JP2012003554A - Capacitance type proximity sensor device and input device using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a capacitance type proximity sensor device capable of accurately detecting the position of a sought object in a detection area and detecting the object at multiple stages, and an input device using the same.SOLUTION: A capacitance type proximity sensor device comprises: a group of electrodes including X axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b arrayed opposing each other in the X axis direction with a detection area A1 in-between and Y axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b arrayed opposing each other in the Y axis direction with the detection area A1 in-between; a drive circuit 23 that outputs a drive voltage to an electrode that is to serve as a drive electrode; a detecting circuit 24 that detects a signal outputted from an electrode that is to serve as a detecting electrode; a CPU 22 that calculates the position of a sought object in the directions of the X axis, Y axis and Z axis from the result of detection by the detecting circuit 24; and a multiplexer 21 that connects the electrode to serve as the drive electrode to the drive circuit 23 and connects the electrode to serve as the detecting electrode to the detecting circuit 24.

Description

  The present invention relates to a proximity sensor device that detects a position of a detection object, and more particularly to a capacitance-type proximity sensor device that detects the proximity of a detection object based on a change in capacitance, and an input device using the same.

  Conventionally, as a device for detecting an object to be detected such as a human body, an electrostatic device having four electrodes arranged along four sides of a rectangular sensor surface (detection region) having four sides and four corners. A capacitive detection device has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a capacitance-type detection device, the capacitance formed between the electrodes changes due to the approach of the detection object, and the detection object is detected via a signal output in accordance with the capacitance. .

International Publication No. 2008/093682 Pamphlet

  However, in the conventional electrostatic capacitance type detection device, the position of the detected object in the detection region is detected because the detected object position is detected using four electrodes arranged on the four sides of the rectangular detection region. Although it is possible to detect the change of, it is difficult to accurately detect the absolute position. Further, when the detected object moves within the detection region, a change in the relative distance between the detected object and the electrode is small between the electrodes arranged in parallel with the moving direction of the detected object. For this reason, the change of the electrostatic capacitance before and after the movement of the detected object becomes small, and there is a problem that the movement of the detected object and the position of the detected object cannot be detected accurately. In addition, there is a problem that the approach of the detected object to the detection area cannot be detected in multiple stages.

  In recent years, the use of the electrostatic capacity type detection device has been expanded to an input device of a display device as well as a touch panel and a glide sensor. In such an input device, it is desired to realize a non-contact input operation from the viewpoint of preventing the display device from being soiled. In addition, the demand for input operations on the device is also complicated, for example, the approach of a human body or the like is detected in multiple stages, and the input operation with multiple gradations according to the distance between the detected object and the sensor surface An input device capable of realizing the above is also desired.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is a capacitive proximity sensor device that can accurately detect the position of a detected object in a detection region and can detect the detected object in multiple stages, and uses the same. An object of the present invention is to provide an input device.

  The capacitive proximity sensor device of the present invention includes a plurality of X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other along the X-axis direction across the detection region, and each along the Y-axis direction across the detection region. An electrode group including a plurality of opposing Y-axis electrodes; a drive circuit that outputs a drive voltage to be applied to an electrode that is to be a drive electrode of the electrode group; and a detection electrode of the electrode group A detection circuit for detecting a signal output from the electrode, and a detected object position in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the detection reference plane of the detected object from the detection result of the detection circuit And a switching means for connecting an electrode serving as the drive electrode to the drive circuit and connecting an electrode serving as the detection electrode to the detection circuit in the electrode group. And

  According to this configuration, the plurality of X-axis electrodes and the plurality of Y-axis electrodes are switched as detection electrodes to detect the detection target, so that each X-axis electrode and each Y-axis electrode switched as the detection electrode and the target are detected. Output signals corresponding to the distance to the detection body can be detected. For this reason, the distance between each X-axis electrode and each Y-axis electrode and the detected object can be detected, and the detected object position within the detection region can be detected with high accuracy. Thus, since the detected object position within the detection region can be detected with high accuracy, it is possible to realize a capacitive proximity sensor device that can detect the detected object in multiple stages according to the detected object position.

