JP2003099058A - Keyboard device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a keyboard device which can be increased in portability by minimizing the keyboard thickness while maintaining high durability and operability. SOLUTION: Cases MC which are adjacent to each other among four main cases MC are connected rotatably by connection parts CON1 to CON3 and have both a folding arrangement for easy portage and a plane expansion arrangement for playing through the respective connection parts CON. Each case MC is provided with a keyboard unit KU, whose white keys WK and black keys BK are <=5 mm thick and such that the nearly entire areas, seen in plane view from above, are formed almost on a plane; and the keyboard unit KU is constituted by stacking a base end part KUBa as a black key common base end part for a black key unit KU4B on a base end part KUWa as a white key common base end part for a white key unit KUW.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a compact keyboard device suitable for carrying.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a keyboard device which has improved portability due to miniaturization. Keyboard devices are generally
Although a long shape is formed in the key arrangement direction (horizontal direction), the conventional keyboard device has been devised to be a folding type or a scroll type in order to reduce the size. For example, in a foldable electronic keyboard device (Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 61-76439), the keyboard portion is formed in a thin sheet shape, and white keys (E-F keys, G-C keys) between which black keys are not interposed. ) Is a dividing position, and the keyboard is folded at this dividing position so that the keyboard can be compacted by being folded so that the front surfaces or the back surfaces of the keyboard face each other and overlap each other.

[0003]

However, when the folded body is folded, generally the valley side contracts and the mountain side extends. Unless it is a bent body having a thickness of zero, which is impossible in reality, it has such a characteristic. Therefore, in order to actually manufacture a conventional keyboard device, the keyboard itself, which is the seat portion, needs to be made of a stretchable material.
Therefore, the degree of freedom in selecting the material is limited. Also, even if it is made of a stretchable material, it has less rigidity and durability than a normal keyboard (not a folding type or a scroll type), and it does not have a large key depression stroke, resulting in poor operability. is there. Moreover, since the sheet material is bent at the dividing position by utilizing the elasticity of the sheet material, the dividing position (the bending position)
There is a risk that the playing operation may be hindered due to the folds in the folds, and the durability of the bent portion becomes lower than that of other portions. As a result, not only the operability of each key is unbalanced, but also an elastic sheet has to be used, which makes it difficult to perform a playing technique such as glissando, and operability from the initial use is also poor. As described above, the conventional keyboard device has problems in operability, rigidity, and durability.

Further, as a result of giving importance to durability, portability and operability, there is a problem that the structure becomes complicated and the manufacturing becomes difficult.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art. The first object of the present invention is to maintain high durability and operability while minimizing the keyboard thickness to improve portability. It is to provide a keyboard device that can be enhanced.

A second object of the present invention is to provide a keyboard device which can be manufactured easily while maintaining high durability, portability and operability.

[0007]

In order to achieve the first object, a keyboard device according to claim 1 of the present invention comprises a plurality of frames each provided with a plurality of white keys and a plurality of black keys,
And a connecting means for connecting adjacent frames of the plurality of frames to each other so that the adjacent frames can be relatively rotated from the folded state to the flattened state, and via the connecting means. It is configured such that both a fold arrangement in which the plurality of frames are folded into a size of approximately one frame and a flat arrangement arrangement in which the plurality of frames are expanded and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction are possible. In addition, the plurality of black keys provided in each of the plurality of frames have a thickness of 5 mm or less, and substantially the entire region viewed from above in a plan view is formed on a substantially flat surface.

According to this structure, among the plurality of frames each provided with the plurality of white keys and the plurality of black keys, the adjacent frames are connected by the connecting means, and the adjacent frames are flatly expanded from the folded state. Since it is relatively rotatable until the state, the keyboard unit is overlapped with the frame at the connecting portion of each frame at the time of flat deployment and at the time of folding arrangement, for example.
By adopting a structure in which the keyboard unit and the frame are stacked at portions other than the connecting portion, rigidity and durability are improved in both arrangements as compared with a case where a sheet-shaped keyboard is bent and folded.
In addition, both a folding arrangement in which the plurality of frames are folded into a size of approximately one frame through the connecting means and a flat development arrangement in which the plurality of frames are developed and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction are provided. Since it is configured to be arranged,
It can be folded and compactly carried, and can be played in a flat layout for playing operations. Moreover, since the keys are provided in a frame which is not sheet-like and has a certain degree of rigidity, the key pressing operation is easy. Further, the plurality of black keys provided in each of the plurality of frames have a thickness of 5 mm or less, and substantially the entire region that is viewed from above when viewed from above is formed on a substantially flat surface. Thus, the vertical dimension of the keyboard can be reduced. Therefore, while maintaining high durability and operability, the keyboard thickness can be minimized to enhance portability.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned second object, the keyboard device according to a second aspect of the present invention connects a plurality of frames and mutually adjacent frames among the plurality of frames,
And a connecting means that allows the adjacent frames to relatively rotate from a folded state to a flattened state, and the plurality of frames are connected to each other through the connecting means.
Both of the plurality of frames are configured so that both a folding arrangement in which they are folded into one frame and a flat development arrangement in which the plurality of frames are developed and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction are possible. In each case, a white key unit having a plurality of white keys having a common key base end and a black key unit having a plurality of black keys having a common key base end are laminated at both key base ends. A configured keyboard unit is provided,
Each of the plurality of white keys and the plurality of black keys has a thickness of 5 mm or less, and substantially the entire region that is viewed from above in a plan view is formed on a substantially flat surface.

