JP2007317380A - Operation switch - Google Patents

Operation switch Download PDF

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JP2007317380A
JP2007317380A JP2006142597A JP2006142597A JP2007317380A JP 2007317380 A JP2007317380 A JP 2007317380A JP 2006142597 A JP2006142597 A JP 2006142597A JP 2006142597 A JP2006142597 A JP 2006142597A JP 2007317380 A JP2007317380 A JP 2007317380A
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operation button
end position
switch
intermediate position
moved
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JP4849528B2 (en
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Asao Tanaka
浅夫 田中
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Sammy Corp
Samy KK
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Sammy Corp
Samy KK
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Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an operation switch having various switch characteristics and clear operability, and capable of providing a switch operation with an amusement property. <P>SOLUTION: This operation switch comprises: an operation button 10 subjected to a pressing operation; a switch case 20 movably supporting the operation button from a free end position through an intermediate position to a pressing end position; a first energization means 31 energizing the operation button to be moved to the free end position, and a second energization means 32 for energizing the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is moved beyond the intermediate position; a first detection means 51 detecting the movement of the operation button in the intermediate position direction, and a second detection means 52 detecting the movement thereof in the pressing end position direction; and a first operation holding means 70 locking and holding the operation button at a first operation position when the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the intermediate position, and releasing the locking and holding when the operation button is pressed and operated in the state where the operation button is locked and held. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

本発明は、押しボタン型の操作スイッチに関し、なお詳細には操作に応じて多様なスイッチ特性を有する操作スイッチに関する。   The present invention relates to a push button type operation switch, and more particularly to an operation switch having various switch characteristics according to an operation.

押しボタン型の操作スイッチは、一般的に、操作者のスイッチ操作に基づいて、一定位置で接点を開閉（ON／OFF）するように構成されており、このような操作スイッチの中には接点の開閉状態を視認容易化するため、内部に発光体を有した自照式の押しボタンスイッチが知られている。このような自照式の押しボタンスイッチでは、操作者が操作ボタンを押圧操作すると、例えばオープン状態（OFF）であった接点がクローズ状態（ON）に切り替わるとともに、操作ボタンの下方に配設されたランプやLED等が発光して操作面が明るくなり、スイッチがONされたことを視覚的に認識させるような遊技機用の操作スイッチが知られている（例えば、特許文献１を参照）。   A push button type operation switch is generally configured to open and close (ON / OFF) a contact at a fixed position based on an operator's switch operation. In order to facilitate visual recognition of the open / closed state, a self-illuminated push button switch having a light emitter inside is known. In such a self-illuminated push button switch, when the operator presses the operation button, for example, the contact that was in the open state (OFF) is switched to the closed state (ON), and disposed below the operation button. An operation switch for a gaming machine is known in which a lamp, an LED, or the like emits light to brighten an operation surface and visually recognize that the switch is turned on (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

一方、押動体の押圧操作量に応じて抵抗力が変化するように構成されたホーンスイッチが知られている（例えば、特許文献２を参照）。このホーンスイッチは、直径が異なる２本のコイルスプリングを直列に接続しこのうち１本のスプリングに所定の初期圧縮を与えてセットすることにより、上下のバネ反力が等しくなった以降の変位に対して操作力が低減されるように構成されている。   On the other hand, there is known a horn switch configured such that a resistance force changes according to a pressing operation amount of a pusher (see, for example, Patent Document 2). In this horn switch, two coil springs with different diameters are connected in series, and a predetermined initial compression is applied to one of these springs to set the displacement after the vertical spring reaction force becomes equal. On the other hand, the operation force is reduced.

特開２００４−８１６０３号公報JP 2004-81603 A 特開平９−１６１６０６号公報JP-A-9-161606

しかしながら、上記のような従来の操作スイッチでは、スイッチ操作に基づく変化の態様が単純であり、これをパチンコ機等の遊技機に使用しても遊技者にとって単に押すだけのスイッチとなって、操作に面白みのない単調な押しボタンでしかなかった。また、上記ホーンスイッチのようなスイッチ構成では、２本のスプリングが直列接続されて上下のバネ反力がバランスする点を境に抵抗力が変化するように構成されていたため、操作者がどの時点で抵抗力が変化したのか明確に感得することができず、操作者にとってスイッチ操作の多様性を実感できるものではなかった。このため、このような従来の操作スイッチを遊技機に装備しても、当該スイッチ自体が直接的に遊技演出に寄与するような作用を果たすことができず、更なる改良が求められていた。   However, in the conventional operation switch as described above, the mode of change based on the switch operation is simple, and even if this is used in a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, it becomes a switch that can be simply pressed for the player. It was only a monotonous push button with no interest. In addition, in the switch configuration such as the horn switch, the resistance is changed at the point where the two springs are connected in series and the upper and lower spring reaction forces are balanced. As a result, it was not possible to clearly understand whether or not the resistance force changed, and the operator could not realize the diversity of switch operations. For this reason, even if such a conventional operation switch is installed in a gaming machine, the switch itself cannot directly perform an action that contributes to a game effect, and further improvement has been demanded.

本発明は、上記のような事情に鑑みて成されたものであり、多様なスイッチ特性と明確な操作性とを兼ね備えるとともに、スイッチ操作そのものに遊技性を持たせることができるような操作スイッチを提供することを目的とする。   The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances as described above, and has an operation switch that has various switch characteristics and clear operability, and can give the switch operation itself a game. The purpose is to provide.

上記目的を達成するため、第１の本発明は、押圧操作される操作ボタンと、操作ボタンを操作方向に自由端位置から中間位置を通って押圧端位置まで移動自在に支持するスイッチケースと、操作ボタンとスイッチケースとの間に介在され操作ボタンを押圧端位置から自由端位置に移動させるように付勢する第１付勢手段（例えば、実施形態における第１付勢バネ３１）と、スイッチケースに配設され操作ボタンが中間位置を超えて押圧移動されたときに操作ボタンを中間位置に向けて付勢する第２付勢手段（例えば、実施形態における第２付勢バネ３２）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から中間位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第１検出手段（例えば、実施形態における第１検出センサ５１）と、操作ボタンが中間位置を超えて押圧端位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第２検出手段（例えば、実施形態における第２検出センサ５２）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から中間位置まで押圧移動された場合に操作ボタンを第１検出手段に検出された状態の第１操作位置に係止保持し、操作ボタンが第１操作位置に係止保持された状態で操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第１操作保持手段（例えば、実施形態における第１操作保持機構７０）とを備えて操作スイッチを構成する。   In order to achieve the above object, the first aspect of the present invention includes an operation button that is operated to be pressed, a switch case that supports the operation button so as to be movable in the operation direction from the free end position through the intermediate position to the press end position, A first biasing means (for example, the first biasing spring 31 in the embodiment) interposed between the operation button and the switch case and biasing the operation button so as to move from the pressing end position to the free end position; A second urging means (for example, the second urging spring 32 in the embodiment) that urges the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is pressed and moved beyond the intermediate position. First detection means (for example, the first detection sensor 51 in the embodiment) that detects that the operation button has moved a predetermined amount or more from the free end position toward the intermediate position direction, and the operation button exceeds the intermediate position Second detection means (for example, the second detection sensor 52 in the embodiment) that detects that a predetermined amount or more is moved in the direction of the pressure end position, and an operation when the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the intermediate position. The button is locked and held at the first operation position detected by the first detection means, and the operation button is engaged when the operation button is pressed while the operation button is locked and held at the first operation position. An operation switch is configured by including first operation holding means (for example, the first operation holding mechanism 70 in the embodiment) for releasing the stop holding.

第２の本発明は、押圧操作される操作ボタンと、操作ボタンを操作方向に自由端位置から中間位置を通って押圧端位置まで移動自在に支持するスイッチケースと、操作ボタンとスイッチケースとの間に介在され操作ボタンを押圧端位置から自由端位置に移動させるように付勢する第１付勢手段（例えば、実施形態における第１付勢バネ３１）と、スイッチケースに配設され操作ボタンが中間位置を超えて押圧移動されたときに操作ボタンを中間位置に向けて付勢する第２付勢手段（例えば、実施形態における第２付勢バネ３２）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から中間位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第１検出手段（例えば、実施形態における第１検出センサ５１）と、操作ボタンが中間位置を超えて押圧端位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第２検出手段（例えば、実施形態における第２検出センサ５２）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から押圧端位置まで押圧移動された場合に操作ボタンを第２検出手段に検出された状態の第２操作位置に係止保持し、操作ボタンが第２操作位置に係止保持された状態で操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第２操作保持手段（例えば、実施形態における第２操作保持機構８０）とを備えて操作スイッチを構成する。   According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an operation button that is operated to be pressed, a switch case that supports the operation button so as to be movable in the operation direction from a free end position through an intermediate position to a press end position, and the operation button and the switch case. A first urging means (for example, the first urging spring 31 in the embodiment) that is interposed therebetween and urges the operation button to move from the pressing end position to the free end position; And a second urging means (for example, the second urging spring 32 in the embodiment) that urges the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is pressed and moved beyond the intermediate position, and the operation button is moved from the free end position. First detection means (for example, the first detection sensor 51 in the embodiment) that detects that a predetermined amount or more has been moved in the intermediate position direction, and the operation button exceeds the intermediate position and has a predetermined amount or less in the pressing end position direction. Second detection means (for example, the second detection sensor 52 in the embodiment) that detects that it has moved, and when the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the press end position, the operation button is used as the second detection means. A second state in which the operation button is locked and held when the operation button is pressed and operated in a state where the operation button is locked and held at the second operation position. An operation switch is configured by including operation holding means (for example, the second operation holding mechanism 80 in the embodiment).

