JP2005100179A - Input device and electronic equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an input device for enabling the confirmation of reaction to equipment without deteriorating its operability. <P>SOLUTION: The input device 50 includes an inclinably supported key top 52 operated by a finger applied thereto; a touch simulation element 56 for simulating the touch sensation of the finger; a moving drive coil 55 which moves along with the touch simulation element 56; a permanent magnet 12 having the same outer form as the moving drive coil 55 for producing a magnetic force between itself and the moving drive coil 55; Hall elements 21-24 for detecting the operating condition of the key top 52; and a CPU 70 which controls current flow through the moving drive coil 55 according to the results of detection by the Hall elements 21-24. The moving drive coil 55 is moved by a repulsive force working between itself and the permanent magnet 12. The touch simulation element 56 rises to simulate the finger of the operator that operates the key top 52. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an input device and an electronic apparatus.

  Conventionally, input devices for electronic devices have been proposed. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a conventional input device. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 30 denotes a remote controller device, and this remote controller device 30 gives a command to a computer device. The input device 10 is incorporated in the remote controller device 30.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the input device 10 includes a tiltable key top 11, a permanent magnet 12 fixed to the key top 11, a printed circuit board 20, and a plurality of Hall elements 21 and 22 mounted on the printed circuit board 20. Is provided. When the operator operates and tilts the key top 11 with the fingertip 1, the attitude of the permanent magnet 12 with respect to the Hall elements 21 and 22 changes, and the magnetic field acting on the Hall elements 21 and 22 changes. By changing the output signals 21 and 22 and sending the output signals to the computer, the pointer on the screen of the display device connected to the computer moves in the direction in which the key top 11 is operated.

  On the screen of the display device, an area designated by the pointer can be selected by pressing an execution operation button while the pointer points to a predetermined area. Conventionally, a rhythm sound is emitted when the pointer moves from one area on the screen of the display device to another area, and the operator's hearing is fed back to the operator that the pointer has moved to another area. The operation was confirmed by giving a stimulus.

  However, if the operator cannot hear the rhythm sound, there is a problem that the operation cannot be confirmed. For example, there is a problem that it cannot be used when there is a hearing impairment. As a conventional technique for solving such a problem, an electronic device described in Patent Document 1 has been proposed.

  In the electronic device described in Patent Literature 1, when it is detected that an operation input to the touch panel or the operation key is received, a vibration actuator including a magnet and a coil is driven to generate vibration. The reaction of the electronic device can be easily confirmed without looking.

  In addition, an input device described in Patent Document 2 has been proposed as a conventional technique in which an operation feeling is given to an operation unit of the input device. In the input device described in Patent Document 2, when the operation rod is tilted in a desired direction, the switch element approaches one solenoid coil in that direction, and the operation unit is attracted to the solenoid coil and finally comes into contact. . Thereby, an input device with a feeling of operation can be provided.

JP 2002-149212 A JP-A-8-286824

  However, in the electronic device described in Patent Document 1, the user can check the reaction of the electronic device without looking at the screen. However, since the electronic device is vibrated by the vibration actuator, the operating finger vibrates together. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to operate.

  Further, in the input device described in Patent Document 2, since the operation unit is attracted to the solenoid coil, an operation feeling due to a pulling force can be given, but an acceleration feeling and a braking feeling corresponding to the user's operation can be expressed. There is a problem that it cannot be done.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve these problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an input device and an electronic apparatus that can confirm a reaction to an apparatus without deteriorating operability.

  Moreover, an object of this invention is to provide the input device and electronic device which can give a feeling of acceleration and a brake feeling according to a user's operation.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an input device according to the present invention is, as described in claim 1, operated with a finger and operated to be tilted, and tactile stimulation for stimulating the tactile sense of the finger. An element, a coil that moves together with the tactile stimulation element, a magnet that generates a magnetic force between the coil, a magnet having the same outer shape as the coil, a detection unit that detects an operation state of the operation unit, And a control unit for controlling a current flowing in the coil according to a detection result.

  According to invention of Claim 1, reaction to an apparatus can be confirmed, without reducing a feeling of operation. In addition, since the magnet and the coil are approximately the same size in order to effectively use the magnetic field lines generated from the edge of the magnet, it is possible to sufficiently move the tactile stimulation element without increasing the parts to be used.

  According to another aspect of the input device of the present invention, an operation unit that is operated by applying a finger and is supported to be tiltable, a tactile stimulation element that stimulates a tactile sensation of the finger, and the tactile stimulation According to the detection result of the detection means for generating a magnetic force between the magnet moving with the element and the magnet, detecting the operation state of the operation unit, the coil having the same outer shape as the magnet, And a control unit that controls a current flowing through the coil.

  According to invention of Claim 2, reaction to an apparatus can be confirmed, without reducing a feeling of operation. In addition, since the magnet and the coil are approximately the same size in order to effectively use the magnetic field lines generated from the edge of the magnet, it is possible to sufficiently move the tactile stimulation element without increasing the parts to be used.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the input device according to the first or second aspect, the magnet has a cylindrical shape, and the coil is a double coil. To do. According to the third aspect of the invention, even when a cylindrical magnet is used, a large magnetic force can be generated using the double coil, so that the tactile stimulation device can be sufficiently moved.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the input device according to the third aspect, the double coil is configured such that a current flows in the opposite direction on the outer side and the inner side. To do. According to the fourth aspect of the invention, even when a cylindrical magnet is used, a large magnetic force can be generated because the current flows in the opposite direction on the outside and inside. Thereby, the tactile stimulation element can be sufficiently moved.

  The input device according to the present invention generates a magnetic force between an operation unit that is operated with a finger and is supported so as to be tiltable, a cylindrical magnet, and the magnet. A first coil that is arranged, a second coil that is disposed inside the first coil and generates a magnetic force with the magnet, a tactile stimulation element that stimulates the tactile sensation of the finger, and the operation unit It has a detection part which detects an operation state, and a control part which controls current which flows into the 1st coil and the 2nd coil according to a detection result of the detection part.

  According to invention of Claim 5, reaction to an apparatus can be confirmed, without reducing a feeling of operation. Even if the magnet has a cylindrical shape, the second coil is arranged at a position corresponding to the hole in the magnet, so that a large magnetic force can be generated. Thereby, the tactile stimulation element can be sufficiently moved.

  Further, according to the input device of the present invention, as described in claim 6, an operation unit that is operated by applying a finger and is supported to be tiltable, a tactile stimulation element that stimulates a tactile sense of the finger, and the tactile stimulation A magnetic force generating means that partially moves together with the element to generate a predetermined magnetic force, a detecting means that detects an operation state of the operation unit, and a magnetic force that is generated from the magnetic force generating means according to a detection result of the detecting means The magnetic force generation means includes a cylindrical magnet and a double coil that generates a magnetic force between the magnets.

  According to invention of Claim 6, reaction to an apparatus can be confirmed, without reducing a feeling of operation. In addition, since the double coil is provided, a large magnetic force can be generated even when a cylindrical magnet is used, so that the tactile stimulation device can be sufficiently moved.

  Further, according to the input device of the present invention, as described in claim 7, a magnetic force is generated between the operation unit that is operated with a finger and is supported to be tiltable, a cylindrical magnet, and the magnet. A double coil to be moved, a tactile stimulation element that moves together with the magnet or the double coil and stimulates a tactile sense, a detection unit that detects an operation state of the operation unit, and a detection result of the detection unit, It has the control part which controls the electric current which flows into a double coil, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to confirm the reaction to the device without reducing the operational feeling. In addition, since the double coil is provided, a large magnetic force can be generated even when a cylindrical permanent magnet is used, so that the tactile stimulation device can be sufficiently moved.

