JP2009003524A - Input device and character input device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an input device and a character input device allowing a user to easily input characters. <P>SOLUTION: A portable telephone 1 is provided with: a display part 2 for displaying an image such as characters under input; an input part 4 including a numeric keypad 3; a casing 5; and a control device 6. The numeric keypad 3 is provided with input keys 11<SB>0</SB>to 11<SB>9</SB>, 11* and 11# for inputting "0" to "9", "*" and "#". Each input key is provided with a top plate 12; five signal input terminals 13<SB>1</SB>to 13<SB>5</SB>; and an elastic part 14. The top plate 12 is formed integrally with the casing 5 through the elastic part 14 so as to move in a tilted manner and depressed. The signal input terminals 13<SB>1</SB>to 13<SB>5</SB>are arranged at positions where the top plate 12 can depresses them when the top plate 12 is moved so as to tilt or depressed according to the rolling of the thumb, and arranged on the same straight line. The signal input terminal 13<SB>3</SB>is arranged at a position faced to the center of the top plate 12. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an input device and a character input device for inputting information such as a plurality of characters with one input key.

  In the technique of Patent Document 1, the kana “a”, “i”, “u”, “e”, “o” are made to correspond to the circumferential direction of the numeric keypad “1”, and each kana can be input by pressing the button once. ing.

  In Patent Document 2, instructions are given to each of three or four alphabetic characters arranged in a line in the horizontal direction by “sliding movement operation”, “horizontal movement operation”, or “direct instruction operation” of a finger. An invention to input is disclosed.

  In Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4, the tactile input buttons are two-dimensionally arranged, and the pitch between the buttons is 4.5 mm or more in the horizontal direction so that adjacent buttons are not accidentally pressed. A fingertip tactile sense input device in which the vertical direction is set to 4.0 mm or more is disclosed.

  In Patent Document 5, a plurality of contact points are provided on a substrate, and a key top that is disposed so as to be tiltable above the substrate and whose bottom surface has a substantially arc-shaped or polygonal cross-sectional shape is tilted. In this case, a key switch is disclosed that can change the moving speed of the cursor in a plurality of stages by causing the bottom surface of the key top to come into contact with each contact according to the amount of tilting.

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-26883 describes character input for inputting each step of hiragana by associating each row of hiragana with each numeric key and operating the “up” and “down” selection switches arranged below the numeric key. A method is disclosed.

Patent Document 7 discloses a position input device that measures a position by a contact point between a convex curved surface having a predetermined curvature radius and a concave curved surface having a slightly larger curvature radius.
JP-A-2005-244264 JP 2005-527018 A JP 2003-162362 A JP 2004-295716 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 08-076905 JP 2001-159945 A JP 2000-311053 A

  However, the input means of Patent Document 1 requires a two-dimensional thumb pressing operation in the circumferential direction, that is, a complicated thumb pressing operation in the upper, upper right, lower right, lower left, and upper left with respect to the longitudinal direction of the thumb. Therefore, considerable training is required until these complicated thumb pressing operations can be performed quickly and accurately. Further, depending on the operator, the “sliding movement” or “horizontal movement” of the thumb with respect to the upper surface of the numeric keypad input button is performed. Here, in the signal input method by “sliding movement” or “horizontal movement” of the finger, for example, when an instruction to select “O” in the upper left position is made and an attempt is made to select “A” in the upper center, The front side, that is, “O” is instructed again, or conversely, it goes too far, and “I” in the upper right position is instructed, and eventually the input instruction operation is not quick. Alternatively, when a specific signal input terminal such as “A” is “directly indicated” suddenly, the same problem as described above occurs. In particular, as the distance between adjacent signal input terminals becomes narrower, such a problem of speediness becomes more prominent. As described above, since it is extremely difficult to control the minute displacement of the thumb by the “sliding movement operation”, “horizontal movement operation”, or “direct instruction operation”, the input terminal position corresponding to each pseudonym can be quickly and It becomes difficult to give precise instructions. Therefore, with the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, an input error is likely to occur, and the speed of the input operation cannot be increased.

