JP2006324083A

JP2006324083A - Multidirectional input device

Info

Publication number: JP2006324083A
Application number: JP2005145130A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Motonari Sasaki; 基成佐々木
Original assignee: Alps Electric Co Ltd
Current assignee: Alps Alpine Co Ltd
Priority date: 2005-05-16
Filing date: 2005-05-18
Publication date: 2006-11-30
Also published as: KR20060118347A; CN1881503A; CN100477051C; JP2006318859A; KR100807613B1; JP4551274B2

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a multidirectional input device having excellent assembly efficiency and exhibiting the stable performance of a switching operation. <P>SOLUTION: A lid body 13 is formed by sandwiching a restoration member 14 formed of an elastic member between a lower member 15 arranged on the lower side and an upper member 16 arranged on the upper side and by engaging and integrating, with each other, lock means 16e and 15e for tentative retention formed on the upper member 16 and the lower member 15. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

本発明は、携帯電話機、携帯用音楽再生機器、ゲーム機用コントローラなどの各種電子機器において方位入力操作手段として搭載される多方向入力装置に関する。 The present invention relates to a multidirectional input device mounted as a direction input operation means in various electronic devices such as a mobile phone, a portable music player, and a game machine controller.

従来の多方向入力装置の構造を図７により説明する。 The structure of a conventional multidirectional input device will be described with reference to FIG.

図７に示す多方向入力装置は、樹脂製で上部に開口部を有する凹形の筐体１０１を有している。前記筐体１０１の底面には接続端子１０２と導通した外側固定接点１０３Ａ，１０３Ｂおよび接続端子１０４と導通した中央固定接点１０５がインサート成形により固定されており、前記外側固定接点１０３Ａ，１０３Ｂ上には弾性金属薄板製のダイアフラム状の可動接点１０６の外周下端が載置されている。また、筐体１の前記開口部の周縁部となる上端面には複数の突起１０９が形成されている。 The multidirectional input device shown in FIG. 7 has a concave casing 101 made of resin and having an opening at the top. Outer fixed contacts 103A and 103B that are electrically connected to the connection terminal 102 and a central fixed contact 105 that is electrically connected to the connection terminal 104 are fixed to the bottom surface of the casing 101 by insert molding, and the outer fixed contacts 103A and 103B are fixed on the outer fixed contact 103A and 103B. The lower end of the outer periphery of the diaphragm-like movable contact 106 made of an elastic metal thin plate is placed. In addition, a plurality of protrusions 109 are formed on the upper end surface that is the peripheral edge of the opening of the housing 1.

そして、前記多方向入力装置は、操作時に押圧する上側凸部１０７Ａと、フランジ部１０７Ｂを有する大径部１０７Ｃおよび上記可動接点１０６の中央頂点部に当接する下側凸部１０７Ｄからなり、弾性を有するゴムにより形成された操作体１０７を有している。前記操作体１０７は、前記フランジ部１０７Ｂに形成された複数の突起嵌合孔（図示せず）にそれぞれ前記突起１０９を挿通させつつ、前記フランジ部１０７Ｂを筐体１０１の上端面１０１Ａに載置させ、開口部を覆うようにして配置されている。 The multi-directional input device includes an upper convex portion 107A that is pressed during operation, a large-diameter portion 107C having a flange portion 107B, and a lower convex portion 107D that abuts the central apex portion of the movable contact 106. The operation body 107 is made of rubber. The operating body 107 places the flange portion 107B on the upper end surface 101A of the housing 101 while inserting the protrusions 109 through a plurality of protrusion fitting holes (not shown) formed in the flange portion 107B. And arranged so as to cover the opening.

また、前記操作体１０７の上には、中央に上側凸部１０７Ａを挿通させる孔（中央孔）が形成された蓋体１０８が、前記中央孔に上側凸部１０７Ａを挿通させるとともに、前記中央孔の周囲に形成された複数の突起嵌合孔（図示せず）にそれぞれ前記突起１０９を挿通させつつ、上記前記操作体１０７のフランジ部１０７Ｂを前記上端面１０１ａとの間に挟み込むようにして重ねられている。そして、前記操作体１０７および蓋体１０８は、筐体１０１の上端面１０１Ａの角部に配設された突起１０９をかしめることにより固定されている（特許文献１を参照）。 Further, a lid body 108 having a hole (center hole) through which the upper convex portion 107A is inserted at the center is formed on the operation body 107, and the upper convex portion 107A is inserted through the central hole. The flanges 107B of the operating body 107 are overlapped with the upper end surface 101a while inserting the protrusions 109 through a plurality of protrusion fitting holes (not shown) formed around It has been. The operation body 107 and the lid body 108 are fixed by caulking a protrusion 109 disposed at a corner of the upper end surface 101A of the housing 101 (see Patent Document 1).

国際公開第９６／３０９２０号パンフレットInternational Publication No. 96/30920 Pamphlet

前述したように、従来の多方向入力装置は、操作体１０７に形成された突起嵌合孔に前記筐体１０１に形成された突起１０９を貫通させるとともにフランジ部１０７Ｂを筐体１０１の前記上端部に載置させる位置決めをした後、前記蓋体１０８に形成された中央孔に前記上側凸部１０７Ａを貫通させるとともに、前記突起嵌合孔に前記筐体１０１に形成された突起１０９を貫通させて位置決めをし、その後、前記突起１０９をかしめて取付けるという組み立て工程を経ねばならず、組立作業性が悪いものであった。 As described above, in the conventional multidirectional input device, the protrusion 109 formed in the casing 101 is passed through the protrusion fitting hole formed in the operation body 107 and the flange portion 107B is connected to the upper end portion of the casing 101. After the positioning to be placed on the upper body 108, the upper convex portion 107A is passed through the central hole formed in the lid body 108, and the protrusion 109 formed in the housing 101 is passed through the protrusion fitting hole. The assembly process of positioning and then caulking and attaching the protrusion 109 must be performed, and the assembly workability is poor.

また、筐体１０１の上端面１０１Ａの突起１０９をかしめる力が不充分で、操作体１０７のフランジ部１０７Ｂを筐体１０１の上端面１０１Ａと蓋体１０８との間で挟持している力が弱い場合等に、操作体１０７を高荷重で押圧するとフランジ部１０７Ｂが中心下方へ引かれて筐体１０１の内部へ引き込まれて変形し、スイッチとして機能しなくなることがあった。 Further, the force for caulking the protrusion 109 on the upper end surface 101A of the casing 101 is insufficient, and the force for clamping the flange portion 107B of the operating body 107 between the upper end surface 101A of the casing 101 and the lid body 108 is insufficient. When the operation body 107 is pressed with a high load when it is weak, the flange portion 107B is pulled downward in the center and is pulled into the housing 101 to be deformed, which may not function as a switch.

このようにゴムにより構成された操作体は、操作体の一部のゴムを撓めて入力操作を行い、ゴムの弾性力を利用して該操作体を初期位置へ復元させる構成となるため、前記ゴムの端部は堅強に固定支持されている必要がある。 Since the operation body constituted by rubber in this way is configured to bend the rubber part of the operation body and perform an input operation, and to restore the operation body to the initial position using the elastic force of the rubber, The end portion of the rubber needs to be firmly fixed and supported.

そこで、本発明はこれらの点に鑑みてなされたものであり、組立作業性が良好であり、スイッチング操作の安定した性能を示す多方向入力装置を提供することにある。 Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of these points, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a multidirectional input device that has good assembling workability and exhibits stable performance of switching operation.