  Further, according to the present invention, as described in claim 8, in the input device according to claim 6 or 7, the double coil is configured such that a current flows in the opposite direction on the outer side and the inner side. It is characterized by that. According to the eighth aspect of the invention, since the direction of the current flowing between the outside and the inside is different, a large magnetic force can be generated. Thereby, even when a cylindrical magnet is used, the tactile stimulation element can be sufficiently moved.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the input device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the input device further includes the yoke. According to the ninth aspect of the invention, since the yoke is provided in order to effectively use the magnetic flux density from the magnet, it is possible to concentrate the lines of magnetic force emitted from the magnet on the portion to be attracted.

  Further, according to the input device of the present invention, as described in claim 10, the operation unit supported to be tiltable, the first magnet disposed in the operation unit, and the first magnet. It has a coil for generating a magnetic force, a detection means for detecting an operation state of the operation section, and a control means for controlling a current flowing through the coil according to a detection result of the detection means. According to the invention described in claim 10, since the magnetic force is generated by the magnet and the coil when the operation unit is tilted, the acceleration feeling and the braking feeling corresponding to the user's operation can be obtained by using the pulling force and the repulsive force. Can be given.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the input device according to the tenth aspect, the first magnet is disposed on a shaft portion of the operation portion.

  Further, according to the present invention, as described in claim 12, in the input device according to claim 10 or 11, at least two of the first magnets are provided.

  Further, according to the present invention, as described in claim 13, in the input device according to claim 10 or 11, the first magnet is a cylindrical magnet.

  Further, according to the present invention, as described in claim 14, in the input device according to claim 10 or 11, the first magnet is a cylindrical magnet.

  Further, according to the input device of the present invention, as described in the fifteenth aspect, the operation unit supported to be tiltable, the first magnet, and the operation unit are provided between the first magnet and the operation unit. A coil that generates a predetermined magnetic force, a detection unit that detects an operation state of the operation unit, and a control unit that controls a current flowing through the coil according to a detection result of the detection unit. . According to the invention described in claim 15, since the magnetic force is generated by the magnet and the coil when the operation part is tilted, the acceleration feeling and the braking feeling according to the user's operation using the pulling force and the repulsive force. Can be given.

  Further, according to the present invention, as described in claim 16, in the input device according to any one of claims 10 to 15, the detection means detects a magnetic field generated by the first magnet. It is characterized by doing. According to the invention of claim 16, the number of parts can be reduced.

  Further, according to the present invention, in the input device according to any one of claims 10 to 15, the input device is further arranged in the operation unit, as described in claim 17. It has a magnet, and the detecting means detects the magnetic field which the 2nd magnet generates.

  Moreover, the electronic device of this invention is an electronic device provided with the input device as described in Claim 18, Comprising: The said input device is the input as described in any one of Claims 1-17. It is a device. According to the invention of claim 18, it is possible to provide an electronic device capable of confirming a reaction to the device without deteriorating operability. Moreover, the electronic device which can give an acceleration feeling and a brake feeling according to a user's operation can be provided.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the input device and electronic device which can confirm reaction to an apparatus can be provided, without reducing operativity. Moreover, according to this invention, the input device and electronic device which can give a feeling of acceleration and a brake feeling according to a user's operation can be provided.

  Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a remote control device in which the input device 50 is incorporated. As shown in FIG. 2, the remote control device 60 includes an input device 50 and an execution key 61. The input device 50 is incorporated in the central portion of the remote control device 60. The execution key 61 is disposed near the input device 50. The operator can send various signals to a computer (not shown) by operating the input device 50 and the execution key 61 with a fingertip.

  Next, the configuration of the input device 50 will be described. 3A and 3B are external views of the input device 50. FIG. 3A is a plan view, FIG. 3B is a front view, and FIG. 3C is a bottom view. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the input device 50. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. In FIG. 3, X1-X2 and Y1-Y2 indicate horizontal plane directions, and Z1-Z2 indicate vertical directions.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the input device 50 includes a permanent magnet 12, Hall elements 21 to 24, a housing 51, a key top 52, a coil spring 53, a holder 54, a movable drive coil 55, a tactile stimulation element 56, and a spacer 57. Have Reference numeral 20 denotes a printed circuit board. The input device 50 outputs coordinate information and moves the pointer on the screen of the display device by placing the fingertip on the key top 52 and tilting the key top 52 in any direction in the XY direction. It is configured to be able to.

  The permanent magnet 12 has a cylindrical shape, and is fixed inside the holder 54 so that the upper side is an N pole and the lower side is an S pole. The permanent magnet 12 moves according to the movement of the key top 52. The Hall elements 21 to 24 are mounted on the printed circuit board 20 at 90 ° intervals. When the operator tilts the key top 11 with the fingertip, the hall elements 21 to 24 output a touch signal corresponding to the detected magnetic field.

  The housing 51 is disposed at the bottom, and a convex portion 51a is formed at the center of the bottom plate portion, and four openings 51b are formed around the convex portion 51a. In the opening 51b, the Hall elements 21 to 24 are disposed when mounted.

  The key top 52 is an operation unit, and is fixed to the top of the cylindrical portion 54 a of the holder 54 via a spacer 57 fixed to the back surface, and closes the opening at the upper end of the holder 54. The key top 52 is formed with a hole 52a through which a conical protrusion 56b protrudes at the center. The conical protrusion 56b protrudes from the hole 52a, thereby contacting the operator's fingertip. The key top 52 is inclined integrally with the holder 54 around the convex portion 51a while bending the coil spring 53.

  The coil spring 53 and the holder 54 are disposed between the housing 51 and the key top 52. The coil spring 53 has a conical shape, and is fixed to the inside of the housing 51 by locking the turn portion 53a at the lower end thereof to the protrusion locking portion 51c of the housing 51. The holder 54 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom plate and includes a cylindrical portion 54a and a bottom plate portion 54b. The holder 54 is located inside the coil spring 53, the concave portion 54 c at the center of the bottom surface of the bottom plate portion 54 b is fitted into the convex portion 51 a, and the outer peripheral portion on the top side of the cylindrical portion 54 a is the turn portion at the upper end of the coil spring 53. It is supported in a state engaged with 53b.

  The movable drive coil 55 has a cylindrical shape and an air core, and is fitted in the cylindrical portion 54 a of the holder 54. The movable drive coil 55a is placed on the permanent magnet 12 and is configured to be movable in the Z1 direction. Both ends of the movable drive coil 55 are drawn to the outside of the holder 54 and connected to a drive circuit 74 described later.

  The permanent magnet 12 and the movable drive coil 55 may have the same outer shape. Thereby, the magnetic force line which comes out of the edge of a magnet can be used effectively.

  The tactile stimulation element 56 has a conical protrusion 56 b at the center of the disk portion 56 a and is fixed to the upper surface of the movable drive coil 55. The input device 50 is mounted on the printed circuit board 20 via a hook 51d on the lower side of the housing 51. At this time, the Hall elements 21 to 24 are fitted into the respective openings 51b. The permanent magnet 12, the movable drive coil 55, and the tactile stimulation element 56 constitute a tactile stimulation device 59.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the input device 50 according to the first embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the input device 50 includes a permanent magnet 12, four Hall elements 21 to 24, a movable drive coil 55, a tactile stimulation element 56, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 70, an A / D conversion circuit 71, and a pointer. A moving circuit 72, a driving circuit 74, and a booster circuit 75 are included.

  The permanent magnet 12 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and is arranged above the hall element 21 and below the movable drive coil 55 so that the north pole faces the movable drive coil 55 side. The hall elements 21 to 24 are disposed below the permanent magnet 12, and the hall elements 21 to 24 are connected in a bridge shape to form a bridge circuit 25. The hose elements 21 to 24 are connected to the CPU 70 via the A / D conversion circuit 71.

