JP2003086064A - Combination switch - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To keep the optimum click feeling of an operation lever over a long time and easily accommodate for the change of a click distance. SOLUTION: This combination switch has a movable knob 5 of the operation lever 3 rotatably installed to a steering column; a position detecting means A2 for detecting a plurality of detecting positions within the rotating region of the movable knob 5; and a click feeling means A1 acting moving torque stabilizing the movable knob 5 in each detecting position of the position detecting means A2. The click feeling means A1 has a cylindrical first magnet 7 in which an N pole and an S pole are alternately polarized, installed in at least a part of a proximity facing position relatively moving by the rotation of the movable knob 5; and a cylindrical second magnet 8 in which the N pole and the S pole are alternatively polarized, installed in the other part, and the moving torque stabilizing the movable knob 5 in each detecting position by the attraction force and the repulsion force between a first magnet 7 and a second magnet 8 is made to work.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a combination switch for performing operations such as turning on a vehicle headlight, turning on a winker, and driving a wiper.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A conventional combination switch of this type is shown in FIGS. FIG. 17
As shown in FIG. 19, the combination switch 100 includes a shaft 101 protruding from a steering column (not shown) and an operating lever 1 provided on the shaft 101.
02 and. This operating lever 102 is a shaft 101
Fixed knob 102a fixed to the fixed knob 102a
And a movable knob 102b rotatably provided on the shaft 101 on the tip side of the.

Inside the operation lever 102, a detent sensation generating means B1 and a position detecting means B2 are built in. The click feeling generating means B1 is locked to the movable knob 102b only in the rotation direction and is rotatably inserted into the shaft 101.
Have three. Holes 104 are formed at two locations in the rotor 103, and balls 106 that receive the spring force of the spring 105 are housed in the holes 104. This each ball 106
Is pressed against the moderating plate 107 by a spring force, and the moderating plate 107 is fixed to the shaft 101 by a retaining ring 108 and a retaining ring 109 so as not to move in the axial direction. Moderator 10
A moderation peak portion 107a is provided at a proper position on the ball pressing surface side of No. 7 in a protruding manner.

The position detecting means B2 is fixed by sliding a leaf spring type movable contact piece 110 fixed to the opposite surface of the rotor 103 on which the moderation plate 107 is arranged and the tip of the movable contact piece 110. And a fixed contact piece plate portion 111 provided with a contact piece (not shown). At the tip of the movable contact piece 110, as shown in FIG.
10a is provided, and this contact portion 110a slides on the fixed contact piece plate portion 111.

In the above structure, when the movable knob 102b of the operating lever 102 is rotated, the rotor 103 is rotated to cause the movable contact piece portion 110 to slide on the fixed contact piece plate portion 111, so that the position detecting means B2 is operated. Movable knob 102
Each detection position of b is electrically detected. Further, the rotation of the rotor 103 described above causes the balls 10 to move together with the rotor 103.
6 slides on the moderation plate 107. As shown in FIG.
At the position where the ball 106 rides on the moderation mountain portion 107a of the moderation plate 107, the moderation plate 1 of the ball 106 by the spring 105 is formed.
The pressing force to 07 becomes large, and a large operating force is required for the movable knob 102b. Further, as shown in FIG. 17, when the ball 106 gets over the moderation peak portion 107 a of the moderation plate 107, the moderation plate 107 of the ball 106 by the spring 105.
The pressing force on the movable knob 102b becomes small, and the movable knob 102b requires only a small operation force. Then, the position where the ball 106 has passed over the moderation ridge 107a of the moderation plate 107 coincides with each detection position, so that a sense of moderation can be obtained in the rotation operation of the operation lever 102.

Further, the operating lever 102 is provided so as to be movable in a vertical direction and a front-back direction of the vehicle with respect to a steering column (not shown). Even in such an operation, a detent sensation generating means having the same structure as described above is provided. It gives a sense of moderation.

[0007]

However, in the conventional click feeling generating means B1 described above, the ball 106 urged by the spring force of the spring 105 slides on the click plate 107.
The moderating plate 107 and the like are easily worn, and the movable contact piece 110 and the spring 106 lose a predetermined pressing force due to aging.
There was a problem that the optimum moderation could not be maintained for a long period of time.

Further, when the intervals between the detection positions of the operation levers 102 are different depending on the vehicle type or the like, it is necessary to change the moderation plate 107 or the like to one configured according to another standard, and it is easy to change the moderation intervals. Can't handle.

Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and it is a combination switch capable of maintaining an optimum detent of the operating lever for a long period of time and easily responding to a change in the detent interval. The purpose is to provide.

[0010]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, an operating lever is provided movably with respect to a fixed portion, and position detecting means for detecting a plurality of detection positions within a moving range of the operating lever is provided, A combination switch provided with detent sensation generating means for applying a moving torque for stabilizing the operation lever at each detection position of the position detecting means, wherein the detent sensation generating means performs relative movement by movement of the operation lever. A first magnet, in which N poles and S poles are alternately magnetized along the relative movement direction, is provided at at least one of the close opposing positions of the operating lever and the fixed portion to be performed, and the other is provided with the first magnet. A magnetic force generating portion that generates different magnetic force depending on the relative movement position is provided between the magnet and the magnetic force between the magnetic force generating portion and the first magnet. Characterized in that to generate the movement torque to stabilize the output position.

With this combination switch, it is possible to obtain a moderation feeling without contact due to the magnetic force. Further, the moderation interval can be changed by changing only the magnetization pattern of the first magnet or the like.