前述した目的を達成する本発明の多方向入力装置の特徴は、上面に開口部を有する平面円形状の空洞部を有する筐体、前記空洞部内に配設され、円周上におけるスイッチ操作を検出する円周部用入力手段、径方向に傾倒操作されることにより前記円周部用入力手段の円周上におけるスイッチ操作を行なう環状の円周部用押圧部を有する操作部材、および、前記操作部材を操作可能に保持しつつ、前記開口部を塞ぐようにして取付手段により筐体に配設された蓋体を備えた多方向入力装置であって、前記蓋体は、弾性部材からなる復帰部材が、下方に配設された下部部材と、上方に配設された上部部材とにより挟持され、前記上部部材と前記下部部材とに形成された仮止め用係止手段を係合させて一体に形成されている点にある。 The multi-directional input device of the present invention that achieves the above-described object is characterized in that a casing having a planar circular cavity having an opening on the upper surface, and a switch operation on the circumference arranged in the cavity are detected. A circumferential portion input means, an operation member having an annular circumferential portion pressing portion that performs a switch operation on the circumference of the circumferential portion input means by being tilted in a radial direction, and the operation A multidirectional input device including a lid disposed on a housing by an attachment means so as to close the opening while holding the member operably, and the lid is a return made of an elastic member A member is sandwiched between a lower member disposed below and an upper member disposed above, and is engaged by engaging a temporary locking engagement means formed on the upper member and the lower member. It is in the point formed.

この構成を有する多方向入力装置によれば、前記操作部材の操作時に撓められた反力を用いて前記操作部材を初期位置へ復元させる復帰部材を、下方に配設された下部部材と上方に配設された上部部材とで挟持された状態で仮止め用係止手段により仮固定され一体とされているので、フック等の取付手段を用いて筐体に係止させる組立作業が簡単になる。そして、前記蓋体には前記復帰部材が上部部材と下部部材により挟持されているので、結果的に、復帰部材を簡単かつ確実に配置することができる。 According to the multidirectional input device having this configuration, the return member that restores the operation member to the initial position using the reaction force deflected during the operation of the operation member is disposed above the lower member disposed below Since it is temporarily fixed and integrated with the temporary fixing locking means while being sandwiched between the upper members disposed in the upper member, the assembly work for locking to the housing using the mounting means such as a hook is easy. Become. And since the said return member is clamped by the said cover body by the upper member and the lower member, as a result, a return member can be arrange | positioned easily and reliably.

また、本発明の多方向入力装置の別の特徴は、前記復帰部材は、中央に前記操作部材を嵌挿させる中央孔が形成され、前記操作部材の径方向に伸縮可能な断面波状の撓み形成部と、該撓み形成部の周縁に連接されたフランジ部とを備え、前記下部部材は、中央に前記操作部材をスライド操作可能に遊嵌させる中央孔が形成され、少なくとも前記円周部用入力手段と前記円周部用押圧部の外縁部の上方を常に覆うようにして配設される庇体と、前記庇体の外周に配設され、前記復帰部材のフランジ部と平面略同形状に形成されたフランジ部とを備え、前記フランジ部の少なくとも対向する一対の側辺に２種の部材を組み合わせて用いる仮止め用係止手段の一方の部材が形成されており、前記上部部材は、中央に前記撓み形成部を配置させる中央孔が形成され、前記復帰部材のフランジ部と平面略同形状に形成された上板部と、前記上板部の少なくとも一部の側辺に連接され、前記上板部の下方に、前記復帰部材および下部部材の側辺位置を規制しつつ収納するとともに前記筐体を嵌合させる空間部を形成する側板部とを備え、前記フランジ部の少なくとも対向する一対の側板部に前記仮止め用係止手段の前記一方の部材と係合する他方の部材が形成されている点にある。 Another feature of the multi-directional input device according to the present invention is that the return member is formed with a central hole into which the operation member is fitted and inserted in the center, and is formed with a wave-like cross section that can expand and contract in the radial direction of the operation member. And a flange portion connected to the periphery of the deflection forming portion, and the lower member is formed with a central hole in the center for loosely fitting the operation member so as to be slidable, and at least the input for the circumferential portion Means and a housing arranged to always cover the outer edge of the circumferential portion pressing portion, and arranged on the outer periphery of the housing, substantially in the same plane as the flange portion of the return member. One member of a locking means for temporary fixing used in combination of two members on at least a pair of opposing sides of the flange portion, and the upper member is Center where the deflection forming part is arranged in the center Is formed, and is connected to at least a part of a side of the upper plate portion, and the return member is disposed below the upper plate portion. And a side plate portion that forms a space portion into which the housing is fitted while regulating the side position of the lower member and restricting the temporary fixing to at least a pair of the side plate portions facing each other. The other member engaging with the one member of the means is formed.

この構成を有する多方向入力装置は、前記下部部材の庇体が常に円周部用入力手段と円周部用押圧部の外縁部の上方を覆うようにして配設されることにより、操作部の操作によって撓みが生じる前記復帰部材が前記円周部用入力手段や円周部用押圧部に接触することを防止でき、前記円周部用入力手段および円周部用押圧部の耐用期間を延ばすことが可能となる。 In the multidirectional input device having this configuration, the casing of the lower member is always disposed so as to cover the outer edge of the circumferential portion input means and the circumferential portion pressing portion. It is possible to prevent the return member which is bent by the operation of the contact with the circumferential portion input means and the circumferential portion pressing portion, and to increase the service life of the circumferential portion input means and the circumferential portion pressing portion. It can be extended.

また、本発明の多方向入力装置の別の特徴は、前記仮止め用係止手段は、前記下部部材の前記フランジ部の側辺に形成された外方に突出する仮止め用突起と前記上部部材の側板部に形成され、前記仮止め用突起を係合させる仮止め用孔からなり、前記仮止め用孔の前記復帰部材の厚さ方向寸法が前記仮止め用突起の前記復帰部材の厚さ方向寸法よりも大きく形成されている点にある。 Another feature of the multi-directional input device according to the present invention is that the temporary fixing locking means includes a temporary fixing protrusion protruding outward and formed on a side of the flange portion of the lower member, and the upper portion. The temporary fixing hole is formed on a side plate portion of the member and engages the temporary fixing protrusion, and the thickness direction dimension of the return member of the temporary fixing hole is the thickness of the return member of the temporary fixing protrusion. It is in the point formed larger than the vertical dimension.

これらの構成を有する多方向入力装置は、仮止め用係止手段を簡単かつ安価に形成することができるし、前記仮止め用係止手段は、前記上部部材に形成された仮止め用孔に前記下部部材に形成された仮止め用突起を係合させることにより、簡単に前記復帰部材を介在させた状態で仮固定し、蓋体を一体とすることができる。 The multi-directional input device having these configurations can easily and inexpensively form the temporary fixing locking means, and the temporary fixing locking means is formed in the temporary fixing hole formed in the upper member. By engaging the temporarily fixing protrusions formed on the lower member, it is possible to simply fix temporarily with the return member interposed, and to integrate the lid.

また、記仮止め用孔の前記復帰部材の厚さ方向寸法を前記仮止め用突起の前記復帰部材の厚さ方向寸法よりも大きく形成することにより、前記仮止め用孔の中で、前記仮止め用突起が前記復帰部材の厚さ方向寸法に移動可能となるので、一体化された蓋体を筐体に取付ける際に、前記復帰部材を圧縮させた状態で蓋体を筐体に取付ければ、その後、前記復帰部材の反圧縮方向への弾性復元力によって蓋体を筐体に密接させて取付けることが可能となる。 Further, the temporary fixing hole in the thickness direction of the return member is formed larger than the temporary fixing protrusion in the thickness direction dimension of the return member. Since the stopper protrusion can be moved in the thickness direction dimension of the return member, when the integrated cover is attached to the housing, the cover can be attached to the housing with the return member compressed. Then, the lid can be attached in close contact with the casing by the elastic restoring force of the return member in the anti-compression direction.

さらに、本発明の多方向入力装置の別の特徴は、前記筐体への取付手段が、前記側板部の下端辺部分における前記仮止め用孔の仮想中心線上に形成されている点にある。 Furthermore, another feature of the multidirectional input device of the present invention is that the means for attaching to the housing is formed on a virtual center line of the temporary fixing hole in the lower end side portion of the side plate portion.

この構成を有する多方向入力装置は、圧縮された弾性部材の弾性力で蓋体を筐体に密着させる際に、前記弾性部材の圧縮と圧縮の解放を最も効率よく行うことができるとともに、蓋体の取付高さのばらつきを防止することができる。 The multi-directional input device having this configuration can perform compression and release of the elastic member most efficiently when the lid is brought into close contact with the casing by the elastic force of the compressed elastic member, and the lid Variations in body mounting height can be prevented.