  The movable drive coil 55 is connected to the drive circuit 74, is disposed on the upper part of the permanent magnet 12, and is configured to move in the Z1-Z2 direction. The tactile stimulation element 56 has a conical protrusion 56b, is fixed to the upper part of the movable drive coil 55, and is configured to move in the Z1-Z2 direction together with the movable drive coil 55.

  The CPU 70 controls each unit by executing a predetermined program. The CPU 70 calculates the output of the Hall elements 21 to 24 to generate a signal for moving the pointer on the screen of the display device, monitors the position of the pointer on the screen of the display device, and the pointer is on the screen of the display device. It works such as determining that it has moved to a predetermined area.

  When the pointer movement circuit 72 receives a command for moving the pointer on the screen of the display device from the CPU 70, the pointer movement circuit 72 generates a pointer movement signal according to the command. The drive circuit 74 generates a drive signal to be supplied to the movable drive coil 55 according to the waveform data supplied from the CPU 70. The booster circuit 75 boosts the drive signal generated by the drive circuit 74.

  When the operator tilts the key top 11 of the input device 50 with the fingertip, the attitude of the permanent magnet 12 with respect to the Hall elements 21 to 24 changes, so that the magnetic field acting on the Hall elements 21 to 24 changes. For this reason, the output signals (touch signals) of the Hall elements 21 to 24 change. The CPU 70 generates a pointer movement signal via the pointer movement circuit 72 based on the touch signal from the A / D conversion circuit 71, and transmits the generated pointer movement signal to the computer side. Thereby, the pointer on the display screen of the computer moves the key top 11 according to the operation.

  Further, the CPU 70 supplies waveform data to the drive circuit 74 in accordance with the touch signal from the A / D conversion circuit 71. The drive circuit 74 applies a drive signal to the movable drive coil 55. Due to the magnetic force generated from the permanent magnet 12 and the movable drive coil 55, the drive coil 55 moves in the Z1-Z2 direction in the figure. When the conical protrusion 56b of the tactile stimulation element 56 touches the operator's fingertip, the operator's fingertip can be stimulated.

  Next, the drive circuit 74 will be described. FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of the drive circuit 74, and FIGS. 7B to 7G are diagrams showing current waveforms flowing in the movable drive coil 55. FIG. As shown in FIG. 7A, the movable drive coil 55 is connected to the emitter of the transistor Q. When the pointer on the screen of the display device moves into a predetermined area and the waveform data from the CPU 70 is applied to the terminal 150, the pulse drive current i1 shown in FIG.

  By inputting various waveform data, the CPU 70 receives a driving current i2 having a different pulse width T shown in FIG. 7C, a driving current i3 of a plurality of pulses shown in FIG. The drive current i4 with the pulse period T shown in FIG. 4 changed, and the drive current i5 with the pulse level changed shown in FIG.

  Further, by using the booster circuit 75 shown in FIG. 3, as shown in FIG. 3G, a pulse drive current i6 whose initial level is increased can be passed through the movable drive coil 55. In this case, the movable drive coil 55 is accelerated in the early stage of driving and operates quickly. Since the tactile stimulation element 56 operates in accordance with the drive currents i1 to i6, it is possible to give different stimuli to the tactile sense of the fingertip being operated. The waveform data input by the CPU 70 to the drive circuit 74 is stored in a memory (not shown).

  Next, the positional relationship between the Hall elements 21 to 24 and the movable drive coil 55 with respect to the permanent magnet 12 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between the Hall elements 21 to 24 and the movable drive coil 55 with respect to the permanent magnet 12.

  When the key top 52 is operated and tilted, the permanent magnet 12 tilts in the direction indicated by the arrow 79 in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the Hall elements 21 to 24 are arranged below the permanent magnet 12 at positions where the magnetic field 13 generated by the permanent magnet 12 extends. On the upper side of the permanent magnet 12, a movable drive coil 55 is disposed at a position where the magnetic field 13 generated by the permanent magnet 12 extends.

  When the operator tilts the key top 11 with the fingertip, the posture of the permanent magnet 12 with respect to the Hall elements 21 to 24 changes, and the magnetic field acting on the Hall elements 21 to 24 changes. For this reason, the output signals of the Hall elements 21 to 24 change. The CPU 70 can obtain the operation amount of the key top 11 based on the changed output signal.

  Further, when the drive current i1 is supplied from the drive circuit 74 to the movable drive coil 55 in the direction shown in FIG. 7 according to the waveform data from the CPU 70, a magnetic field is generated in the direction toward the permanent magnet 12. A repulsive force F1 is generated in the movable drive coil 55 in the Z1 direction away from the permanent magnet 12, and the movable drive coil 55 moves in the Z1 direction until it hits the lower surface of the key top 52 as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. The conical protrusion 56b protrudes slightly from the hole 52a. Thereby, the conical protrusion 56 b comes into contact with the fingertip that is in contact with the key top 52. When the drive current i <b> 1 is cut off by the control of the CPU 70, the movable drive coil 55 disappears in the Z <b> 2 direction by gravity and returns to its original position.

  Next, the operation of the input device according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the input device 50 and the operation of the pointer. FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the input device before the tactile stimulation element 56 is moved, and FIG. FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the input device after the haptic stimulation element 56 has moved, and FIG. 4D shows the screen of the display device corresponding to FIG. FIG.

  FIG. 10 is an operation flowchart of the input device 50 according to the first embodiment. 9A and 9C, reference numeral 1 is a fingertip, 50 is an input device, 12 is a permanent magnet, 52 is a key top, 52a is a hole, 55 is a movable drive coil, 56 is a tactile stimulation element, and 56b is a cone. Protrusions 59 respectively indicate tactile stimulation devices. 9B and 9D, reference numeral 80 denotes a screen of the display device, 85 denotes a pointer, and 86 denotes a certain area on the screen 80 of the display device.

  In step S11, the CPU 70 determines whether or not a touch signal is input from the hall elements 21 to 24. If the touch signal is input from the hall elements 21 to 24, the process proceeds to step S12. In a state in which the key top 52 is not operated, the permanent magnet 12 is positioned on the center of the Hall elements 21 to 24 in equilibrium with the printed circuit board 20 as shown in FIG. For this reason, the magnetic field 13 from the permanent magnet 12 acts uniformly on each Hall element 21-24, and the touch signal from the bridge circuit 25 is not output.

  When the operator places the fingertip 1 on the key top 52 and moves it in an arbitrary direction, the key top 52 is inclined as shown in FIG. 9A, and the attitude of the permanent magnet 12 with respect to the Hall elements 21 to 24 is changed. The intensity of the magnetic field acting on each of the Hall elements 21 to 24 changes, and the bridge circuit 25 outputs a touch signal corresponding to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the key top 52.

  In step 12, the CPU 70 outputs a command for moving the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device to the pointer moving circuit 72. The pointer movement circuit 72 generates a pointer movement signal according to a command from the CPU 70. The CPU 70 transmits the pointer movement signal generated by the pointer movement circuit 72 from the input device 50 to a computer (not shown). As a result, the pointer 85 on the display screen 80 moves in the direction corresponding to the operation of the key top 52 as shown in FIG.

  In step 13, when the CPU 70 detects that the pointer 85 has moved and entered the predetermined area 86 as shown in FIG. 9D, the waveform data read from the predetermined memory is sent to the drive circuit 74. Output to instruct generation of drive signal. In step S <b> 14, the CPU 70 resets a count value for measuring the application time of the drive signal. In step S15, the CPU 70 starts measuring the application time. In step S <b> 16, the CPU 70 counts up the count value for application time measurement in response to the start of application time measurement.