  In the capacitance-type proximity sensor device of the present invention, the switching means detects at least a pair of the X axes that are opposed to each other among the plurality of X axis electrodes in detecting the position of the detection target in the X axis direction. An electrode is connected to the detection circuit as a detection electrode pair, and the electrode to be the detection electrode pair is sequentially switched in the X-axis electrode.

  With this configuration, since the X-axis electrodes that are the detection electrode pairs are sequentially switched in the plurality of X-axis electrodes, the detection object position in the X-axis direction can be detected using the plurality of detection electrode pairs arranged at different positions. The detected object position in the detection area can be detected with high accuracy.

  In the capacitance-type proximity sensor device of the present invention, the switching means detects at least a pair of the Y axes that are opposed to each other among the plurality of Y axis electrodes when detecting the position of the detection target in the Y axis direction. An electrode is connected to the detection circuit as a detection electrode pair, and the electrode to be the detection electrode pair is sequentially switched in the Y-axis electrode.

  With this configuration, since the Y-axis electrodes that are the detection electrode pairs are sequentially switched in the plurality of Y-axis electrodes, the detected object position in the Y-axis direction can be detected using the plurality of detection electrode pairs arranged at different positions. The detected object position in the detection area can be detected with high accuracy.

  In the capacitance-type proximity sensor device according to the present invention, the switching means detects the position of the detected object in the Z-axis direction and connects at least one X-axis electrode as a detection electrode to the detection circuit. And an electrode switching pattern for connecting to the detection circuit using at least one of the Y-axis electrodes as a detection electrode.

  With this configuration, the detected object position in the Z-axis direction is detected using each of the X-axis electrode and the Y-axis electrode as a detection electrode, so the detected object position in the Z-axis direction from each of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. And the detected object position can be detected with high accuracy.

  In the capacitive proximity sensor device of the present invention, the switching means connects at least two X-axis electrodes opposed to each other among the X-axis electrodes as detection electrode pairs to a detection circuit, and performs the calculation. The means is characterized in that both at least two detected object positions in the X-axis direction are calculated from signals output from the at least two detection electrode pairs.

  According to this configuration, the detected object position is detected by using the X-axis electrodes arranged at different positions with respect to the X-axis direction as two detection electrode pairs, so that the arithmetic processing using the output signals of the respective detection electrode pairs Thus, it is possible to detect a plurality of detected object positions together.

  In the capacitive proximity sensor device of the present invention, the switching means connects at least two of the Y-axis electrodes opposed to each other as a detection electrode pair to the detection circuit among the Y-axis electrodes, and performs the calculation. The means is characterized in that both at least two detection object positions in the Y-axis direction are calculated from signals output from the at least two detection electrode pairs.

  According to this configuration, the detected object position is detected using the Y-axis electrodes arranged at different positions with respect to the Y-axis direction as two detection electrode pairs. Therefore, the arithmetic processing using the output signals of the respective detection electrode pairs Thus, it is possible to detect a plurality of detected object positions together.

  An electronic apparatus according to the present invention includes the capacitive proximity sensor device described above.

  According to this configuration, by providing the capacitance proximity sensor device, it is possible to accurately detect the position of the detection object within the detection region. For this reason, for example, it is possible to realize an electronic device capable of multi-stage input operations according to the distance between the detection target and the electronic device.

  The input device of the present invention includes a touch panel and the capacitive proximity sensor device, and the X-axis electrodes are arranged to face each other in the Y-axis direction with the touch panel interposed therebetween, and the Y-axis electrodes Are arranged to face each other in the X-axis direction with the touch panel interposed therebetween.

  According to this configuration, by arranging the X-axis electrode and the Y-axis electrode so as to face each other around the touch panel, the detection object position can be detected even in a non-contact state with the touch panel. Input operation is possible.