  Further, as in the invention disclosed in Patent Document 2, in the signal input method by “sliding” or “horizontal” moving a finger, for example, after selecting “A” at the left end position, “ If the user tries to select “B”, he / she instructs “A” on the near side again, or on the contrary, instructs “C” on the right end side. It will be lacking. Alternatively, when a specific signal input terminal, for example, “B” is “directly indicated” suddenly, the same problem as described above occurs. In particular, as the distance between adjacent signal input terminals becomes narrower, such a problem of speediness becomes more prominent. Therefore, as described in paragraph 0031 of the application specification, the applicant himself of Patent Document 2 has access operation when four signal input terminals are provided for one key compared to three cases. Becomes troublesome.

  In addition, in the input devices disclosed in Patent Document 3 and Patent Document 4, it is assumed that the finger moves in the vertical and horizontal two-dimensional directions. In addition to the horizontal direction, that is, the width direction of the finger, the vertical direction That is, since the finger moving operation to the tip side and the base side of the finger is required, the input operation by the finger is complicated. Another problem is that the tactile input buttons are arranged over a wide range of 22 mm or more, so that the thumbs need to slide or move horizontally with respect to the upper surface of each tactile input button. In this case, since it is extremely difficult to control the minute distance displacement of the finger by the sliding movement operation or the horizontal movement operation as described above, it is difficult to quickly and accurately indicate the desired input button position. Therefore, input mistakes are likely to occur, and the speed of the input operation cannot be increased.

In the key switch disclosed in Patent Document 5, since the bottom surface of the key top has a very steep curve shape, it is necessary to tilt the key top greatly when inputting a signal. Therefore,
The speeding up of the signal input instruction operation is impaired. Furthermore, since the height of the key top is increased, there arises a problem that it is difficult to reduce the size of the key switch itself, in particular, to reduce the thickness.

  In addition, in the character input method disclosed in Patent Document 6, for example, when inputting “ka”, a numeric key such as “1” is pressed to display “ku” on the display unit first, and then For example, the right end of the separately provided selection switch needs to be pressed twice. Accordingly, since it is necessary to press a plurality of buttons three times in total, there is a problem that the input operation is very troublesome and the input cannot be performed quickly.

  Further, in the position input device disclosed in Patent Document 7, since the difference in the radius of curvature between the convex curved surface and the concave curved surface is slight, the applicant himself / herself described in paragraph 0015, as described in paragraph 0015. The shape of is a circle or an ellipse. And the smaller the difference in curvature radius, the larger the size of this circle or ellipse. Therefore, it becomes extremely difficult to select a specific input terminal from among a plurality of minute input terminals arranged at minute intervals, for example, using this technology.

  The present invention solves the above-described problems in the prior art, and each of the five input terminals corresponding to the kana stages of “a”, “i”, “u”, “e”, “o”, etc. Thus, five operations corresponding to each stage of the kana, etc., can be performed by moving the finger only for a slight rolling displacement in the approximate width direction, for example, without sliding or horizontally moving the finger for signal input operation. An object of the present invention is to provide an input device and a character input device capable of quickly inputting a signal.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a top plate supported so as to be tiltable, and at least five electrical characteristics that are arranged at positions that can be pressed by the top plate and that can output electrical characteristic values corresponding to the pressing amount of the top plate. An input device comprising: a signal input terminal; and a signal selection circuit capable of selecting a signal based on an electrical characteristic value output from the signal input terminal.

  The invention according to claim 2 is the input device according to claim 1, wherein the signal input terminals are arranged on substantially the same straight line.

  The invention according to claim 3 is the input device according to claim 1, wherein the signal input terminal is arranged on a curve.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided at least five top plates that are tiltably supported and arranged at positions that can be pressed by the top plate, and that can output electrical characteristic values corresponding to the pressing amount of the top plate. A signal input terminal; and a signal selection circuit capable of selecting a signal based on an electrical characteristic value output from the signal input terminal. The five signal input terminals are “A” stage and “I” respectively. The character input device is characterized in that it corresponds to the stage, “U” stage, “E” stage, and “O” stage.