A second aspect of the present invention is the combination switch according to the first aspect, wherein the magnetic force generating portion is a second magnet in which N poles and S poles are alternately magnetized along a relative movement direction. Is characterized in that.

In this combination switch, in addition to the operation of the first aspect of the invention, attractive force is exerted when the first magnet and the second magnet are close to each other in different magnetic poles during the operation of moving the operating lever. Once generated, the position of the operating lever stabilizes, and when the operating lever is moved from this position, a moving torque is generated that moves the magnetic poles that are in close proximity to each other and gradually shifts them to the original position. When the operation lever is moved further from the position, the first
When the magnetic poles of the magnet and the second magnet which are in close proximity to each other are in the same position, a repulsive force is generated and the position of the operation lever becomes unstable, and when the operation lever is further moved from this position, the magnetic poles in close proximity are gradually shifted. When the operating lever is moved further from this position, the first and second magnets come to different positions. An attractive force is generated to stabilize the position of the operating lever.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the second aspect, the first magnet and the second magnet are both rotating bodies, and N poles are formed in the same pattern over the entire circumference thereof. It is characterized in that the S poles are alternately magnetized.

In this combination switch, in addition to the operation of the invention of claim 2, a moving torque is generated from each magnetized portion around the entire circumference.

An invention according to claim 4 is the combination switch according to claim 3, wherein the second magnet is
It is characterized in that at least a pair of magnetized portions composed of N poles and S poles are arranged at the same rotation interval.

In this combination switch, in addition to the action of the invention of claim 3, a moving torque symmetrical with respect to the center of rotation acts.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the first aspect, the magnetic force generating portion is a base portion forming a magnetic path, and a protrusion disposed closer to the first magnet side than the base portion. It is composed of a soft magnetic portion formed of a soft magnetic material having a magnetic portion, and a protruding magnet portion fixed to the base portion and arranged in proximity to the first magnet side, and the protrusion is formed by the magnetic force of the protruding magnet portion. The magnetic portion is magnetized into a predetermined magnetic pole, and the protruding magnet portion and the protruding magnetic portion face each other.
It is characterized in that it is set at a position where a magnetic force in the same direction acts on the magnetization of the magnet.

In this combination switch, in addition to the operation of the first aspect of the invention, in the process of moving the operation lever, the first magnet and the protruding magnet portion and the protruding magnetic portion may be located at different positions where the magnetic poles closely facing each other. For example, attractive force is generated to stabilize the position of the operating lever, and when the operating lever is moved from this position, a moving torque is generated that moves the magnetic poles that are in close proximity and gradually shifts to the original position. Then, when the operation lever is further moved from this position, the magnetic poles of the first magnet and the protruding magnet portion and the protruding magnetic portion that are close to and face each other are at the same position, a repulsive force is generated, and the position of the operating lever becomes unstable, When the operating lever is moved further from this position, the magnetic poles that are in close proximity to each other are gradually moved to a position where a moving torque is generated that attempts to move to the previous position. , Moving a further operating lever from this position, again the position of the first magnet and the protruding magnet unit and opposed close to the magnetic pole is a position different from the turned attraction is generated to the operating lever of the projecting magnetic portion is stabilized.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the first aspect, the magnetic force generating portion is made of a soft magnetic material and is spaced at positions corresponding to respective detection positions of the operating lever. It is characterized by a plurality of arranged soft magnetic portions.

In this combination switch, in addition to the action of the invention of claim 1, the soft magnetic portion is located at a position where the magnetic domain of the first magnet is located between the adjacent soft magnetic portions in the process of moving the operating lever. And the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit formed in the air gap becomes the largest and the position of the operating lever becomes unstable, and at the position where the magnetic domain of the first magnet faces the adjacent soft magnetic portion, the soft magnetic portion and the air gap are The magnetic resistance of the constructed magnetic circuit is minimized and the position of the operating lever is stabilized.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the first to sixth aspects, the position detecting means includes a position detecting magnet that relatively moves by the movement of the operation lever, and the position detecting magnet. And a Hall sensor for detecting the magnetic field strength of the magnet for use.

In this combination switch, in addition to the effects of the inventions of claims 1 to 6, the relative position of the position detecting magnet and the hall sensor is changed by the movement of the operation lever, and this relative position change. The Hall sensor detects a change in the magnetic field intensity due to the movement of the operating lever, and the moving position of the operation lever can be detected without contact.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the seventh aspect, the position detecting magnet is integrally formed by magnetizing the same magnetic member as the magnet of the magnetic force generating section. Characterize.

In this combination switch, in addition to the operation of the invention of claim 7, parts can be shared.

The invention of claim 9 is claim 7 or claim 8.
The combination switch described in the above is characterized in that the position detecting magnet and the hall sensor are arranged in an internal space of a soft magnetic portion formed of a soft magnetic material.

In this combination switch, in addition to the action of the invention of claim 7 or claim 8, the external magnetic field is shielded by the soft magnetic portion.

[0028]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

1 to 5 show a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a combination switch, FIG. 2 (a) is a sectional view of the combination switch, and FIG.
FIG. 2B is a configuration diagram showing the arrangement and magnetization state of the first magnet and the second magnet, and FIG. 2C is A- of FIG. 2B.
A'line cross-sectional view, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the position detecting means, and FIGS. 4A to 4E are views showing a state of close proximity to a second magnet at each rotation angle of the first magnet,
FIG. 5 is a characteristic diagram of torque acting on the movable knob with respect to the rotation angle of the first magnet.