第３の本発明は、押圧操作される操作ボタンと、操作ボタンを操作方向に自由端位置から中間位置を通って押圧端位置まで移動自在に支持するスイッチケースと、操作ボタンとスイッチケースとの間に介在され操作ボタンを押圧端位置から自由端位置に移動させるように付勢する第１付勢手段（例えば、実施形態における第１付勢バネ３１）と、スイッチケースに配設され操作ボタンが中間位置を超えて押圧移動されたときに操作ボタンを中間位置に向けて付勢する第２付勢手段（例えば、実施形態における第２付勢バネ３２）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から中間位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第１検出手段（例えば、実施形態における第１検出センサ５１）と、操作ボタンが中間位置を超えて押圧端位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第２検出手段（例えば、実施形態における第２検出センサ５２）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から中間位置まで押圧移動された場合に操作ボタンを第１検出手段に検出された状態の第１操作位置に係止保持し、操作ボタンが第１操作位置に係止保持された状態で操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第１操作保持手段（例えば、実施形態における第１操作保持機構７０）と、操作ボタンが自由端位置から押圧端位置まで押圧移動された場合に操作ボタンを第２検出手段に検出された状態の第２操作位置に係止保持し、操作ボタンが第２操作位置に係止保持された状態で操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第２操作保持手段（例えば、実施形態における第２操作保持機構８０）とを備えて操作スイッチを構成する。   According to a third aspect of the present invention, there are provided an operation button that is operated to be pressed, a switch case that supports the operation button so as to be movable in the operation direction from the free end position through the intermediate position to the press end position, and the operation button and the switch case. A first urging means (for example, the first urging spring 31 in the embodiment) that is interposed therebetween and urges the operation button to move from the pressing end position to the free end position; And a second urging means (for example, the second urging spring 32 in the embodiment) that urges the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is pressed and moved beyond the intermediate position, and the operation button is moved from the free end position. First detection means (for example, the first detection sensor 51 in the embodiment) that detects that a predetermined amount or more has been moved in the intermediate position direction, and the operation button exceeds the intermediate position and has a predetermined amount or less in the pressing end position direction. Second detection means for detecting movement (for example, the second detection sensor 52 in the embodiment) and the operation button is detected by the first detection means when the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the intermediate position. The first operation for releasing and holding the operation button when the operation button is pressed while the operation button is locked and held at the first operation position. The holding means (for example, the first operation holding mechanism 70 in the embodiment) and the second operation in a state where the operation button is detected by the second detection means when the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the pressing end position. Second operation holding means that releases and holds the operation button when the operation button is pressed while the operation button is locked and held at the second operation position (for example, the embodiment) In Second operation holding mechanism 80) and constituting the operation switch comprises a.

なお、操作ボタンの下方から当該操作ボタンの操作面を照明して当該操作面を発光させる複数の発光手段（例えば、実施形態における発光素子５５）を有し、複数の発光手段は、第１検出手段及び第２検出手段により検出される操作ボタンの操作位置に応じて発光状態が変化するように構成することが好ましい。   In addition, it has a plurality of light emitting means (for example, the light emitting element 55 in the embodiment) that illuminates the operation surface of the operation button from below the operation button and emits light to the operation surface. It is preferable that the light emission state is changed according to the operation position of the operation button detected by the means and the second detection means.

このような本発明の操作スイッチでは、単一の押しボタンスイッチでありながら、自由端位置から中間位置までの浅い操作領域と、中間位置から押圧端位置までの深い操作領域との二段階の操作領域を有し、操作領域に応じた検出信号が得られる構成のため、スイッチ操作に多様性を持たせることができる。また、操作ボタンの押圧操作量に応じて、浅い操作領域では第１付勢手段のみのバネ反力を受け、深い操作領域では第１付勢手段及び第２付勢手段の両方のバネ反力を受ける構成としているため、中間位置を境界として操作ボタンの操作感触が大きく変化し、操作者が操作領域の切り替わりを明確に感得することができる。   In such an operation switch of the present invention, although it is a single push button switch, two-step operation of a shallow operation region from the free end position to the intermediate position and a deep operation region from the intermediate position to the press end position Since it has a region and a detection signal corresponding to the operation region can be obtained, the switch operation can be varied. Further, in response to the pressing operation amount of the operation button, the spring reaction force of only the first biasing means is received in the shallow operation area, and the spring reaction forces of both the first biasing means and the second biasing means in the deep operation area. Therefore, the operation feeling of the operation button greatly changes with the intermediate position as a boundary, and the operator can clearly feel the switching of the operation area.

さらに、操作ボタンの押圧操作に応じて、第１の本発明では押圧操作ごとに中間位置近傍に係止保持／係止解除ができ、第２の本発明では押圧端位置近傍に係止保持／係止解除ができ、第３の本発明では上記両方の係止保持／係止解除ができるため、複雑なスイッチ操作を可能としてスイッチ操作そのものに遊技性を持たせることができ、遊技演出に直接的に寄与するような作用を果たすことができる。   Further, according to the pressing operation of the operation button, in the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to hold / release the locking in the vicinity of the intermediate position for each pressing operation, and in the second aspect of the invention, the locking / holding / Since the lock can be released and both of the above-mentioned locks can be held / released in the third aspect of the present invention, the switch operation itself can be provided with playability by enabling complicated switch operation, and direct to the game effect. It is possible to achieve an action that contributes automatically.

なお、操作ボタンの操作位置に応じて操作面の発光状態が変化するような構成によれば、操作者は操作面を一瞥するだけで、操作ボタンの位置状況（係止の有無、係止位置）を誤認することなく確実に認識することができる。   In addition, according to the configuration in which the light emission state of the operation surface changes according to the operation position of the operation button, the operator simply looks at the operation surface, and the position status of the operation button (the presence / absence of locking, the locking position) ) Can be recognized without misunderstanding.

従って、本発明によれば、多様なスイッチ特性と明確な操作性とを兼ね備えるとともに、スイッチ操作そのものに遊技性を持たせた操作スイッチを提供することができる。   Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an operation switch that has various switch characteristics and clear operability, and has a switch operation itself with game characteristics.

以下、本発明の好ましい実施形態について図面を参照しながら説明する。図１〜図３に本発明を適用したスイッチの一実施例を示す。このスイッチＳＷは、大型の操作スイッチ１と、その向こう側に設けられた左右一対の小型の選択スイッチ２Ｌ，２Ｒを有した複合型のスイッチである。ここで、図１はスイッチＳＷの外観斜視図、図２は操作スイッチ１の分解斜視図、図３は図１中に付記するIII−III矢視の断面図である。なお、以下では、図１中に付記する前後／上下／左右の各方向をもって前後、上下または左右と称して説明する。また、選択スイッチ２Ｌ，２Ｒは、プリント配線基盤を利用した公知のラバースイッチと同様であるため本明細書においては説明を省略し、以下操作スイッチ１について詳細に説明する。   Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. 1 to 3 show an embodiment of a switch to which the present invention is applied. This switch SW is a composite switch having a large operation switch 1 and a pair of left and right small selection switches 2L and 2R provided on the other side. Here, FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the switch SW, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the operation switch 1, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along arrows III-III in FIG. In the following, the front / rear / up / down / left / right directions described in FIG. Since the selection switches 2L and 2R are the same as known rubber switches using a printed wiring board, the description thereof will be omitted in this specification, and the operation switch 1 will be described in detail below.

操作スイッチ１は、大別的には、押圧操作される操作ボタン１０と、この操作ボタンを上下に移動自在に支持するスイッチケース２０、操作ボタンとスイッチケースとの間に介在されて操作ボタンを上方に付勢する第１付勢バネ３１、スイッチケースの内部に配設され操作ボタンが所定量以上押圧移動されたときに操作ボタンと係合して上方に付勢する第２付勢バネ３２、操作ボタンの移動位置を検出する第１検出センサ５１並びに第２検出センサ５２及び複数の発光素子５５等が実装されたセンサ基板５０、操作ボタンの押圧移動位置に応じて操作ボタンを係止保持／係止解除する第１操作保持機構７０及び第２操作保持機構８０などを備えて構成される。   The operation switch 1 is roughly divided into an operation button 10 that is pressed, a switch case 20 that supports the operation button so as to be movable up and down, and an operation button that is interposed between the operation button and the switch case. A first urging spring 31 that urges upward, and a second urging spring 32 that is disposed inside the switch case and urges upward when the operation button is pressed and moved by a predetermined amount or more. The first detection sensor 51 for detecting the movement position of the operation button, the second detection sensor 52, the sensor substrate 50 on which the plurality of light emitting elements 55 and the like are mounted, and the operation button is held in accordance with the pressing movement position of the operation button. / The first operation holding mechanism 70 and the second operation holding mechanism 80 that are unlocked are provided.

操作ボタン１０は、平面視において前縁側が長い円弧状で後縁側が短い扇型の操作カバー１１と、照明光拡散用の拡散シート１２と、操作カバーに上面を覆われる操作枠体１３とからなり、操作カバー１１と操作枠体１２に囲まれた照明空間を有する中空箱状に構成される。   The operation button 10 includes a fan-shaped operation cover 11 having a long arc at the front edge and a short rear edge in plan view, a diffusion sheet 12 for diffusing illumination light, and an operation frame 13 whose upper surface is covered with the operation cover. It is configured in a hollow box shape having an illumination space surrounded by the operation cover 11 and the operation frame 12.

操作カバー１１は、上面が緩やかな円弧状で上方に凸の操作面１１ａと、この操作面の外周を囲んで下向きに突出成型された外周縁部１１ｂとを有して薄い蓋状をなし、左右の外周縁部には操作枠体側の係止爪と受容係合する係止口が形成されている。操作カバー１１は、例えばポリカーボネート（ＰＣ）等の透明な樹脂材料を用いて射出成型等の整形手段により図示する形状に形成される。   The operation cover 11 has a thin arc shape with an operation surface 11a having a gentle arc shape on the upper surface and convex upward and an outer peripheral edge portion 11b which is formed to project downward and surround the outer periphery of the operation surface. Locking holes for receiving and engaging with the locking claws on the operation frame body side are formed in the left and right outer peripheral edge portions. The operation cover 11 is formed in the shape shown in the figure by a shaping means such as injection molding using a transparent resin material such as polycarbonate (PC).

拡散シート１２は、乳白色透明の樹脂シートや透明の樹脂シートに文字や図形等の所要の意匠が拡散材を用いて印刷形成されており、例えばLEDやランプ等の発光素子５５の発光により拡散シート１２が照明されたときに、照明光を透過させて操作面１１ａに意匠が浮かび上がるように構成される。   The diffusion sheet 12 is a milky white transparent resin sheet or a transparent resin sheet on which a desired design such as letters and figures is printed and formed using a diffusion material. For example, the diffusion sheet 12 emits light by a light emitting element 55 such as an LED or a lamp. When 12 is illuminated, the illumination light is transmitted so that the design emerges on the operation surface 11a.

操作枠体１３は、図２に示すように、上端開放で下方に向けて狭くなる断面視台形のフレーム状をなし、照明光を効率よく操作面１１ａに導くため白色の樹脂材料、例えば、白色のポリアセタール（ＰＯＭ）やポリエチレン（ＰＥ）等の樹脂材料を用いて射出成型等の成形手段により図示する形状に形成される。   As shown in FIG. 2, the operation frame 13 has a trapezoidal frame shape that narrows downward when the upper end is opened, and a white resin material, for example, white, for efficiently guiding illumination light to the operation surface 11 a. A resin material such as polyacetal (POM) or polyethylene (PE) is used to form the shape shown in the figure by molding means such as injection molding.