  The electrode driving method of the present invention includes a plurality of X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other along the X-axis direction across the detection region, and arranged opposite each other along the Y-axis direction across the detection region. An electrode group including a plurality of Y-axis electrodes, a drive circuit that outputs a drive voltage to be applied to an electrode that is a drive electrode of the electrode group, and an electrode that is a detection electrode of the electrode group A detection circuit for detecting the output signal, and a calculation for calculating the detected object position in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the detection reference plane from the detection result of the detection circuit A capacitive proximity sensor device electrode driving method comprising: switching at least one pair of X-axis electrodes opposed to each other among the X-axis electrodes as a detection electrode pair; The other electrode from one end in the X-axis direction After sequentially switching between the X-axis electrodes toward the end side to detect the position of the detected object in the X-axis direction, at least one pair of Y-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other among the Y-axis electrodes is detected. And detecting the position of the detected object in the Y-axis direction by sequentially switching between the Y-axis electrodes from one end in the Y-axis direction to the other end side.

  According to this method, the X-axis electrode and the Y-axis electrode arranged opposite to each other through the detection region are switched from one end side to the other end side as a detection electrode, and the detected object position in the detection region is detected. As a result, it is possible to detect an accurate position of the detected object within the detection region.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a capacitive proximity sensor device that can accurately detect the position of the detected object in the detection region and can detect the detected object in multiple stages, and an input device using the same.

1 is a configuration diagram of a capacitive proximity sensor device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. (A) is an AA arrow directional cross-sectional view of the sensor part of the capacitive proximity sensor device which concerns on embodiment of this invention, (b) is a schematic diagram of the shielding electrode of a sensor part. . These are the plane schematic diagrams which show the outline of the electrode switching control of the sensor part of the capacitive proximity sensor device which concerns on embodiment of this invention. (A), (b) is a figure which shows the detection principle of the to-be-detected body of the X-axis direction of the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention, and a Y-axis direction. It is a figure which shows the motion of the to-be-detected body of the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention, and the change of an electrostatic capacitance. (A), (b) is a figure which shows the detection principle of the to-be-detected body of the Z-axis direction of the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the calculation process of the to-be-detected body position in the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment. (A)-(d) is a figure which shows the electrode switching pattern at the time of the to-be-detected body position detection of the X-axis direction in the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. (A)-(d) is a figure which shows the intensity | strength of the output signal in the electrode switching pattern at the time of the to-be-detected body position detection in the X-axis direction in the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. (A)-(c) is a figure which shows the electrode switching pattern at the time of the to-be-detected body position detection of the Y-axis direction in the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment of this invention. (A)-(c) is a figure which shows the intensity | strength of the output signal in the electrode switching pattern at the time of the to-be-detected body position detection in the Y-axis direction in the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment of this invention. . It is a schematic diagram which shows a to-be-detected body position in case the to-be-detected body exists in a detection area | region in the capacitive proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. (A), (b) is a figure which shows the change of the output signal of the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. (A) is a schematic diagram which shows the detection range of the sensor part in the capacitive proximity sensor device which concerns on embodiment of this invention, (b) is the detection range of the sensor part in the conventional proximity sensor apparatus. It is a schematic diagram shown. It is a figure which shows the other example of the electrode switching pattern in the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the input device provided with the electrostatic capacitance type proximity sensor apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment calculates a detected object position based on a sensor unit 11 that detects the proximity of the detected object and an output signal detected by the sensor unit 11. And a control circuit unit 12 that performs the control.

  The sensor unit 11 includes a substrate 13 having a substantially rectangular shape in plan view as a detection reference surface, a plurality of X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and a plurality of Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a arranged on the substrate 13. , 20b. Each of the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other so that a capacitance is formed between the other electrodes. The X-axis electrodes 14a to 17a are arranged along one long side of the substrate 13, and the X-axis electrodes 14b to 17b are arranged along the opposite side. The Y-axis electrodes 18a to 20a are arranged along one short side of the substrate 13, and the Y-axis electrodes 18b to 20b are arranged along the opposite side. In the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, the surface of the substrate 13 is the detection area A1, and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a. , 20b need only be arranged in a range in which the detection reference plane can be formed by the capacitance formed between the electrodes, and need not necessarily be arranged in the same plane.