また、本発明の多方向入力装置の別の特徴は、前記復帰部材の前記フランジ部における上面側に、前記上部部材の位置を規制する位置決め部が形成されており、前記上部部材に、前記復帰部材の位置決め部材と対応する位置決め部材が形成されている点にあり、またさらに、前記復帰部材の前記フランジ部における下面側に、前記下部部材の位置を規制する位置決め部が形成されており、前記下部部材に、前記復帰部材の位置決め部材と対応する位置決め部材が形成されている点にある。 Another feature of the multidirectional input device according to the present invention is that a positioning portion for regulating the position of the upper member is formed on the upper surface side of the flange portion of the return member, and the return member is provided with the return member. A positioning member corresponding to the positioning member of the member is formed, and further, a positioning portion for regulating the position of the lower member is formed on the lower surface side of the flange portion of the return member, A positioning member corresponding to the positioning member of the return member is formed on the lower member.

これらの構成を有する多方向入力装置は、蓋体を筐体に取付る際の前記蓋体の仮固定時に、前記上部部材と復帰部材、前記復帰部材取付板と復帰部材との位置合わせおよび係合を簡単かつ確実に行うことができ、蓋体の一体化を確実に行うことができればスイッチング操作を安定して行なうことができる。 The multi-directional input device having these configurations is configured so that the upper member and the return member, and the return member mounting plate and the return member are aligned and engaged when the lid is temporarily fixed when the lid is attached to the housing. Switching can be performed easily and reliably, and the switching operation can be performed stably if the integration of the lid can be performed reliably.

また、本発明の多方向入力装置の別の特徴は、前記各位置決め部が各部材の隅部に形成されていることにある。 Another feature of the multi-directional input device according to the present invention is that each positioning portion is formed at a corner of each member.

この構成を有する多方向入力装置は、前記各位置決め部材を隅部に配置することとし、デッドスペースとなりやすい空きスペースを有効利用することで、該装置の小型化を実現することが可能となる。 In the multidirectional input device having this configuration, the positioning members are arranged in the corners, and the space can be easily used as a dead space, so that the device can be miniaturized.

さらに、本発明の多方向入力装置の別の特徴は、環状とされた前記円周部用入力手段の内側に、中央におけるスイッチ操作を検出するための中央部用固定接点、所定の空隙をもって前記中央部用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央部用の可動接点とを備えた中央入力手段を備え、前記操作部材は、前記中央部用可動接点の上方に中央部用可動接点を押圧する中央部用押圧部を有する点にある。 Furthermore, another feature of the multi-directional input device of the present invention is that the center portion fixed contact for detecting the switch operation at the center, a predetermined gap is provided inside the circular portion input means having an annular shape. A central input means having a movable contact for the central portion disposed opposite to the fixed contact for the central portion; and the operating member has a movable contact for the central portion above the movable contact for the central portion. It is in the point which has the press part for center parts to press.

これによって、径方向へのスイッチ操作による円周上の点における入力のみならず押下方向へのスイッチ操作による中央における入力も可能となる。 Thereby, not only an input at a point on the circumference by the switch operation in the radial direction but also an input at the center by the switch operation in the pressing direction is possible.

本発明の多方向入力装置によって、スイッチング操作の安定した性能を示す多方向入力装置の組立作業性を容易にすることができる。また、多方向入力装置に実装する部品点数を削減することができ、製造コストを低廉とすることができる。 The multidirectional input device of the present invention can facilitate the assembly workability of the multidirectional input device that exhibits stable performance of the switching operation. In addition, the number of components mounted on the multidirectional input device can be reduced, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

以下、本発明の多方向入力装置における実施形態を図１乃至図６を用いて説明する。 Hereinafter, embodiments of the multidirectional input device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

本実施形態の多方向入力装置は、図１に示すように、筐体２、円周部用入力手段３，４，５、中央入力手段６，７，８、操作部材９、並びに蓋体１３を備えており、具体的には以下のように形成されている。 As shown in FIG. 1, the multidirectional input device according to the present embodiment includes a housing 2, circumferential portion input means 3, 4, 5, central input means 6, 7, 8, operation member 9, and lid 13. Specifically, it is formed as follows.

本実施形態の多方向入力装置１における筐体２は絶縁性の合成樹脂からなり、略矩形状に形成されている。 The casing 2 in the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment is made of an insulating synthetic resin and is formed in a substantially rectangular shape.

前記筐体２の上面には平面略円形状の空洞部２ａが形成されているとともに、その空洞部２ａの内側には前記空洞部２ａと同心とされた環状の凸状壁２ｂが形成されている。 A flat substantially circular cavity 2a is formed on the upper surface of the casing 2, and an annular convex wall 2b concentric with the cavity 2a is formed inside the cavity 2a. Yes.

そして、前記空洞部２ａを構成する内周壁２ｃと凸状壁２ｂのとの間に形成された平面略環状の部分は、操作部材の径方向のスライド操作による円周方向のいずれかの位置における入力を検出するための円周部用入力手段を配置するスペースとされており、該スペースには、前記円周部用入力手段を構成する円周部用固定接点３や円周部用可動接点４等が配設されている。 And the planar substantially annular portion formed between the inner peripheral wall 2c and the convex wall 2b constituting the hollow portion 2a is located at any position in the circumferential direction by the radial sliding operation of the operating member. The space is provided with a circumferential portion input means for detecting an input, and in this space, the circumferential portion fixed contact 3 and the circumferential portion movable contact constituting the circumferential portion input means. 4 etc. are arranged.

詳しくは、図２に示すように、前記円周部用入力手段用のスペースは、環状とされた環状空洞部２ｄの外周縁に９０°間隔で平面略矩形状とされた前記筐体２の４つの隅部へ向かってそれぞれ突出するように形成され、前記円周部用可動接点４の被保持部４ａを配置させる角状空洞部２ｅが前記環状空洞部２ｄと連接させて形成されている。 Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the space for the circumferential portion input means is a space of the casing 2 that is formed in a substantially rectangular shape at a 90 ° interval on the outer peripheral edge of the annular cavity portion 2d. A rectangular cavity 2e is formed so as to protrude toward the four corners, and is arranged to be connected to the annular cavity 2d so as to place the held portion 4a of the movable contact 4 for the circumference. .

そして、前記角状空洞部２ｅの先端部には、前記環状空洞部２ｄの底部より一段高く形成され、前記円周部用可動接点４の被保持部４ａを載置させて懸架する第１段部２ｆが形成されている。そして、４つの角状空洞部２ｅのうち２つには、周上入力用の周上共通電極５が凸部５ｃを前記第１段部２ｆの上面から突出させてインサート成型によって一体成形されている。また、各周上共通電極５は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子５ａを有している。 A first stage is formed at the tip of the rectangular cavity 2e so as to be higher than the bottom of the annular cavity 2d, and the held part 4a of the movable contact 4 for the circumferential part is placed and suspended. Part 2f is formed. Further, in two of the four rectangular cavities 2e, the circumferential common electrode 5 for circumferential input is integrally formed by insert molding with the convex portion 5c protruding from the upper surface of the first step portion 2f. Yes. In addition, each circumferential common electrode 5 has a lead terminal 5 a for leading to the outside of the housing 2.

さらに、前記環状空洞部２ｄの前記凸状壁２ｂの基部であって前記角状空洞部２ａの形成位置間となる４箇所には、前記環状空洞部２ｄの底部より一段高く形成され、前記円周部用可動接点４の被支承部４ｂを載置させて支承する第２段部２ｇが形成されている。 Further, the circular cavity 2d is formed at a base portion of the convex wall 2b and between the formation positions of the angular cavity 2a, which is formed one step higher than the bottom of the annular cavity 2d. A second step portion 2g is formed on which the supported portion 4b of the peripheral movable contact 4 is placed and supported.