  The drive circuit 74 generates a drive signal i1 using the waveform data supplied from the CPU 70, and supplies the generated drive signal i1 to the movable drive coil 55 until the application stop is instructed from the CPU 70. The movable drive coil 55 generates a magnetic field by the drive current i1, moves in the Z1 direction by a repulsive force acting between the permanent magnet 12 and moves to the position shown in FIG. 9C. Thereby, the conical protrusion 56b of the tactile stimulation element 56 pushes up from the hole 52a and stimulates the finger 1 of the operator who operates the key top 52.

  Here, since the finger 1 on which the conical protrusion 56b strikes is a finger on which an operation is performed and attention is concentrated, the operator does not touch the finger not involved in the operation with the conical protrusion 56b. I feel a greater stimulus compared to when I was pressed.

  When the operator feels a stimulus on the finger 1 and presses the execution key 61, the CPU 70 transmits a predetermined signal to the computer, and the computer that receives the signal performs an operation corresponding to the display of the area 86. Therefore, even if the operator does not carefully observe the movement of the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device, the operator can recognize that the pointer 85 has pressed the area 86 in a feedback manner. For example, the operation can be continued for a long time. Even in a state where the user is tired, the remote controller 60 can be operated efficiently and reliably.

  In step S17, the CPU 70 determines whether or not the count value has reached a count value corresponding to a preset specified time, and if it is determined that the application time has exceeded the specified time, the drive circuit is determined in step S18. 74 is instructed to stop applying the drive signal. Thereafter, the drive circuit 74 stops applying the drive signal to the movable drive coil 55 when an instruction to stop the application from the CPU 70 is given.

  When the drive current i1 becomes zero, the movable drive coil 55 is lowered by gravity and returned to its original position. Note that a thin sheet may be pasted on the upper surface of the key top 52 to close the hole 52a. In this case, when the tactile stimulation device 59 is operated, the stimulation to the finger 1 becomes gentle and there is no danger of hurting the finger.

  The drive current i1 may be pulsed. When the drive current is pulsed, the tactile stimulation device 59 is repeatedly operated, and the tactile sense of the finger 1 is repeatedly stimulated. The drive current i1 may be an alternating waveform, and an electromagnetic force may be used to return the movable drive coil 55.

  According to the first embodiment, since the tactile stimulation device is provided in the operation unit operated by applying a finger, stimulation can be given to the tactile sense of the finger. Therefore, it is possible to improve the confirmability of the operation of feedbacking the operator to recognize that the target operation has been performed.

  In this embodiment, the tactile stimulation element 56 is fixed to the movable drive coil 55. However, the permanent magnet 12 and the movable drive coil 55 are reversed so that the permanent magnet 12 is disposed on the upper side. You may make it fix to the stimulation element 56. FIG. The permanent magnet 12 and the movable drive coil 55 correspond to magnetic force generation means, the Hall elements 21 to 24 correspond to detection means, the key top 52 corresponds to an operation section, and the CPU 70 corresponds to a control section.

  Next, a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a modification of the tactile stimulation device. In FIG. 11, reference numerals 56A to 56C denote tactile stimulation elements. As shown in FIG. 11A, the tactile stimulation element 56A includes a cylindrical portion 56Aa with a top plate portion and a conical protrusion portion 56Ab. The movable drive coil 55 is mounted inside the cylindrical portion 56Aa with the top plate portion.

  As shown in FIG. 11 (B), the tactile stimulation element 56B has a cylindrical portion 56Ba with a top plate portion and a conical protrusion portion 56Bb. The cylindrical portion 56Ba with the top plate and the conical protrusion 56Bb are formed at the time of insert molding. The movable drive coil 55 is insert-molded inside the cylindrical portion 56Ba with the top plate portion. As shown in FIG. 11C, the tactile stimulation element 56C includes a top plate portion 56Ca, a conical protrusion 56Cb, and a bobbin 56Cc. The movable drive coil 55 is mounted around the bobbin 56Cc.

Next, a third embodiment will be described.
FIG. 12 is a view showing a modification of the tactile stimulation element 56. FIG. 12A shows a tactile stimulation element in which the tip of the protrusion is formed in a hemispherical shape, and FIG. The figure which shows the tactile stimulation element formed in the column shape, The figure (C) is a figure which shows the antennal stimulation element in which the front-end | tip of a projection part was formed in planar shape, The figure (D) is a minute figure in the front-end | tip of a projection part. The figure which shows the tactile stimulation element in which the protrusion was formed in a lattice shape, FIG. 5E is a diagram showing the tactile stimulation element in which minute protrusions are formed in the matrix at the tip of the protrusion, and FIG. The figure which shows the tactile stimulation element in which the recessed part was formed in the front-end | tip of a part, the same figure (G) is sectional drawing of (F), and the same figure (H) is a figure which shows the tactile stimulation element in which the several protrusion part was formed. is there.

  As shown in FIG. 12A, the tactile stimulation element 56D includes, for example, a protrusion 56Da having a cylindrical shape with a diameter of about 1 mm and a hemispherical tip. As shown in FIG. 12B, the tactile stimulation element 56E has, for example, a cylindrical protrusion having a diameter of about 1 mm.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 6C, the tip of the protrusion may have a flat plane 56Ee, and as shown in FIG. The ribs may have a surface 56Ef formed in a lattice shape, and the tips of the protrusions are formed with a matrix of minute protrusions on a flat plane as shown in FIG. The surface 56Eg may be provided.

  As shown in FIGS. 12 (F) and 12 (G), the tactile stimulation element 56F has, for example, a cylindrical shape with a diameter of about 1 mm, and a recess 56Fh is formed at the tip of the protrusion, and an annular protrusion 56Fi is formed around the periphery. ing. As shown in FIG. 11H, the tactile stimulation element 56G has, for example, three conical protrusions 56Gb.

  Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the tactile stimulation device 59. The tactile stimulation devices 59A and 59B according to the fourth embodiment are characterized in that the yoke 90 is disposed.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, the tactile stimulation device 59A includes a permanent magnet 12, a movable drive coil 55, a tactile stimulation element 56, and a yoke 90. The yoke 90 has a disc portion 90a and a columnar portion 90b protruding in the center of the disc portion 90a. One surface of the disc portion 90a is fixed to the N pole side of the permanent magnet 12, and the cylinder portion 90 b protrudes into the central hole 55 a of the movable drive coil 55.

  As shown in FIG. 13B, the tactile stimulation device 59B includes a permanent magnet 12, a movable drive coil 55, a tactile stimulation element 56C, and a yoke 90. This tactile stimulation device 59B uses a tactile stimulation element 58C shown in FIG. 11C instead of the tactile stimulation element 56 of FIG. The tactile stimulation element 56 </ b> C moves up and down as the bobbin 56 </ b> Cc is guided by the cylindrical portion 90 b of the yoke 90.

  The sliding between the bobbin 55Cc and the cylindrical portion 90b is good, and the contact stimulation element 56C moves up and down more smoothly than the tactile stimulation element 56A of FIG. In the tactile stimulation devices 59A and 59B, the outer shapes of the permanent magnet 12, the movable drive coil 55, and the yoke 90 may be substantially the same. Thereby, since the magnetic force line which emerges from the edge of the permanent magnet 12 can be used effectively, the tactile stimulation element can be sufficiently moved without enlarging each component.

  By providing the yoke 90, the state of the magnetic field 13A changes, and the magnetic flux comes out radially from the front end side of the cylindrical portion 90b. For this reason, the horizontal component of the magnetic flux acting on each turn portion of the movable drive coil 55 is larger than that when the yoke 90 is not provided.

  Moreover, even when the movable drive coil 55 is moved in the Z1 direction, the horizontal component of the magnetic lines of force acting on the respective turn portions of the movable drive coil 55 is little reduced, and the movable drive coil 55 is moved in the Z1 direction. However, each turn part still receives the horizontal component of strong magnetic flux. Therefore, the force F1a generated when the drive current i1 is supplied to the movable drive coil 55 becomes stronger than when the yoke 90 is not provided, and the contact stimulation element 56 is driven efficiently.

  Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a modification of the tactile stimulation device 59. As shown in FIG. 14, it has a tactile stimulation device 59EC, a permanent magnet 12C, a movable drive coil 55C, and a tactile stimulation element 56. The permanent magnet 12C has a cylindrical shape, and is magnetized in the axial direction so that the upper surface has an N pole and the lower surface has an S pole.

  The movable drive coil 55C is a double coil, and the outer coil 55C1 is disposed so as to be located outside the upper surface of the permanent magnet 12C. The inner coil 55C2 is provided so as to correspond to the hole 12C1 formed in the permanent magnet 12C, and is disposed so as to be located inside the upper surface of the permanent magnet 12C. Driving current is supplied to the outer coil 55C1 and the inner coil 55C2 by the driving circuit 74, respectively. The double coil including the outer coil 55C1 and the inner coil 55C2 is configured such that current flows in the opposite direction.

  FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an input device according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the input device 50 includes a permanent magnet 12, four Hall elements 21 to 24, a movable drive coil 55 </ b> C, a tactile stimulation element 56, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 70, an A / D conversion circuit 71, and a pointer. It has a moving circuit 72, driving circuits 74A and 74B, and boosting circuits 75A and 75B.

  The same components as those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. The movable drive coil 55 has an outer coil 55C1 and an inner coil 55C2. The outer coil 55C1 is supplied with a drive current by a drive circuit 74A, and the inner coil 55C2 is supplied with a drive current by a drive circuit 74B.

  Next, the operation of the input device according to the fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 16 is an operation flowchart of the input apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. The description will be made with reference to FIGS. 6 and 9 as in the first embodiment.

  In step S21, the CPU 70 determines whether or not a touch signal is input from the hall elements 21 to 24. If the touch signal is input from the hall elements 21 to 24, the process proceeds to step S22. In a state in which the key top 52 is not operated, the permanent magnet 12 is positioned on the center of the Hall elements 21 to 24 in equilibrium with the printed circuit board 20 as shown in FIG. For this reason, the magnetic field 13 from the permanent magnet 12 acts uniformly on each Hall element 21-24, and the touch signal from the bridge circuit 25 is zero.

  When the operator places the fingertip 1 on the key top 52 and moves it in an arbitrary direction, the key top 52 is inclined as shown in FIG. 9A, and the attitude of the permanent magnet 12 with respect to the Hall elements 21 to 24 is changed. The intensity of the magnetic field acting on each of the Hall elements 21 to 24 changes, and the bridge circuit 25 outputs a touch signal corresponding to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the key top 52.

  In step 22, the CPU 70 outputs a command for moving the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device to the pointer moving circuit 72. The pointer movement circuit 72 generates a pointer movement signal according to a command from the CPU 70. The CPU 70 transmits the pointer movement signal generated by the pointer movement circuit 72 from the re-input device 50 to a computer (not shown). As a result, as shown in FIG. 9B, the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device moves in the direction corresponding to the operation of the key top 52.

  In step 23, when the CPU 70 detects that the pointer 85 has moved and entered the predetermined area 86 as shown in FIG. 9D, the waveform data read from the predetermined memory is transferred to the drive circuit 74A, 74B to instruct generation of a drive signal. In step S24, the CPU 70 resets a count value for measuring the application time of the drive signal.

  The drive circuit 74A generates the drive signal i1 using the waveform data supplied from the CPU 70, and supplies the generated drive signal i1 to the outer coil 55C1 until the application stop is instructed from the CPU 70.

  In step S25, the CPU 70 starts measuring the application time. In step S <b> 26, the CPU 70 counts up the count value for measuring the application time in response to the start of measuring the application time. The drive circuit 74B generates the drive signal i1 using the waveform data supplied from the CPU 70, and supplies the generated drive signal i1 to the inner coil 55C2 until the application stop is instructed from the CPU 70.

  The magnetic flux 13C is emitted from the north pole of the permanent magnet 12C in a direction toward the movable drive coil 55C. In the hole portion on the upper surface of the permanent magnet 12C, the magnetic flux 13C emitted from the N pole goes through the hole portion 12C1 to the S pole on the back side. The outer coil 55C1 generates a magnetic flux in a direction toward the permanent magnet 12 by the driving current i1, and an upward propulsive force is generated in the outer coil 55C1 by a repulsive force with the permanent magnet 12C.

  Further, the inner coil 55C2 generates a magnetic flux in a direction opposite to the permanent magnet 12 by the driving current i1, and an upward driving force is also applied to the inner coil 55C2 by a repulsive force with the magnetic flux passing through the hole 12C1 of the permanent magnet 12C. Will occur. As a result, the tactile stimulation element 56 moves to the position shown in FIG. 9C, and the conical protrusion 55b is pushed up from the hole 52a to stimulate the operator's finger 1.

  When the operator feels a stimulus on the finger 1 and presses the execution key 61, the CPU 70 transmits a predetermined signal to the computer, and the computer that receives the signal performs an operation corresponding to the display of the area 86. Therefore, even if the operator does not carefully observe the movement of the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device, the operator can recognize that the pointer 85 has pressed the area 86 in a feedback manner. For example, the operation can be continued for a long time. Even in a state where the user is tired, the remote controller 60 can be operated efficiently and reliably.

  In step S27, the CPU 70 determines whether or not the count value has reached a count value corresponding to a preset specified time. If it is determined that the application time has exceeded the specified time, in step S28, the drive circuit 74A and 74B are instructed to stop applying the drive signal. Thereafter, when the CPU 70 is instructed to stop the application, the drive circuits 74A and 74B stop applying the drive signals to the outer coil 55C1 and the inner coil 55C2. When the drive current i1 becomes zero, the movable drive coil 55C is lowered by gravity and returned to its original position.

  According to the fifth embodiment, since the double coil is used for the movable drive coil, a large magnetic force can be generated using the inner and outer coils even when a cylindrical magnet is used.

  In this embodiment, the outer coil 55C1 and the inner coil 55C2 are configured using separate coils as the double coil configuration of the movable drive coil 55C. However, one coil is doubled. You may make it form the coil part of an outer side and an inner side by winding. In the present embodiment, the driving currents in the opposite directions are supplied to the outer coil 55C1 and the inner coil 55C2. However, the driving currents in the same direction may be supplied to the outer coil 55C1 and the inner coil 55C2. Thereby, the movement of the tactile stimulation element 56 can be finely controlled.

  Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. FIG. 17 is a view showing a modification of the tactile stimulation device according to the sixth embodiment, where FIG. 17A is an exploded perspective view of the tactile stimulation device, and FIG. FIG. 6C is a diagram showing a state in which the inner tactile stimulation element and the outer tactile stimulation element are raised.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the tactile stimulation device 59D includes a permanent magnet 12, a movable drive coil 55D, and a tactile stimulation element 56D. The tactile stimulation device 59D includes a first tactile stimulation element 56D1 located in the center and a second tactile stimulation element 56D2 that is an annular shape surrounding the first tactile stimulation element 56D1. The movable drive coil 55D is a double coil, and has an inner coil 55D2 and an outer coil 55D1.

  The first and second tactile stimulation elements 56D1 and 56D2 are fixed to separate coils 55D1 and 55D2. As described in the sixth embodiment, the outer coil 55D2 is supplied with drive current by the drive circuit 74A, and the inner coil 55D1 is supplied with drive current by the drive circuit 74B.

  In the tactile stimulation device 59D, the outer shapes of the permanent magnet 12 and the outer coil 55D1 may be made substantially the same. Thereby, since the magnetic force line which emerges from the edge of the permanent magnet 12 can be used effectively, the tactile stimulation element can be sufficiently moved without enlarging each component.