  According to the present invention, since any one of the signal input terminals can be selected only by rolling the finger on the top plate from at least five signal input terminals, the conventional top plate is pressed a plurality of times. Compared to the input device that needs to be moved and the input device that requires the finger to slide or move horizontally, for example, any one of five or more signals such as “A” to “O” is easily and quickly transmitted. Can be entered.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment in which an input device and a character input device of the present invention are applied to a numeric keypad of a mobile phone will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a mobile phone having a numeric keypad according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₂ -X ₂ in FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the top plate.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of the input key. FIG. 5 is a plan view of the signal input terminal. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₆ -X ₆ in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a mobile phone 1 includes an input unit 4 including a display unit 2 capable of displaying an image such as a character being input, and a numeric keypad 3 (corresponding to the input device and the character input device described in the claims). And a housing 5 that covers the outer surface, and a control device 6 (see FIG. 7).

The numeric keypad 3 includes input keys 11 _{0 to} 11 ₉ , 11 _* , and 11 _# capable of inputting “0” to “9”, “*”, and “#”.

In addition, each of the input keys 11 _{0 to} 11 ₉ is configured to be able to input Japanese characters. For example, the input key 11 ₁ is input configured to be able to "A" line of the character, input key 11 _{2-11 9,} 11 _0, input configured to be able to each "or" line - "I" line of character Has been.

Hereinafter, the input key 11 ₁ capable of inputting the characters of the “a” line will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4, and the input keys 11 ₀ , 11 _{2 to} 11 ₉ , 11 _* , 11 having substantially the same configuration. Only the different configuration will be described for _# .

2 to 4, the input key 11 ₁ includes a top plate 12, and five signal input terminals _{131-134 5} and an elastic portion 14.

In this embodiment, the top plate 12 is integrally formed with the housing 5 via the elastic portion 14 so as to be tiltable and depressable. Of course, the top plate 12 and the housing 5 may be separate. The top plate 12, together with the upper surface 12a is formed in a planar, convex lower surface (signal input terminals _131-134 face ₅ side) 12b is the signal input terminal _131-134 protruding ₅ side arcuate Is formed. Here, very little rolling operations of a finger to tilt the top plate 12 by, further, to enable pressed against all the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} by tilting of the top plate 12, bottom surface 12b The radius of curvature must be as large as possible. If the length of the top plate 12 in the arrangement direction of the signal input terminals is 10 mm, the thickness of the central portion of only the protruding portion of the lower surface 12b is desirably 3 mm or less. In other words, the radius of curvature is about 6 mm or more.

  It should be noted that increasing the thickness of the top plate 12 so that the upper surface 12a protrudes upward from the surface of the housing 5, or making the upper surface 12a curved inward, that is, the lower surface 12b side, Make the operation easier.

As shown by the solid line in FIG. 2, the top plate 12 is in the state of not being pressed by a finger, and is formed such that the state of the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} at predetermined intervals. In the following description, the position of the top plate 12 indicated by the solid line in FIG.

  The elastic portion 14 is formed integrally with the housing 5 and the top plate 12 so as to connect the upper surface portion 5 a of the housing 5 and the outer peripheral portion of the top plate 12. The elastic part 14 is formed thinner than the upper surface part 5a of the housing 5 so as to be elastically deformable.

  Accordingly, the top plate 12 can be pressed, and the top plate 12 can be tilted in the directions of arrows A and B by rolling a finger on the upper surface 12a of the top plate 12 (dotted line in FIG. 2). reference). The term “finger rolling” as used herein refers to moving a finger while rolling it.