As shown in FIG. 1, the combination switch 1 is provided with an operating lever 3 protruding from a steering column 2 which is a fixed portion, and the operating lever 3 includes a fixed knob 4 and a movable knob 5. An operation of swinging the entire operation lever 3 in the vertical direction of the vehicle (α direction operation of FIG. 1) and an operation of swinging the entire operation lever 3 in the front-rear direction of the vehicle (β direction operation of FIG. 1) And the operation of rotating the movable knob 5 of the operation lever 3 with respect to the fixed knob 4 (operation in the θ direction of FIG. 1). Each position detecting means A2 (not shown) detects the position movement by each operation of the operation lever 3, and the detection result is used as control information of various operated parts. The details will be described.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the operating lever 3
Has a shaft 6 protruding from the steering column 2 (shown in FIG. 1), and a fixing knob 4 is fixed to the shaft 6. A movable knob 5 is rotatably provided on the tip side of the fixed knob 4. Inside the fixed knob 4 and the movable knob 5, a light system detent feeling generating means A1 and a position detecting means A2 are provided. Here, the movable knob 5 of the light system is OF
Switch operation is performed in three stages: F, taillight / widthlight, headlight, and AUTO, one stage of which is 30 de
g. Is the rotation angle of.

The moderation sensation generating means A1 is shown in FIG.
As shown in detail in (c), a first magnet 7 arranged on the outer circumference of the shaft 6 and fixed to the movable knob 5, and a fixed magnet 4 arranged on the outer circumference of the first magnet 7.
And a second magnet 8 which is a magnetic force generator fixed to the side. The first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 have a cylindrical shape that is a rotating body, and are arranged with their axial centers C aligned. Movable knob 5 of operating lever 3
When the first magnet 7 is rotated by the rotation, the relative rotational positions of both magnets 7 and 8 are changed.

The first magnet 7 has a second magnet 8
Magnetized portions 7b having N poles and S poles alternately and having a constant width and having 24 poles are provided over the entire circumference on an outer peripheral surface 7a which is a surface facing in close proximity to. In FIG. 2B, the magnetization direction of the outer peripheral surface 7a is indicated by an arrow, and the case where the tip of the arrow is directed to the outer peripheral surface 7a is the N pole, and the case where the base of the arrow is directed to the outer peripheral surface 7a is the case. It shows that the S pole is magnetized. In the following description, the N-pole magnetization and the S-pole magnetization are shown in the same arrow direction.

Further, the second magnet 8 has a magnetized portion 8b which has N poles and S poles alternately on the inner peripheral surface 8a which is a surface which closely faces the first magnet 7 and which has a constant width and 24 poles. Is provided over the entire circumference. Therefore, the first magnet 7 and the second magnet
The magnet 8 is 30 deg. Positions where the magnetic poles closely facing each other at different rotation intervals are different (N-pole magnetized portion 7
b and 8b are opposed to each other, and each rotation position of the movable knob 5
Are set so as to coincide with the respective rotation detection positions (positions in FIGS. 4A and 4E).

In the position detecting means A2, a leaf spring type movable contact piece portion 10 fixed to the side end surface of the first magnet 7 and a tip end of the movable contact piece portion 10 are slid so that a fixed contact piece (not shown). No)
And a fixed contact plate portion 11 provided with.
As shown in FIG. 3, a rounded contact portion 10a is provided at the tip of the movable contact piece 10, and the contact portion 10a is provided.
Slides on the fixed contact plate portion 11. Then, as the movable knob 5 rotates, the movable contact piece portion 10 slides on the fixed contact piece portion 11 to electrically detect each rotation detection position, and the detection output of this position detection means A2 lights the headlight or the like. Is used for controlling the lighting of the headlights.

In the above structure, when the movable knob 5 of the operating lever 3 is rotated with respect to the fixed knob 4 (in the θ direction of FIG. 1), the movable knob 5 and the first magnet 7 are moved.
The rotation causes the movable contact piece 10 to slide on the fixed contact piece plate portion 11, and the position detection means A2 moves the movable knob 5.
Each detection position of is detected electrically.

Further, in the process of rotating the movable knob 5 of the operation lever 3, as shown in FIG. 4A, the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 are located at different positions where the magnetic poles close to each other and face each other. If the N pole and the S pole are opposite to each other, an attractive force is generated and the position of the movable knob 5 is stabilized. Now this position is 0de
g. It is assumed that the movable knob 5 of the operation lever 3 is rotated in the clockwise direction D from this position.

When the movable knob 5 is rotated in the clockwise direction D, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), the magnetic poles in close proximity to each other are moved to a position where the magnetic poles gradually shift to return to the original position. Torque, that is, negative torque is generated, and this negative torque is 7.5 deg. It becomes the smallest in the vicinity. This 7.5d
eg. When the movable knob 5 is further rotated from the rotation position of,
This negative torque gradually increases, and as shown in FIG. 4C, the magnetic poles of the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 that are close to and face each other are at the same position (the N pole and the N pole are opposite to each other, and the S pole is S deg. Is opposite) 15 deg. No torque is generated at the rotational position of. Although no moving torque is generated at this rotational position, a repulsive force is generated between the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8, so that the position of the movable knob 5 becomes unstable. This 15 deg. When the movable knob 5 is further rotated from the rotation position of, the moving torque is moved to a position where the magnetic poles in close proximity to each other are gradually shifted to move to the previous rotation position, as shown in FIG. 4D. That is, a positive torque is generated, and this positive torque is 22.5 deg. It becomes maximum near the rotation position of. When the movable knob 5 is further rotated from this rotating position, as shown in FIG. 4E, the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 are again in different positions where the magnetic poles facing each other are different (the N pole and the S pole are different from each other). Facing) 30 deg. Becomes a rotational position, an attractive force is generated, and the position of the movable knob 5 is stabilized.