  That is, in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, the X-axis electrodes 14a to 17a and the X-axis electrodes 14b to 17b face each other along the X-axis direction of the substantially rectangular detection region A1. The Y-axis electrodes 18a to 20a and the Y-axis electrodes 18b to 20b are arranged to face each other along the Y-axis direction. In this way, by arranging the plurality of X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the plurality of Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b along the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction of the detection area A1, respectively. Thus, it is possible to accurately detect the position of the detected object in the detection area A1. Note that, in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, it is possible to detect an object to be detected in a range including the outside of the substrate 13 as long as the change in capacitance can be detected.

  The control circuit unit 12 includes a multiplexer 21 serving as a switching unit for the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, and 20b of the sensor unit 11, and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 14b. 17a, 17b and a CPU 22 as a calculation means for calculating the position of the detected object from signals output from the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b. Between the CPU 22 and the multiplexer 21, there is provided a drive circuit 23 for applying a drive voltage to the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b that are switched as drive electrodes. In addition, a detection circuit 24 that detects output signals of the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b that are switched as detection electrodes is provided.

  The multiplexer 21 is connected to the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b of the sensor unit 11, and is connected to the drive circuit 23 and the detection circuit 24. The connection of the shaft electrodes 14a, 14b-17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b-20a, 20b is switched to the drive circuit 23 and the detection circuit 24. The multiplexer 21 is connected to the CPU 22 and is configured to be able to switch and control the connection of the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b by a switching signal from the CPU 22. ing. As described above, the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment is configured so that the X-axis electrodes 14 a, 14 b to 17 a, 17 b and the Y-axis electrodes that serve as drive electrodes via the multiplexer 21 in response to the switching control signal from the CPU 22. 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b (hereinafter also simply referred to as drive electrodes) are connected to the drive circuit 23, and X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b to be detection electrodes are connected. (Hereinafter, also simply referred to as a detection electrode) is connected to the detection circuit 24.

  The drive circuit 23 includes an oscillation circuit (not shown) and applies a drive voltage to the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b which are switched as drive electrodes. Application of the drive voltage is controlled by the CPU 22.

  The detection circuit 24 detects output signals from the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, and 17b as detection electrodes and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, and 20b. The detection circuit 24 includes an amplifier circuit 25 having a positive terminal and a negative terminal, and an A / D converter 26 that is connected to the amplifier circuit 25 and performs A / D conversion on the amplified output signal.

  X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b as detection electrodes are connected to the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the amplifier circuit 25. The amplifying circuit 25 differentially amplifies the output signals of the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b as detection electrodes, and outputs them to the A / D converter 26.

  The A / D converter 26 is connected to the CPU 22, performs filtering processing and digital conversion on the output signal amplified by the amplifier circuit 25, and outputs it to the CPU 22. For the output signal input to the CPU 22, a difference value or the like is detected by the CPU 22 as a detection circuit. The difference value may be detected by the A / D converter 26. Further, the CPU 22 as the calculation means calculates the detected object position in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction using the detected output signal.

  In the present embodiment, when detecting the detected object position in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, the pair of X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b switched by the multiplexer 21 serves as the detection electrode pair. 25. One detection electrode of the pair of detection electrodes is connected to the positive terminal of the amplifier circuit 25, and the other detection electrode is connected to the negative terminal. In the amplifier circuit 25, the input output signal of one detection electrode and the output signal of the other detection electrode are differentially amplified.

  When detecting the position of the detection target in the Z-axis direction, the multiplexer 21 switches at least one of the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b as detection electrodes. Is connected to one terminal of the amplifier circuit 25. A reference voltage is input to the other terminal of the amplifier circuit 25. In the amplifier circuit 25, the output signal is amplified by the differential between the input output signal of the detection electrode and the reference voltage.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, in one amplifier circuit 25, amplification by differential between the output signal of one detection electrode and the output signal of the other detection electrode and the output signal of the detection electrode in accordance with the detection direction. Amplification based on the difference between the output signal and the reference signal is switched in a time division manner. Thereby, the detection in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction can be performed without providing the amplifier circuit 25 for each axis. In addition, even in a state where the difference value between the output signals of the pair of detection electrodes used for detection in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is a detection lower limit, the detection target can be detected by detection in the Z-axis direction. The insensitive area due to each amplification characteristic can be complemented.