操作枠体１３の上端部には、操作カバー１１の外周縁部１１ｂの形状に合わせて、その内周側に嵌合するように幾分小さめの内周縁部１３ｂが形成されており、左右の側面には操作カバーに形成された係止口と係合して操作カバー１１を嵌着固定するための楔状の係止爪が形成されている。このため、操作枠体１３の上端面に拡散シート１２を載置して上方から操作カバー１１を覆い被せ、内周縁部１２ｂに外周縁部１２ｂを嵌合させて各縁部に形成された係止口と係止爪とを係合させることで、操作ボタン１０が一体に構成される。   A slightly smaller inner peripheral edge 13b is formed at the upper end of the operation frame 13 so as to fit the inner peripheral side of the operation cover 11 in accordance with the shape of the outer peripheral edge 11b. A wedge-shaped locking claw for engaging and fixing the operation cover 11 by engaging with a locking port formed in the operation cover is formed on the side surface. For this reason, the diffusion sheet 12 is placed on the upper end surface of the operation frame body 13 to cover the operation cover 11 from above, and the outer peripheral edge portion 12b is fitted to the inner peripheral edge portion 12b to be formed at each edge portion. The operation button 10 is integrally formed by engaging the stop and the locking claw.

操作枠体１３の下面は、左右に上下連通する開口部が設けられて発光素子５５の光を通過させる窓部１３ｗが形成され、これら左右の窓部１３ｗ，１３ｗの間に前後の壁面を繋いで梁部１４が形成される。操作枠体１３の前後左右の壁面は、発光素子５５の出射した照明光が効率よく反射されて拡散シート１２に導かれるように、所定角度で上方に開く反射面となっている。   The lower surface of the operation frame 13 is provided with an opening portion that communicates with the left and right sides to form a window portion 13w that allows light from the light emitting element 55 to pass through. The front and rear wall surfaces are connected between the left and right window portions 13w and 13w. Thus, the beam portion 14 is formed. The front, rear, left and right wall surfaces of the operation frame 13 are reflection surfaces that open upward at a predetermined angle so that the illumination light emitted from the light emitting element 55 is efficiently reflected and guided to the diffusion sheet 12.

操作枠体１３の後方の壁面には、第１検出センサ５１及び第２検出センサ５２の配設位置及び検出幅に合わせた鉛直壁面形態の第１被検出部６１と第２被検出部６２とが形成されている。第１被検出部６１及び第２被検出部６２は、操作ボタン１０の押し込み深さに応じて中間位置までの浅い押し込み深さで第１被検出部６１が第１検出センサ５１に検出され、操作ボタンがさらに深く押し込まれたときに第２被検出部が第２検出センサ５２に検出されるように、第１被検出部６１の方が第２被検出部６２よりも下方に延びて形成されている。   On the rear wall surface of the operation frame 13, a first detected portion 61 and a second detected portion 62 in the form of a vertical wall according to the arrangement position and detection width of the first detection sensor 51 and the second detection sensor 52, Is formed. The first detected part 61 and the second detected part 62 are detected by the first detection sensor 51 with the shallow push depth to the intermediate position according to the push depth of the operation button 10, The first detected part 61 is formed to extend below the second detected part 62 so that the second detected part 52 is detected by the second detection sensor 52 when the operation button is pressed deeper. Has been.

操作枠体１３の左右側部には、ともに反射面の外側に位置して上下に延びる円筒状のガイド軸１５が一対形成され、前後には内周縁部から下方に延びる板状のアーム部とその下端に互いに外向きに突出する鉤状の爪部とを有するスライドフック１６が一対形成されている。また操作枠体１３における梁部１４の下面側に、第１付勢バネ３１の上端部を受容する円環状の第１バネ座１７が形成され、この第１バネ座１７の前後に、第１操作保持機構７０の第１ラッチ突起７１及び第２操作保持機構８０の第２ラッチ突起８１がそれぞれ下向きに突出して形成されている（図５を参照）。   A pair of cylindrical guide shafts 15 are formed on the left and right side portions of the operation frame 13 so as to be positioned outside the reflection surface and extend vertically, and in the front and rear, plate-like arm portions extending downward from the inner periphery. A pair of slide hooks 16 having hook-like claws protruding outward from each other are formed at the lower ends thereof. An annular first spring seat 17 that receives the upper end portion of the first urging spring 31 is formed on the lower surface side of the beam portion 14 in the operation frame body 13. A first latch protrusion 71 of the operation holding mechanism 70 and a second latch protrusion 81 of the second operation holding mechanism 80 are formed to protrude downward (see FIG. 5).

一方、スイッチケース２０は、前方に操作ボタン１０を収容する操作ボタン収容部２１、後方に選択ボタン収容部を有して、全体として扇形の外郭フレーム状をなし、例えばＡＢＳ樹脂等の樹脂材料を用い手射出成型等の成形手段により図示する形状に形成される。操作ボタン１０を取り外した状態のスイッチＳＷの平面図を図４に示し、図４中のV−V矢視の断面図を図５に示す。   On the other hand, the switch case 20 has an operation button accommodating portion 21 for accommodating the operation button 10 in the front and a selection button accommodating portion in the rear, and has a fan-shaped outer frame shape as a whole. For example, a resin material such as ABS resin is used. It is formed into the shape shown in the figure by molding means such as manual injection molding. FIG. 4 shows a plan view of the switch SW with the operation button 10 removed, and FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG.

操作ボタン収容部２１は、操作ボタンの操作カバー１１よりも幾分大きめの扇形で操作ボタンの外周を覆う枠壁部２２と、操作ボタンの底部をなす底壁部２３とを有して上面開放の凹状に形成されており、枠壁部２２と底壁部２３とを繋ぐ傾斜壁面の左右側部には、操作枠体１３の左右のガイド軸１５，１５をそれぞれ受容して各ガイド軸の外周面と嵌合し、操作ボタン１０を上下方向にのみに摺動自在に支持する円筒状の軸受部２５，２５が形成されている。底壁部２３の中央部には、左右の軸受部２５，２５の中間に位置して第１付勢バネ３１及び第２付勢バネ３２を装着支持するバネ支持構造３０が設けられている。   The operation button accommodating portion 21 has a frame wall portion 22 that covers the outer periphery of the operation button in a fan shape that is slightly larger than the operation cover 11 of the operation button, and a bottom wall portion 23 that forms the bottom portion of the operation button, and the upper surface is opened. The left and right guide shafts 15 and 15 of the operation frame 13 are respectively received on the left and right side portions of the inclined wall surface connecting the frame wall portion 22 and the bottom wall portion 23 to each of the guide shafts. Cylindrical bearing portions 25 and 25 are formed which are fitted to the outer peripheral surface and slidably support the operation button 10 only in the vertical direction. A spring support structure 30 is provided at the center portion of the bottom wall portion 23 and is located between the left and right bearing portions 25, 25 to mount and support the first urging spring 31 and the second urging spring 32.

バネ支持構造３０は、底壁部２３に上方に突出して形成され、第１付勢バネ３１の下端内周と係合して第１付勢バネ３１の下端部を位置決め支持する略円錐状の第１バネ支柱３３、この第１バネ支柱３３と同心で外周側に形成され第２付勢バネ３２の下端部を位置決めする短円筒状の第２バネ支柱３４、第２バネ支柱３４の外側に位置して上下に延びる箱枠状のスライドガイド３５、及びスライドガイド３５の枠内に上下に摺動可能に配設されたスライダ４０などら構成される。   The spring support structure 30 is formed to protrude upward from the bottom wall portion 23 and engages with the inner periphery of the lower end of the first biasing spring 31 to position and support the lower end of the first biasing spring 31. The first spring strut 33, a short cylindrical second spring strut 34 that is concentric with the first spring strut 33 and is formed on the outer peripheral side and positions the lower end of the second urging spring 32, and outside the second spring strut 34 A box-shaped slide guide 35 that is positioned and extends vertically, and a slider 40 that is slidable in the vertical direction within the frame of the slide guide 35 are configured.

スライダ４０は、平面視矩形の支持台座４５の中央部に第１付勢バネ３１を上下に挿通させる円孔４３が形成されるとともに、支持台座の下面側には第２付勢バネ３２の外周と摺接して第２付勢バネ３２の上端を位置決め支持する第２バネ座４４が形成されている。支持台座４５の前後には、下方に延びる板状のアーム部とその下端に互いに内向きに突出する鉤状の爪部とを有するスライドフック４６が一対形成され、前方のスライドフックの前側に第２操作保持機構８０におけるラッチ本体８４を固定保持するラッチ固定部４８が形成されている。一方、スライドガイド３５の底面には、スライドフック４６のアーム部を上下方向にのみ移動可能に支持するとともに、下端の爪部と係合してスライダ４０の上端位置を規定するフック受け３６が形成されている。   The slider 40 is formed with a circular hole 43 through which the first urging spring 31 is vertically inserted in the center portion of the support pedestal 45 having a rectangular shape in plan view, and the outer periphery of the second urging spring 32 on the lower surface side of the support pedestal. A second spring seat 44 is formed which is in sliding contact with and supports the positioning of the upper end of the second urging spring 32. A pair of slide hooks 46 each having a plate-like arm portion extending downward and a hook-like claw portion projecting inwardly from each other are formed on the front and rear sides of the support pedestal 45. A latch fixing portion 48 for fixing and holding the latch main body 84 in the two-operation holding mechanism 80 is formed. On the other hand, on the bottom surface of the slide guide 35, a hook receiver 36 that supports the arm portion of the slide hook 46 so as to be movable only in the vertical direction and engages with the claw portion at the lower end to define the upper end position of the slider 40 is formed. Has been.

スライダ４０は、第２バネ支柱３４に第２付勢バネ３２の下端内周側を支持させ、その上方からスライドガイド３５に沿って支持台座４５を挿入して第２付勢バネ３２の上端外周側を第２バネ座４４に支持させたうえ、第２付勢バネ３２の付勢力に抗してスライダ４０を押し込んで前後のスライドフック４６をフック受け３６に嵌入することで取り付けられる。スライダ４０がスライドガイド３５に取り付けられると、スライダ４０は、支持台座４５の下面と第２バネ支柱３４の上端面とが当接する下端位置と、前後のスライドフック４６の爪部がフック受け３６と係合する上端位置との間で上下方向にスライド自在に支持され、常には第２付勢バネ３２の付勢力により上端位置に配設される。   The slider 40 allows the second spring support 34 to support the inner peripheral side of the lower end of the second biasing spring 32, and inserts a support base 45 along the slide guide 35 from above the outer periphery of the upper end of the second biasing spring 32. The side is supported by the second spring seat 44, the slider 40 is pushed against the biasing force of the second biasing spring 32, and the front and rear slide hooks 46 are fitted into the hook receiver 36. When the slider 40 is attached to the slide guide 35, the slider 40 has a lower end position where the lower surface of the support pedestal 45 and the upper end surface of the second spring column 34 abut, and the claw portions of the front and rear slide hooks 46 are connected to the hook receiver 36. It is supported so as to be slidable in the vertical direction between the engaging upper end positions and is always disposed at the upper end position by the urging force of the second urging spring 32.