That is, the movable knob 5 of the operating lever 3 has
As shown in FIG. 5, 30 deg. A detent torque having a rotation period of is generated. In FIG. 5, the first magnet 7
Has an inner diameter of 5 mm, an outer diameter of 7 mm, and a height of 6 mm, the second magnet 8 has an inner diameter of 8 mm, an outer diameter of 10 mm, and a height of 6 mm, and both the first and second magnets 7 and 8 are neodymium bond magnets. The detent torque with respect to the rotation angle of is shown.

As described above, since it is possible to obtain a non-contact feeling of detent by magnetic force at each rotation detection position of the movable knob 5 of the operating lever 3, the optimum feeling of the movable knob 5 of the operating lever 3 can be obtained for a long period of time. Can be maintained.

Further, since the rotation cycle of the click feeling can be adjusted by adjusting the magnetization pattern (the number of magnetized magnetic poles, the width, etc.) of the first magnet 7 and the like, it is possible to easily deal with the change of the click interval. In addition, the magnitude of the torque depends on the first magnet 7 and the second magnet.
It can be adjusted by the gap with the magnet 8, the material, the magnetizing conditions, and the like.

Since the first magnet 7 to which the movable contact piece 10 is fixed does not move in the axial direction of the shaft 6,
Since the movable contact piece portion 10 always applies only a constant pressing force to the fixed contact piece plate portion 11, contact defects can be reduced as compared with the conventional example.

In the first embodiment, the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 are both rotating bodies, and the N poles and the S poles are alternately magnetized in the same pattern over the entire circumference thereof. Therefore, since moving torque is generated from the magnetized portions 7b and 8b around the entire circumference, a reliable moderation can be obtained even if the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 are magnetized with a weak magnetic force. .

FIG. 6A shows the second embodiment of the present invention, and is a configuration diagram of the arrangement of the first magnet and the second magnet and the magnetized state. As shown in FIG. 6A, in the moderation sensation generating means A1 of the second embodiment, the cylindrical first magnet 7 is fixed to the movable knob (not shown) as in the first embodiment. The cylindrical second magnets 8 are fixed to the knobs (not shown) of FIG. However, the first
Unlike the embodiment, the second magnet 8 is provided with a pair of magnetized portions 8b made up of N poles and S poles only at two positions facing each other by 180 degrees, which are equi-rotational intervals, and other portions are not provided. It is a magnetized portion 8c. The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and will be omitted.

Also in the second embodiment, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

FIG. 6B shows the third embodiment of the present invention, and is a configuration diagram of the arrangement and magnetized state of the first magnet and the second magnet. As shown in FIG. 6B, in the third embodiment, unlike the second embodiment, the fixed knob (not shown) is provided with the cylindrical first magnet 7 and the movable knob (not shown) is provided. The cylindrical second magnets 8 are fixed. Similar to the second embodiment, the N pole and the S pole are provided at two positions 180 degrees opposite to the second magnet 8 on the inner peripheral side.
A pair of magnetized portions 8b composed of poles are provided, and the other portions are unmagnetized portions 8c. That is, the arrangement of the first magnet 7 and the second magnet 8 is reversed from that of the second embodiment.

Also in the third embodiment, the same operation and effect as those of the second embodiment can be obtained.

FIG. 7A shows the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and is a configuration diagram of the arrangement and magnetized state of the first magnet and the second magnet. As shown in FIG. 7A, in the click feeling generating means A1 of the fourth embodiment, the cylindrical first magnet 7 is fixed to the movable knob (not shown) as in the second embodiment. Although the second magnet 8 is fixed to a fixing knob (not shown), the second magnet 8 is arranged at four positions of 90 ° rotation positions which are equal rotation intervals. Each second magnet 8 is formed of a pair of magnetized portions 8b having N and S poles. The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and will be omitted.

Also in the fourth embodiment, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

FIG. 7B shows the fifth embodiment of the present invention, which is a configuration diagram of the arrangement and magnetized state of the first magnet and the second magnet. As shown in FIG. 7B, in the moderation sensation generating means A1 of the fifth embodiment, the cylindrical first magnet 7 is fixed to the movable knob (not shown) as in the fourth embodiment. The arc-shaped second magnet 8 is fixed to a fixing knob (not shown). However, this fifth
In the embodiment, the second magnets 8 are arranged at two positions of 180 ° rotation, and each second magnet 8 is formed of two pairs of magnetized portions 8b having N and S poles.
The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and will be omitted.

Also in the fifth embodiment, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

FIG. 7C shows the sixth embodiment of the present invention, and is a configuration diagram of the arrangement and magnetized state of the first magnet and the second magnet. As shown in FIG. 7C, in the moderation feeling generating means A1 of the sixth embodiment, the cylindrical first magnet 7 is fixed to the fixing knob (not shown) as in the third embodiment. Although the second magnet 8 is fixed to the movable knob (not shown), the second magnet 8 is arranged at three positions of 120 ° rotation positions which are equal rotation intervals. Each second magnet 8 is formed of two pairs of magnetized portions 8b having N and S poles. Other configurations are the same as those of the first
Since it is similar to the embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

Also in the sixth embodiment, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

As described above, in the first embodiment, the entire circumference of the second magnet 8 is magnetized, but the second to sixth magnets are magnetized.
The embodiment is different in that only a part of the second magnet 8 is magnetized at equal circumferential intervals. Further, in the second to sixth embodiments as well as the first embodiment, since the magnetized portions 8b are provided at equal rotation intervals with respect to the rotation center C of the second magnet 8, the rotation center C with respect to the rotation center C is provided. Since a symmetrical torque acts on the movable knob 5, it is possible to obtain a moderation feeling with a small number of magnetized portions 8b without deteriorating the operability and durability. However, a pair of magnetized portions 8b composed of an N pole and an S pole or a magnetized portion 8b having only an N pole (S pole) may be provided only at one location of the second magnet 8.

FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
It is a block diagram of arrangement | positioning of a magnet and a magnetic force generation part, and a magnetized state. As in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the moderation sensation generating means A1 of the seventh embodiment has a fixed knob in which a cylindrical first magnet 7 is fixed to a movable knob (not shown). The magnetic force generator 20 is fixed to (not shown). The magnetic force generating section 20 is a soft magnetic section formed of a soft magnetic material having a cylindrical base section 21a forming a magnetic path and a protruding magnetic section 21b arranged closer to the first magnet 7 side than the base section 21a. 21 and a protruding magnet portion 22 which is fixed to the base portion 21a and is arranged in proximity to the first magnet 7 side. The inner peripheral surface, which is the closely opposing surface of the protruding magnet portion 22, has an S
It is magnetized to the pole. The protruding magnetic portion 21b has a thickness of 45 deg. Except for the position where the protruding magnet portion 22 is arranged. Are arranged at intervals of rotation. The inner peripheral surface, which is the closely opposing surface of the protruding magnetic portion 21b, is magnetized to a predetermined magnetic pole (shown by a broken line in FIG. 8) by the magnetic force of the protruding magnet portion 22, and the protruding magnet portion 22 and the protruding magnetic portion 21b face each other. It is set at a position where a magnetic force in the same direction acts on the magnetization of one magnet 7. Therefore, when the protruding magnet portion 22 receives an attractive force from the facing magnetized portion 7b of the first magnet 7, the protruding magnetic portion 21b also receives an attracting force from the facing magnetized portion 7b of the first magnet 7, and the protruding magnet portion 21b. 22 is first
When the repulsive force is received from the magnetized portions 7b of the magnet 7 which face each other, the first magnet 7 which the protruding magnetic portion 21b also faces.
The magnetized portion 7b is magnetized so as to receive a repulsive force. The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and will be omitted.

In the seventh embodiment, in the process of rotating a movable knob (not shown) of an operating lever (not shown), the first magnet 7 and the protruding magnet portion 22 and the protruding magnetic portion 21b come close to each other. If the magnetic poles facing each other are in different positions, attractive force is generated to stabilize the rotational position of the movable knob, and when the movable knob (not shown) is rotated from this position, the magnetic poles in close proximity move to a position where it gradually shifts. Then, a moving torque for returning to the original position is generated, and when the movable knob is further rotated from this position, the first magnet 7 and the protruding magnet portion 22 and the protruding magnetic portion 21b are close to each other at the same magnetic pole. Then, a repulsive force is generated and the rotational position of the movable knob (not shown) becomes unstable. When the movable knob (not shown) is further rotated from this rotational position, the magnetic poles that are in close proximity to each other gradually shift. When the movable knob (not shown) is further rotated from this position, the first magnet 7, the protruding magnet portion 22 and the protruding magnetic portion 21b are moved again. The magnetic poles facing each other at different positions become different positions, and an attractive force is generated to stabilize the rotational position of the movable knob (not shown). Therefore, since it is possible to obtain a non-contact feeling by the magnetic force at each rotation detection position of the movable knob (not shown), the optimum feeling of the movable knob (not shown) can be maintained for a long period of time.

As a modification of the seventh embodiment, the first embodiment
It is conceivable that the arrangement relationship between the magnet 7 and the magnetic force generator 20 is reversed. That is, this is a case where the fixed knob (not shown) is provided with the cylindrical first magnet 7 and the movable knob (not shown) is provided with the above-mentioned magnetic force generation unit 20, and even in this case, the seventh embodiment is different from the seventh embodiment. Similar actions and effects can be obtained.

9 (a), 9 (b) and 10 (a) show an eighth embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 9 (a) and 9 (b) show the arrangement of the first magnet and the magnetic force generating portion, respectively. And FIG. 10A is a configuration diagram of the first magnet. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, in the moderation feeling generating means A1 of the eighth embodiment, the cylindrical first magnet 7 is fixed to the movable knob (not shown), and the fixed knob (FIG. The magnetic force generator 20 is fixed to (not shown). The first magnet 7 is composed of magnetized portions 7b having only two poles, that is, an S pole and an N pole, and the magnetic domains 23 that are boundaries between the magnetized portions 7b are 180 degrees.
It is arranged at a position opposite to each other. Each magnetized portion 7b of the first magnet 7 is magnetized in a parallel direction as shown in FIG. The magnetic force generator 20 is made of a soft magnetic material, and has 30 deg. Corresponding to each rotation detection position of a movable knob (not shown). It is composed of a plurality of soft magnetic portions 24 arranged at the rotation intervals. Other configurations are the same as those of the first
Since it is similar to the embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

In the eighth embodiment, during the operation of rotating the movable knob (not shown) of the operating lever (not shown), as shown in FIG. 9B, the magnetic domain 23 of the first magnet 7 is generated. At a position located between the adjacent soft magnetic portions 24, the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit constituted by the soft magnetic portion 24 and the void thereof becomes the largest and the movable knob (not shown)
The rotational position of becomes unstable. As shown in FIG. 9 (a),
The soft magnetic portion 24 adjacent to the magnetic domain 23 of the first magnet 7.
At the position opposite to, the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit formed by the soft magnetic portion 24 and the gap thereof is minimized, and the rotational position of the movable knob (not shown) is stabilized. Therefore, since it is possible to obtain a non-contact feeling by the magnetic force at each rotation detection position of the movable knob (not shown), the optimum feeling of the movable knob (not shown) can be maintained for a long period of time.