According to this structure, the adjacent frames of the plurality of frames are connected by the connecting means, and the adjacent frames are relatively rotatable from the folded state to the flattened state. Rigidity and durability are improved compared to the case where a sheet-shaped keyboard is bent and folded. In addition, the plurality of frames are substantially connected to each other through the connecting means.
Since it is configured so that both a folding arrangement in which it is folded into one frame and a flat development arrangement in which the plurality of frames are unfolded and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction are possible, the folding arrangement is compact. In addition to being portable, it is possible to perform playing operations in a flattened arrangement, and since the key is provided in a frame that is not sheet-like and has a certain hardness,
Easy to press keys. Further, in each of the plurality of frames, a white key unit having a plurality of white keys having a common key base end portion and a black key unit having a plurality of black keys having a common key base end portion are both key bases. Since the keyboard unit configured by stacking at the end portions is provided, the keyboard unit can be assembled only by stacking the keyboard units, and the keyboard can be easily assembled. Further, in each of the plurality of white keys and the plurality of black keys, the thickness is 5 mm or less, and substantially the entire region that is viewed in plan view from above is formed on a substantially flat surface.
The thickness of the white and black keys can be minimized to reduce the vertical dimension of the keyboard. Therefore, while maintaining high durability, portability, and operability, it is possible to easily assemble the keyboard and facilitate manufacturing.

In order to achieve the second object, a keyboard device according to a third aspect of the present invention connects a plurality of frames and adjacent frames of the plurality of frames,
And a connecting means that allows the adjacent frames to relatively rotate from a folded state to a flattened state, and the plurality of frames are connected to each other through the connecting means.
Both of the plurality of frames are configured so that both a folding arrangement in which they are folded into one frame and a flat development arrangement in which the plurality of frames are developed and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction are possible. In each case, a white key unit having a plurality of white keys having a common key base end and a black key unit having a plurality of black keys having a common key base end are laminated at both key base ends. A configured keyboard unit is provided,
At least one of the white key unit and the black key unit is formed in a flat plate shape.

According to this structure, the adjacent frames of the plurality of frames are connected by the connecting means, and the adjacent frames are relatively rotatable from the folded state to the flattened state. Rigidity and durability are improved compared to the case where a sheet-shaped keyboard is bent and folded. In addition, the plurality of frames are substantially connected to each other through the connecting means.
Since it is configured so that both a folding arrangement in which it is folded into one frame and a flat development arrangement in which the plurality of frames are unfolded and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction are possible, the folding arrangement is compact. In addition to being portable, it is possible to perform playing operations in a flattened arrangement, and since the key is provided in a frame that is not sheet-like and has a certain hardness,
Easy to press keys. Further, in each of the plurality of frames, a white key unit having a plurality of white keys having a common key base end portion and a black key unit having a plurality of black keys having a common key base end portion are both key bases. Since the keyboard unit configured by stacking at the end portions is provided, the keyboard unit can be assembled only by stacking the keyboard units, and the keyboard can be easily assembled. Further, since at least one of the white key unit and the black key unit is formed in a flat plate shape, it is possible to reduce the thickness of the white key and / or the black key to reduce the vertical dimension of the keyboard. In addition, it is possible to manufacture a keyboard unit by punching a flat plate, etc., and to simplify the configuration and manufacturing. Therefore, while maintaining high durability, portability, and operability, it is possible to simplify the structure and assembly of the keyboard and facilitate manufacturing.

If the key-depressing operation portion (the tip end side of the key hinge portion) and the key base end portion are formed to have the same thickness, it is easy to manufacture a comb-shaped keyboard unit by punching a flat plate.

Further, in the keyboard device according to a fourth aspect, in the configuration according to the third aspect, both the white key unit and the black key unit are formed in a flat plate shape, and a key base end portion of the black key unit is formed. The white key unit is laminated on the key base end portion.

According to this structure, both the white key unit and the black key unit are formed in a flat plate shape, and the key base end portion of the black key unit is laminated on the key base end portion of the white key unit. Not only can the white and black keys be made thinner to further reduce the vertical dimension of the keyboard, but it is also possible to manufacture a keyboard unit by punching a flat plate, etc.
The configuration and manufacturing can be simplified. Also, simply by stacking the key base end of the black key unit on the key base end of the white key unit, the height difference between the white key and the black key automatically occurs depending on the thickness of the black key unit. Since the black key can be projected above the white key like a normal keyboard, the black key can be obtained and the blind operation can be performed.
Therefore, with a simple configuration and easy assembly, it is possible to improve the operability by enabling a blind operation or the like.

The white key unit and the black key unit may have the same thickness.

According to the first to fourth aspects, in both the folding arrangement and the plane unfolding arrangement, the keyboard units on the left and right ends are moved in the key arrangement direction relative to the corresponding frame. It may be configured to be possible with.
At that time, when the keyboard units on both the left and right sides are moved toward each other, for example, in the central direction (to the right for the leftmost keyboard unit, to the left for the rightmost keyboard unit), the relative rotation of the adjacent frames is While the movement is restricted, it is desirable that the keyboard units on both the left and right ends are allowed to rotate relative to each other when the two keyboard units are moved in the left and right end directions away from each other. As a result, folding can be performed by a simple operation, and at the time of use, each frame is fixed in a flattened arrangement and the operability is good.