The five signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are used to input signals corresponding to the letters “A” to “O”, respectively, when pressed by the top plate 12. The signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are arranged at a position where the top plate 12 can be pressed when the top plate 12 is tilted or pressed, and are arranged on the same straight line at a pitch (center distance) of about 3.0 mm. ing. In order to make all of the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} only by rolling without the need for sliding movement and horizontal movement allows pushed by the top plate 12, the spacing of the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} is preferably about 3.0mm or less, this is an example, for example, when applying the numeric keypad of this embodiment the mobile phone for children, further reducing the distance between the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} Good. The signal input terminal 13 ₃ is arranged at a position facing the center portion of the top plate 12.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ include a piezoelectric portion 17 made of a piezoelectric material, five pairs of counter electrodes 18 and substrate electrodes 19 that partially sandwich the piezoelectric portion 17, and electrodes It comprises an insulator 20 for preventing short circuits 18 and 19. Thus, when the top plate 12 is tilted and pushed, pressed by one of the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} lower surface 12b of the top plate 12, the pressure to the piezoelectric section 17 (pressing amount) acts. As a result, in each of the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ , the electrical characteristic value (for example, current value) between the electrodes 18 and 19 changes according to the pressure acting on the piezoelectric portion 17, and this electrical characteristic value is changed. Input as a signal.

It should be noted that, in the input key _{11 2-11} 9, 11 _0, the signal corresponding to the "A" stage - "you" stage of pressing the signal input terminal ₁₃ 1-13 ₅ "or" line - "I" line input.

  Next, the control system of the mobile phone described above will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a control system of the mobile phone.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the control system of the mobile phone 1 includes a control device 6, a display unit 2, and an input unit 4 having a numeric keypad 3.

  The control device 6 includes a CPU that performs arithmetic processing on information such as signals, a RAM that can temporarily store data so as to be readable, a ROM that stores each program, and the like, and controls the mobile phone 1 in general. Specifically, a telephone speaker 21 and a microphone 22 are connected, and by controlling these, communication is enabled and various images such as characters are displayed on the display unit 2.

The control device 6 compares the signals input from the _five signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 _{5 of the} input keys 11 _{0 to} 11 ₉ and selects a signal having the maximum electrical characteristic value. Are provided in the same number as the input keys 11 _{0 to} 11 ₉ . Even if the signal selection circuit 23 presses the plurality of signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ by the top plate 12, the signal having the maximum electrical characteristic value is selected. Can be identified.

Further, the control device 6 continues the selection control capable of selecting a character while the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are pressed and inputs a signal while the signal is being input. Characters are displayed blinking on the display unit 2 (see “I” on the display unit 2 in FIG. 7). On the other hand, the control device 6, the pressing of the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} by the top plate 12 is released, when the signal output from the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} stops, to determine the character of the selected Perform final control and display the character normally. The normal display means a state in which the display is always performed without blinking (see “A” in the display unit 2 in FIG. 7).

  Next, the rolling of the thumb F will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the rolling operation of the thumb. As shown in FIG. 8, the rolling of the thumb F is to move the rotation axis while rolling the thumb F along the width direction D of the thumb F, for example, on the upper surface of the top plate F. That is, rolling is a concept different from sliding movement or horizontal movement that translates on the top plate, or rotation in which the rotation axis does not move although rotating.

  Next, an operation method at the time of character input using the numeric keypad described above will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, an operation method when inputting characters on the “a” line will be described, and description on the other lines will be omitted. 9 to 14 are schematic diagrams for explaining an operation method when inputting characters. 9, 11, and 13 are cross-sectional views along the same cut as in FIG. 2, and are schematic views in which the casing and the elastic portion are omitted. 10, 12 and 14 are plan views. Further, in the following description, up, down, left, and right indicated by arrows in FIG. 9 are defined as up, down, left, and right.

First, when entering "U", as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in the state in which the thumb F on the central portion of the input key 11 ₁ of the top plate 12, presses the top plate 12, pressing the signal input terminal 13 ₃ with the lower surface 12b of the top plate 12. Thus, the pressure acts on the piezoelectric unit 17 of the signal input terminals 13 _3, the electrical characteristic values between the signal input terminal 13 ₃ of the electrodes 18 and 19 is changed, the signal input terminal 13 ₃ of the electrical characteristic value The change is output as a signal. In response to this signal, the control device 6 selects “U” and blinks “U” on the display unit 2. The user can recognize that not only the display of the display unit 2, and also become the character selected by a click feeling when the top plate 12 is in contact with the signal input terminal 13 _3.