As a modification of the eighth embodiment, FIG.
As shown in 0 (b), each magnetized portion 7 of the first magnet 7
b may be a radial magnetic field. Even in this case, the same operation and effect as those of the eighth embodiment can be obtained.

FIG. 11 shows a ninth embodiment of the present invention,
It is a block diagram of arrangement | positioning and a magnetized state of a 1st magnet and a 2nd magnet. As shown in FIG. 11, in the moderation sensation generating means A1 of the ninth embodiment, one of a movable knob (not shown) and a fixed knob (not shown) is a disk-shaped first member that is a rotating body. The magnet 7 is fixed, and the other disk-shaped second magnet 8 which is a magnetic force generating portion is provided on the other side.
And are fixed. Then, N poles and S poles are alternately arranged on the surfaces of the first and second magnets 7 and 8 which are close to and face each other.
In addition, a magnetized portion 8b magnetized to have a constant width is provided over the entire circumference. Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and this eighth embodiment also has the same operation / function as the first embodiment.
The effect is obtained.

12 and 13 show a tenth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a combination switch, and FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a click feeling generating means and a position detecting means. In FIG. 12, when comparing the tenth embodiment with the first embodiment, only the configuration of the position detecting means A2 is different, and the other configurations are the same, so the same reference numerals are used in the drawings for the same components. Is attached and its description is omitted.

That is, the position detecting means A2 of the tenth embodiment, as shown in detail in FIG. 13, is a position detecting magnet fixed to the inner circumference of the first magnet 7 via the cylindrical soft magnetic member 30. 31 and a hall sensor 32 arranged in the internal space of the position detecting magnet 31.
It consists of and. The position detection magnet 31 is
The magnetized portion 31a has only two poles, an S pole and an N pole. As shown in FIG. 13, each magnetized portion 31a is magnetized in a parallel direction, and a magnetic field perpendicular to the axial direction is generated in the internal space of the position detection magnet 31.
The hall sensor 32 is fixed to the fixed knob 4 side via a substrate 33 (shown in FIG. 12). Hall sensor 3
2 detects a magnetic field strength, converts it into a voltage, and outputs it.

Also in the tenth embodiment, the same operation and effect as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. The position detection magnet 31 is rotated by rotating the movable knob 5 of the operation lever 3.
Rotates. Due to the rotation of the position detecting magnet 31, the rotational position relative to the hall sensor 32 is changed,
The rotation position of the movable knob 5 is detected by the Hall sensor 32 detecting the change in the magnetic field strength due to this relative position change. From the above, the movable knob 5 of the operation lever 3 can be contact-free.
Since the rotational position can be detected, the reliability of the position detecting means A2 including the durability is improved, the operability of the movable knob 5 is good, and the position detecting means A2 does not require high assembly accuracy.

FIG. 14 shows the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a configuration diagram of the moderation feeling generating means (the first magnet is omitted) and the position detecting means. As shown in FIG. 14, the position detecting means A2 of the eleventh embodiment differs from the tenth embodiment only in that each magnetized portion 31a of the position detecting magnet 31 is magnetized by a radial magnetic field. The other structure is similar to that of the tenth embodiment, and therefore the description thereof is omitted. Also in the eleventh embodiment, a magnetic field perpendicular to the axial direction is generated in the internal space of the position detecting magnet 31, and the same action and effect as those of the tenth embodiment can be obtained.

FIG. 15 shows a twelfth embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 15 is a block diagram of the moderation feeling generating means and the position detecting means. As shown in FIG. 15, in the position detecting means A2 of the twelfth embodiment, the first magnet 7 and the position detecting magnet 31 are configured by magnetizing the same magnetic member 34. That is, the first magnet 7 is formed on the outer peripheral portion of the cylindrical magnetic member 34 by magnetizing, and the position detecting magnet 31 is formed on the inner peripheral portion of the first magnet 7 by magnetizing. The other structure is the same as that of the eleventh embodiment, and the twelfth embodiment can also obtain the same operation and effect as the eleventh embodiment.

Further, in the twelfth embodiment, the first magnet 7 and the position detecting magnet 31 are the same part and the parts can be shared, so that the number of parts can be reduced.

FIG. 16 shows a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention,
FIG. 16 is a block diagram of the moderation feeling generating means and the position detecting means. As shown in FIG. 16, since the click feeling generating means A1 of the twelfth embodiment has the same configuration as that of the seventh embodiment of FIG. 8, the same reference numerals are given to the same components in the drawing and the description thereof will be given. Is omitted. Further, since the position detecting means A2 is the same as that of the twelfth embodiment of FIG. 15, the same reference numerals are given to the same constituent parts in the drawing, and the description thereof will be omitted.

Also in the thirteenth embodiment, the same action and effect as in the seventh embodiment can be obtained with respect to the click feeling generating means A1, and the action and effect similar to that in the eleventh embodiment can be obtained with respect to the position detecting means A2. To be

Further, in the thirteenth embodiment, since the external magnetic field is shielded by the soft magnetic portion 21, the Hall sensor 3
2 is not adversely affected by the external magnetic field, and the position detection accuracy of the Hall sensor 32 is improved.