そして、本実施形態においては、前記環状空洞部２ｄの前記空洞部２ａの内周壁２ｃの基部であって前記角状空洞部２ａの形成位置間となる４箇所、すなわち、前記環状空洞部２ｄにおける前記第２段部２ｇと対向する位置にはそれぞれ、３つの円周部用固定接点３を有する固定接点群３ｂがインサート成型によって筐体２と一体に配設されている。前記各円周部用固定接点３は一定の間隔をもって環状に配列するようにして形成されている。また、各円周部用固定接点群３ｂは、それぞれ筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子３ａを有している。 And in this embodiment, it is the base part of the inner peripheral wall 2c of the cavity 2a of the annular cavity 2d and is between the formation positions of the angular cavity 2a, that is, in the annular cavity 2d. A fixed contact group 3b having three fixed contacts 3 for the circumferential portion is disposed integrally with the housing 2 by insert molding at a position facing the second step portion 2g. Each of the circumferential portion fixed contacts 3 is formed to be annularly arranged at a constant interval. Each circumferential fixed contact group 3b has a lead terminal 3a for drawing out to the outside of the housing 2.

そして、前記環状空洞部２ｄには円周部用可動接点４が配置されている。 A circumferential portion movable contact 4 is disposed in the annular cavity portion 2d.

前記円周部用可動接点４は、大きな反力を生じるばねリン青銅などの金属平板材を用いて、前記環状空洞部２ｄおよび角状空洞部２ｅに収納可能な略環状に形成されている。詳しくは、円周部用可動接点４は、前記環状空洞部２ｄに収納可能な一定幅寸法の環状部を有している。前記環状部には、その外周から外側へ向かって延びる凸状の被保持部４ａが前記角状空洞部２ｅと対応するようにして９０°ずつの間隔で４箇所に形成されているとともに、その内周から内側へ向かって延びる凸状の被支承部４ｂが前記第２段部２ｇと対応するようにして、その内周に９０°ずつの間隔で４箇所に形成されている。 The circumferential portion movable contact 4 is formed in a substantially annular shape that can be accommodated in the annular cavity 2d and the square cavity 2e by using a metal flat plate material such as spring phosphor bronze that generates a large reaction force. Specifically, the circumferential movable contact 4 has an annular portion having a constant width dimension that can be accommodated in the annular cavity 2d. In the annular portion, convex held portions 4a extending outward from the outer periphery thereof are formed at four positions at intervals of 90 ° so as to correspond to the square hollow portion 2e, and Convex supported portions 4b extending inwardly from the inner periphery are formed at four locations at intervals of 90 ° on the inner periphery so as to correspond to the second step portion 2g.

前記凸状壁２ｂの内側の円状空洞部２ｈは、中央入力手段を配置するスペースとされており、該スペース内には上記中央入力手段を構成する円周部用固定接点３と円周部用可動接点４とが配設されている。 The circular hollow portion 2h inside the convex wall 2b is a space in which a central input means is disposed, and the circumferential portion fixed contact 3 and the circumferential portion constituting the central input means are included in the space. A movable contact 4 is provided.

詳しくは、前記円状空洞部２ｈには、中央部用固定接点６がインサート成型によって一体成形されている。この中央部用固定接点６は、その中央部用固定接点６に形成された凸部６ｃのみが突出しながら露出するように配設されている。そして、この中央部用固定接点６は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子６ａを有している。 Specifically, the center fixed contact 6 is integrally formed in the circular cavity 2h by insert molding. The central fixed contact 6 is disposed such that only the convex portion 6c formed on the central fixed contact 6 is exposed while protruding. The central fixed contact 6 has a lead terminal 6 a for drawing out to the outside of the housing 2.

また、前記円状空洞部２ｈには、中央部用共通電極８がインサート成型によって前記中央部用固定接点６の外周を接触せずに囲むようなＵ字形状に形成されている。 Further, in the circular cavity portion 2h, a central portion common electrode 8 is formed in a U shape so as to surround the outer periphery of the central portion fixed contact 6 without contact by insert molding.

この中央部用共通電極８は、Ｕ字状の中央部用共通電極８に形成された凸部８ｃのみがその底部から突出するように形成されている。そして、この中央部用共通電極８は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子８ａを有している。 The central portion common electrode 8 is formed such that only the convex portion 8c formed on the U-shaped central portion common electrode 8 protrudes from the bottom. The central common electrode 8 has a lead terminal 8 a for drawing out to the outside of the housing 2.

さらに、前記円状空洞部２ｈには、中央部用可動接点７が配設されている。 Further, the central movable contact 7 is disposed in the circular cavity 2h.

前記中央部用可動接点７は、上方に向かって突出するドーム状に形成された湾曲部７ａと、中央部用共通電極の凸部８ｃと接触する台座部７ｂとを有している。また、前記中央部用可動接点７は、所定の空隙をもって中央部用固定接点８と対向して配設されている。また、この台座部７ｂの直径は、中央部用共通電極８の対向する各凸部８ｃ間の距離と同等となっている。そして、前記中央部用可動接点７は、その上方から中央部用可動接点８を覆う固着用樹脂シート７ｃによって、湾曲自在に固着されている。 The central movable contact 7 has a curved portion 7a formed in a dome shape protruding upward, and a pedestal portion 7b in contact with the convex portion 8c of the central common electrode. The central movable contact 7 is disposed to face the central fixed contact 8 with a predetermined gap. Moreover, the diameter of this base part 7b is equivalent to the distance between each convex part 8c which the common electrode 8 for center parts opposes. The central movable contact 7 is fixed to bendable by an adhesive resin sheet 7c covering the central movable contact 8 from above.

そして、本実施形態においては、前記筐体２の底面における各辺中央部には、後述する取付手段を係止させる取付用凹部２ｉが形成されている。 And in this embodiment, the recessed part 2i for attachment which latches the attachment means mentioned later is formed in each side center part in the bottom face of the said housing | casing 2. As shown in FIG.

また、前記操作部材９は、操作体１０、中央部用押圧部材１１、および円周部用押圧部材１２を有している。 The operation member 9 includes an operation body 10, a central pressing member 11, and a circumferential pressing member 12.

操作体１０は、円柱状に形成された操作部１０ａの下方に、中央部用押圧部材１１と係合する凸部１０ｂを有して形成されている。 The operation body 10 is formed with a convex portion 10b that engages with the central pressing member 11 below the operation portion 10a formed in a columnar shape.

円周部用押圧部材１２は、円周部用可動接点４の内径と同程度の直径を有して円形鍔状に形成されている。この円周部用押圧部材１２は、その外周下方に円周部用可動接点４を押圧する円周部用押圧部１２ａを有しているとともに、その中央付近に中央孔１２ｂを有している。また、その中央孔１２ｂの外周上方には、円形凸状の凸壁１２ｃが形成されている。 The circumferential portion pressing member 12 has a diameter similar to the inner diameter of the circumferential portion movable contact 4 and is formed in a circular bowl shape. The circumferential portion pressing member 12 has a circumferential portion pressing portion 12a for pressing the circumferential portion movable contact 4 below the outer periphery, and a central hole 12b in the vicinity of the center thereof. . A circular convex convex wall 12c is formed above the outer periphery of the central hole 12b.

中央部用押圧部材１１は、操作部材の押下方向順に、円周部用押圧部材１２の中央孔１２ｂと同程度の直径を有して円柱状に形成された挿着部１１ａと、挿着部１１ａの直径よりも大きな直径を有して円形状に形成された抑止部１１ｂとを有している。また、挿着部１１ａは、操作体１０の凸部１０ｂと係合する凹部１１ｃを有しており、抑止部１１ｂは、その下方に、中央部用円周部用可動接点４７を押圧する凸状の中央部用押圧部１１ｄを有している。そして、中央部用押圧部材１１は、円周部用押圧部材１２の中央孔１２ｂに挿着部１１ａを挿通しつつ、操作体１０の凸部１０ｂと中央部用押圧部材１１の凹部１１ｃとを係合して筐体２内に配設されている。 The center pressing member 11 includes a columnar insertion portion 11a having a diameter similar to that of the central hole 12b of the circumferential portion pressing member 12 in the order in which the operation member is pressed, and an insertion portion. And a restraining portion 11b having a diameter larger than that of 11a and formed in a circular shape. Moreover, the insertion part 11a has the recessed part 11c engaged with the convex part 10b of the operation body 10, and the suppression part 11b has the convex which presses the movable contact 47 for circumference | surroundings parts for a center part in the downward direction. A central central pressing portion 11d. Then, the central pressing member 11 inserts the insertion portion 11a into the central hole 12b of the circumferential pressing member 12, while the convex portion 10b of the operating body 10 and the concave portion 11c of the central pressing member 11 are inserted. It is engaged and disposed in the housing 2.