In this state, by separating the thumb F from the top plate 12, the elastic portion 14 is restored to its original shape, and the top plate 12 returns to the reference position shown in FIG. Accordingly, the pressing state of the signal input terminal 13 ₃ by the top plate 12 is released, the signal output from the signal input terminal 13 ₃ is stopped. Along with this, the control device 6 confirms “U”, cancels the blinking display, switches the display of “U” to the normal display, and displays it on the display unit 2. This completes the input of “U”.

Next, when inputting “I”, as shown in FIG. 9, from the state where the center portion of the top plate 12 is pressed with the thumb F, the thumb F is pressed on the top surface of the top plate 12 while pressing the top plate 12. Roll to the left at 12a. Thus, the top plate 12 is tilted, the signal input terminal 13 ₃ signal input terminal 13 ₂ from the state is pressed is in a state of being pressed, the signal input terminal 13 ₂ outputs a signal. Along with this, the control device 6 changes the character blinkingly displayed on the display unit 2 from “U” to “I”. In this state, by releasing the thumb F from the top plate 12, top plate 12 is returned to the reference position, the signal output from the signal input terminal 13 ₂ is stopped, the control device 6 is determined to "i", Switch “I” from blinking to normal. This completes the input of “I”.

Here, in the case of type "i", when the thumb F is rolled slightly more or less than desired rolling amount, not the signal input terminal 13 ₂ only, adjacent signal input terminal 13 ₁ or 13 ₃ is pressed by the top plate 12 at the same time, but the signal of the maximum electrical characteristic value is selected by the signal selection circuit 23, and “I” (or “A” or “U”) flashes. Is displayed.

Further, in the case of type "i", too is rolled thumb F, the direction of the electrical characteristic values of the signal than the signal input terminals 13 ₂ are outputted from the signal input terminal 13 ₁ is increased The control device 6 blinks “A” on the display unit 2, and the user views the display and selects and inputs “I” by rolling the thumb F slightly in the opposite direction. Can do.

Next, when inputting “A”, as shown in FIG. 9, the top plate 12 is pressed as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 from the state where the center portion of the top plate 12 is pressed with the thumb F. However, the thumb F is caused to roll to the left on the upper surface 12a of the top plate 12 with a larger rolling amount than when “I” is input. Thus, the top plate 12 is tilted, after the signal input terminal 13 _3, 13 ₂ is sequentially pressed, the signal input terminal 13 ₁ is in a state of being pressed, the signal input terminal 13 ₁ outputs a signal. Along with this, the control device 6 blinks the characters blinking on the display unit 2 in order of “U” and “I”, and then blinks “A”. Then, in a state where "a" is displayed flashing, by releasing the thumb F from the top plate 12, top plate 12 is returned to the reference position, the signal output from the signal input terminal 13 ₁ is stopped, the control device 6 confirms “A” and switches “A” from blinking display to normal display. This completes the input of “A”.

  Next, when inputting “e”, the rolling direction of the thumb F may be reversed from the case where “i” is input. Further, when “O” is input, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the rolling direction of the thumb F may be reversed as compared with the case where “A” is input.

In addition, regarding the “ka” line to the “wa” line, when inputting characters in the “a” level to the “o” level of each line, the input keys 11 to be operated are the input methods of “a” to “o”. _{Since 0} and 11 _{2 to} 11 ₉ are different, the description thereof is omitted.

As described above, in the numeric keypad 3 of the mobile phone 1 according to the present embodiment, the top plate 12 is supported to be tiltable and can be pressed by the top plate 12, and the five signal input terminals 13 are arranged in the same straight line. _{1-13 5} by placing, by rolling and pressing the thumb F on the top plate 12, input select five characters is tilted top plate 12 "a" stage - "Contact" stage Therefore, fine adjustment in the character input operation can be performed more quickly than a character input device that presses the top plate a plurality of times or a character input device that slides or moves horizontally on the top plate. Thereby, the pitch of each of the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ can be reduced as compared with a device that inputs characters by sliding movement or the like.

Further, the lower surface 12b of the top plate 12, a circular arc shape projecting to the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} side, by forming an arc shape having a radius of curvature greater than about 6 mm, top time of character input The amount of rolling of the thumb F on the upper surface 12a of the plate 12 can be further reduced.