第１付勢バネ３１は、このようにして取り付けられたスライダ４０における支持台座４５の中心に形成された円孔４３を通して挿入され、下端内周部が第１バネ支柱３３に支持されて上端側が円孔４３から上方に突出した状態で配設される。一方、操作ボタンの梁部１４の下面側中央部に、第１付勢バネ３１の上端部を受け止める円環状の第１バネ座１７が形成されている。   The first urging spring 31 is inserted through a circular hole 43 formed at the center of the support base 45 in the slider 40 attached in this way, and the lower end inner periphery is supported by the first spring support 33 and the upper end side is It arrange | positions in the state protruded upwards from the circular hole 43. FIG. On the other hand, an annular first spring seat 17 that receives the upper end portion of the first urging spring 31 is formed in the center portion on the lower surface side of the beam portion 14 of the operation button.

そこで、操作ボタン１０の左右のガイド軸１５，１５をスイッチケース２０の左右の円筒状の軸受部２５，２５を嵌挿し、第１付勢バネ３１の上端外周側を梁部下面の第１バネ座１７に支持させたうえ、まず第１付勢バネ３１の付勢力に抗して操作ボタン１０を押し込み、第１バネ座１７の下面が支持台座４５の上面と係合する中間位置からは、さらに第２付勢バネ３２の付勢力にも抗して操作ボタン１０を押し込む。すると、操作枠体１３の前後に互いに外向きに突出成型されたスライドフック１６の爪部が、スイッチ収容部２１に形成された凹溝状のフック受け２６と係合し、スライドフック１６のアーム部が弾性変形して爪部を受け入れた後、フック受け１６の下方で爪部が外方に開いて前後のスライドフック１６とフック受け２６とが嵌合する。   Therefore, the left and right guide shafts 15 and 15 of the operation button 10 are inserted into the left and right cylindrical bearing portions 25 and 25 of the switch case 20, and the upper end outer peripheral side of the first biasing spring 31 is the first spring on the lower surface of the beam portion. First, the operation button 10 is pushed against the urging force of the first urging spring 31 after being supported by the seat 17, and from the intermediate position where the lower surface of the first spring seat 17 engages the upper surface of the support base 45. Further, the operation button 10 is pushed against the urging force of the second urging spring 32. Then, the claw portions of the slide hook 16, which are formed so as to protrude outward from each other before and after the operation frame body 13, are engaged with the groove-shaped hook receiver 26 formed in the switch housing portion 21, and the arm of the slide hook 16. After the part is elastically deformed and receives the claw part, the claw part opens outwardly below the hook receiver 16 and the front and rear slide hooks 16 and the hook receiver 26 are fitted.

こうして操作ボタン１０がボタン収容部２１に装着されると、操作ボタン１０は、ガイド軸１５と軸受部２５との嵌合により上下方向にのみ摺動可能に配設され、前後のスライドフック１６の爪部がフック受け２６と係合する自由端位置と、操作枠体１３の内周縁部に外向きに突出成型されたリブ状の周縁突起１９（図２を参照）が、スイッチ収容部における枠壁部２２の下端に段付き形成された押圧規制面２９と係合して下動が規制される押圧端位置との間で移動可能に配設される。そして、操作ボタン１０に人為的な押圧力が作用していない状態においては、予備圧縮された第１付勢バネ３１のバネ力により操作ボタン１０が上方に付勢されており、スライドフック１６の爪部がフック受け２６と係合する自由端位置に配置される。   Thus, when the operation button 10 is mounted on the button accommodating portion 21, the operation button 10 is disposed so as to be slidable only in the vertical direction by fitting the guide shaft 15 and the bearing portion 25, and the front and rear slide hooks 16 are arranged. A free end position where the claw portion engages with the hook receiver 26 and a rib-shaped peripheral protrusion 19 (see FIG. 2) which is outwardly projected and formed on the inner peripheral edge portion of the operation frame body 13 are a frame in the switch housing portion. The wall portion 22 is disposed so as to be movable between a pressing end position that is engaged with a pressing restricting surface 29 formed at the lower end of the wall portion 22 and the downward movement is restricted. When no artificial pressing force is applied to the operation button 10, the operation button 10 is urged upward by the spring force of the pre-compressed first urging spring 31. The claw portion is disposed at a free end position where it engages with the hook receiver 26.

ここで、これまでの説明及び各図から明らかなように、操作ボタン１０は、上方に付勢保持された自由端位置〜第１バネ座１７の下面が支持台座４５の上面と係合する中間位置までの範囲では、操作ボタン１０は第１付勢バネ３１のバネ反力のみを受けており、操作ボタン１０の操作荷重は、第１付勢バネ３１のバネ定数と圧縮変形量との積に比例する。一方、第１バネ座１７の下面が支持台座４５の上面と係合した中間位置〜操作枠体の周縁突起１９がスイッチ収容部の押圧規制面２９と係合する押圧端位置までの範囲では、操作ボタン１０は第１付勢バネ３１及び第２付勢バネ３２の両方のバネ反力を受けており、第１付勢バネ３１のバネ定数と圧縮変形量との積、及び第２付勢バネのバネ定数と圧縮変形量との積を合計した値に比例する。   Here, as is clear from the above description and the respective drawings, the operation button 10 has an intermediate position where the lower end of the first spring seat 17 is engaged with the upper surface of the support base 45 from the free end position biased upward. In the range up to the position, the operation button 10 receives only the spring reaction force of the first biasing spring 31, and the operation load of the operation button 10 is the product of the spring constant of the first biasing spring 31 and the amount of compressive deformation. Is proportional to On the other hand, in the range from the intermediate position where the lower surface of the first spring seat 17 is engaged with the upper surface of the support pedestal 45 to the pressing end position where the peripheral projection 19 of the operation frame is engaged with the pressing restriction surface 29 of the switch housing portion, The operation button 10 receives the spring reaction force of both the first biasing spring 31 and the second biasing spring 32, the product of the spring constant of the first biasing spring 31 and the amount of compressive deformation, and the second biasing. It is proportional to the sum of the product of the spring constant of the spring and the amount of compressive deformation.

図６は、横軸に操作ボタン１０の移動ストローク、縦軸に押圧操作の操作荷重をとって、この操作スイッチの操作特性を表したものである。ここで、図中にＡで示す領域（ストローク０〜２mm）は、操作ボタン１０が自由端位置〜中間位置にある領域（第１操作領域）であり、ストロークに対して操作荷重が緩い傾きで一次比例する。図中にＣで示す直線部は、第１バネ座１７の下面が支持台座４５の上面と係合した中間位置であり、第２付勢バネ３２がスライダ４０により圧縮された状態でセットされていること（第２付勢バネ３２の初期圧縮）に基づきその圧縮荷重分が付加される。そして図中のＢ領域（ストローク２〜４．５mm）は中間位置〜圧縮端部位置までの領域（第２操作領域）であり、第１付勢バネのバネ定数と第２付勢バネのバネ定数とを加えた比較的急な傾きで一次比例する特性となる。   FIG. 6 shows the operation characteristics of the operation switch, with the horizontal axis representing the movement stroke of the operation button 10 and the vertical axis representing the operation load of the pressing operation. Here, an area indicated by A (stroke 0 to 2 mm) in the figure is an area where the operation button 10 is located between the free end position and the intermediate position (first operation area), and the operation load has a gentle inclination with respect to the stroke. Linearly proportional. A straight line portion indicated by C in the drawing is an intermediate position where the lower surface of the first spring seat 17 is engaged with the upper surface of the support base 45, and the second biasing spring 32 is set in a state compressed by the slider 40. (The initial compression of the second urging spring 32), the compression load is added. A region B (stroke 2 to 4.5 mm) in the drawing is a region (second operation region) from the intermediate position to the compression end position, and the spring constant of the first urging spring and the spring of the second urging spring. The characteristic is linearly proportional with a relatively steep slope including a constant.

従って、この操作スイッチを操作する操作者は、操作ボタン１０の押圧操作量に応じた操作間隔を得ることができるとともに、バネ反力が急激に変化する中間位置を明確に感得することができ、スイッチ操作を中間位置までにするか、あるいは中間位置を超えて押圧操作するか、操作者自身の意図に基づいて誤操作なく確実に行うことができる。   Therefore, the operator who operates this operation switch can obtain an operation interval corresponding to the amount of pressing operation of the operation button 10, and can clearly feel the intermediate position where the spring reaction force changes rapidly, Whether the switch operation is performed up to the intermediate position, or the pressing operation is performed beyond the intermediate position, can be reliably performed without erroneous operation based on the operator's own intention.

スイッチ基板５０に配設された第１検出センサ５１及び第２検出センサは、上記操作ボタン１０の移動ストロークを検出するために設けられており、操作枠体１３に形成された第１被検出部６１に対応して第１検出センサ５１、第２被検出部６２に対応して第２検出センサ５２が配設されている。そして第１被検出部６１は、操作ボタン１０が自由端位置から中間位置方向に所定量（例えば、図６におけるストローク１mm）以上移動されたときに第１検出センサ５１に検出され、第２被検出部６２は操作ボタン１０が中間位置を超えて押圧端位置方向に所定量（例えば、図６におけるストローク３．５mm）以上移動されたときに第２検出センサ５２に検出されるように配設されている。   The first detection sensor 51 and the second detection sensor disposed on the switch board 50 are provided to detect the movement stroke of the operation button 10, and are a first detected part formed on the operation frame 13. Corresponding to 61, a first detection sensor 51 and a second detection sensor 52 corresponding to the second detected part 62 are arranged. The first detected portion 61 is detected by the first detection sensor 51 when the operation button 10 is moved by a predetermined amount (for example, a stroke of 1 mm in FIG. 6) from the free end position toward the intermediate position. The detection unit 62 is arranged so that the second detection sensor 52 detects when the operation button 10 is moved beyond the intermediate position by a predetermined amount (for example, a stroke of 3.5 mm in FIG. 6) in the direction of the pressing end. Has been.

すなわち、操作スイッチ１では、操作ボタン１０が中間位置までの浅い押し込み深さで押圧操作されたときに、第１検出センサ５１にのみ検出信号が出力され、操作ボタン１０が中間位置を超えて深く押し込まれたときに第２検出センサ５２にも検出信号が出力される。これらの検出信号はスイッチ基板５０に設けられたコネクタ５８を介して対象となる制御機器に出力される。第１及び第２検出センサ５１，５２は、例えば各図に示すような投光部と受光部とを有し、これらの間に被検出部６１，６２が挿入されて光が遮られたときに検出信号が出力される（たとえばスイッチ接点が反転し、あるいは信号レベルが変化する）フォトインタラプタを用いて構成できるが、反射型のフォトセンサや、磁気検出センサ、リミットスイッチ等を用いて構成しても良い。   That is, in the operation switch 1, when the operation button 10 is pressed at a shallow depth to the intermediate position, a detection signal is output only to the first detection sensor 51, and the operation button 10 is deeper than the intermediate position. A detection signal is also output to the second detection sensor 52 when pushed. These detection signals are output to a target control device via a connector 58 provided on the switch board 50. The first and second detection sensors 51 and 52 have, for example, a light projecting part and a light receiving part as shown in each figure, and when the detected parts 61 and 62 are inserted between these parts and the light is blocked. Can be configured using a photo interrupter that outputs a detection signal (for example, the switch contact is inverted or the signal level changes), but it can be configured using a reflective photo sensor, magnetic detection sensor, limit switch, etc. May be.

