection unit 180 of the input device 100 according to the present embodiment.

As shown in fig. 13, the third detection unit 180 is configured such that a tactile mechanism 180a is disposed inside a cylindrical rotation unit 180 b.

The tactile mechanism 180a is a device (MRF device) using a magnetic viscous fluid, and is capable of adjusting the tactile sensation of the operation unit 10 given to the operator by changing the magnetic force. As shown in fig. 13, the tactile mechanism 180a includes a coil 181, a magnetic viscous fluid 182, and a rotor 183. The coil 181 is disposed around the magnetic viscous fluid 182, and the rotor 183 is disposed inside the magnetic viscous fluid. The central axis of the rotor 183 is connected to a gear 185 a.

The coil 181 is connected to a power supply 186. The power supply 186 is a power supply for applying a predetermined current to the coil 181. The magnitude and timing of the alternating current applied from the power source 186 to the coil 181 are changed, whereby the magnetic force of the magnetic viscous fluid 182 can be changed. Accordingly, since the force applied to the rotor 183 changes, the tactile sensation of the operation unit 10 given to the operator can be changed.

For example, the magnitude and timing of the alternating current applied from the power source 186 to the coil 181 may be controlled so as to provide a tactile sensation that the weight continuously changes as the operator rotates the operation unit 10, and a discrete force (click sensation) that causes a click for each predetermined angle when the operator rotates the operation unit 10.

The rotating portion 180b is a rotary encoder, and is connected to the gear 185 b. The rotating portion 180b is a detecting portion that detects rotation of the rotor 183, and the gear 185a is engaged with the gear 185b to detect rotation of the rotor 183. Further, the magnitude of the alternating current applied from the power supply 186 is adjusted according to the detected rotation angle, so that the tactile sensation given to the operator by the operation unit 10 can be adjusted.

As shown in fig. 11, the third detection unit 180 is interposed between the spacer 170 and the spacer 190, and the spacer 170 and the spacer 190 are fixed to the frame 160 by screws, for example, and are attached to the frame 160.

[2-3. operation of input device 100 ]

Hereinafter, operations of the input device 100 during rotation, tilting, and pushing will be described as being different from the input device 1 shown in embodiment 1.

In the input device 1 according to embodiment 1, when the operation unit 10 is pushed in from a stable state, the head portion 32a of the rotation unit 32 is pushed in to the body portion 32 b. Therefore, in the input device 1, the rotation portion 32 detects that the head portion 32a is pressed into the main body portion 32b, and an input operation such as switching of a switch is performed. That is, in the input device 1, both the rotation operation and the press-in operation of the operation unit 10 are detected by the rotation unit 32.

In contrast, in the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, even if the operation unit 10 is pushed in the-Z direction, the arrangement relationship between the tactile mechanism 180a and the rotation unit 180b of the third detection unit 180 is not changed, and the frame 160 is moved in the-Z direction via the spacer 170 in which the third detection unit 180 is arranged. Therefore, the rotation operation of the operation unit 10 is detected as the rotation operation by the third detection unit 180, and the press-in operation of the operation unit 10 is detected as the press-in operation of the frame 160.

In this way, in the input device 100, since the mechanisms for performing the rotation operation and the pushing operation of the operation unit 10 are separated, even when a rotation unit for disposing a mechanism for pushing the operation unit 10 into the lower surface of the operation unit 10 such as an MRF apparatus is not provided, the pushing operation of the operation unit 10 can be detected. Further, the input operation by the rotation operation and the pressing operation of the operation unit 10 can be stably performed.

Further, in the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, since the frame 160 is provided, when the operation portion 10 is pushed in the-Z direction, the rail members 168a to 168d move in the-Z direction while being guided by the outer guides 162a to 162d and the inner guides 164a to 164d of the frame 160. Therefore, the rotating portion 180 and the operating portion 10 disposed above the frame 160 are pressed against the fourth detecting portion 152 without being displaced in the ± X direction and the ± Y direction. Therefore, in the input device 100, the switch can be stably switched by the pressing of the operation unit 10.