また、蓋体１３は、復帰部材１４、下部部材としての復帰部材固定板１５、ならびに上部部材としての筐体取付板１６を有している。 The lid 13 includes a return member 14, a return member fixing plate 15 as a lower member, and a housing mounting plate 16 as an upper member.

復帰部材１４は、ゴムやエラストマー等の弾性部材からなり、復帰部材固定板１５の外形と同程度の大きさの外形を有して形成されている。 The return member 14 is made of an elastic member such as rubber or elastomer, and has an outer shape of the same size as the outer shape of the return member fixing plate 15.

復帰部材１４は、中央に形成された前記操作部材９の挿着部１１ａを嵌挿させる中央孔１４ａと、前記操作部材９の径方向における移動許容量以上の撓み量を確保するため、断面波状の撓み形成部１４ｂが形成されている。前記撓み形成部１４ｂは前記中央孔１４ａと同心状に少なくとも１つ形成されており、前記撓み形成部１４ｂの周縁にはフランジ部１４ｄが連接されている。前記撓み形成部１４ｂは、前記フランジ部１４ｄと連接する周縁を立上り部として前記フランジ部１４ｂより上方へ突出するステージ状に形成されている。 The return member 14 has a central hole 14a into which the insertion portion 11a of the operation member 9 formed in the center is fitted, and a wavy cross section in order to ensure a bending amount that is greater than the allowable movement amount in the radial direction of the operation member 9. Is formed. At least one bend forming portion 14b is formed concentrically with the central hole 14a, and a flange portion 14d is connected to the periphery of the bend forming portion 14b. The bending forming portion 14b is formed in a stage shape that protrudes upward from the flange portion 14b with a peripheral edge connected to the flange portion 14d as a rising portion.

撓み形成部１４ｂは、該撓み形成部１４ｂの弾性部材を前記操作部材のスライド操作時には撓めつつ操作し、操作後に、その反力を利用して操作部材９のスライド操作方向に対して当該操作部材９の配設初期位置へ復元させるように作用する。 The bending forming portion 14b operates while bending the elastic member of the bending forming portion 14b during the sliding operation of the operation member, and after the operation, the operation is performed with respect to the sliding operation direction of the operating member 9 using the reaction force. It acts to restore the initial position of the member 9.

また、前記フランジ部１４ｄの上面における４つの隅部には、筐体取付板１６の位置決め辺を嵌合させる位置決め部としての位置決め突起１４ｅが形成されており、前記フランジ部１４ｄの下面における四つの隅部には、復帰部材固定板１５の挿通孔１５ｂに嵌入させる位置決め部としての位置決め突起１４ｆが形成されている。そして、本実施形態においては、前記位置決め突起１４ｆは、蓋体１３を筐体２に取付た際に、前記角状空洞部２ｅに収納された前記円周部用可動接点４の被保持部４ａを第１段部２ｆおよび円周部用共通電極５に押圧するように作用する（図３参照）。 Further, positioning protrusions 14e as positioning portions for fitting the positioning sides of the housing mounting plate 16 are formed at the four corners on the upper surface of the flange portion 14d, and the four on the lower surface of the flange portion 14d. Positioning projections 14 f are formed at the corners as positioning portions that are fitted into the insertion holes 15 b of the return member fixing plate 15. In the present embodiment, the positioning protrusion 14f is formed by the held portion 4a of the circumferential portion movable contact 4 housed in the square cavity portion 2e when the lid 13 is attached to the housing 2. Acts on the first step portion 2f and the circumferential portion common electrode 5 (see FIG. 3).

また、この復帰部材１４には、中央孔１４ａを除いて、外部から筐体２内部に水分や塵などが侵入するおそれのある孔が形成されておらず、筐体２に形成された開口部を覆う蓋部として作用する。 In addition, the return member 14 is not provided with a hole that may allow moisture or dust to enter the housing 2 from the outside, except for the central hole 14a. It acts as a lid that covers

下部部材としての復帰部材固定板１５は、前記復帰部材１４の下面側に配設されて前記復帰部材１４を支持する金属からなるプレート状の部材であり、前記筐体２の外周と同程度の大きさを有する外形矩形状に形成されている。また、この復帰部材固定板１５の中央付近には、前記凸壁１２ｄの直径よりも大きな直径を有し、前記操作部材９をスライド操作可能に遊嵌させる中央孔１５ａが形成されており、前記円周部用入力手段と前記円周部用押圧部材１２の外縁部の上方を常に覆うようにして配設される庇体１２ｃと、前記庇体１２ｃの外周に配設され、前記復帰部材１４のフランジ部１４ｄと平面略同形状に形成されたフランジ部１５ｄとを備えている。 The return member fixing plate 15 as a lower member is a plate-like member made of metal that is disposed on the lower surface side of the return member 14 and supports the return member 14, and is approximately the same as the outer periphery of the housing 2. It is formed in a rectangular shape having a size. Further, a central hole 15a having a diameter larger than the diameter of the convex wall 12d and allowing the operation member 9 to be slidably fitted is formed in the vicinity of the center of the return member fixing plate 15, A casing 12c disposed so as to always cover the circumference portion input means and the outer edge portion of the circumferential portion pressing member 12, and a return member 14 disposed on the outer periphery of the casing 12c. 14d and a flange portion 15d formed in substantially the same shape as a plane.

前記フランジ部１５ｄにおける側辺には、仮止め用係止手段を構成する仮止め用突起１５ｅが前記フランジ部１５ｄから外方に突出するようにして形成されている。 On the side of the flange portion 15d, a temporary fixing protrusion 15e that constitutes a temporary fixing locking means is formed so as to protrude outward from the flange portion 15d.

また、復帰部材固定板１５の四つの隅部には、前記復帰部材１４の底面の四つの隅部に形成された位置決め突起１４ｆと対応する位置決め部として、挿通孔１５ｂがそれぞれ穿設されている。 Further, insertion holes 15b are formed in the four corners of the return member fixing plate 15 as positioning portions corresponding to the positioning protrusions 14f formed at the four corners of the bottom surface of the return member 14, respectively. .

そして、復帰部材固定板１５は、該蓋体１３を筐体２に取付けた際に、円周部用押圧部材１２の上方に配設され、操作部材９を任意の径方向にスライド移動させると、円周部用押圧部材１２が凸状壁２ｂの上面および復帰部材固定板１５の中央孔１３ａの下部に摺動しながらスライド移動自在に狭持されるようになっている。 The return member fixing plate 15 is disposed above the circumferential portion pressing member 12 when the lid 13 is attached to the housing 2, and the operating member 9 is slid in an arbitrary radial direction. The circumferential pressing member 12 is slidably held while sliding on the upper surface of the convex wall 2b and the lower portion of the central hole 13a of the return member fixing plate 15.

上部部材としての筐体取付板１６は、前記復帰部材１４の上面側に配設されて前記復帰部材１４の外周部を保持する金属からなるプレート状の部材であり、前記筐体２の外周と同程度の大きさを有する外形矩形状に形成されている。 The housing mounting plate 16 as an upper member is a plate-like member made of metal that is disposed on the upper surface side of the return member 14 and holds the outer periphery of the return member 14. It is formed in a rectangular shape having the same size.

この筐体取付板１６は、中央に前記撓み形成部１４ｂを配置させる中央孔１６ａが形成され、前記復帰部材１４のフランジ部１４ｄと平面略同形状に形成された上板部１６ｂと、前記上板部１６ｂの側辺に連接され、前記上板部１６ｂの下方に延在する側板部１６ｃとを備えている。前記上板部１６ａと側板部１６ｃとに囲まれた空間部は前記復帰部材１４および復帰部材固定板１５の側面位置を規制しつつ前記筐体２の少なくとも上側の一部を嵌合させて収納する空間部となる。 The housing mounting plate 16 has a central hole 16a in which the deflection forming portion 14b is disposed at the center, and an upper plate portion 16b formed in substantially the same shape as the flange portion 14d of the return member 14, and the upper plate portion 16b. A side plate portion 16c connected to the side of the plate portion 16b and extending below the upper plate portion 16b is provided. A space surrounded by the upper plate portion 16a and the side plate portion 16c is accommodated by fitting at least a part of the upper side of the housing 2 while regulating the side surface positions of the return member 14 and the return member fixing plate 15. It becomes a space part to do.