[0018]

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

(First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a keyboard device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

The keyboard device 1 is a small keyboard device that can be folded and carried, expanded, played and connected to a mobile computer to input and edit musical sound data. The state is shown. Hereinafter, the player side of this device will be referred to as the front.

The keyboard device 1 is provided with a main case MC (frame) made of synthetic resin, and the main case MC is divided into four blocks, and the first, second, third and fourth main parts are arranged from the bass range side. Cases MC1, MC2, MC3, MC4
It is arranged in series. Subframe assemblies SUB1 to SUB4 described in detail in FIG. 7 are provided on the first to fourth main cases MC1 to MC4, respectively, and the keyboard units KU1 to KU4 are provided on the subframe assemblies SUB1 to SUB4. Are arranged correspondingly. Between subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB2, SUB2 and SUB3
Between the SUB3 and the SUB3 and the SUB4.
It is divided by V1, DIV2, and DIV3.

As will be described in detail later, the first main case MC
The first and second main cases MC2 are rotatably connected by a connecting portion CON1 (connecting means).
The second main case MC3 and the second main case MC3 are rotatably connected by a connecting part CON2 (connecting means).
The third and fourth main cases MC4 are rotatably connected by a connecting portion CON3 (connecting means). Further, the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 are configured to be slidable in the key arrangement direction (horizontal direction) with respect to the first and fourth main cases MC1 and MC4, respectively, when the keyboard device 1 is folded or unfolded. Be moved.

2 to 4 are external views showing the steps of the keyboard device 1 from the unfolded state to the folded state. Figure 2
The state where the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 are moved to the left end position and the right end position, respectively, is shown. FIG. 3 shows a state in which the second main case MC2 and the third main case MC3 are being rotated and overlapped with each other via the connecting portion CON2.
FIG. 4 shows a state in which four main cases MC1 to MC4 are folded and overlapped. FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the keyboard device 1 in a developed state.

As described above, in the unfolded state as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, that is, in the state in which the four main cases MC1 to MC4 are unfolded and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction in a plane unfolded arrangement. It becomes possible to play. On the other hand, normally, it is carried in a folded state shown in FIG. 4, that is, in a folded state in which four main cases MC1 to MC4 are folded into substantially one main case.

First, the unfolding and folding mechanism of the apparatus 1 will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the connecting portion CON1
Is a synthetic resin connecting piece 20 and hinges 21, 22, 23,
And 24. Hinges 21 and 22 are main case M
C1 and the connecting piece 20 are relatively rotatable, and the hinge 2
Reference numerals 3 and 24 make the connecting piece 20 and the main case MC2 relatively rotatable. Similarly, the connecting portion CON3 includes a connecting piece 25 and hinges 26, 27, 28, and 29. The hinges 26 and 27 make the main case MC3 and the connecting piece 25 relatively rotatable, and the hinges 28 and 29 make the connecting piece 25 and the main case MC4 relatively rotatable.

When the subframe assembly SUB1 is moved to the left end position shown in FIG. 2, the main case MC1 and the main case MC2 are freely rotatable. However, in the state where the subframe assembly SUB1 is moved to the right end position, that is, the position shown in FIG. 1, the subframe assembly SUB1 is
Since the right end portion of the above overlaps the main case MC2, the above rotation is restricted. Also, the main case MC3
The relationship between the main case MC4 and the main case MC4 is similar to this, and rotation is allowed in the state where the subframe assembly SUB4 is moved to the right end position shown in FIG. 2, but rotation is allowed at the left end position shown in FIG. Regulated. As a result, when used, it is fixed in a flattened arrangement and has good operability.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the connecting portion CON2
Is composed of hinges 30 and 31. The hinges 30 and 31 allow the main cases MC2 and MC3 to rotate in a direction in which the rear surfaces face each other from the deployed state, but do not rotate in a direction in which the front surfaces face each other from the deployed state. .

Due to the functions of these connecting portions CON1 to CON3, when folding, main cases MC2 and MC3
So that their backs face each other, and the main case M
Four main cases are stacked so that the surfaces of C1 and MC2 face each other and the surfaces of main cases MC3 and MC4 face each other. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the device 1 has a size of approximately one case.

FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the keyboard device 1 in the unfolded state.

As shown in the figure, the main case MC4 is provided with a lever 13 and a claw 32. The main case MC1 is provided with a not-shown locking portion that engages with the claw 32, and when the keyboard device 1 is folded, both are engaged and the folded state is maintained. Further, the claw 32 is the lever 13
Is moved forward by sliding forward (on the player's side), and when unfolded from the folded state, the lever 13 is operated forward to engage the claw 32 with the locking portion. Is configured to be able to solve.

As shown in FIG. 1, the main case MC also includes left and right speakers 12L / R for producing stereo sound.
The front part has a circular arc-shaped locking member 16, 17, a display 89 such as an LCD, and a mobile computer 6 described later.
I / F (interface) unit 18 for connecting to 0
In addition, a storage unit 84 that stores a storage device 84, a sound source circuit 87, a power supply unit 88, and the like described later is provided.