さて、このように自由端位置〜中間位置の浅い第１操作領域と、中間位置〜押圧端位置の深い第２操作領域との二段階の操作領域を有し、操作領域に応じた検出信号が得られる操作スイッチ１にあって、バネ支持構造３０を挟む前後に、第１操作保持機構７０と第２操作保持機構８０とが設けられている。   Now, there are two stages of operation areas, the first operation area having a shallow free end position to an intermediate position and the second operation area having a deep intermediate position to a pressing end position, and a detection signal corresponding to the operation area is generated. In the obtained operation switch 1, a first operation holding mechanism 70 and a second operation holding mechanism 80 are provided before and after the spring support structure 30 is sandwiched.

図５中のVII矢視方向に見た第１操作保持機構７０の説明図を図７に示し、操作ボタン１０の基準位置（自由端位置ＦＰ、中間位置ＭＰ、押圧端位置ＢＰ）と第１，第２検出センサ５１，５２の検出位置Ｓ１，Ｓ２、及び第１，第２操作保持機構７０，８０による操作ボタン１０の操作位置Ｐ１，Ｐ２の関係を図８示す。ここで図７(ａ)は操作ボタン１０が自由端位置ＦＰにある状態における第１操作保持機構７０の正面図、図７(ｂ)は操作ボタン１０が第１操作位置Ｐ１にある状態における正面図である。なお、第１操作保持機構７０と第２操作保持機構８０とは、操作ボタン１０を係止保持する高さ位置Ｐ１，Ｐ２のみが相違し、機構構成は同一であるため、以下では第１操作保持機構７０を主として説明する。   FIG. 7 shows an explanatory diagram of the first operation holding mechanism 70 viewed in the direction of arrow VII in FIG. 5, and the reference position (free end position FP, intermediate position MP, pressing end position BP) of the operation button 10 and the first position. FIG. 8 shows the relationship between the detection positions S1, S2 of the second detection sensors 51, 52 and the operation positions P1, P2 of the operation button 10 by the first and second operation holding mechanisms 70, 80. 7A is a front view of the first operation holding mechanism 70 in a state where the operation button 10 is in the free end position FP, and FIG. 7B is a front view in a state where the operation button 10 is in the first operation position P1. FIG. The first operation holding mechanism 70 and the second operation holding mechanism 80 are different only in height positions P1 and P2 for locking and holding the operation button 10, and the mechanism configuration is the same. The holding mechanism 70 will be mainly described.

第１操作保持機構７０は、大別的には、操作枠体１３における梁部１４の下面に突出成型されたラッチ突起７１と、このラッチ突起部７１と係脱自在なラッチ本体７４とから構成される。   The first operation holding mechanism 70 is roughly composed of a latch protrusion 71 which is formed by projecting on the lower surface of the beam portion 14 in the operation frame 13, and a latch body 74 which can be engaged with and disengaged from the latch protrusion 71. Is done.

ラッチ突起７１は、梁部１４の下面から下向きに突出する矩形の柱状部７２と、この柱状部７２と繋がって左右に張り出し下端側が先すぼまりの正面視台形状の押圧突部７３とからなり、押圧突部７３の下端には平坦な押圧端面７３ａ、左右には傾斜した押圧斜面７３ｃ、上端左右には柱状部７２と繋がる平坦な被係止面７３ｄが形成されている。   The latch protrusion 71 includes a rectangular columnar portion 72 that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the beam portion 14, and a pressing protrusion 73 that is connected to the columnar portion 72 and protrudes to the left and right and has a tapered shape at the front end. Thus, a flat pressing end surface 73 a is formed at the lower end of the pressing protrusion 73, an inclined pressing slope 73 c is formed on the left and right sides, and a flat locked surface 73 d connected to the columnar portion 72 is formed on the upper left and right sides.

ラッチ本体７４は上端開放で縦長矩形箱状のケース７５と、このケース７５に上下に摺動可能に支持されたフック体７６と、ケース内部に設けられフック体７６が上下に摺動するごとにフック体７６を上端側の解放位置と下端側の係止位置とに係止するラッチ構造などから構成される。   The latch body 74 has a vertically long rectangular box-like case 75 with an open upper end, a hook body 76 supported by the case 75 so as to be slidable up and down, and a hook body 76 provided inside the case each time the hook body 76 slides up and down. The hook body 76 is configured by a latch structure for locking the hook body 76 to the release position on the upper end side and the lock position on the lower end side.

フック体７６の上部には、押圧端面７３ａと係脱可能な受容端面７７ａを有し押圧突部７３の上端形状と上下対象の相似形をなす受容突部７７が形成されるとともに、この受容突部７７の左右に位置してフックアーム７８，７８が設けられている。左右のフックアーム７８は、それぞれ斜め上方に延びるアーム部７８ａと、各アーム部７８ａの先端に互いに内向きの鉤状に形成されたフック部７８ｂとからなり、フック部７８ｂにはラッチ突起の押圧斜面７３ｂと係脱可能な受容斜面７８ｃ、被係止面７３ｄと係脱可能な係止面７８ｄが形成されている。   On the upper part of the hook body 76, there is formed a receiving projection 77 having a receiving end surface 77a which can be engaged with and disengaged from the pressing end surface 73a, which is similar to the upper end shape of the pressing projection 73 and the upper and lower objects. Hook arms 78 and 78 are provided on the left and right of the portion 77. Each of the left and right hook arms 78 includes an arm portion 78a extending obliquely upward and a hook portion 78b formed in an inward hook shape at the tip of each arm portion 78a. A receiving inclined surface 78c that can be engaged with and disengaged from the inclined surface 73b and an engaging surface 78d that can be engaged and disengaged with the engaged surface 73d are formed.

フックアーム７８は、受容突部７８の側部に位置し薄肉部を介してフック体７６に繋がっており、薄肉部が弾性変形することにより先端のフック部７８ｂが左右に揺動可能になっている。フックアーム７８は、このフックアームに力が作用していない初期状態において、図７(ａ)に示すように、左右のフックアーム７８，７８が開いた状態（ラッチ突起７１の押圧突部７３を受容可能な状態）になるよう構成されている。   The hook arm 78 is located on the side of the receiving projection 78 and is connected to the hook body 76 via a thin portion, and the thin portion is elastically deformed so that the hook portion 78b at the tip can swing left and right. Yes. In the initial state in which no force is applied to the hook arm, the hook arm 78 is in a state in which the left and right hook arms 78 and 78 are opened (the pressing protrusion 73 of the latch protrusion 71 is moved) as shown in FIG. (Acceptable state).

ケース７５は、上記フック体７６が下動されてケース内方に収容されたときに、ケース上端の内側周縁がフックアーム７８におけるアーム部７８ａの外側側面と係合し、左右のフックアーム７８，７８をともに内向きに揺動させる。ケース内部には、フック体７６を常時上方に付勢する付勢バネと、フック体７６が上下摺動するごとにフック体７６を図７(ａ)に示す上端側の解放位置と図７(ｂ)に示す下端側の係止位置とに係止するラッチ構造とがもうけられている。ケース７５は、スライダ４０に形成されたラッチ固定部４８に装着され固定されている。   In the case 75, when the hook body 76 is moved downward and accommodated in the case, the inner peripheral edge of the upper end of the case engages with the outer side surface of the arm portion 78a of the hook arm 78, and the left and right hook arms 78, Both are swung inwardly. Inside the case, an urging spring for constantly urging the hook body 76 upward, and the hook body 76 as shown in FIG. The latch structure which latches to the latching position of the lower end side shown to b) is provided. The case 75 is mounted and fixed to a latch fixing portion 48 formed on the slider 40.

なお、ケース７５の内部に設けられたラッチ構造については、詳細図示を省略するが、例えば弾性金属線とハートカムを利用したワンウェイラッチ構造や、円筒外周面に形成された楔状部の回転角度位置を利用したワンウェイラッチ構造など、ワンプッシュごとに係止保持と係止解除とを繰り返す、公知のワンウェイラッチ構造を用いて構成することができる。   Although the detailed illustration of the latch structure provided in the case 75 is omitted, for example, a one-way latch structure using an elastic metal wire and a heart cam, and the rotation angle position of the wedge-shaped portion formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder are used. A known one-way latch structure, such as a one-way latch structure used, that repeats locking and holding and unlocking for each one-push can be used.

第１操作保持機構７０と第２操作保持機構８０とは、操作ボタン１０を係止保持する高さ位置Ｐ１，Ｐ２のみ異なり、基本的な機構構成は同様である。すなわち、図示する構成例では、第１操作保持機構７０のラッチ本体７４がスライダ４０に形成されたラッチ固定部４８に装着固定され、第２装着保持機構８０のラッチ本体８４が底壁部２３に形成されたラッチ固定部２８に装着固定される点、及び、操作ボタン１０が自由端位置にあるときにラッチ固定部の上下方向高さ位置が相違する点（すなわち自由端位置ＦＰにおいて第１操作保持機構７０のラッチ本体７４の方が第２操作保持機構８０のラッチ本体８４よりも上方に位置する点）を除いて機構構成は同様になっている。   The first operation holding mechanism 70 and the second operation holding mechanism 80 are different only in height positions P1 and P2 for locking and holding the operation button 10, and the basic mechanism configuration is the same. That is, in the illustrated configuration example, the latch main body 74 of the first operation holding mechanism 70 is attached and fixed to the latch fixing portion 48 formed on the slider 40, and the latch main body 84 of the second attachment holding mechanism 80 is attached to the bottom wall portion 23. The point that the latch fixing part 28 is mounted and fixed and the vertical position of the latch fixing part is different when the operation button 10 is at the free end position (that is, the first operation at the free end position FP). The mechanism structure is the same except that the latch body 74 of the holding mechanism 70 is positioned above the latch body 84 of the second operation holding mechanism 80).