また、前記各側板部１６ｃにおける幅方向中央部には、仮止め用係止手段として形成された前記復帰部材固定板１５の仮止め用突起１５ｅを係合させる仮止め用孔１６ｅが形成されている。 Further, a temporary fixing hole 16e for engaging a temporary fixing protrusion 15e of the return member fixing plate 15 formed as a temporary fixing locking means is formed at the center in the width direction of each side plate portion 16c. Yes.

そして、前記仮止め用孔１６ｅの前記復帰部材１４の厚さ方向寸法、すなわち高さ寸法は、前記仮止め用突起１５ｅの復帰部材の厚さ方向寸法よりも大きく形成されている。 The dimension in the thickness direction, that is, the height dimension of the return member 14 of the temporary fixing hole 16e is formed larger than the dimension in the thickness direction of the return member of the temporary fixing protrusion 15e.

また、前記側板部１６ｃの下端辺部分における前記仮止め用孔１６ｅの中央仮想線上には、前記筐体２への取付手段としての取付用舌片１６ｆが形成されており、この取付用舌片１６ｆの先端部を所定の寸法位置でかしめて前記筐体２の取付用凹部２ｉに嵌合させることで蓋体１３を筐体２に対して固定するようになされている。 An attachment tongue 16f as attachment means to the housing 2 is formed on the central imaginary line of the temporary fixing hole 16e at the lower end side portion of the side plate portion 16c. The lid 13 is fixed to the housing 2 by caulking the front end portion of 16f at a predetermined size position and fitting it into the mounting recess 2i of the housing 2.

また、前記筐体取付板６の４つの隅部は面取りされ、その端辺部分は前記復帰部材１４の位置決め突起１４ｆに対応する位置決め部（位置決め用端辺）１６ｇとして形成されている。 Further, the four corners of the housing mounting plate 6 are chamfered, and the end portions thereof are formed as positioning portions (positioning end sides) 16g corresponding to the positioning protrusions 14f of the return member 14.

本実施形態の多方向入力装置１においては、前記蓋体３は次のような手順で組立作業がなされる。 In the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment, the lid 3 is assembled in the following procedure.

すなわち、弾性部材からなる復帰部材１４は、操作部材９の操作時に前記波状撓み形成部１４ｂが撓められ、反力を用いて前記操作部材９の操作体１０を初期位置へ復元させるという重要な役割を果たす。その復帰部材１４を下方に配設する復帰部材固定板１５と、上方に配設する筐体取付板１６とで挟持し、前記筐体取付板１６に形成された仮止め用係止手段としての仮止め用孔１６ｅに、前記復帰部材固定板１５とに形成された仮止め用係止手段としての仮止め用突起１５ｅを係合させて仮固定し、蓋体１３を構成する各部材１４，１５，１６を一体として蓋体１３とする。 That is, the return member 14 made of an elastic member is important in that the wave-like bending forming portion 14b is bent when the operation member 9 is operated, and the operating body 10 of the operation member 9 is restored to the initial position by using a reaction force. Play a role. The return member 14 is sandwiched between a return member fixing plate 15 disposed below and a housing mounting plate 16 disposed above, and serves as a temporary fixing locking means formed on the housing mounting plate 16. Temporary fixing projections 15e as temporary fixing locking means formed on the return member fixing plate 15 are engaged with the temporary fixing holes 16e to be temporarily fixed. 15 and 16 are integrated into a lid 13.

このように、本実施形態の多方向入力装置１においては、前記仮止め用係止手段を前記復帰部材固定板の前記フランジ部の側辺に形成された外方に突出する仮止め用突起と、前記筐体取付板１６の側壁に形成され前記仮止め用突起を係合させる仮止め用孔とすることで、仮止め用係止手段を簡単かつ安価に形成することができる。また、簡単な動作で前記復帰部材を介在させた状態で仮固定することができる。 Thus, in the multi-directional input device 1 of the present embodiment, the temporary fixing locking means is formed on the side of the flange portion of the return member fixing plate and protrudes outward temporarily. By using the temporary fixing hole formed on the side wall of the housing mounting plate 16 to engage the temporary fixing projection, the temporary fixing locking means can be formed easily and inexpensively. Further, it can be temporarily fixed with the return member interposed by a simple operation.

また、仮固定の際には、本実施形態の多方向入力装置１においては、前記復帰部材固定板１５の４つの隅部に形成された前記挿通孔１５ｂに、前記復帰部材１４の前記フランジ部１４ｄにおける下面の４つの隅部に形成された対応する前記位置決め突起１４ｅを嵌入させることにより、前記復帰部材１４とそれを下方から支承する復帰部材固定板１５との位置合わせをすることができる。 Further, when temporarily fixed, in the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment, the flange portion of the return member 14 is inserted into the insertion holes 15b formed at the four corners of the return member fixing plate 15. By fitting the corresponding positioning protrusions 14e formed at the four corners of the lower surface of 14d, the return member 14 and the return member fixing plate 15 that supports it from below can be aligned.

また、前記復帰部材１４の前記撓み形成部１４ｂを筐体取付板１６に形成された前記中央孔１６ａ内から上方へ突出させて配置させ、それとともに、前記復帰部材１４の前記フランジ部１４ｄにおける上面の４つの隅部に形成された位置決め突起１４ｆの内側面を、前記筐体取付板１６の４つの隅部に形成された位置決め用端辺と沿わせるようにして位置合わせをする。 Further, the deflection forming portion 14b of the return member 14 is disposed so as to protrude upward from the center hole 16a formed in the housing mounting plate 16, and at the same time, the upper surface of the return member 14 at the flange portion 14d. The positioning projections 14f formed at the four corners are aligned so that the inner side surfaces of the positioning projections 14f are aligned with the positioning edges formed at the four corners of the housing mounting plate 16.

本実施形態の多方向入力装置１においては、前記位置決め手段を用いることにより、前記筐体取付板１６と復帰部材１４、前記復帰部材取付板１５と復帰部材１４との位置合わせを簡単かつ確実に行うことができる。 In the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment, the positioning means is used to easily and reliably align the housing mounting plate 16 and the return member 14, and the return member mounting plate 15 and the return member 14. It can be carried out.

さらに、前記位置決め手段を、対応する各部材１４，１５，１６の隅部に配置することとし、デッドスペースとなりやすい空きスペースを有効利用することで、筐体２の外形を大きくすることなく、多方向入力装置１の小型化に貢献することが可能となる。 Further, the positioning means is arranged at the corners of the corresponding members 14, 15 and 16, and by effectively utilizing the empty space that tends to become a dead space, the outer shape of the housing 2 is not increased. It becomes possible to contribute to miniaturization of the direction input device 1.

続いて、仮止めされて一体とされた前記蓋体１３の筐体取付板１６の下方に形成された空間部を筐体２に上側から嵌合させ、前記蓋体１３の筐体取付板１６を筐体２側へ押圧し、弾性部材からなる前記復帰部材１４を圧縮させつつ、取付手段としての取付用舌片１６ｆを所定の寸法位置で折り曲げ、前記筐体２の底部に形成された取付用凹部２ｉ内にその先端部を収納するようにして前記筐体２の上面に蓋体１３を取付ける。 Subsequently, the space portion formed below the housing mounting plate 16 of the lid 13 that is temporarily fixed and integrated is fitted into the housing 2 from above, and the housing mounting plate 16 of the lid 13 is fitted. The attachment tongue 16f as the attachment means is bent at a predetermined dimension position while the return member 14 made of an elastic member is compressed by pressing the attachment member 2 toward the case 2, and the attachment formed at the bottom of the case 2 The lid 13 is attached to the upper surface of the housing 2 so that the tip end portion is accommodated in the concave portion 2i.