Various modified examples of the position detecting means A2 are conceivable. When the moderation feeling generating means A1 of the eighth embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B is applied, the position detecting means A2 shown in FIG. ),
As shown by the phantom line in (b), the position detecting means A2 can be configured by only disposing the Hall sensor 32 in the internal space of the first magnet 7. That is, the first
The magnet 7 is composed of magnetized portions 7b having only two poles, S pole and N pole, and each magnetized portion 7b is magnetized in a parallel direction. Therefore, a magnetic field perpendicular to the axial direction is generated in the internal space of the first magnet 7, and the position can be detected by utilizing this magnetic field.

As described above, in each of the above embodiments, the operation lever 3
The operation of rotating the movable knob 5 with respect to the fixed knob 4 (the operation in the θ direction in FIG. 1) has been described, but the operation of swinging the entire operation lever 3 in the vertical direction of the vehicle (α in FIG. 1). The present invention can be similarly applied to the directional operation) and the operation of swinging the entire operation lever 3 in the front-back direction of the vehicle (β-direction operation in FIG. 1). In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the first magnet 7 of the click feeling generating means A1 is provided in order to detect the click feeling and the position detection with respect to the rotation operation of the movable knob 5.
Etc. are formed in a cylindrical shape or a disk shape, but when performing a click feeling or position detection with respect to the rocking operation of the operation lever 3, the first magnet of the click feeling generating means has an arc shape with a large curvature. Will be formed.

[0073]

As described above, according to the invention of claim 1, the operation lever is provided movably with respect to the fixed portion,
A combination switch provided with a detent sensation generating means for applying a moving torque that stabilizes the operation lever, wherein the detent sensation generating means is an N pole and an S pole at least at one of the close opposing positions of the operation lever and the fixed portion. Since the first magnet is alternately magnetized, and the other side is provided with a magnetic force generating section for generating magnetic force between the first magnet and the other magnet, it is possible to obtain a non-contact moderation by the magnetic force. it can. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the optimum moderation of the operating lever for a long period of time. Further, since the moderation interval can be changed by changing only the magnetization pattern of the first magnet or the like, the moderation interval can be easily changed.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the first aspect, the magnetic force generating section has a second magnetic pole in which N poles and S poles are alternately magnetized along the relative movement direction. Since it is a magnet, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 1, in the moving operation process of the operation lever, attractive force is generated if the magnetic poles of the first magnet and the second magnet which are close to and face each other are different. A sense of moderation can be provided by stabilizing the operation lever only in this position.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the second aspect, the first magnet and the second magnet are both rotating bodies, and the N pole and the S pole have the same pattern over the entire circumference thereof. And are alternately magnetized, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 2, since the moving torque is generated from each magnetized portion around the entire circumference, the first magnet and the second magnet
Even if the magnet is magnetized with a weak magnetic force, it is possible to obtain a definite sense of moderation.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the third aspect, the second magnet has at least a pair of magnetized portions composed of an N pole and an S pole arranged at the same rotation interval. In addition to the effect of the invention of claim 3, since a moving torque symmetrical with respect to the rotation center acts, it is possible to obtain a moderation feeling with a small number of magnetized portions without deteriorating operability, durability and the like.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the first aspect, the magnetic force generating section includes a soft magnetic section formed of a soft magnetic material having a base section and a protruding magnetic section, and the base section. In addition to the effect of the invention of claim 1, the operation of moving the operating lever is performed by magnetizing the protruding magnetic portion to a predetermined magnetic pole by the magnetic force of the protruding magnet portion. In the process, if the first magnet and the protruding magnet portion and the protruding magnetic portion are close to each other at different magnetic poles, an attractive force is generated and the operation lever is stabilized only at this position to provide a moderation feeling. You can

According to the invention of claim 6, in the combination switch according to claim 1, the magnetic force generating portion is a plurality of soft magnetic portions formed of a soft magnetic material and arranged at intervals. In addition to the effect of the invention of claim 1, in the moving operation process of the operating lever, the soft magnetic portion and the void thereof are formed at the position where the magnetic domain of the first magnet is located between the adjacent soft magnetic portions. At the position where the magnetic domain of the first magnet faces the adjacent soft magnetic part, the magnetic resistance of the magnetic circuit becomes the largest and the position of the operating lever becomes unstable. Since the resistance is minimized and the operation lever is stable only in this position, it is possible to give a feeling of moderation.

According to the invention of claim 7, in the combination switch according to claims 1 to 6, the position detecting means comprises a position detecting magnet and a hall sensor. In addition to the effect of the invention of 4,
The relative position between the position detection magnet and the hall sensor is changed by the movement of the operation lever, and the hall sensor detects the change in the magnetic field strength due to this relative position change. Since the moving position can be detected, the reliability including durability is improved, the operability is good, and high assembly accuracy is not required.

According to the eighth aspect of the invention, in the combination switch according to the seventh aspect, the position detecting magnet is magnetized with the same magnetic member as the magnet of the magnetic force generating section, and is integrally formed. In addition to the effect of the invention of claim 5, since the parts can be shared, the number of parts can be reduced.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the combination switch according to the seventh or eighth aspect, the position detecting magnet and the hall sensor are the inner space of the soft magnetic portion formed of a soft magnetic material. In addition to the effect of the invention of claim 7 or claim 8, since the external magnetic field is shielded by the soft magnetic portion, the position detection accuracy of the Hall sensor is improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention and is a schematic configuration diagram of a combination switch.