The speaker 12L is arranged at the left end of the main case MC1 and behind the keyboard unit KU1. The speaker 12R is arranged at the right end of the main case MC4 and behind the keyboard unit KU4. With this arrangement, the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB
4 in the first and fourth main cases MC1 and MC4, respectively.
On the other hand, the speakers 12L / R do not interfere with the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 when slidingly moving in the key arrangement direction. This avoids hindering compactness by effectively using a narrow space. Also,
Since the speakers 12L / R are located at the left and right ends, which are the outermost sides when the keyboard device 1 is expanded, stereo sound generation is effective.

The keyboard unit KU1 disposed on the subframe assembly SUB1 includes a white key unit KU1W, a black key unit KU1B, and a key range shift operator 11L for changing the pitch produced by key depression. Prepare As will be described later, by pressing the key range shift operator 11L,
The tone range is set, for example, one octave lower (or returned). The keyboard unit KU1 is also provided with an operator group 14 for performing various operations and the like on the screen of the connected mobile computer 60.

Incidentally, a part of this operator group 14 and / or a part of an operator group 15 (described later) of the keyboard unit KU4,
It may be assigned as the key range shift operator 11.

The keyboard unit KU2 arranged on the subframe assembly SUB2 is composed of a white key unit KU2W and a black key unit KU2B.
The keyboard unit KU3 arranged on the upper part 3 is composed of a white key unit KU3W and a black key unit KU3B.

The keyboard unit KU4 arranged on the subframe assembly SUB4 includes a white key unit KU4W, a black key unit KU4B, and a key range shift operator 11R for changing the tone pitch produced by key depression. Prepare As will be described later, by pressing the key range shift operator 11R,
The tone range is set, for example, one octave higher (or returned). The keyboard unit KU4 is also provided with various operator groups 15 for performing mode switching, tone color setting, effect setting for imparting various effects to musical tones, and the like.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 6, the keyboard units KU1 and KU4 each have two locking recesses KM.
It is provided individually. The locking recess KM includes locking tools 16, 1
7 has a concave shape that fits with the front circular arc portion. Locking tool 1
6 and 17 are always urged forward by an elastic body such as a spring, and the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 are shown in FIG.
When it is in the position shown in, the locking tools 16 and 17 are fitted in the locking recesses KM on the outside (both left and right ends). When the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 are slid to the left and right in the key arrangement direction from the state of FIG. 1,
When the locking tools 16 and 17 are retracted rearward and the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 are further moved, as shown in FIG. 2, the locking tools 16 and 17 fit into the respective locking recesses KM on the inner side. . Therefore, the locking tools 16, 1 are provided in the respective locking recesses KM.
When 7 are fitted, the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SU
Two stable positions in the B4 key arrangement direction (see FIGS. 1 and 2).
Position) is defined.

Next, the internal structure of each subframe assembly SUB and each keyboard unit KU will be described.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. FIG. 8 is a plan view of the subframe assembly SUB.
FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the subframe assembly SU
B4 is a sub-frame 42 formed of a metal plate such as iron.
And a membrane sheet 43 made of a flexible material. The membrane sheet 43 has a known configuration,
Switch parts 44 and 45 are formed in a dome-shaped space formed between the upper and lower sheets. The switch parts 44 and 45 are
It is provided corresponding to each of the white key WK and the black key BK, and detects the key pressing operation. Further, when a key depression operation is detected, the dome-shaped portions of the switch portions 44 and 45 are buckled and deformed, so that a click feeling with a feeling of escape is obtained. The lower limit stopper 42 is provided at the front of the sub-frame 42.
The white key W is formed by integrally projecting c and is pressed by excessive force.
Specifies the lower limit position of K.

On the other hand, the fourth main case MC4 is provided with guide grooves 33 and 34. Guide grooves 33, 34
Is formed over substantially the entire width of the fourth main case MC4 in the key arrangement direction, and the rear edge and the front edge of the sub-frame 42 are slidably fitted in the guide grooves 33 and 34, respectively. The body SUB4 is slidable in the key arrangement direction. The subframe assembly S
To move the UB4, the key range shift operator 11R can be held and moved to the left or right. Therefore, since the key range shift operator 11R also serves as the grip portion when sliding, the structure is simplified.

The subframe assembly SUB1 has the same structure as the subframe assembly SUB4. Also, regarding the subframe assembly SUB1, the key range shift operator 1
1L also serves as a grip. Subframe assembly SUB2,
3 also has the same configuration as the subframe assembly SUB4 except for the guide grooves 33 and 34.

As shown in FIG. 8, the four subframe assemblies SUB are divided into the division positions DIV1, DIV2,
It is divided by DIV3 (shown by the keyboard part). However, the subframe assemblies SUB2 and SUB3 are physically and electrically connected by the flat cable 41B. A flat cable 41A extends from the subframe assembly SUB2 to the left, and from the subframe assembly SUB3,
A flat cable 41C extends to the right.