  Next, the operation will be described. When the pointer moves on the screen of the display device and enters a predetermined area, first, a pulse drive current is supplied from the drive circuit 74A to the outer coil 55D1, and then the pulse drive current is supplied from the drive circuit 74B to the inner coil 55D2. Is supplied. As a result, first, as shown in FIG. 17B, the first haptic stimulation element 56D1 rises together with the outer coil 55D1, and then, as shown in FIG. 17C, the second haptic stimulation element. 56D2 rises with the inner coil 55D2. Therefore, stimulation can be given to the fingertip in two stages.

  According to the sixth embodiment, the tactile stimulation elements 56D1 and 56D2 are configured to move up and down independently, so that stimulation can be applied in two stages.

  Next, a seventh embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating another modification of the tactile stimulation device. As shown in FIG. 18, the tactile stimulation device 59D includes the permanent magnet 12, the movable drive coil 55E, and the tactile stimulation element 56E. The tactile stimulation device 59D includes a tactile stimulation element 56E1 located at the center and four tactile stimulation elements 56E2 to 58E5 that surround the tactile stimulation element 56E1 and are divided into four in the circumferential direction.

  The movable drive coil 55E has five coils 55E1 to 55E5 corresponding to the five tactile stimulation elements 56E1 to E5. The tactile stimulation elements 56E1 to 56E5 are fixed to the coils 55E1 to 55E5, respectively. Although not shown, each of the coils 55E1 to E5 is connected to the drive circuit 74. In the tactile stimulation device 59E, the outer shape of the permanent magnet 12 and the movable drive coil 55E may be made substantially the same. Thereby, since the magnetic force line which emerges from the edge of the permanent magnet 12 can be used effectively, the tactile stimulation element can be sufficiently moved without enlarging each component.

  Next, the operation will be described. When the pointer on the screen of the display device moves and enters a predetermined area, first, the drive current is supplied from the drive circuit 74 to the movable drive coil 55E1, and then the drive current is supplied from the drive circuit to the coils 55E2 to 55E5. Is done. As a result, the contact stimulation element 56E1 is first raised, and then the other contact stimulation elements 56E2 to 56E5 are sequentially raised, and the fingertip can be stimulated in five stages.

  Next, an eighth embodiment will be described. FIG. 19A shows another example of the drive circuit 74, and FIG. 19B shows the waveform of the pulse drive current. As shown in FIG. 19A, in the drive circuit 74C according to the present embodiment, the four transistors Q1 to Q4 and the movable drive coil 55 constitute an H bridge.

  Signals from the CPU 70 are applied to the terminals 151 to 154. A signal from the CPU 70 is first applied to the terminals 151 and 154, the transistors Q1 and Q4 are turned on, and the pulse drive current i1 flows through the movable drive coil 55 in the direction indicated by the solid line arrow, followed by the signal from the CPU 70. Is applied to the terminals 152 and 153, the transistors Q2 and Q3 are turned on, and the pulse drive current i2 in the reverse direction indicated by the dashed arrow flows through the movable drive coil 55.

  The tactile stimulation element 56 is moved in the direction away from the permanent magnet 12 by the pulse driving current i1, and the tactile stimulation element 56 is moved in the direction approaching the permanent magnet 12 by the pulse driving current i2. Thereby, the tactile stimulation device 59 can be normally operated without being influenced by the posture of the remote control device 60, for example, even when the remote control device 60 is in a posture in which the front and back are reversed.

  Next, a ninth embodiment will be described. In the ninth embodiment, a device including an input device 50 is shown. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a device including an input device. FIG. 20A is a mobile phone, FIG. 20B is a joystick device, FIG. 20C is a mouse, and FIG. (Personal Digital Assistant), (E) shows a game pad, respectively. The input device 50 includes a mobile phone 250 as shown in FIG. 20A, a joystick device 251 as shown in FIG. 20B, a mouse 252 as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the PDA 253 can be incorporated into a portion of the game pad 254 operated by a finger as shown in FIG.

  Next, a tenth embodiment will be described. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a keyboard provided with the input device 50. As shown in FIG. 21, the keyboard 255 has the input device 50 incorporated in the dome point 256. It is also possible to arrange the tactile stimulation device 59 side by side on the palm hitting portion 258 of each key 257 and keyboard 255 and drive the tactile stimulation device 59 as appropriate to give stimulation to the fingertip and palm to obtain a massage effect. is there.

  Next, an eleventh embodiment will be described. FIG. 22A is a diagram showing the tactile display device 260 in which the tactile stimulation devices 59 are arranged in a matrix, and FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in FIG. The tactile display device 260 includes the permanent magnet 12, the movable drive coil 55, and the tactile stimulation element 56. The tactile stimulation element 56 has a conical protrusion 56b.

  The permanent magnet 12, the movable drive coil 55, and the tactile stimulation element 56 constitute a tactile stimulation device 59. When the palm is placed on the tactile display device 260, for example, by driving the tactile stimulation device 59 at a position corresponding to a certain pattern, the above pattern can be recognized by the tactile sensation received from the palm.

  Next, a twelfth embodiment will be described. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the input device 100 according to the twelfth embodiment. FIG. 24 is a plan view of the input device 100 according to the twelfth embodiment. FIG. 25 is a front view of the input device 100 according to the twelfth embodiment. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 shown in FIG. 24 taken along the line C-C.

  FIG. 27 is a block diagram of the input device 100 according to the twelfth embodiment. As illustrated in FIGS. 23 to 26, the input device 100 includes a case 101, an operation unit 102, permanent magnets 112 to 115, drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D, and Hall elements 122 to 124. The input device 100 is configured to output coordinate information and move the pointer on the screen of the display device by placing the fingertip on the operation unit 102 and moving the operation unit 102 in an arbitrary direction. Has been.

  The operation unit 102 is formed so as to protrude upward from the case 101, and is supported so as to be tiltable in four directions along the cross groove 103. The operation portion 102 has a lower end portion 102 a fixed to a hemispherical ball portion 104 a provided in the housing 104. The operation unit 102 can be inclined in four directions along the cross groove 103 as the ball unit 104a rotates.

  A holder 105 is mounted inside the housing 104 via a coil spring 106. A rib 104b is provided at the lower end of the housing 104, and the housing 104 is mounted on a printed board as shown in FIG. 4 via the rib 104b. The housing 104 is covered with a housing 107.

  The permanent magnets 112 to 115 are embedded in a predetermined part of the operation unit 102 so as to be exposed. The permanent magnets 112 to 115 are tilted together when the operation unit 102 is tilted. The hall elements 21 to 24 are provided corresponding to the permanent magnets 112 to 115, and are arranged at four positions where the operation unit 102 is inclined. When the operator moves the operation unit 102, the hall elements 21 to 24 output touch signals corresponding to changes in the magnetic flux of the permanent magnets 112 to 115.

  The drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D are provided corresponding to the permanent magnets 112 to 115, and are fixed at predetermined positions of the case 101. By controlling the current flowing through the drive coils 155A to 155D, the magnetic force generated between the permanent magnets 112 to 115 can be adjusted.

  Next, a block diagram of the input device 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 27, the input device 100 includes an operation unit 102, permanent magnets 112 to 115, Hall elements 21 to 24, drive coils 155A to 155D, a CPU 70, an A / D conversion circuit 71, a pointer movement circuit 72, and a drive circuit. 74A to 74D and booster circuits 75A to 75D. Note that the same portions as those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The four permanent magnets 112 to 115 are magnetized in the direction in which the N pole faces the drive coils 155A to 115D. Note that at least two permanent magnets may be provided. The drive coils 155A to 155D are connected to the drive circuits 74A to 74D, respectively. The drive coils 155A to 155D are arranged so that the axes thereof face the directions of the permanent magnets 112 to 115, respectively.