このように構成される第１，第２操作保持機構７０，８０では、操作ボタン１０が自由端位置ＦＰにある状態から第１付勢バネ３１のバネ力に抗して押圧操作されると、まず操作ボタン１０が自由端位置ＦＰから所定量移動されて第１操作検出位置Ｓ１に到達すると第１被検出部６１が第１検出センサ５１の投光部と受光部間の光路を遮り、これ以下の高さ位置で第１検出センサ５１からコネクタ５８に検出信号（第１操作検出信号）が出力される。またスイッチ基板５０に実装された複数の発光素子５５のうちいずれか、例えば、操作枠体１３に形成された左右の窓部１３ｗの下方に位置してバネ支持構造３０の左右に各２個ずつ配設された発光素子５５，５５…のうち各１個ずつが点灯される。これにより操作ボタン１０拡散シート１２が照明されて操作面１１ａに意匠が浮かび上がり、操作者は押し込み操作が検出されたことを認識することができる。   In the first and second operation holding mechanisms 70 and 80 configured as described above, when the operation button 10 is pressed against the spring force of the first biasing spring 31 from the state at the free end position FP, First, when the operation button 10 is moved by a predetermined amount from the free end position FP and reaches the first operation detection position S1, the first detected part 61 blocks the optical path between the light projecting part and the light receiving part of the first detection sensor 51, A detection signal (first operation detection signal) is output from the first detection sensor 51 to the connector 58 at the following height position. Further, one of the plurality of light emitting elements 55 mounted on the switch substrate 50, for example, two each on the left and right of the spring support structure 30 positioned below the left and right windows 13 w formed in the operation frame 13. One of each of the arranged light emitting elements 55, 55... Is turned on. As a result, the operation button 10 diffusion sheet 12 is illuminated and the design emerges on the operation surface 11a, so that the operator can recognize that the push-in operation has been detected.

また操作ボタン１０とともにラッチ突起７１，８１が下動し、このうち第１操作保持機構７０のラッチ突起７１が先にラッチ本体７４の左右のフックアーム７８，７８の間に浸入する。このとき押圧斜面７３ｃが受容斜面７８ｃと係合して左右のフックアーム７８，７８を拡開方向に揺動させながら下動し、押圧端面７３ａが受容端面７７ａに当接する。操作ボタン１０がさらに下動すると、ラッチ突起７１に押圧されたフック体７６がケース内方に入り込み、ケース上端の周縁部に摺接する左右のフックアーム７８，７８がラッチ突起７１を左右から包み込むように縮閉方向に揺動して、フック部７８ｂ，７８ｂが押圧突部７３を挟み込む。そして、操作ボタン１０が中間位置ＭＰ近傍まで押下されたときにケース内部のラッチ構造が係止保持方向に切り替わり（ラッチポイントｐ１）、その後梁部１４の下面がスライダ４０の上面に当接して中間位置ＭＰに到達する。図９はこのときの操作スイッチ１の状態を示す図３と同様位置の断面図である。   The latch protrusions 71 and 81 are moved downward together with the operation button 10, and the latch protrusion 71 of the first operation holding mechanism 70 enters between the left and right hook arms 78 and 78 of the latch body 74 first. At this time, the pressing inclined surface 73c engages with the receiving inclined surface 78c and moves downward while swinging the left and right hook arms 78, 78 in the expanding direction, and the pressing end surface 73a contacts the receiving end surface 77a. When the operation button 10 is further moved down, the hook body 76 pressed by the latch protrusion 71 enters the inside of the case, and the left and right hook arms 78 and 78 slidably contacting the peripheral edge of the upper end of the case wrap the latch protrusion 71 from the left and right. The hook portions 78b and 78b pinch the pressing projection 73. When the operation button 10 is pressed down to the vicinity of the intermediate position MP, the latch structure inside the case is switched to the holding direction (latch point p1), and then the lower surface of the beam portion 14 comes into contact with the upper surface of the slider 40 and is intermediate. The position MP is reached. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view at the same position as FIG. 3 showing the state of the operation switch 1 at this time.

操作ボタン１０が中間位置ＭＰに到達すると、梁部１４（第１バネ座１７）の下面がスライダ４０（支持台座４５）の上面と係合し、操作ボタン１０の操作抵抗が急激に変化する（図６におけるＣ位置）。そこで、操作者が操作ボタン１０への押圧力を解除すると、操作ボタン１０は第１付勢バネ３１のバネ力により自由端位置ＦＰ方向に移動しようとする。しかし、第１操作保持機構７０のラッチ構造は係止保持方向に切り替わっており、フック体７６がラッチポイントｐ１からわずかに上動した第１操作位置Ｐ１で、ラッチ突起７１が左右のフックアーム７８，７８に挟み込まれた状態でフック体７６の上動規制される。   When the operation button 10 reaches the intermediate position MP, the lower surface of the beam portion 14 (first spring seat 17) is engaged with the upper surface of the slider 40 (support base 45), and the operation resistance of the operation button 10 changes abruptly ( C position in FIG. 6). Therefore, when the operator releases the pressing force on the operation button 10, the operation button 10 tends to move in the direction of the free end position FP by the spring force of the first biasing spring 31. However, the latch structure of the first operation holding mechanism 70 is switched in the locking and holding direction, and the latch protrusion 71 is the left and right hook arms 78 at the first operation position P1 where the hook body 76 is slightly moved up from the latch point p1. , 78, the hook body 76 is restricted from moving upward.

このため、押圧突起７３の被支持面７３ｄとフックアーム７８の係止面７８ｄとの係合によりラッチ突起７１の上動すなわち操作ボタン１０の上動が規制され、操作ボタン１０は中間位置ＭＰに近接した第１操作位置Ｐ１に係止保持される。この第１操作位置Ｐ１は、図８からも明らかなように、第１検出センサ５１によって第１被検出部６１が検出される第１操作検出位置Ｓ１よりも低く、コネクタ５８には第１操作信号が継続して出力される。   Therefore, the upward movement of the latch protrusion 71, that is, the upward movement of the operation button 10 is restricted by the engagement between the supported surface 73d of the pressing protrusion 73 and the locking surface 78d of the hook arm 78, and the operation button 10 is moved to the intermediate position MP. It is latched and held at the adjacent first operation position P1. As is apparent from FIG. 8, the first operation position P1 is lower than the first operation detection position S1 at which the first detected portion 61 is detected by the first detection sensor 51, and the connector 58 has the first operation position P1. The signal is output continuously.

なお、第１操作信号が所定時間以上（例えば３秒程度以上）継続して検出されたときに、それまで点灯していた発光素子５５を点滅表示させるように構成することも好ましい実施形態である。このような構成によれば、操作ボタン１０が第１操作位置Ｐ１に係止保持された状態であることを操作者が直感的に感得することができる。   In addition, when the first operation signal is continuously detected for a predetermined time or longer (for example, about 3 seconds or longer), it is also a preferred embodiment that the light emitting element 55 that has been turned on is blinked. . According to such a configuration, the operator can intuitively feel that the operation button 10 is locked and held at the first operation position P1.

操作ボタン１０が第１操作位置Ｐ１に係止保持された状態を解除するには、ラッチポイントｐ１を超える程度に操作ボタン１０を軽く押圧操作すればよい。例えば、操作ボタン１０が中間位置ＭＰに突き当たるまで押圧操作して押圧力を解除する。フック体７６がラッチポイントｐ１を超えて下動すると、第１操作保持機構７０のラッチ構造は係止状態から係止解除方向に切り替わり、操作ボタン１０への押圧力が解除されて第１付勢バネ３１のバネ力により操作ボタンが上動すると係止突起７１とともにフック体７６が上動し、ケース内に縮閉状態で収容されていた左右のフックアーム７８，７８が拡開しながら上端側の解放位置まで出てくる。そして左右に広く開放されたフックアーム７８と係止突起７１との係止が解除され、操作ボタン１０は第１付勢バネ３１のバネ力により第１操作検出位置Ｓ１を超えて自由端位置ＦＰに復帰する。操作ボタン１０が第１操作検出位置Ｓ１よりも上方に移動すると第１操作信号の出力が停止され、発光素子５５の発光も停止される。   In order to release the state in which the operation button 10 is locked and held at the first operation position P1, the operation button 10 may be lightly pressed so as to exceed the latch point p1. For example, the pressing force is released by pressing until the operation button 10 hits the intermediate position MP. When the hook body 76 moves downward beyond the latch point p1, the latch structure of the first operation holding mechanism 70 switches from the locked state to the unlocked direction, and the pressing force to the operation button 10 is released and the first biasing is performed. When the operation button is moved upward by the spring force of the spring 31, the hook body 76 is moved upward together with the locking projection 71, and the left and right hook arms 78, 78 accommodated in a contracted state in the case are expanded and the upper end side is expanded. Comes out to the release position. Then, the hook arm 78 that is widely opened to the left and right and the locking projection 71 are unlocked, and the operation button 10 exceeds the first operation detection position S1 by the spring force of the first biasing spring 31 and the free end position FP. Return to. When the operation button 10 moves above the first operation detection position S1, the output of the first operation signal is stopped and the light emission of the light emitting element 55 is also stopped.

一方、操作者が浅い押し込み操作の第１操作領域Ａ１を超えて、さらに深い第２操作領域Ａ２までのスイッチ操作を意図した場合には、操作スイッチ１０が自由端位置ＦＰから中間位置ＭＰを超えて下方に移動操作される。このとき、第１操作保持機構７０は、ラッチ突起７１がラッチ本体７４の内方に押し込まれラッチポイントｐ１を超えた状態でスライダ４０とともに下動される。   On the other hand, when the operator intends to perform a switch operation from the first operation area A1 of the shallow push operation to the deeper second operation area A2, the operation switch 10 exceeds the intermediate position MP from the free end position FP. Is moved downward. At this time, the first operation holding mechanism 70 is moved down together with the slider 40 in a state where the latch protrusion 71 is pushed inward of the latch body 74 and exceeds the latch point p1.

そして、操作ボタン１０が中間位置ＭＰから所定量移動されて第２操作検出位置Ｓ２に到達すると第２被検出部６２が第２検出センサ５２の投光部と受光部間の光路を遮り、これ以下の高さ位置で第２検出センサ５２からコネクタ５８に検出信号（第２操作検出信号）が出力される。またスイッチ基板５０に実装された複数の発光素子のうち左右の窓部１３ｗの下方に位置してバネ支持構造３０の左右に各２個ずつ配設された発光素子が全て点灯される。これにより操作ボタン１０の拡散シート１２が、前述した浅い押し込み操作状態のときよりも明るく照明され、操作者は操作面１１ａの輝度から深い押し込み操作が検出されたことを認識することができる。   When the operation button 10 is moved by a predetermined amount from the intermediate position MP and reaches the second operation detection position S2, the second detected section 62 blocks the optical path between the light projecting section and the light receiving section of the second detection sensor 52, A detection signal (second operation detection signal) is output from the second detection sensor 52 to the connector 58 at the following height position. In addition, among the plurality of light emitting elements mounted on the switch substrate 50, all the two light emitting elements that are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the spring support structure 30 that are located below the left and right window portions 13w are turned on. Thereby, the diffusion sheet 12 of the operation button 10 is illuminated brighter than in the above-described shallow push-in operation state, and the operator can recognize that a deep push-in operation has been detected from the brightness of the operation surface 11a.