Further, the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} by providing the piezoelectric section 17, and outputs the pressing amount by the top plate 12 a signal of the electrical characteristic value corresponding to (pressure) from the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} be able to. Thereby, even if the plurality of signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are pressed, one character can be specified by selecting the signal having the maximum electrical characteristic value.

Moreover, by tilting while pressing the top plate 12 by the thumb F, since one of the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} can be pressed constantly by the top plate 12, always signals in selecting a character Can be entered. Accordingly, the signal output is performed by releasing the thumb F from the top plate 12 and releasing the pressed state of the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ from the state where the signals are output from the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 _5. When the state is changed to the stopped state, the control device 6 can control to determine the character selected at that time. As a result, the character can be determined only by separating the thumb F from the top plate 12. Furthermore, when characters on the same line (for example, “A” and “I”) are continuously input as in the past, a key for confirming the character or a key for moving the cursor must be separately pressed. However, in the present embodiment, since the character can be determined simply by moving the thumb F away from the top plate 12, characters on the same line can be input quickly in succession.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment obtained by changing a part of the above-described embodiment will be described.

(Change form of top plate)
First, a modified form in which the shape of the top plate is changed will be described. 15-17 is a figure which shows the change form of each top plate.

As in the top plate 12A shown in FIG. 15, a flat surface 12c may be formed at the center of the lower surface 12a. Further, like the top plate 12B shown in FIG. 16, a convex portion 12d having a flat bottom surface may be formed at the center of the bottom surface 12a. The top plate 12A, by forming as 12B, when pressing the central portion signal input terminal 13 ₃ disposed in, as well as to facilitate recognition of the pressing state by the finger by a click feeling, the top plate 12A, 12B Can be suppressed from shaking. Furthermore, as shown in the top plate 12C shown in FIG. 17, five convex portions 12d having outer end surfaces formed into flat surfaces or curved surfaces are formed at positions where the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ on the lower surface 12a are pressed. Also good. Accordingly, when the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are pressed, it is easy to recognize the pressed state by the fingertip by a click feeling.

(Modification of top plate support method)
Next, a modified embodiment in which the top plate support method is changed will be described. FIG. 18 is a plan view of the input key in a modified form of the top plate support method. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₁₉ -X ₁₉ in FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₂₀ -X ₂₀ in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 18 to 20, the housing 5 and the top plate 12D may be formed separately. In this case, the four first elastic members 31 made of springs are arranged at the four corners of the urging portion 32 formed integrally with the outer peripheral portion of the top plate 12D, and the urging portion 32 is formed by these first elastic members 31. The top plate 12D can be supported in a tiltable and depressible manner by urging upward.

Further, the second elastic member 33 is lower than the signal input terminals _{131-134 5} provided, upon pressing a predetermined amount or more top plate 12D is a signal input terminal _{131-134 5} by the second elastic member 33, clicks You may comprise so that a feeling may be acquired. Then, when the control device 6 controls to confirm the selected character when the predetermined amount is pressed, the user may recognize that the character is confirmed by the click feeling by the second elastic member 33. it can. Similar to the above-described embodiment, the user can recognize that the character has been selected by the click feeling when the top plate 12D contacts the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ .

  In addition, the second elastic member 33 described above may be omitted, and in this case, the character may be controlled when the thumb is released from the top plate 12D as in the above-described embodiment. . Furthermore, the elastic members 31 and 33 are made of a piezoelectric material so that a signal can be input from the elastic members 31 and 33, and the top plate 12 is vibrated by this signal, thereby easily selecting characters. It is possible to make the user recognize the state and the confirmed state.

(Modification of signal input terminal arrangement)
Next, a modified form in which the arrangement of the signal input terminals is changed will be described. FIGS. 21 to 24 are diagrams corresponding to FIG. 4 in a modified form in which the arrangement of the signal input terminals is changed.