  The booster circuits 75A to 75D are connected to the drive circuits 74A to 74D. The CPU 70 controls each unit by executing a predetermined program. The drive coils 155A to 155D generate a magnetic flux in the direction of the permanent magnets 112 to 115 when a predetermined drive current flows, so that a repulsive force acts between the permanent magnets 112 to 115. For this reason, a feeling of deceleration or a feeling of braking can be given to the operation unit 102. The drive coils 155A to 155D generate a magnetic flux in a direction opposite to that of the permanent magnets 112 to 115 when a predetermined drive current flows, so that a tensile force acts between the drive coils 155A to 155D. For this reason, a feeling of acceleration can be given to the operation unit 102.

  Next, the operation of the input device according to the twelfth embodiment will be described. FIG. 28 is an operation flowchart of the input device 50 according to the twelfth embodiment. The description will be made with reference to FIGS. 9B and 9D as in the first embodiment.

  When the operation unit 102 is not operated, the operation unit 102 is positioned above the center of the Hall elements 21 to 24, so that the magnetic flux from the permanent magnets 112 to 115 acts uniformly on the Hall elements 21 to 24. However, the touch signal from the bridge circuit 25 is not output.

  When the operator moves the operation unit 102 in an arbitrary direction along the cross groove 103, the operation unit 102 is inclined, and the postures of the permanent magnets 112 to 115 with respect to the Hall elements 21 to 24 are changed. Since the strength of the magnetic field acting on ˜24 changes, a touch signal corresponding to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the operation unit 102 is output from the bridge circuit 25.

  In step S31, the CPU 70 determines whether or not a touch signal is input from the hall elements 21 to 24. If the touch signal is input from the hall elements 21 to 24, the process proceeds to step S32. In step 32, the CPU 70 outputs a command for moving the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device to the pointer moving circuit 72.

  The pointer movement circuit 72 generates a pointer movement signal according to a command from the CPU 70. The CPU 70 transmits a pointer movement signal generated by the pointer movement circuit 72 from the input device 100 to a computer (not shown). As a result, the pointer 85 on the display screen 80 moves in the direction corresponding to the operation of the operation unit 102 as shown in FIG.

  In step 33, when the CPU 70 detects that the pointer 85 has moved and entered the predetermined area 86 as shown in FIG. 9D, the waveform data read from the predetermined memory is transferred to the drive circuits 74A to 74A. Output to 74D to instruct drive signal generation. In step S34, the CPU 70 resets a count value for measuring the application time of the drive signal.

  The drive circuits 74A to 74D generate the drive signal i1 using the waveform data supplied from the CPU 70, and supply the generated drive signal i1 to the drive coils 155A to 155D until the application stop is instructed from the CPU 70. . In step S35, the CPU 70 starts measuring the application time. In step S <b> 36, the CPU 70 counts up the count value for measuring the application time in response to the start of measuring the application time.

  The drive coils 155A to 155D generate a magnetic field corresponding to the drive current i1 from the drive circuits 74A to 74D. The permanent magnets 112 to 115 receive a pulling force in a direction approaching the drive coils 155A to 155D or receive a repulsive force in a direction away from the drive coils 155A to 155D. Thereby, it is possible to give the operation unit 102 a feeling of acceleration and a feeling of braking.

  In step S37, the CPU 70 determines whether or not the count value has reached a count value corresponding to a preset specified time. If it is determined that the application time has exceeded the specified time, in step S38, the drive circuit Instruct 74 A to 74 D to stop applying the drive signal. Thereafter, the drive circuits 74A to 74D stop applying the drive signal to the drive coils 155A to 155D when an instruction to stop the application from the CPU 70 is given. When the driving current i1 supplied to the driving coils 155A to 155D becomes zero, the operation unit 102 also eliminates the magnetic field generated from the driving coils 155A to 155D, and therefore, there is no tension or repulsive force, so there is no feeling of acceleration or braking. .

  According to the twelfth embodiment, since the magnetic force is generated by the magnet and the drive coil when the operation unit is tilted, the operation unit can be given acceleration feeling and deceleration feeling by using the pulling force and the repulsive force. .

  In the twelfth embodiment, four permanent magnets 112 to 115, four drive coils 155A to 155D, and four Hall elements 21 to 24 are arranged because they are inclined in four directions. When tilting in the direction, a permanent magnet, a drive coil, and a Hall element may be provided according to the number of tilt directions.

  Next, a thirteenth embodiment will be described. FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the input device 200 according to the thirteenth embodiment. FIG. 30 is a plan view of the input device 200 according to the thirteenth embodiment. FIG. 31 is a front view of the input device 200 according to the thirteenth embodiment. FIG. 32 is a sectional view of the input device 200 according to the thirteenth embodiment. FIG. 33 is a block diagram of an input device 200 according to the thirteenth embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 29 to 32, the input device 200 includes a case 101, an operation unit 202, a permanent magnet 116, drive drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D, and Hall elements 22 to 24. Note that the same portions as those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The operation unit 202 is formed so as to protrude upward from the case 101 and is supported so as to be inclined along the cross groove. The permanent magnet 116 is configured to have the same outer shape as the operation unit 202 and is embedded in a predetermined portion of the operation unit 202. For this reason, when the operation part 202 is tilted, the permanent magnet 116 is tilted together. The operation unit 202 has a lower end 202 a fixed to a hemispherical ball unit 104 a provided in the housing 104. The permanent magnet 116 may be a columnar magnet or a cylindrical magnet.

  The drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D are arranged at positions corresponding to the permanent magnet 116 when the operation unit 202 is tilted. In the thirteenth embodiment, unlike the twelfth embodiment, the drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D are arranged such that the axial direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the permanent magnet 116. The Hall elements 21 to 24 are for detecting the change of the magnetic field from the permanent magnet 116 and detecting the position of the operation unit 102.

  Next, a block diagram of the input device 200 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 33, the input device 200 includes a permanent magnet 116, Hall elements 21 to 24, drive coils 155A to 155D, a CPU 170, an A / D conversion circuit 171, a pointer moving circuit 172, drive circuits 174A to 174D, and a booster circuit. 175A-175D. Note that the same portions as those in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D are arranged so that the axial direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the permanent magnet 116. The permanent magnet 116 is magnetized so that the upper side is an N pole and the lower side is an S pole. The drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D generate a magnetic flux when a predetermined drive current flows, and a repulsive force acts between the drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D and the permanent magnet 116. For this reason, a feeling of deceleration or a feeling of braking can be given to the operation unit 202. When a drive current flows in the reverse direction, the drive coils 155 </ b> A to 155 </ b> D generate a magnetic flux in the opposite direction, and a tensile force acts between the permanent magnets 116. For this reason, a feeling of acceleration can be given to the operation unit 202.

  Next, the operation of the input device according to the thirteenth embodiment will be described. In a state where the operation unit 202 is not operated, the operation unit 202 is located on the center of the Hall elements 21 to 24, so that the magnetic flux from the permanent magnet 116 acts uniformly on the Hall elements 21 to 24, The touch signal from the bridge circuit 25 is not output.

  When the operator moves the operation unit 202 in an arbitrary direction along the cross groove 103, the operation unit 202 is inclined, and the attitude of the permanent magnet 116 with respect to the Hall elements 21 to 24 is changed. Since the strength of the magnetic field acting on the touch panel changes, a touch signal corresponding to the tilt direction and tilt angle of the operation unit 202 is output from the bridge circuit 25.