また操作ボタン１０の押圧移動とともにラッチ突起８１が下動し、第２操作保持機構８０のラッチ突起８１がラッチ本体８４の左右のフックアーム８８，８８の間に浸入する。そして、前述した第１操作保持機構７０と同様の作用により、操作ボタン１０が押圧端位置ＢＰ近傍まで押下されたときにケース内部のラッチ構造が係止保持方向に切り替わり（ラッチポイントｐ２）、その後操作枠体１３の周縁突起１９が操作ボタン収容部２１の押圧規制面２９に当接して押圧端位置ＢＰに到達する。図１０はこのときの操作スイッチ１の状態を示す図３と同様位置の断面図である。   Further, the latch protrusion 81 moves downward as the operation button 10 is pressed, and the latch protrusion 81 of the second operation holding mechanism 80 enters between the left and right hook arms 88 of the latch body 84. Then, due to the same operation as the first operation holding mechanism 70 described above, when the operation button 10 is pressed down to the vicinity of the pressing end position BP, the latch structure inside the case is switched to the locking holding direction (latch point p2), and thereafter The peripheral protrusion 19 of the operation frame 13 abuts on the pressing restriction surface 29 of the operation button accommodating portion 21 and reaches the pressing end position BP. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view at the same position as FIG. 3 showing the state of the operation switch 1 at this time.

操作ボタン１０が押圧端位置ＢＰに到達すると、操作ボタン側の周縁突起１９とスイッチケース側の押圧規制面２９との係合によって操作ボタン１０の下動が規制され、操作ボタンをこれ以上押し込み操作できなくなる。そこで、操作者が操作ボタン１０への押圧力を解除すると、操作ボタン１０は第１付勢バネ３１及び第２付勢バネ３２のバネ力により中間位置ＭＰ方向に移動しようとする。しかし、第１操作保持機構７０のラッチ構造及び第２操作保持機構８０のラッチ構造は、ともに係止保持方向に切り替わっており、ラッチ本体のフック体がラッチポイントｐ１，ｐ２からわずかに上動した第２操作位置Ｐ２で、ラッチ突起７１，８１がそれぞれ左右のフックアーム７８，８８に挟み込まれた状態で上動規制される。   When the operation button 10 reaches the pressing end position BP, the downward movement of the operation button 10 is restricted by the engagement between the peripheral protrusion 19 on the operation button side and the pressing restriction surface 29 on the switch case side, and the operation button is pushed further. become unable. Therefore, when the operator releases the pressing force on the operation button 10, the operation button 10 tends to move in the intermediate position MP direction by the spring force of the first biasing spring 31 and the second biasing spring 32. However, the latch structure of the first operation holding mechanism 70 and the latch structure of the second operation holding mechanism 80 are both switched in the locking and holding direction, and the hook body of the latch body has moved slightly upward from the latch points p1 and p2. At the second operation position P2, the upward movement of the latch protrusions 71 and 81 is restricted while being sandwiched between the left and right hook arms 78 and 88, respectively.

このため、押圧突起の被支持面とフックアームの係止面との係合によりラッチ突起の上動すなわち操作ボタン１０の上動が規制され、操作ボタン１０は押圧端位置ＢＰに近接した第２操作位置Ｐ２に係止保持される。この第２操作位置Ｐ２は第２検出センサ５２によって第２被検出部６２が検出される第２操作検出位置Ｓ２よりも低く、コネクタ５８には第１操作信号と第２操作信号の両方が継続して出力される。   For this reason, the upward movement of the latch protrusion, that is, the upward movement of the operation button 10 is restricted by the engagement between the supported surface of the pressing protrusion and the locking surface of the hook arm, and the operating button 10 is in the second position close to the pressing end position BP. It is latched and held at the operation position P2. The second operation position P2 is lower than the second operation detection position S2 at which the second detected portion 62 is detected by the second detection sensor 52, and both the first operation signal and the second operation signal are continued in the connector 58. Is output.

なお、第１操作信号と第２操作信号がともに所定時間以上（例えば３秒程度以上）継続して検出されたときに、それまで点灯していた発光素子を点滅表示させるように構成し、あるいは第１操作信号のみが継続検出された状態のときと異なる点滅周期で点滅表示するように構成することも好ましい実施形態である。このような構成によれば、操作ボタン１０が第２操作位置Ｐ２に係止保持されている状態であることを、操作者が直感的に感得することができる。   When both the first operation signal and the second operation signal are continuously detected for a predetermined time or more (for example, about 3 seconds or more), the light emitting element that has been lit until then is displayed blinking, or It is also a preferred embodiment that the flashing display is performed with a flashing cycle different from that in the state where only the first operation signal is continuously detected. According to such a configuration, the operator can intuitively feel that the operation button 10 is locked and held at the second operation position P2.

操作ボタン１０が第２操作位置Ｐ２に係止保持された状態を解除するには、ラッチポイントｐ１及びｐ２を超える程度に操作ボタン１０を軽く押圧操作すればよい。例えば、操作ボタン１０が押圧端位置ＢＰに突き当たるまで押圧操作して押圧力を解除する。フック体がラッチポイントを超えて下動すると、第１及び第２操作保持機構７０，８０のラッチ構造は係止状態から係止解除方向に切り替わる。   In order to release the state in which the operation button 10 is locked and held at the second operation position P2, the operation button 10 may be lightly pressed so as to exceed the latch points p1 and p2. For example, the pressing force is released by pressing until the operation button 10 hits the pressing end position BP. When the hook body moves downward beyond the latch point, the latch structures of the first and second operation holding mechanisms 70 and 80 are switched from the locked state to the unlocked direction.

このため操作ボタン１０への押圧力が緩められると、まず第２付勢バネ３２のバネ力により操作ボタン１０が上動されて係止突起８１とともにフック体８６が上動し、ケース内に縮閉状態で収容されていた左右のフックアーム８８，８８が拡開しながら上端側の解放位置まで出てくる。このため、左右に広く開放されたフックアーム８８と係止突起８１との係止が解除されて操作ボタン１０が中間位置ＭＰまで上動する。操作ボタン１０が中間位置ＭＰまで来ると、今度は第１付勢バネ３１のバネ力により操作ボタン１０が上動されて係止突起７１とともにフック体７６が上動し、ケース内に縮閉状態で収容されていた左右のフックアーム７８，７８が拡開しながら上端側の解放位置まで出てくる。このため、左右に広く開放されたフックアーム７８と係止突起７１との係止が解除され、操作ボタン１０は自由端位置ＦＰに復帰する。   For this reason, when the pressing force on the operation button 10 is loosened, the operation button 10 is first moved up by the spring force of the second urging spring 32, and the hook body 86 is moved up together with the locking projection 81 to be contracted in the case. The left and right hook arms 88, 88 accommodated in the closed state come out to the release position on the upper end side while expanding. Therefore, the hook arm 88 that is widely opened to the left and right and the locking projection 81 are unlocked, and the operation button 10 moves up to the intermediate position MP. When the operation button 10 reaches the intermediate position MP, the operation button 10 is now moved up by the spring force of the first urging spring 31 and the hook body 76 is moved up together with the locking projection 71, and is contracted in the case. The left and right hook arms 78, 78 that have been housed in the above position come out to the release position on the upper end side while expanding. For this reason, the engagement between the hook arm 78 that is widely opened to the left and right and the engagement protrusion 71 is released, and the operation button 10 returns to the free end position FP.

この過程で、操作ボタン１０が第２操作検出位置Ｓ２よりも上方に移動すると第２操作信号の出力が停止され、操作ボタン１０が第１操作検出位置Ｓ１よりも上方に移動すると第１操作信号の出力が停止される。また、これらの検出信号に対応した発光素子５５の発光も順次停止される。   In this process, the output of the second operation signal is stopped when the operation button 10 moves above the second operation detection position S2, and the first operation signal when the operation button 10 moves above the first operation detection position S1. Output is stopped. Further, the light emission of the light emitting element 55 corresponding to these detection signals is also sequentially stopped.

従って、以上説明したような操作スイッチ１によれば、単一の押しボタンスイッチでありながら、自由端位置ＦＰから中間位置ＭＰまでの浅い第１操作領域Ａ１と、中間位置ＭＰから押圧端位置ＢＰまでの深い第２操作領域Ａ２との二段階の操作領域を有し、操作ボタン１０の操作領域に応じた検出信号が得られる構成のため、スイッチ操作に多様性を持たせることができる。また、操作ボタン１０の押圧操作量に応じて、第１操作領域Ａ１では第１付勢バネ３１のみのバネ反力を受け、第２操作領域Ａ２では第１付勢バネ３１及び第２付勢バネ３２の両方のバネ反力を受ける構成としているため、中間位置ＭＰを境界として操作ボタン１０の操作感触が大きく変化し、操作者が操作領域Ａ１，Ａ２の切り替わりを明確に感得することができる。   Therefore, according to the operation switch 1 as described above, although it is a single push button switch, the shallow first operation area A1 from the free end position FP to the intermediate position MP and the intermediate position MP to the pressing end position BP. The second operation area A2 has a two-step operation area, and a detection signal corresponding to the operation area of the operation button 10 can be obtained. Therefore, the switch operation can be varied. Further, according to the amount of pressing operation of the operation button 10, the first reaction region A1 receives the spring reaction force of only the first biasing spring 31, and the second operation region A2 receives the first biasing spring 31 and the second biasing force. Since both spring reaction forces of the spring 32 are received, the operation feeling of the operation button 10 changes greatly with the intermediate position MP as a boundary, and the operator can clearly feel the switching between the operation areas A1 and A2. .

さらに、操作スイッチ１では、操作ボタン１０の押圧操作に応じて、自由端位置ＦＰから中間位置ＭＰまで浅く押し込まれたときは、押圧操作ごとに中間位置近傍の第１操作位置Ｐ１に係止保持／係止解除することができ、自由端位置ＦＰから押圧端位置ＢＰまで深く押し込まれたときには、押圧操作ごとに押圧端位置近傍の第２操作位置Ｐ２に係止保持／係止解除することができるため、従来にない複雑なスイッチ操作を可能としてスイッチ操作そのものに遊技性を持たせることができ、遊技演出に直接的に寄与するような作用を果たすことができる。また、操作ボタンの操作位置及び係止状態に応じて操作面１１ａの発光状態が変化するため、操作者は操作面を一瞥するだけで、操作ボタンの位置状況を誤認することなく確実に認識することができる。   Further, when the operation switch 1 is pushed in shallowly from the free end position FP to the intermediate position MP in response to the pressing operation of the operation button 10, it is locked and held at the first operation position P1 near the intermediate position for each pressing operation. / When it is pushed deeply from the free end position FP to the pressing end position BP, it is possible to lock and hold / unlock at the second operation position P2 near the pressing end position for each pressing operation. Therefore, it is possible to perform a complicated switch operation that has not been possible in the past, so that the switch operation itself can have game play, and an action that directly contributes to a game effect can be achieved. In addition, since the light emission state of the operation surface 11a changes according to the operation position and the locked state of the operation button, the operator can recognize the position of the operation button without misidentifying it only by glanceping at the operation surface. be able to.