As shown in FIG. 9, the subframe 42 is cut and raised at the cut and raised portion 42a, and the cut and raised piece 42b is formed.
Is bent downwards. The membrane sheet 43 is
The extending portion 43a extends downward from the left side of the subframe 42, and is further adhesively fixed to the cut-and-raised piece 42b so as to cover the cut-and-raised piece 42b. An electrode (not shown) is provided on the lower surface 43b of the extended portion 43a. On the other hand, the flat cable 41C extending from the subframe assembly SUB3 extends below the subframe assembly SUB4 and is adhesively fixed to the bottom surface of the fourth main case MC4. Electrodes (not shown) are provided on the upper surface of the flat cable 41C. Then, the electrode and the electrode provided on the lower surface 43b of the extended portion 43a of the membrane sheet 43 come into contact with each other, whereby the subframe assemblies SUB3 and SUB4 are electrically connected via the flat cable 41C. Since the cut-and-raised piece 42b is urged downward by its elasticity, both electrodes always maintain a contact state even when the subframe assembly SUB4 is slid in the key alignment direction.

The subframe assembly SUB1 is also constructed in the same manner, and the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB2 are always electrically connected via the flat cable 41A. The subframe assemblies SUB3 and SUB4
The electrical connection between them and the electrical connection between SUB1 and SUB2 are not limited to the above configuration. For example, a whisker-shaped movable terminal and a fixed terminal used in a rotary encoder or the like may be combined.

As shown in FIG. 7, the keyboard unit KU4
Are arranged above the subframe assembly SUB4. The keyboard unit KU4 is formed by stacking a black key unit KU4B on a white key unit KU4W. That is, the key base end portion KU4Wa of the white key unit KU4W is mounted on the upper portion of the rear portion of the sub-frame 42, and the key base end portion KU4Ba of the black key unit KU4B is mounted on the upper portion thereof, and both key base end portions K are placed.
U4Wa and KU4Ba are screws 46 and subframe assembly S
It is fixed to the rear part of UB4.

White key unit KU4W and black key unit K
Each of the U4Bs is formed by punching out a synthetic resin flat plate, and the thickness thereof is set as thin as possible within a range where the playing operation can be performed without any trouble (for example, 2 mm, preferably 5 mm).
mm or less). Further, in both of the units KU4W and KU4B, substantially the entire area viewed from above in a plan view is formed on a substantially flat surface. As a result, the thickness of the white key WK and the black key BK is minimized and the vertical dimension of the keyboard is reduced.

In this embodiment, both units KU4W,
In the KU4B, since the key pressing operation portion (the tip side from the hinge portion of the key) and both key base end portions KU4Wa and KU4Ba are formed to have the same thickness, it is easy to manufacture a comb-shaped keyboard unit by punching a flat plate. Has become. Further, the black key unit KU4B can be assembled by simply stacking and fixing the black key unit KU4B on the white key unit KU4W, so that the assembling work is simple. Further, since the black key BK naturally protrudes upward (about 2 mm) from the white key WK due to the thickness of the black key unit KU4B itself, the black key-like appearance is obtained, and the blind operation is also possible. Both units KU4
W and KU4B may be manufactured by die molding.

Actuators KU4Wb and KU4Bb are attached to the lower surfaces of the white key WK and the black key BK, respectively. Actuator KU4W by key depression operation
b, KU4Bb is the switch portion 4 of the membrane sheet 43
The keys 4 and 45 are turned on, and the key pressing operation is detected.
The key release operation is detected by the reverse operation.

Other keyboard units KU1 to KU3
Is basically the same as the keyboard unit KU4, but the types of keys arranged are different based on the difference in pitch.

That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the keyboard unit KU1 has C keys to F keys, the keyboard unit KU2 has G keys to C keys, the keyboard unit KU3 has D keys to G keys, and the keyboard unit KU4 has A keys to C keys. A key is provided. In the present embodiment, in order to make the lengths of the keyboard units KU in the key arrangement direction as common as possible, the black keys located between the units are F # keys in the keyboard unit KU2 and C # keys in the keyboard unit KU3.
The G # keys are arranged in the keyboard unit KU4, respectively, but these black keys may be arranged in the adjacent keyboard units KU.

With such an arrangement, the keyboard unit K
The number of white keys in U1, KU2, KU3, and KU4 is “4, 4, 4, 3” in order, and the total number of black and white keys is 25. By setting the 25 keys of C key to C key, although the number of keys is small, it is possible to cover the musical range in many musical tones, there is little trouble in performance, and the use is not excessively limited.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a mobile keyboard system in which the keyboard device 1 is connected to a mobile computer 60.

The mobile computer 60 is, for example,
The CPU 61 includes a RAM 62, a ROM 63, and a storage device 6.
4, a keyboard 65, a display circuit 66, a tone generator circuit 67, a communication I / F (interface) 68 and an I / F (interface) unit 69 are connected by a bus 73. The display circuit 66 has a display 7 such as an LCD.
0 is connected, and a sound system 71 is connected to the sound source circuit 67.
Are connected. The communication I / F 68 enables connection with a distribution server or another computer via the communication network 72.

The CPU 61 controls the entire mobile computer 60. RAM62 stores various data, C
It also functions as a working area for the PU 61. ROM
Reference numeral 63 stores a control program executed by the CPU 61. The storage device 64 is composed of a RAM, a hard disk, etc., and stores performance data and the like. The display circuit 66 visually displays various information on the display 70. On the display 70, for example, an automatic performance data, musical tone data editing screen, etc. are displayed, and input information can be confirmed.