  The CPU 70 outputs a command for moving the pointer 85 on the screen 80 of the display device to the pointer moving circuit 72. The pointer movement circuit 72 generates a pointer movement signal according to a command from the CPU 70. The CPU 70 transmits the pointer movement signal generated by the pointer movement circuit 72 from the input device 200 to a computer (not shown). Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 9B, the pointer 85 on the display screen 80 moves in the direction corresponding to the operation of the operation unit 202.

  When the CPU 70 detects that the pointer 85 has moved and entered the predetermined area 86 as shown in FIG. 9D, the CPU 70 outputs the waveform data read from the predetermined memory to the drive circuits 74A to 74D. To instruct drive signal generation. The drive circuits 74A to 74D generate the drive signal i1 using the waveform data supplied from the CPU 70, and supply the generated drive signal i1 to the drive coils 155A to 155D until the application stop is instructed from the CPU 70. .

  The drive coils 155A to 155D generate a magnetic field corresponding to the drive current i1 from the drive circuits 74A to 74D. The permanent magnet 116 receives a pulling force in a direction approaching the drive coils 155A to 155D or receives a repulsive force in a direction away from the drive coils 155A to 155D. Thereby, it is possible to give the operation unit 102 a feeling of acceleration and a feeling of braking.

  According to the thirteenth embodiment, since the magnetic force is generated by the magnet and the drive coil when the operation unit is tilted, the operation unit can be given acceleration feeling and deceleration feeling by using the pulling force and the repulsive force. .

  In the twelfth embodiment and the thirteenth embodiment, the same permanent magnet is used as the permanent magnet for detecting the operation state of the operation unit and the permanent magnet for generating the magnetic force. A permanent magnet (second magnet) and a permanent magnet (first magnet) for generating a magnetic force may be provided separately. In the twelfth and thirteenth embodiments, the permanent magnet is disposed in the operation portion and the drive coil is disposed on the case side. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation portion is driven. A coil may be arranged and a permanent magnet may be arranged on the case side.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims. It can be changed.

It is a figure for demonstrating the conventional input device. It is a perspective view of the remote control device incorporating an input device. It is an external view of the operation part of an input device. It is a disassembled perspective view of the operation part of an input device. It is an expanded sectional view which follows the AA line of FIG. 4 (A). It is a block diagram of the input device which concerns on 1st Example. (A) is a figure which shows the example of a drive circuit, (B)-(G) is a figure which shows the current waveform which flows into a movable drive coil. It is a figure for demonstrating the positional relationship of the Hall element with respect to a permanent magnet, and a movable drive coil. It is a figure explaining operation | movement of an input device, and operation | movement of a pointer. It is an operation | movement flowchart of the input device which concerns on 1st Example. It is a figure which shows the modification of a tactile stimulation element. It is a figure which shows the modification of a tactile stimulation element. It is a figure which shows the modification of a tactile sense stimulation apparatus. It is a figure which shows the modification of a tactile sense stimulation apparatus. It is a block diagram of the input device which concerns on 5th Example. It is an operation | movement flowchart of the input device which concerns on 5th Example. It is a figure which shows the modification of the tactile stimulation apparatus which concerns on 6th Example. It is a figure which shows another modification of a tactile stimulation apparatus. (A) is a figure which shows the other example of a drive circuit, (B) is a figure which shows the waveform of a pulse drive current. It is a figure which shows the apparatus provided with the input device. It is a figure which shows the keyboard provided with the input device. (A) is a figure which shows a tactile display device by arranging tactile stimulation devices in a matrix, and (B) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of (A). It is a perspective view of the input device which concerns on 12th Example. It is a top view of the input device which concerns on 12th Example. It is a front view of the input device which concerns on 12th Example. It is CC sectional drawing of the input device shown in FIG. It is a block diagram of the input device which concerns on 12th Example. It is an operation | movement flowchart of the input device which concerns on 12th Example. It is a perspective view of the input device which concerns on 13th Example. It is a top view of the input device which concerns on 13th Example. It is a front view of the input device which concerns on 13th Example. It is sectional drawing of the input device which concerns on 13th Example. It is a block diagram of the input device which concerns on 13th Example.

Explanation of symbols

12, 112-115, 116 Permanent magnet 21-24 Hall element 25 Bridge circuit 50, 100 Input device 55 Movable drive coil 56 Tactile stimulation element 59 Tactile stimulation device 70 CPU
71 A / D conversion circuit 72 Pointer moving circuit 74 Drive circuit 75 Booster circuit 102, 202 Operation unit 155 Drive coil

Claims (18)

An operation unit that is operated by placing a finger on it and is supported so as to be inclined.
A tactile stimulation element that stimulates the tactile sensation of the finger;
A coil that moves with the tactile stimulation element;
A magnetic force is generated between the coil and a magnet having the same outer shape as the coil;
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
An input device comprising: a control unit that controls a current flowing through the coil according to a detection result of the detection unit. An operation unit that is operated by placing a finger on it and is supported so as to be inclined.
A tactile stimulation element that stimulates the tactile sensation of the finger;
A magnet that moves with the tactile stimulation element;
A magnetic force is generated between the magnet and a coil having the same outer shape as the magnet;
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
An input device comprising: a control unit that controls a current flowing through the coil according to a detection result of the detection unit. The magnet has a cylindrical shape,
The input device according to claim 1, wherein the coil is a double coil. The input device according to claim 3, wherein the double coil is configured such that a current flows in an opposite direction between the outside and the inside. An operation unit that is operated by placing a finger on it and is supported so as to be inclined.
A cylindrical magnet;
A first coil for generating a magnetic force with the magnet;
A second coil disposed inside the first coil and generating a magnetic force with the magnet;
A tactile stimulation element that stimulates the tactile sensation of the finger;
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
An input device comprising: a control unit that controls a current flowing through the first coil and the second coil in accordance with a detection result of the detection unit. An operation unit that is operated by placing a finger on it and is supported so as to be inclined.
A tactile stimulation element that stimulates the tactile sensation of the finger;
A part of the tactile stimulation element moves together with the magnetic force generating means for generating a predetermined magnetic force,
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
A control unit for controlling the magnetic force generated from the magnetic force generating means according to the detection result of the detecting means,
The magnetic force generating means includes a cylindrical magnet,
An input device comprising: a double coil for generating a magnetic force with the magnet. An operation unit that is operated by placing a finger on it and is supported so as to be inclined.
A cylindrical magnet;
A double coil for generating magnetic force with the magnet;
A tactile stimulation element that moves together with the magnet or the double coil to stimulate a tactile sense;
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
An input device comprising: a control unit that controls a current flowing through the double coil according to a detection result of the detection unit. The input device according to claim 6, wherein the double coil is configured so that a current flows in an opposite direction between an outer side and an inner side. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the input device further includes the yoke. An operation unit supported in a tiltable manner;
A first magnet disposed in the operation unit;
A coil for generating a magnetic force with the first magnet;
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
An input device comprising: control means for controlling a current flowing through the coil in accordance with a detection result of the detection means. The input device according to claim 10, wherein the first magnet is disposed on a shaft portion of the operation unit. The input device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein at least two of the first magnets are provided. The input device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the first magnet is a cylindrical magnet. The input device according to claim 10, wherein the first magnet is a cylindrical magnet. An operation unit supported in a tiltable manner;
A first magnet;
A coil that is provided in the operation unit and generates a predetermined magnetic force with the first magnet;
Detecting means for detecting an operation state of the operation unit;
An input device comprising: control means for controlling a current flowing through the coil in accordance with a detection result of the detection means. The input device according to claim 10, wherein the detection unit detects a magnetic field generated by the first magnet. The input device further includes a second magnet disposed in the operation unit,
The input device according to claim 10, wherein the detection unit detects a magnetic field generated by the second magnet. An electronic device equipped with an input device,
The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the input device is the input device according to claim 1.

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