従って、本発明の操作スイッチによれば、多様なスイッチ特性と明確な操作性とを兼ね備えるとともに、スイッチ操作そのものに遊技性を持たせた操作スイッチを提供することができる。   Therefore, according to the operation switch of the present invention, it is possible to provide an operation switch that has various switch characteristics and clear operability, and that provides switch operation with game play.

なお、以上では、操作スイッチ１に第１操作保持機構７０と第２操作保持機構８０を設け、操作ボタン１０を中間位置近傍の第１操作位置Ｐ１と、押圧端位置近傍の第２操作位置Ｐ２の両方で係止保持／係止解除できる構成を示したが、第１操作保持機構７０または第２操作保持機構８０のいずれか一方を設ける構成としても良い。また、浅い操作領域Ａ１と深い操作領域Ａ２の２段階の操作領域を形成した構成例を示したが、３段階以上の操作領域を有するように構成しても良い。   In the above, the operation switch 1 is provided with the first operation holding mechanism 70 and the second operation holding mechanism 80, and the operation button 10 is moved to the first operation position P1 near the intermediate position and the second operation position P2 near the pressing end position. However, it is also possible to provide either the first operation holding mechanism 70 or the second operation holding mechanism 80. Moreover, although the example of a structure which formed the operation area | region of two steps of the shallow operation area | region A1 and the deep operation area | region A2 was shown, you may comprise so that it may have an operation area | region of three or more steps.

本発明の一実施例として示す操作スイッチの外観斜視図である。It is an external appearance perspective view of the operation switch shown as one Example of this invention. 上記操作スイッチの分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view of the said operation switch. 図１中に付記するIII−III矢視の断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the III-III arrow added in FIG. 操作ボタンを取り外した状態で示す操作スイッチの平面図である。It is a top view of an operation switch shown in the state where an operation button was removed. 図４中のV−V矢視の断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the VV arrow in FIG. 上記操作スイッチの操作特性である。This is an operation characteristic of the operation switch. 図５中のVII矢視方向に見た第１操作保持機構の動作説明図である。It is operation | movement explanatory drawing of the 1st operation holding mechanism seen in the VII arrow direction in FIG. 操作ボタンの基準位置と、第１，第２検出センサの検出位置、及び第１，第２操作保持機構による操作ボタンの係止保持位置の関係を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the relationship between the reference position of an operation button, the detection position of a 1st, 2nd detection sensor, and the latching holding position of the operation button by a 1st, 2nd operation holding mechanism. 操作ボタンが中間位置にあるときの図３と同様位置の断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the position similar to FIG. 3 when an operation button exists in an intermediate position. 操作ボタンが押圧端位置にあるときの図３と同様位置の断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the same position as FIG. 3 when an operation button exists in a press end position.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１ 操作スイッチ
１０ 操作ボタン
２０ スイッチケース
３０ バネ支持構造
３１ 第１付勢バネ
３２ 第２付勢バネ
５１ 第１検出センサ
５２ 第２検出センサ
７０ 第１操作保持機構
８０ 第２操作保持機構
ＳＷ スイッチ
ＦＰ 自由端位置
ＭＰ 中間位置
ＢＰ 押圧端位置
Ｐ１ 第１操作位置
Ｐ２ 第２操作位置 1 operation switch 10 operation button 20 switch case 30 spring support structure 31 first urging spring 32 second urging spring 51 first detection sensor 52 second detection sensor 70 first operation holding mechanism 80 second operation holding mechanism SW switch FP Free end position MP Intermediate position BP Press end position P1 First operation position P2 Second operation position

Claims (4)

押圧操作される操作ボタンと、
前記操作ボタンを操作方向に自由端位置から中間位置を通って押圧端位置まで移動自在に支持するスイッチケースと、
前記操作ボタンと前記スイッチケースとの間に介在され、前記操作ボタンを前記押圧端位置から前記自由端位置に移動させるように付勢する第１付勢手段と、
前記スイッチケースに配設され、前記操作ボタンが前記中間位置を超えて押圧移動されたときに前記操作ボタンを前記中間位置に向けて付勢する第２付勢手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記中間位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第１検出手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記中間位置を超えて前記押圧端位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第２検出手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記中間位置まで押圧移動された場合に前記操作ボタンを前記第１検出手段に検出された状態の第１操作位置に係止保持し、前記操作ボタンが前記第１操作位置に係止保持された状態で前記操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に前記操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第１操作保持手段と
を備えたことを特徴とする操作スイッチ。 An operation button to be pressed,
A switch case that supports the operation button so as to be movable in the operation direction from a free end position through an intermediate position to a press end position;
A first urging means interposed between the operation button and the switch case and urged to move the operation button from the pressing end position to the free end position;
A second urging means disposed on the switch case and urging the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is pressed and moved beyond the intermediate position;
First detection means for detecting that the operation button has moved a predetermined amount or more from the free end position toward the intermediate position;
Second detection means for detecting that the operation button has moved a predetermined amount or more in the direction of the pressing end position beyond the intermediate position;
When the operation button is pushed and moved from the free end position to the intermediate position, the operation button is locked and held at the first operation position detected by the first detection means, and the operation button is moved to the first position. An operation switch, comprising: a first operation holding means for releasing the lock holding of the operation button when the operation button is pressed and held in one operation position. 押圧操作される操作ボタンと、
前記操作ボタンを操作方向に自由端位置から中間位置を通って押圧端位置まで移動自在に支持するスイッチケースと、
前記操作ボタンと前記スイッチケースとの間に介在され、前記操作ボタンを前記押圧端位置から前記自由端位置に移動させるように付勢する第１付勢手段と、
前記スイッチケースに配設され、前記操作ボタンが前記中間位置を超えて押圧移動されたときに前記操作ボタンを前記中間位置に向けて付勢する第２付勢手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記中間位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第１検出手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記中間位置を超えて前記押圧端位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第２検出手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記押圧端位置まで押圧移動された場合に前記操作ボタンを前記第２検出手段に検出された状態の前記第２操作位置に係止保持し、前記操作ボタンが前記第２操作位置に係止保持された状態で前記操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に前記操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第２操作保持手段と
を備えたことを特徴とする操作スイッチ。 An operation button to be pressed,
A switch case that supports the operation button so as to be movable in the operation direction from a free end position through an intermediate position to a press end position;
A first urging means interposed between the operation button and the switch case and urged to move the operation button from the pressing end position to the free end position;
A second urging means disposed on the switch case and urging the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is pressed and moved beyond the intermediate position;
First detection means for detecting that the operation button has moved a predetermined amount or more from the free end position toward the intermediate position;
Second detection means for detecting that the operation button has moved beyond the intermediate position in the direction of the pressing end position by a predetermined amount;
When the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the pressing end position, the operation button is locked and held at the second operation position detected by the second detection means, and the operation button is An operation switch, comprising: a second operation holding means for releasing the lock of the operation button when the operation button is pressed and held in the second operation position. 押圧操作される操作ボタンと、
前記操作ボタンを操作方向に自由端位置から中間位置を通って押圧端位置まで移動自在に支持するスイッチケースと、
前記操作ボタンと前記スイッチケースとの間に介在され、前記操作ボタンを前記押圧端位置から前記自由端位置に移動させるように付勢する第１付勢手段と、
前記スイッチケースに配設され、前記操作ボタンが前記中間位置を超えて押圧移動されたときに前記操作ボタンを前記中間位置に向けて付勢する第２付勢手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記中間位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第１検出手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記中間位置を超えて前記押圧端位置方向に所定量以上移動されたことを検出する第２検出手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記中間位置まで押圧移動された場合に前記操作ボタンを前記第１検出手段に検出された状態の第１操作位置に係止保持し、前記操作ボタンが前記第１操作位置に係止保持された状態で前記操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に前記操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第１操作保持手段と、
前記操作ボタンが前記自由端位置から前記押圧端位置まで押圧移動された場合に前記操作ボタンを前記第２検出手段に検出された状態の前記第２操作位置に係止保持し、前記操作ボタンが前記第２操作位置に係止保持された状態で前記操作ボタンが押圧操作された場合に前記操作ボタンの係止保持を解除する第２操作保持手段とを備えたことを特徴とする操作スイッチ。 An operation button to be pressed,
A switch case that supports the operation button so as to be movable in the operation direction from a free end position through an intermediate position to a pressing end position;
A first urging means interposed between the operation button and the switch case and urged to move the operation button from the pressing end position to the free end position;
A second urging means disposed on the switch case and urging the operation button toward the intermediate position when the operation button is pressed and moved beyond the intermediate position;
First detection means for detecting that the operation button has moved a predetermined amount or more from the free end position toward the intermediate position;
Second detection means for detecting that the operation button has moved beyond the intermediate position in the direction of the pressing end position by a predetermined amount;
When the operation button is pushed and moved from the free end position to the intermediate position, the operation button is locked and held at the first operation position detected by the first detection means, and the operation button is moved to the first position. A first operation holding means for releasing the lock holding of the operation button when the operation button is pressed and held in the one operation position;
When the operation button is pressed and moved from the free end position to the pressing end position, the operation button is locked and held at the second operation position detected by the second detection means, and the operation button is An operation switch, comprising: a second operation holding means for releasing the lock of the operation button when the operation button is pressed and held in the second operation position. 前記操作ボタンの下方から当該操作ボタンの操作面を照明して当該操作面を発光させる複数の発光手段を有し、
前記複数の発光手段は、前記第１検出手段及び前記第２検出手段により検出される前記操作ボタンの操作位置に応じて発光状態が変化するように構成されることを特徴とする請求項1から請求項３のいずれか一項に記載の操作スイッチ。 A plurality of light emitting means for illuminating the operation surface of the operation button from below the operation button to emit the operation surface;
2. The plurality of light emitting units are configured to change a light emission state according to an operation position of the operation button detected by the first detection unit and the second detection unit. The operation switch according to claim 3.
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JP2009218116A (en) * 2008-03-11 2009-09-24 Fujitsu Component Ltd Input device
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US11069176B2 (en) 2019-03-14 2021-07-20 Omron Corporation Game machine pushbutton, illumination device

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