Thumb F signal input terminals _{131-134 5} in plan view may be arranged to operate easily located when it rotates about the CE root. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ may be arranged on a straight line that is inclined upward in a plan view. Further, as shown in FIG. 22 may be arranged to signal input terminals _{131-134 5} on the curve C, such as a parabola or an arc soaring in plan view. In the case of vertically long form a top plate 12E, as shown in FIG. 23, by arranging the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} on the curve C 'obtained by the curve C in portrait, facilitating manipulation by the left hand Can be. By arranging the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ as shown in FIGS. 21 to 23, the operation with the right hand can be facilitated. Moreover, these two modifications, by arranging the signal input terminal _{131-134 5} on a straight line or curved line symmetrical steadily declining with respect to a straight line L shown in FIGS. 21 to 23, the operation with the left hand Can be made easier. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 24, as in the direction perpendicular to the tilting direction (see arrows A and B in FIG. 2) (arrow D), do not overlap each signal input terminals _{131-134 5,} not The signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ may be arranged according to a rule.

(Modification of signal input terminal)
Next, a modified form of the signal input terminal will be described. FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining a modification of the signal input terminal. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₂₆ -X ₂₆ in FIG. FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating another modification of the signal input terminal. FIG. 28 is an arrow view seen from the direction of arrow E in FIG. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing experimental data comparing the present invention with a comparative example.

  As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, a pair of electrodes 18 and 19 are arranged at a predetermined interval so as to face each other in a direction perpendicular to the pressing direction of the top plate 12, and the upper surface is electrically conductive between and in the peripheral region. The piezoelectric part 17 covered with the body 36 may be provided. An insulator 20 is formed in a predetermined region on the upper surfaces of the electrodes 18 and 19. When the piezoelectric portion 17 is pressed by the top plate 12, the electrical characteristic value between the electrodes 18 and 19 changes and a signal is input.

It may also be the electrostatic actuator structure as the signal input terminal ₄₃ 1 to 43 ₅ shown in FIGS. 27 and 28. Specifically, the signal input terminal 43 ₁ to 43 _5, one the elastically deformable leaf spring-shaped electrode 48, an electrode 49 fixed at a position facing the end of the electrode 48, an electrode 48 is And an insulator 47 fixed to the electrode 49 in a state where a predetermined interval is provided. Signal input terminals 43 ₁ to 43 _5, the electrode 48 is pressed by the top plate 12D, the interval between the electrode 48 and the electrode 49 is reduced, it is possible to output an electrical characteristic value corresponding to this interval. A character can be selected and controlled based on the electrical characteristic value.

  For example, a signal input when the electrode 48 is pressed against the top plate 12D and the electrode 48 is not in contact with the insulator 47 is made to correspond to a character selection state, and the electrode 48 is in contact with the insulator 47. It is possible to control so that a signal input in a state of being in a state is a fixed state of characters. By controlling in this way, the user recognizes the selected state of the character by the click feeling due to the contact between the top plate 12D and the electrode 48, and the character by the click feeling due to the contact between the electrode 48 and the insulator 47. Therefore, the operability can be improved.

  Next, an embodiment according to the present invention in which a signal input terminal having a piezoelectric element structure is provided, Comparative Example 1 according to Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-244264, and “A” stage to “A” in each row which are currently employed most. An experiment comparing the second comparative example with a method of pressing the top plate once to five times when inputting the “O” column will be described. In the experiment, the time when the “A” level to the “O” level of each row were input 10 times each was measured. For example, in the case of the “ka” line, the time required to input “Kakikukekokukakekakukeko ...” = “Kakikukeko” × 10 was measured. The experimental results are shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 29, it was found that the same input can be made in about half the time in the embodiment according to the present invention as compared with the comparative example 2 of the current system. Further, even when compared with Comparative Example 1, it was found that the input time can be shortened by about 20% to 25% in the embodiment according to the present invention.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated in detail using embodiment, this invention is not limited to embodiment described in this specification. The scope of the present invention is determined by the description of the claims and the scope equivalent to the description of the claims. Hereinafter, modified embodiments in which the above-described embodiment is partially modified will be described.

  In the embodiment described above, an example in which the present invention is applied to a numeric keypad (input device) for inputting characters has been described. However, in order to input an input device or various menus and various functions for controlling the movement and direction of a cursor. The present invention may be applied to such an input device.