In the keyboard device 1, the CPU 81 has a RAM 8
2, a ROM 83, a storage device 84, various operators 85, a display circuit 86, a sound source circuit 87, a power supply unit 88 such as a battery, and the I / F (interface) unit 18 described above are connected by a bus 90. Further, the display 89 is connected to the display circuit 86, and the speaker 12L / R is connected to the sound source circuit 87. Various controls 85
Includes the key range shift operator 11L / R, the switch sections 44 and 45, and the operator groups 14 and 15 described above.

The CPU 81 controls the entire keyboard apparatus 1. The RAM 82 stores various data and also functions as a working area for the CPU 81. ROM83 is CPU
The control program etc. which 81 run are memorized. The storage device 84 is composed of a RAM or the like. The display circuit 86 visually displays various information on the display 89. Sound source circuit 8
Reference numeral 7 generates a musical tone signal in response to a key depression operation of each key, and the speaker 12L / R converts the musical tone signal into sound to produce sound.

The mobile keyboard system according to the present embodiment comprises an I / F section 18 of the keyboard device 1 and an I / F section of the mobile computer 60.
It is configured by connecting to the F unit 69, and these interfaces include a USB (Universal Serial Bus).
s) and IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electron)
ic Engineers (I Triple E)) 1394 or the like may be adopted.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a flowchart of various switch event processes in the mobile keyboard system. This processing is executed by the CPU 61.

It is determined whether or not there is any switch (SW) event (step S101). As a result of the determination, if there is no switch event, this process is terminated while there is any switch event. In this case, it is determined whether or not the switch event is a key switch event (on / off event of the switch units 44 and 45) (step S102).

As a result of the determination, when the switch event is the key switch event, the keyboard processing is executed (step S103), and the process proceeds to step S115. In this keyboard processing, sounding or muffling processing corresponding to the depressed key is performed. On the other hand, when the switch event is not the key switch event, it is determined whether or not the switch event is a tone color switch (step S104).

As a result of the determination, if the switch event is a tone color switch event, various tone color parameter change setting processing is executed (step S105), and the process proceeds to step S115. On the other hand, if the switch event is not a tone color switch event, it is determined whether the switch event is an effect switch event (step S10).
6).

As a result of the determination, if the switch event is the effect switch event, various effect parameter change setting processing is executed (step S107), and the process proceeds to step S115. On the other hand, when the switch event is not the effect switch event, the switch event is the octave switch event, that is, the key range shift operator 11.
It is determined whether it is an L / R on event (step S108).

As a result of the determination, when the switch event is the octave switch event, the key range shift operator 11L (-) or the key range shift operator 11R (+).
It is determined which of the on-events has occurred (step S109). As a result of the determination, if the octave switch event is the on event of the key range shift operator 11R (+), "1-POCT" is set to the variable POCT (step S110), and the note number table corresponding to the key is set. Is rewritten with the variable POCT (step S111), and the process proceeds to step S115. This allows
Each time the key range shift operator 11R is pressed, the sound range produced by key depression is switched between the initial state and the state shifted to the one octave high range side.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S109, the octave switch event is the key range shift operator 1.
If it is 1L (-), the variable MOCT is set to "1-MOC.
"T" is set (step S112), the note number table corresponding to the key is rewritten by the variable MOCT (step S113), and the process proceeds to step S115.
As a result, every time the key range shift operator 11L is pressed,
The sound range produced by key depression is switched between the initial state and the state shifted to the one octave bass range.

On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S108 is that the switch event is not an octave switch event, "other processing" corresponding to the switch event is executed (step S114), and step S115.
Proceed to. In this "other process", for example, the musical tone data is transmitted / received by connecting to the Internet, or the automatic performance is reproduced. In addition, real-time performance, step input of musical sound data, various mode switching processing, and the like can be performed by the "other processing".

In step S115, the various parameters after the change are displayed on the display 70 so that the user can confirm them, and this processing is terminated. After the end of this process, the process returns and returns to the beginning of the routine to perform the event process.

The keyboard device 1 is connected to other devices such as a mobile phone, a PHS, and a PDA, and uses their communication functions and information processing functions to perform data transmission / reception and music production. You may The keyboard device 1
Without connecting to the mobile computer 60, etc.
It is possible to make simple pronunciation by playing alone. Even in that case, compared to the combination with the mobile computer 60 or the like, there are only restrictions such as reduction of richness of tone color and reduction of the number of control parameters.

According to the present embodiment, among the four main cases MC, the main cases MC adjacent to each other are rotatably connected by the connecting portions CON1, CON2, CON3 so that the adjacent main cases MC are not folded. Since it is relatively rotatable until it becomes a flattened state, the rigidity and durability are improved as compared with the case where the sheet-like keyboard is bent and folded. Further, since both the folded arrangement and the flattened arrangement can be arranged through each connecting portion CON,
It can be folded and carried in a compact size, and can be played in a flat layout for keyboard operation.
Since U is provided on the main case MC which is not a soft sheet but has a certain degree of rigidity, the key depression operation is easy. In addition, three main cases MC1 to MC on the bass range side
Since 3 white keys are provided in each of the 3 keys, the lengths in the key arrangement direction can be easily unified, the size can be easily reduced, and the portability can be improved. Note that the number of keys arranged in the main case MC4 on the highest pitch side is not limited to the illustrated five keys (black and white combined). For example, using the same main case MC and varying the number of keys arranged in the main case MC4 facilitates production of multiple models.
Further, in the present embodiment, since the key arrangement configuration of C key to C key 25 keys is adopted, the musical range can be covered in many musical tones, there is little trouble in playing, and the use is not excessively limited. Therefore, it is possible to adapt to a wide music scene.