このとき、蓋体１３の取付高さは前記取付用舌片１６ｆの長さ寸法に規制され、調整されることとなるが、前記復帰部材１４のフランジ部１４ｄを厚さ方向において圧縮させた状態で取付け、その後、圧縮状態を解放すると、前記取付高さの範囲内において、復帰部材１４は弾性部材の有する弾性復元力によって蓋体１３の復帰部材固定板１５を筐体２側に密接させるように作用する。その際、前記仮止め用突起１５ｅは、前記筐体取付板１６と復帰部材固定板１５の間に挟持された前記復帰部材１４が圧縮された状態においては、仮止め用孔１６ｅ内における上方に位置し、その後、圧縮が解放されると前記復帰部材１４を構成する弾性部材の弾性復元力によって蓋体１３の復帰部材固定板１５が筐体２側に押しつけられることに伴い、仮止め用孔１６ｅ内における下方に移動することとなる。 At this time, the mounting height of the lid 13 is regulated and adjusted by the length of the mounting tongue 16f, but the flange portion 14d of the return member 14 is compressed in the thickness direction. When the compressed state is released after that, the return member 14 brings the return member fixing plate 15 of the lid 13 into close contact with the housing 2 side by the elastic restoring force of the elastic member within the range of the attachment height. Act on. At that time, the temporary fixing protrusion 15e is located above the temporary fixing hole 16e when the return member 14 sandwiched between the housing mounting plate 16 and the return member fixing plate 15 is compressed. Then, when the compression is released, the return member fixing plate 15 of the lid 13 is pressed against the housing 2 side by the elastic restoring force of the elastic member constituting the return member 14, and the temporary fixing hole It will move downward in 16e.

また、蓋体１３の取付高さのばらつきを無くすことができれば、例えば、アースをとるための半田付けを良好に行なうことができる。 Moreover, if the variation in the mounting height of the lid 13 can be eliminated, for example, soldering for grounding can be performed satisfactorily.

また、本実施形態においては、前記筐体２への取付手段としての取付用舌片１６ｆを前記仮止め用孔１６ｅの中央仮想線上に形成することにより、圧縮された弾性部材の弾性復元力で蓋体１３を筐体２に密着させる際に、前記復帰部材の圧縮と圧縮の解放を最も効率よく行うことができる。 Further, in the present embodiment, the mounting tongue piece 16f as the mounting means to the housing 2 is formed on the central imaginary line of the temporary fixing hole 16e, whereby the elastic restoring force of the compressed elastic member is used. When the lid 13 is brought into close contact with the housing 2, the return member can be compressed and released most efficiently.

さらに、このような構成とされた本実施形態の多方向入力装置１は、前記復帰部材固定板１５の庇体１５ｃが常に円周部用入力手段と円周部用押圧部１２ａの内縁部の上方を覆うようにして配設されることとなる。これにより、操作部剤９の操作によってその弾性部材の撓みが生じる前記復帰部材１４が、前記円周部用入力手段や円周部用押圧部１２ａに接触することを防止でき、前記円周部用入力手段および円周部用押圧部１２ａの耐用期間を延ばすことが可能となる。 Furthermore, in the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment configured as described above, the casing 15c of the return member fixing plate 15 is always provided between the circumferential portion input means and the circumferential portion pressing portion 12a. It will be arranged to cover the top. Thereby, the said return member 14 which the bending of the elastic member by operation of the operation part agent 9 can prevent contacting the said circumferential part input means and the circumferential part press part 12a, and the said circumferential part It is possible to extend the service life of the input means and the circumferential pressing portion 12a.

続いて、本実施形態の多方向入力装置１の作用について簡単に説明する。 Then, the effect | action of the multidirectional input device 1 of this embodiment is demonstrated easily.

本実施形態の多方向入力装置１においては、前記操作部材９を任意の径方向へスライド移動させて入力操作すると、円周部用押圧部材１２が、凸状壁２ｂの上面と復帰部材固定板１５の中央孔１５ａの下部と摺動しながらスライド操作された径方向に移動し、円周部用押圧部材１２の円周部用押圧部１２ｂが円周部用可動接点４と当接する。 In the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment, when the operation member 9 is slid in an arbitrary radial direction to perform an input operation, the circumferential portion pressing member 12 causes the upper surface of the convex wall 2b and the return member fixing plate to move. The circumferential portion pressing portion 12b of the circumferential portion pressing member 12 comes into contact with the circumferential portion movable contact 4 while sliding with the lower portion of the central hole 15a.

その操作部材９をさらにスライド移動させると、円周部用押圧部１２ａが円周部用可動接点４を変形させて、円周部用可動接点４とその下方にある円周部用固定接点３が導通する。これにより、多方向入力装置１は、操作部材９を任意の径方向（円周上の一点）を選択する入力操作したことを検出する。 When the operating member 9 is further slid, the circumferential portion pressing portion 12a deforms the circumferential portion movable contact 4, and the circumferential portion movable contact 4 and the circumferential portion fixed contact 3 below it. Is conducted. As a result, the multidirectional input device 1 detects that the operation member 9 has been input to select an arbitrary radial direction (one point on the circumference).

また、本実施形態の多方向入力装置１は、操作部材９の押下方向に中央部用固定接点６、中央部用共通電極８に接触した中央部用可動接点７を備えている。これにより、操作部材９の操作部材９を押下げることにより、中央部用押圧部材１１の中央部用押圧部１１ｄが中央部用可動接点７を押圧しながら変形させ、中央部用可動接点７と中央部用固定接点６との接触により、押下方向への入力操作を検出する。 In addition, the multidirectional input device 1 of the present embodiment includes a central fixed contact 6 and a central movable contact 7 in contact with the central common electrode 8 in the pressing direction of the operation member 9. Thus, by pressing down the operation member 9 of the operation member 9, the central portion pressing portion 11 d of the central portion pressing member 11 deforms while pressing the central portion movable contact 7, and the central portion movable contact 7 and An input operation in the pressing direction is detected by contact with the central fixed contact 6.

そして、前述した周方向および押下方向への入力操作を終了すると、次の入力操作を行ないやすくするために、操作部材９をその初期位置に戻す必要がある。このとき、多方向入力装置１は、操作部材９を当該初期位置に復元するための弾性復元力を発生する弾性部材からなる復帰部材１４を有していることから、入力操作を行なう際、自動的に初期位置から入力操作を行なうことができる。 When the input operation in the circumferential direction and the pressing direction is completed, it is necessary to return the operation member 9 to its initial position in order to facilitate the next input operation. At this time, the multidirectional input device 1 has a return member 14 made of an elastic member that generates an elastic restoring force for restoring the operation member 9 to the initial position. Thus, the input operation can be performed from the initial position.

また、この復帰部材１４が筐体２の空洞部２ａを覆う蓋状に形成されていることから、筐体２内に塵や水分などの誤動作要因の侵入を防止することができる。 Further, since the return member 14 is formed in a lid shape that covers the cavity 2 a of the housing 2, it is possible to prevent malfunction factors such as dust and moisture from entering the housing 2.

なお、筐体２の内部に配設されており、かつ筐体２の外部の部材と電気的に接続させる必要がある円周部用固定接点３、円周部用共通電極５、中央部用固定接点６および中央部用共通電極８をインサート成形によって形成すれば、多方向入力装置１の部品点数を少なくすることが可能となるとともに、その組立工程を少なくすることができる。 It should be noted that a circumferential fixed contact 3, a circumferential common electrode 5, and a central portion that are disposed inside the housing 2 and need to be electrically connected to members outside the housing 2. If the fixed contact 6 and the central common electrode 8 are formed by insert molding, the number of parts of the multidirectional input device 1 can be reduced and the assembly process can be reduced.

なお、本発明は、前述した実施形態などに限定されるものではなく、必要に応じて種々の変更が可能である。 In addition, this invention is not limited to embodiment mentioned above etc., A various change is possible as needed.