  In the embodiment described above, five signal input terminals are provided for each input key, but the number of signal input terminals may be at least five.

In the above-described embodiment, the signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are provided below the center portion of the top plate 12. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and any one of the signal input terminals is arranged at the center of the top plate 12. What is necessary is just to provide in the position facing a part. Here, the central portion of the top plate 12 is a straight line extending in a direction perpendicular to the tilting direction (see the arrow D direction), and is a position on a straight line passing through the center of the top plate 12.

In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the _five signal input terminals 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ are provided in the input keys 11 _{0 to} 11 ₉ of the numeric keypad 3 has been described. However, only 5 in any of the input keys 11 _{0 to} 11 ₉ One signal input terminal _{131-134 5} may be provided.

  In addition, regarding a method for confirming characters, a method of pressing a confirm key or a method for confirming automatically after a predetermined time has elapsed may be employed.

It is a top view of the mobile telephone provided with the numeric keypad by embodiment of this invention. Is a sectional view taken along the _X 2 -X ₂ line in FIG. It is a perspective view of a top plate. It is a top view of an input key. It is a top view of a signal input terminal. FIG. ₆ is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₆ -X ₆ in FIG. 5. It is a block diagram which shows the control system of a mobile telephone. It is a figure explaining the rolling operation | movement of a thumb. It is the schematic for demonstrating the operation method at the time of character input. It is the schematic for demonstrating the operation method at the time of character input. It is the schematic for demonstrating the operation method at the time of character input. It is the schematic for demonstrating the operation method at the time of character input. It is the schematic for demonstrating the operation method at the time of character input. It is the schematic for demonstrating the operation method at the time of character input. It is a figure which shows the change form of a top plate. It is a figure which shows the change form of a top plate. It is a figure which shows the change form of a top plate. It is a top view of the input key in the change form of the support method of a top plate. It is a sectional view taken along the _X 19 _{-X 19} line in FIG 18. It is a cross-sectional view taken along the _X 20 _{-X 20} line in FIG 18. FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 4 in a modified form in which the arrangement of signal input terminals is changed. FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 4 in a modified form in which the arrangement of signal input terminals is changed. FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 4 in a modified form in which the arrangement of signal input terminals is changed. FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 4 in a modified form in which the arrangement of signal input terminals is changed. It is a figure explaining the change form of a signal input terminal. FIG. ₂₆ is a cross-sectional view taken along line X ₂₆ -X ₂₆ in FIG. 25. It is a figure explaining another modification of a signal input terminal. It is the arrow view seen from the arrow E direction of FIG. It is a figure which shows the experimental data which compared this invention and the comparative example.

Explanation of symbols

1 mobile phone 2 Display unit 3 ten-key 4 input unit 5 housing 6 controller _{11 0-11 9,} 11 *, 11 _# input keys 12, 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D top plate 12a top 12b lower surface 12c flat 12d protrusion 13 _{1 to} 13 ₅ Signal input terminal 14 Elastic part 17 Piezoelectric part 18 and 19 Electrode 23 Signal selection circuit 31 First elastic member 32 Energizing part 33 Second elastic member 43 ₁ to ₄ 35 Signal input terminal 47 Insulators 48 and 49 electrode

Claims (4)

A top plate supported to be tiltable;
At least five signal input terminals that are arranged at positions that can be pressed by the top plate and that can output electrical characteristic values corresponding to the pressing amount of the top plate;
An input device comprising a signal selection circuit capable of selecting a signal based on an electrical characteristic value output from the signal input terminal.   The input device according to claim 1, wherein the signal input terminals are arranged on substantially the same straight line.   The input device according to claim 1, wherein the signal input terminals are arranged on a curve. A top plate supported to be tiltable;
At least five signal input terminals arranged at positions that can be pressed by the top plate and capable of outputting electrical characteristic values corresponding to the pressing amount of the top plate;
A signal selection circuit capable of selecting a signal based on an electrical characteristic value output from the signal input terminal;
The five signal input terminals correspond to “A” stage, “I” stage, “U” stage, “E” stage, and “O” stage, respectively.

Images