[2-4. Effect, etc. ]

As described above, according to the input device 100 of the present embodiment, the fourth detection unit 152 that detects the press-in operation of the operation unit 10 is used in addition to the rotation unit 180 that detects the rotation operation of the operation unit 10. Accordingly, even when a rotating portion of a mechanism for pushing the operation unit 10 is disposed below the operation unit 10, the pushing operation of the operation unit 10 can be detected. Further, since the mechanisms of the operation unit 10 that perform the rotation operation and the push-in operation are separated, the input operation of the operation unit 10 can be performed more stably.

Further, in the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, since the frame 160 is used, when the operation unit 10 is pushed in the-Z direction, the frame 160 is pushed in together with the rotating unit 180 disposed on the upper portion of the frame 160, and the frame 160 moves in the-Z direction along the rail members 168a to 168 d. Accordingly, the operation unit 10 is not pushed in the direction other than the-Z direction, and the input operation of the operation unit 10 can be stably performed.

(modification 2 of embodiment 1)

The input device 100 according to modification 1 of embodiment 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and may be modified as follows.

For example, the case 110a and the case bottom 110b may be formed of a light-transmitting material such as a transparent resin, and a light-emitting element such as an LED may be disposed in a region surrounded by the case 110a and the case bottom 110b, and the light-emitting element may be caused to emit light in accordance with the rotation, tilting, and pressing operations of the operation portion 10. In this case, the light emission mode or the light emission color may be changed according to the rotation, tilting, and pressing operations.

Instead of the region surrounded by the case 110a and the case bottom portion 110b, the operation portion 10 may be formed of a light-transmitting material such as a transparent resin, and the LEDs may be disposed in the region surrounded by the operation portion 10 and the inside of the cylindrical rotating portion 180 b.

Accordingly, the operator using the input device 100 can confirm the input state of the operation unit 10 from the change in the color or the light emission pattern of the light emitting element.

(other embodiments)

Although the input device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the input device is not limited to the above-described embodiment and may be modified.

For example, the first detecting member, the second detecting member, and the fourth detecting unit may be pressure sensors, or may be detecting units that detect conduction using electrode pads or the like.

In the above-described embodiment, the tactile mechanism is a device using a magnetic viscous fluid, but the tactile mechanism is not limited to this and may be another device. For example, a vibration device that vibrates according to the rotation angle of the operation portion, a light-emitting device that generates light, or the like may be used.

The operation portion may be formed of a material having light transmittance, and the operation portion may be provided with a hollow interior in which a light emitting element such as an LED is disposed, so that light emission is changed according to the type of operation.

The tilting direction of the operation unit is not limited to one direction of ± X directions, and may be a plurality of directions such as ± XY directions. In this case, a detection unit for detecting the inclination of the operation unit may be disposed so as to correspond to each of the plurality of directions.

The present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment. The present invention may be embodied in various forms as would occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, or may be embodied in combinations of components of different embodiments.

The input device of the present disclosure is an input device for adjusting a plurality of electric devices such as a television, an audio device, a lighting device, and an air conditioner.

Description of the symbols

1. 100 input device

10 operating part

20 base plate

22 base station

24a first pressing part (first detecting part)

24b second pressing part (second detecting part)

26. 120a, 120b bearing part (tilting mechanism)

28. 122a, 122b opening (tilting mechanism)

30. 130, 150 circuit board (dumping part, dumping mechanism)

30a, 130a wiring board

32. 180 third detection part

Rotating

parts

32a and 180b

32b main body part

34a, 154a first detecting member (first detecting section)

34b, 154b second detecting member (second detecting section)

36. 136 lead-out wiring

42. 142 holding part (tilting part, tilting mechanism)

44. 144 shaft portion (tilting mechanism)

46. 146 pouring part

46a first side

46b second side

48a first curved surface

48b second curved surface

50 projection

110a casing

110b bottom of the housing

152 fourth detecting part

160 frame (guiding part)