例えば、前記取付手段としては前述の構成の取付用舌片と取付用凹部に限らず、例えば、前記舌片に代えてフック等を用いた取付手段とすることも可能である。フックを用いる場合には、その取付方法はかしめによらないことは云うまでもない。 For example, the attachment means is not limited to the attachment tongue piece and the attachment recess having the above-described configuration, and for example, attachment means using a hook or the like may be used instead of the tongue piece. Needless to say, when hooks are used, the mounting method does not depend on caulking.

また、前述した実施形態においては、円周部用入力手段として固定接点と可動接点とを用いたが、前記円周部用入力手段としては、これに限るものではなく、例えば抵抗体と導電板とを用いたアナログ方式の入力手段であってもよいし、さらには、非接触式の静電センサを用いた入力手段等であってもよい。 Further, in the above-described embodiment, the fixed contact and the movable contact are used as the circumferential portion input means. However, the circumferential portion input means is not limited to this, for example, a resistor and a conductive plate. May be an analog type input unit using a non-contact type electrostatic sensor, or an input unit using a non-contact type electrostatic sensor.

本実施形態の多方向入力装置を示す分解斜視図Exploded perspective view showing the multidirectional input device of the present embodiment 本実施形態の多方向入力装置の筐体の空洞部内の電気的要部を示す平面図The top view which shows the electrical principal part in the cavity part of the housing | casing of the multidirectional input device of this embodiment. 本実施形態の多方向入力装置の図２のIII−III断面における要部正面図The principal part front view in the III-III cross section of FIG. 2 of the multidirectional input device of this embodiment 本実施形態の多方向入力装置の図２のIV−IV断面図における要部斜視図The principal part perspective view in the IV-IV sectional view of Drawing 2 of the multi-directional input device of this embodiment 本実施形態の多方向入力装置の蓋体を示す分解斜視図Exploded perspective view showing the lid of the multidirectional input device of the present embodiment 本実施形態の多方向入力装置の蓋体の配設関係を示す斜視図The perspective view which shows the arrangement | positioning relationship of the cover body of the multidirectional input device of this embodiment. 従来の多方向入力装置の一例を示す平面図A plan view showing an example of a conventional multidirectional input device

Explanation of symbols

１多方向入力装置
２筐体
２ａ空洞部
２ｂ凸状壁
２ｃ内周壁
２ｄ円環状空洞部
２ｅ角状空洞部
２ｆ第１段部
２ｇ第２段部
２ｈ円状空洞部
２ｉ係止用凹部
３円周部用固定接点
３ａ引出端子
３ｂ固定接点群
４円周部用可動接点
４ａ被保持部
４ｂ被支承部
５円周部用共通電極
５ａ引出端子
５ｃ凸部
６中央部用固定接点
６ａ引出端子
６ｃ凸部
７中央部用可動接点
７ａ彎曲部
７ｂ台座部
７ｃ固着用樹脂シート
８中央部用共通電極
８ａ引出端子
８ｃ凸部
９操作部材
１０操作体
１０ａ操作部
１０ｂ凸部
１１中央部用押圧部材
１１ａ挿着部
１１ｂ抑止部
１１ｃ凹部
１１ｄ中央用押圧部
１２円周部用押圧部材
１２ａ円周部用押圧部
１２ｂ中央孔
１２ｃ凸壁
１３蓋体
１４復帰部材
１４ａ中央孔
１４ｂ撓み形成部
１４ｄフランジ部
１４ｅ位置決め突起
１４ｆ位置決め突起
１５復帰部材固定板
１５ａ中央孔
１５ｂ挿通孔
１５ｃ庇体
１５ｄフランジ部
１５ｅ仮止め用突起
１６筐体取付板
１６ａ中央孔
１６ｂ上板部
１６ｃ側板部
１６ｅ仮止め用孔
１６ｆ取付用舌片
１６ｇ位置決め用端辺 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Multi-directional input device 2 Case 2a Cavity 2b Convex wall 2c Inner peripheral wall 2d Toroidal cavity 2e Square cavity 2f First step 2g Second step 2h Circular cavity 2i Locking recess 3 Circle Peripheral fixed contact 3a Lead terminal 3b Fixed contact group 4 Circumferential movable contact 4a Supported part 4b Supported part 5 Circumferential common electrode 5a Lead terminal 5c Protruding part 6 Central fixed contact 6a Lead terminal 6c Convex 7 Movable contact for center 7a Curved part
7b Pedestal part 7c Fixing resin sheet 8 Common electrode for center part 8a Lead terminal 8c Protruding part 9 Operating member 10 Operating body 10a Operating part 10b Protruding part 11 Central pressing member 11a Insertion part 11b Suppressing part 11c Concave part 11d For central part Press part 12 Circumferential part press member 12a Circumferential part press part 12b Central hole 12c Convex wall 13 Lid 14 Return member 14a Central hole 14b Deflection forming part 14d Flange part 14e Positioning protrusion 14f Positioning protrusion 15 Return member fixing plate 15a Center hole 15b Insertion hole 15c Housing 15d Flange portion 15e Temporary fixing projection 16 Housing mounting plate 16a Central hole 16b Upper plate portion 16c Side plate portion 16e Temporary fixing hole 16f Mounting tongue piece 16g Positioning edge

Claims

A housing having a planar circular cavity having an opening on the upper surface;
Circumferential input means for detecting switch operation on the circumference, disposed in the cavity,
An operating member having an annular circumferential portion pressing portion that performs a switch operation on the circumference of the circumferential portion input means by being tilted in a radial direction;
And a lid disposed on the housing by the attaching means so as to close the opening while holding the operation member operably,
A multi-directional input device comprising:
The lid is
A return member made of an elastic member is sandwiched between a lower member disposed below and an upper member disposed above, and temporary locking means formed on the upper member and the lower member are provided. A multidirectional input device characterized by being integrally formed by engagement.

The return member is formed with a central hole into which the operation member is fitted in the center thereof, and has a cross-sectional wavy deformation forming portion that can be expanded and contracted in a radial direction of the operation member, and a flange portion that is connected to the periphery of the deformation forming portion. And
The lower member is formed with a central hole in the center for loosely fitting the operating member so as to be slidable, and always covers at least the outer edge of the circumferential portion input means and the circumferential portion pressing portion. And at least a pair of opposing sides of the flange portion, the flange portion being disposed on the outer periphery of the housing and having a flange portion formed in the same plane as the flange portion of the return member. One member of the locking means for temporary fixing used in combination of two types of members is formed,
The upper member has a central hole in which the deflection forming portion is disposed at the center, an upper plate portion formed in substantially the same shape as the flange portion of the return member, and at least a part of the upper plate portion. A side plate portion that is connected to a side, and is disposed below the upper plate portion while accommodating a side position of the return member and the lower member while forming a space portion into which the housing is fitted, and the flange 2. The multidirectional input device according to claim 1, wherein the other member that engages with the one member of the temporarily fixing locking means is formed on at least a pair of side plate portions facing each other. 3.

The temporary fixing locking means is formed on an outwardly protruding temporary fixing protrusion formed on a side of the flange portion of the lower member and a side plate portion of the upper member, and engages the temporary fixing protrusion. The temporary fixing hole is formed so that the dimension in the thickness direction of the return member of the temporary fixing hole is larger than the dimension in the thickness direction of the return member of the projection for temporary fixing. The multidirectional input device according to claim 2.

The multi-direction according to claim 3, wherein the attachment means for attaching the lid to the housing is formed on a virtual center line of the temporary fixing hole in a lower end side portion of the side plate portion. Input device.

A positioning part for regulating the position of the upper member is formed on the upper surface of the flange part of the return member, and a positioning part corresponding to the positioning part is formed on the upper member. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

A positioning portion for restricting the position of the lower member is formed on the lower surface of the flange portion of the return member, and a positioning portion corresponding to the lower positioning portion of the return member is formed on the lower member. The multidirectional input device according to claim 2, wherein the multidirectional input device is a multi-directional input device.

The multidirectional input device according to claim 5, wherein each positioning portion is formed at a corner of each member.

A center fixed contact for detecting a switch operation at the center, and a center disposed opposite to the center fixed contact with a predetermined gap inside the annular input means. And a central input means including a movable contact for the central portion, wherein the operation member has a central portion pressing portion for pressing the movable movable contact for the central portion above the movable contact for the central portion. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 2 to 7.