Therefore, it has high durability, portability, and operability, and can easily adapt to a wide music scene and cope with multi-model production.

It is possible to adapt to a wide music scene even if the number of white keys arranged in the main case MC4 on the highest tone range is set to 2 keys and 24 keys in total. For example, in the case of 24 keys, if the arrangement is "F key to E key" or "C key to B key", the musical range can be covered in more musical tones. Alternatively, the white key may not be arranged in the main case MC4, and a total of 20 keys may be secured in black and white. Even in this case, it is possible to adapt to a relatively wide music scene. For example, if the keys are arranged from the F key to the C key, the musical range can be covered in many musical tones. In this way, by arranging the white keys “4, 4, 4, ...” From the low-pitched sound side, at least 20 keys for black and white can be secured, which facilitates adaptation to a wide music scene.

Further, in this embodiment, since the operator group 15 for tone colors and effects, which is an operator other than the key, is provided in the main case MC4 on the highest tone range, the space is effectively used. That is, in the main case MC4, no key is provided in the case of a total of 20 keys, and two white keys are sufficient in the case of a 24-key arrangement, and three white keys are sufficient in the case of a 25-key arrangement. Assuming that the lengths of the four main cases MC in the key arrangement direction are the same, in both cases, the main case MC
Although there will be an empty space in No. 4, by arranging the operator group 15 other than the keys in this empty space, the operators can be laid out without increasing the size of the entire keyboard device. Therefore, it is possible to make the portable device more compact by effectively utilizing the empty space.

In this embodiment, each keyboard unit K is also used.
In U, the white key WK and the black key BK each have a thickness of 5 mm or less, and substantially the entire region that can be seen in a plan view from above is formed on a substantially flat surface, so that the thickness of each key is minimized. The vertical dimension can be reduced. Therefore,
While maintaining high durability and operability, the keyboard thickness can be minimized to enhance portability.

Further, in the keyboard unit KU, the key base end portion KUBa as the black key common base end portion of the black key unit KU4B is laminated on the key base end portion KUWa as the white key common base end portion of the white key unit KUW. Since the keyboard unit KU can be assembled by simply stacking both key base ends,
The keyboard unit can be easily assembled. Moreover, since both the key units KUW and KUB are formed in a flat plate shape, not only can the thickness of the white key and the black key be reduced to reduce the vertical dimension of the keyboard, but also the keyboard by punching the flat plate or the like. The unit can be manufactured, and the configuration and manufacturing can be simplified. Therefore, while maintaining high durability, portability, and operability, it is possible to simplify the structure and assembly of the keyboard and facilitate manufacturing.

Further, the key base end K of the white key unit KUW
Only by stacking the key base end KUB of the black key unit KU4B on the UWa, the height difference between the white key WK and the black key BK is automatically generated due to the thickness of the black key unit KU4B, and the normal keyboard is produced. As described above, since the black key BK can be projected above the white key WK, the black key-like appearance can be obtained and the blind operation can be performed. Therefore, with a simple configuration and easy assembly, it is possible to improve the operability by enabling a blind operation or the like.

Further, in the present embodiment, since the key range shift operator 11 is provided, the sound range that can be generated is widened, and the key range shift operator 11 is the main case MC on the lowest range side.
Since it is provided at the left end portion of No. 1 and the right end portion of the main case MC4 on the highest tone range side, it is easy to operate each key range shift operator 11. In addition, since the key range shift operator 11L / R is configured to also serve as a grip portion when slidingly moving the subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4, it is compared to a case where the key range shift operator and the grip portion are separately provided. However, the configuration can be simplified. Therefore, while having high durability, portability, and operability, a wide range can be covered with a simple configuration and a small number of keys.

According to the present embodiment, the speaker 12 is also used.
Since the L / R are arranged at the left and right ends of the main cases MC1 and MC4 and behind the keyboard units KU1 and KU4, the keyboard unit KU1 and Speakers 12L / R do not interfere when moving 4 in the key arrangement direction. Therefore, the speaker 12 is arranged without wasting a small space, which contributes to downsizing, so that the portability of the device is maintained. Therefore, it is possible to generate sound by pressing a key while maintaining high durability, portability, and operability. Further, in the flattened arrangement, the speakers 12L / R are located at the outermost ends of the keyboard device 1, respectively, so that the arrangement is most effective when stereo sound is produced, and a good stereo effect is obtained. be able to.

In the present embodiment, the white key unit K
Although the UW and the black key unit KU4B are separately configured, they may be integrally configured. In that case, after punching the flat plate, 5 is placed on the upper surface of the area corresponding to the black key unit KU4B.
You may make it stick a black sticker of about mm. As a result, the black key is clearly visible, and the black key projects above the white key, so that the blind operation is facilitated as in the above case.

In the present embodiment, the white key unit K
Although both the UW and the black key unit KU4B are formed in a flat plate shape, only one of them may be so configured, and the thicknesses of both may not be the same. Note that only one of the key range shift operators 11L / R may be provided.