161 frame base plate

162a, 162b, 162c, 162d, respectively

164a, 164b, 164c, 164d are guided inside

166a, 166b, 166c, 166d are inserted into the holes

168a, 168b, 168c, 168d rail members

170. 190 spacer

180a tactile mechanism

181 coil

182 magnetic viscous fluid

183 rotor

185a, 185b Gear

186 power supply

Claims

1. An input device is provided with:

an operation unit that rotates about a rotation axis, tilts in a first direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, and tilts in a second direction opposite to the first direction;

a tilting mechanism having a tilting portion mechanically connected to the operation portion, the tilting portion tilting in the first direction by the operation portion tilting in the first direction and tilting in the second direction by the operation portion tilting in the second direction;

a first detection unit including a first detection member that moves in a third direction along the direction of the rotation shaft by the tilting portion tilting in the second direction, and a first pressing portion that is located in the third direction than the first detection member and presses the first detection member by the tilting portion tilting in the second direction; and

and a second detection portion including a second detection member that moves in a fourth direction along the direction of the rotation shaft by the tilting portion tilting in the first direction, and a second pressing portion that is located in the fourth direction than the second detection member and presses the second detection member by the tilting portion tilting in the fourth direction.

2. The input device as set forth in claim 1,

the third direction is the same direction as the fourth direction,

the first detecting member is located in the first direction than the rotation axis,

the second detection member is located in the second direction than the rotation axis.

3. The input device of claim 1 or 2,

the dumping mechanism further comprises:

a shaft portion that extends in a fourth direction that is orthogonal to the rotation axis and orthogonal to the first direction, and that is mechanically coupled to the tilting portion; and

and a bearing portion having an opening into which the shaft portion is inserted, the bearing portion holding the shaft portion in the opening.

4. The input device as set forth in claim 3,

the first surface of the shaft portion in the direction of the rotation axis is formed flat at least in a region facing the inner wall of the opening portion.

5. The input device as set forth in claim 4,

the shaft portion is provided with a plurality of axial grooves,

a second surface formed flat at a position facing the first surface,

at least in the area facing the inner wall of the opening part, a first curved surface and a second curved surface,

the first curved surface is located in the first direction than the first surface, and is curved so as to be convex in the first direction to connect the first surface and the second surface,

the second curved surface is located in the second direction than the first surface, and is curved so as to be convex in the second direction, thereby connecting the first surface and the second surface.

6. The input device as set forth in claim 5,

the inner wall of the opening located at a position facing the first surface has a projection projecting toward the second surface.

7. The input device of any one of claims 1 to 6,

the input device further includes a third detection unit having a rotation unit that rotates by rotation of the operation unit,

the operation unit is mechanically connected to the tilting unit via the third detection unit, and moves in a pressing direction by being pressed in the pressing direction along the direction of the rotation axis,

the rotating portion is moved in a pressing direction by the operation portion, and is moved in the pressing direction.

8. The input device of any one of claims 1 to 6,

the input device further includes:

a third detection unit having a rotation unit that rotates by rotation of the operation unit; and

a fourth detection unit disposed at a position between the third detection unit and the tilt unit,

the operation unit is mechanically connected to the tilting unit via the third detection unit, and is moved in a pressing direction by being pressed in the pressing direction along the direction of the rotation axis,

the fourth detecting portion is located in the pressing direction than the third detecting portion, and is pressed in the pressing direction by the operating portion moving in the pressing direction.

9. The input device according to claim 8, further comprising:

a third pressing portion that is disposed at a position between the third detection portion and the fourth detection portion, holds the third detection portion, and presses the fourth detection portion by moving in the pressing direction by the operation portion moving in the pressing direction; and

a guide portion that guides movement of the third pressing portion in the pressing direction.

10. The input device as set forth in claim 9,

the guide portion has a guide rail portion extending along the rotation shaft and mechanically connecting the third pressing portion to the tilting mechanism.

11. The input device as set forth in claim 10,

the third pressing portion has at least two insertion holes,

the rail portion has at least two rail members passing through the insertion hole.

12. The input device of any one of claims 8 to 11,

the first detection unit, the second detection unit, and the fourth detection unit are disposed in the tilting unit,

the fourth detection unit is disposed at a position intersecting the rotation axis of the operation unit,

the first and second detecting units are disposed at positions facing each other with the fourth detecting unit interposed therebetween.