FIG. 2 shows the first embodiment of the present invention, (a) is a cross-sectional view of a combination switch, (b) is a configuration diagram showing an arrangement and a magnetized state of a first magnet and a second magnet,
2C is a sectional view taken along the line AA ′ of FIG.

FIG. 3 shows the first embodiment of the present invention and is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the position detecting means.

FIG. 4 shows a first embodiment of the present invention, (a) to (e).
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the first magnet is close to and facing the second magnet at each rotation angle.

FIG. 5 is a characteristic diagram of torque acting on the movable knob with respect to the rotation angle of the first magnet according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 (a) shows a second embodiment of the present invention, in which the arrangement of the first magnet and the second magnet and the configuration of the magnetized state are shown, and FIG. 6 (b) shows the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram of arrangement | positioning and a magnetized state of a 1st magnet and a 2nd magnet.

FIG. 7 (a) shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 (b) shows the arrangement of the first magnet and the second magnet and the configuration of the magnetized state, and FIG. 7 (b) shows the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Arrangement of the first magnet and the second magnet and a configuration diagram of a magnetized state,
(C) shows 6th Embodiment of this invention, and is a block diagram of arrangement | positioning of a 1st magnet and a 2nd magnet, and a magnetized state.

FIG. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention, and is a configuration diagram of an arrangement and a magnetized state of a first magnet and a magnetic force generator.

FIG. 9 shows an eighth embodiment of the present invention, (a), (b).
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of the arrangement and magnetized state of the first magnet and the magnetic force generator, respectively. Is.

10A is a configuration diagram of a first magnet of an eighth embodiment, and FIG. 10B is a configuration diagram of a first magnet of a modified example of the eighth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a view showing the arrangement of a first magnet and a second magnet and a magnetized state according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the combination switch according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows a tenth embodiment of the present invention and is a configuration diagram of a click feeling generating means and a position detecting means.

FIG. 14 shows the eleventh embodiment of the present invention and is a configuration diagram of a click feeling generating means (the first magnet is omitted) and a position detecting means.

FIG. 15 shows a twelfth embodiment of the present invention and is a configuration diagram of a click feeling generating means and a position detecting means.

FIG. 16 shows a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention and is a configuration diagram of a click feeling generating means and a position detecting means.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a conventional combination switch.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of a conventional combination switch.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of an essential part showing a contact portion of a movable contact piece portion and a fixed contact piece plate portion of a conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 combination switch 2 Steering column (fixed part) 3 operation lever 4 fixed knob 5 movable knob 7 1st magnet 7b Magnetization part 8 Second magnet (Magnetic force generator) 8b Magnetization part 20 Magnetic force generator 21 Soft magnetic part 21a Base part 21b magnetic protrusion 22 Projection magnet part 23 magnetic domain 24 Soft magnetic part (magnetic force generating part) 30 Soft magnetic material 31 Position detection magnet 32 Hall sensor 34 Magnetic member A1 Moderation feeling generating means A2 position detection means

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. An operating lever is provided movably with respect to a fixed portion, and position detecting means for detecting a plurality of detection positions within a moving range of the operating lever is provided, and the operation is performed at each detection position of the position detecting means. A combination switch provided with a moderation feeling generating means for applying a moving torque for stabilizing the lever, wherein the moderation feeling generating means is a proximity of the operation lever and the fixed portion that perform relative movement by movement of the operation lever. At least one of the facing positions is provided with a first magnet in which N poles and S poles are alternately magnetized along the relative movement direction, and the other is provided with the first magnet at the other side depending on the relative movement position. A magnetic force generation unit that generates different magnetic forces is provided, and a moving torque that stabilizes the operation lever at each detection position is generated by the magnetic force between the magnetic force generation unit and the first magnet. Combination switch, characterized in that raised. 2. The combination switch according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic force generator is a second magnet in which N poles and S poles are alternately magnetized along a relative movement direction. Combination switch to be. 3. The combination switch according to claim 2, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are both rotating bodies, and the N pole and the S pole are formed in the same pattern over the entire circumference thereof.
A combination switch characterized in that the poles are magnetized alternately. 4. The combination switch according to claim 3, wherein in the second magnet, at least a pair of magnetized portions having an N pole and an S pole are arranged at the same rotation interval. Combination switch. 5. The combination switch according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic force generating portion includes a base portion forming a magnetic path and a protruding magnetic portion disposed closer to the first magnet side than the base portion. It is composed of a soft magnetic portion formed of a magnetic material and a protruding magnet portion fixed to the base portion and arranged in proximity to the first magnet side, and the protruding magnetic portion has a predetermined magnetic force by the magnetic force of the protruding magnet portion. A combination switch which is magnetized by a magnetic pole, and is set to a position where a magnetic force in the same direction acts on the magnetization of the first magnets facing the protruding magnet portion and the protruding magnetic portion. 6. The combination switch according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic force generating section is made of a soft magnetic material, and a plurality of the magnetic force generating sections are arranged at positions corresponding to respective detection positions of the operation lever at intervals. Combination switch characterized by a soft magnetic part. 7. The combination switch according to claim 1, wherein the position detecting means includes a position detecting magnet that relatively moves by moving the operation lever, and a magnetic field of the position detecting magnet. A combination switch comprising a hall sensor for detecting strength. 8. The combination switch according to claim 7, wherein the position detecting magnet is integrally formed by magnetizing the same magnetic member as the magnet of the magnetic force generating unit. . 9. The combination switch according to claim 7, wherein the position detecting magnet and the hall sensor are arranged in an inner space of a soft magnetic portion formed of a soft magnetic material. Combination switch featuring.