(Second Embodiment) FIG. 12 is an external perspective view of a keyboard device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

In the first embodiment, the key arrangement configuration of C key to C key 25 key is illustrated, but in the second embodiment, the key arrangement configuration of F key to F key 25 key is shown. The basic structure of the subframe assembly and the keyboard unit is the same as that of the first embodiment, and only the division position is different. Book second
In the embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 12, between subframe assemblies SUB11 and SUB12, SUB12 and SU.
B13, SUB13, and SUB14 are divided by dividing positions DIV11, DIV12, and DIV13, respectively. Other configurations are similar to those of the first embodiment.

According to this embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

The number of white keys disposed in the keyboard unit corresponding to the subframe assembly SUB14 may be any number from 0 to 4, and for example, when the number of white keys is 24 and the total number of keys is 24. , "F key to E key" are ideal.

In the first and second embodiments, the configuration in which the number of main cases MC is four has been described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the connecting portions CON1 to CON3 may be appropriately combined to form two. One or more (including four or more) main cases MC may be configured to be foldable.

For example, as shown in FIG. 13, two main cases MC101 and MC102 are rotatably connected by a connecting part CON101, and a connecting part CON10.
1 to the connecting piece 125 and the hinges 126, 127, 128, 1
29 and 29. In the figure, only the outline of the configuration of the main case MC is shown, and the keyboard unit KU and the like are omitted.

[0087]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention.
According to the keyboard device of the present invention, it is possible to enhance the portability by keeping the keyboard thickness to a minimum while maintaining high durability and operability.

According to the keyboard device of the second aspect of the present invention, the keyboard can be easily assembled and the manufacturing thereof can be facilitated while maintaining high durability, portability and operability.

According to the keyboard device of the third aspect of the present invention, the keyboard structure and assembly can be simplified and the manufacturing can be facilitated while maintaining high durability, portability and operability.

According to the keyboard device of the fourth aspect,
With a simple structure and easy assembly, it is possible to improve the operability by enabling a blind operation or the like.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a keyboard device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a state in which subframe assemblies SUB1 and SUB4 are moved to the left end position and the right end position, respectively.

FIG. 3 shows a state in which the second main case and the third main case are being rotated and overlapped with each other via a connecting portion CON2.

FIG. 4 shows a state in which four main cases are folded and overlapped.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the keyboard device in an unfolded state.

FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the keyboard device in an unfolded state.

7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a subframe assembly SUB.

9 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of a mobile keyboard system in which a keyboard device is connected to a mobile computer.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a flowchart of various switch event processes in the mobile keyboard system.

FIG. 12 is an external perspective view of a keyboard device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example in the case of two main cases.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 keyboard device, 11L / R key range shift operator, 1
4, 15 operator group, 18 I / F (interface) section, 42 sub-frame, 43 membrane sheet, 44, 45 switch section, 60 mobile computer, 61 CPU, 64 storage device, 68
Communication I / F (interface), 69 I / F (interface) section, 70 display, 81
CPU, KU1 to KU4 keyboard unit, SUB1
SUB4 subframe assembly, MC1 to MC4 main case (frame), WK white key, BK black key, CON1 to CON3 connection part (connection means)

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of frames provided with a plurality of white keys and a plurality of black keys respectively, and adjacent frames of the plurality of frames are connected to each other, and the adjacent frames are flatly developed from a folded state. A connecting arrangement that allows the plurality of frames to be relatively rotated until a state is reached, and a folding arrangement in which the plurality of frames are folded into substantially one frame and the plurality of frames are unfolded via the connecting means. And a plurality of black keys provided in each of the plurality of frames have a thickness of 5 mm or less and an upper position. A keyboard device in which substantially the entire area viewed from above is formed on a substantially flat surface. 2. A connecting means for connecting a plurality of frames and adjacent frames of the plurality of frames to each other so that the adjacent frames can be relatively rotated from a folded state to a flattened state. A fold arrangement in which the plurality of frames are folded into substantially one frame size via the connecting means, and a plane unfolding arrangement in which the plurality of frames are unfolded and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction. Both of the plurality of frames are configured to be possible, and each of the plurality of frames has a plurality of white key units having a plurality of white keys having a common key base end portion and a plurality of white key units having a common key base end portion. A keyboard unit configured by laminating a black key unit having a black key at both key base ends is provided, and each of the plurality of white keys and the plurality of black keys has a thickness of 5 mm or less and an upper portion. From Keyboard apparatus characterized by substantially the entire visible area by a plan view is formed on a substantially planar. 3. A connecting means for connecting a plurality of frames and adjacent frames of the plurality of frames to each other so that the adjacent frames can be relatively rotated from a folded state to a flattened state. A fold arrangement in which the plurality of frames are folded into substantially one frame size via the connecting means, and a plane unfolding arrangement in which the plurality of frames are unfolded and arranged in series in the key arrangement direction. Both of the plurality of frames are configured to be possible, and each of the plurality of frames has a plurality of white key units having a plurality of white keys having a common key base end portion and a plurality of white key units having a common key base end portion. There is provided a keyboard unit configured by stacking a black key unit having a black key at both key base end portions, and at least one of the white key unit and the black key unit is formed in a flat plate shape. Keyboard device according to claim. 4. The white key unit and the black key unit are both formed in a flat plate shape, and the key base end of the black key unit is laminated on the key base end of the white key unit. The keyboard device according to claim 3.