  Next, the configuration of the sensor unit 11 of the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2A is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the sensor unit 11 illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of the shielding electrode 31 of the sensor unit 11. As shown in FIG. 2A, a shielding electrode 31 is provided on the lower surface side (back surface side) of the substrate 13 of the sensor unit 11. As shown in FIG. 2B, the shielding electrode 31 has a rectangular frame-shaped flat plate shape, and has a rectangular central opening 31a. The shield electrode 31 is always grounded so as to shield noise from the back surface side of the sensor unit 11 to the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b. A substrate 32 is provided on the upper surface side of the shield electrode 31 so as to cover the upper surface of the shield electrode 31, and the substrate 13 is laminated via spacers 33 provided at both ends of the substrate 32. As the substrates 13 and 32, for example, an acrylic plate can be used.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the outline of the electrode switching control at the time of detecting the detection object of the capacitance type sensor device according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing an outline of electrode switching control of the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, the detection range of the sensor unit 11 is divided into X1 to X7 with respect to the X-axis direction, and is divided into Y1 to Y5 with respect to the Y-axis direction.

  In the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b with respect to the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, respectively. While detecting -20a and 20b as detection electrodes and drive electrodes, the detected object is detected a plurality of times for each axis to detect the detected object position in the detection region.

  In the detection of the position of the detection object in the X-axis direction, the X-axis electrodes 14a to 17a and the X-axis electrodes 14b to 17b that are arranged to face each other are switched as a pair of detection electrodes. And a to-be-detected object position is measured in multiple times, changing the electrode used as a detection electrode pair to the direction shown by arrow D1 within X-axis electrode 14a, 14b-17a, 17b sequentially.

  In the detection of the position of the detection target in the Y-axis direction, the Y-axis electrodes 18a to 20a and the Y-axis electrodes 18b to 20b that are arranged to face each other are switched as a pair of detection electrodes. And a to-be-detected object position is measured in multiple times, changing the electrode used as a detection electrode pair in the direction shown by arrow D2 within Y-axis electrode 18a, 18b-20a, 20b sequentially.

  In detecting the position of the detected object in the Z-axis direction, an electrode group arranged along one side of the substrate 13 among the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b ( For example, the X-axis electrodes 14a to 17a) are switched as detection electrodes. Then, the position of the object to be detected is measured a plurality of times while switching between the electrode groups arranged along one side on the substrate 13, as indicated by an arrow D3.

  Next, with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the detection principle of the detection target in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment will be described. FIGS. 4A and 4B are conceptual diagrams showing the detection principle in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment. In the figure, X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, and 17b are detection electrodes 14A to 17A and 14B to 17B, and Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, and 20b are drive electrodes 18A to 20A and 18B to 20B. This is shown schematically.

FIG. 4A shows a case where the position of the detected body 41 is detected when the detected body 41 moves in the X-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 4A, when detecting the detection target 41 in the X-axis direction, a pair of detection electrodes 14A to 17A and 14B to 17B that face each other in the X-axis direction and a pair that faces each other in the Y-axis direction. Drive electrodes 18A to 20A and 18B to 20B are used. In this case, a capacitance C _x1 is formed between the drive electrodes 18A to 20A, the detection electrodes 14A to 17A, and the detection electrodes 14B to 17B, and the drive electrodes 18B to 20B, the detection electrodes 14A to 17A, and the detection electrodes 14B to 14B. A capacitance C _x2 is formed between the capacitor 17b and 17B. And the position of the to-be-detected body 41 is detectable by taking the difference of the output signal of the detection electrode according to this electrostatic capacitance _Cx1 , _Cx2 .

The electrode arrangement may be as shown in FIG. FIG. 4B is a diagram showing an example of another electrode arrangement in the capacitive proximity sensor according to the present embodiment. The example shown in FIG. 4B shows an example in which the electrodes are arranged so that the drive electrode 14E is in the center, and the detection electrodes 14F and 14G are arranged in parallel to the drive electrode 14E. In this case, the capacitance _{C 1} between the drive electrodes 14E and the detection electrode 14F is formed, the capacitance _{C 2} is formed between the driving electrodes 14E and the detecting electrode 14G. Then, by taking the difference of the electrostatic capacitance C _1, the output signals of the detection electrodes corresponding to C _2, it is possible to detect the position of the detected member 41.

Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 5, the movement of the detected body 41 and the change in capacitance will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a change in the difference in capacitance when the detection target 41 moves to the left and right in the example shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, when the detected object 41 moves in any direction of the X-axis direction (left-right direction), the electric lines of force (not shown) formed between the detection electrodes 14A to 17A are detected. 41, the capacitances C _x1 and C _x2 change. For example, when the detected object 41 moves to the left side, the capacitance C _x1 increases and the capacitance C _x2 decreases. For this reason, when the detected object 41 moves in the X-axis direction (left-right direction), a change in capacitance is obtained as shown in FIG. 5 by taking a difference in capacitance value (C _x2 -C _x1 ). It is possible to detect the position information and motion (motion) of the detected object 41 in the X-axis direction (left-right direction) of the detected object from the amount. When detecting the detection target 41 in the Y-axis direction, the drive electrodes 18A to 20A and the drive electrodes 18B to 20B are used as drive electrodes, and the detection electrodes 14A to 17A and 14B to 17B are used as detection electrodes. The detected object can be detected by the same principle as the direction.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the detection principle of the detection target in the Z-axis direction of the capacitive proximity sensor according to the present embodiment will be described. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing the detection principle of the detection object in the Z-axis direction of the capacitive proximity sensor according to the embodiment. 6 (a) and 6 (b), detection electrodes 14A to 17A, drive electrodes 14B to 17B, and drive electrodes 18A to 20A (including drive electrodes 18B to 20B not shown) are arranged on the substrate 40. It shows a state in which a capacitance C _X3 is formed between the electrodes, and electric lines of force 42 are formed around it.

As shown in FIG. 6A, when the distance in the Z-axis direction between the substrate 40 and the detected body 41 is large, the electric field lines 42 are only partially absorbed by the detected body 41. The capacitance C _X3 increases. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the distance between the substrate 40 and the detected body 41 is small, most of the lines of electric force 42 are absorbed by the detected body 41, so that the capacitance C _X3 Becomes smaller. Thus, in the present embodiment, when the distance between the substrate 40 and the detection target 41 is small, the capacitance C _X3 decreases and the output signals of the detection electrodes 14A to 17A increase. Further, when the distance between the substrate 40 and the detection object 41 is large, the capacitance C _X3 increases and the output signals of the detection electrodes 14A to 17A become small. As described above, the position of the detection object 41 in the Z-axis direction can be detected.

  Next, an electrode driving method (electrode switching pattern) in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. Table 1 below shows electrode switching patterns used for detection in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment.

  In the detection of the position of the detection object in the X-axis direction, a pair of electrodes is switched as a detection electrode pair from the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b arranged facing each other along the X-axis direction, and the remaining X-axis The electrodes 14a, 14b-17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b-20a, 20b are switched as drive electrodes. And a to-be-detected body position is detected, changing the electrode used as a detection electrode pair sequentially. First, the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 15a, 15b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b are used as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern X1). . Next, the electrodes 15a and 15b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining electrodes 14a, 14b, 16a, 16b, 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b are used as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern X2). . Next, the X-axis electrodes 16a and 16b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b, 15a, 15b, 17a and 17b, and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b are used as drive electrodes (Table). 1: Electrode pattern X3). Next, the X-axis electrodes 17a and 17b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 16a and 16b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b are used as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern X4). ).

  When detecting the position of the detection target in the Y-axis direction, a pair of electrodes are switched as detection electrodes from the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b arranged facing each other along the Y-axis direction, and the remaining Y The shaft electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b are switched as drive electrodes. First, the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining Y-axis electrodes 19a, 19b, 20a and 20b and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b are used as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Y1). . Next, the Y-axis electrodes 19a and 19b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b, 20a and 20b and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b are used as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Y2). . Next, the Y-axis electrodes 20a, 20b are used as detection electrode pairs, and the remaining Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b, 19a, 19b and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b-17a, 17b are used as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Y3). ).

  When detecting the position of the detection target in the Z-axis direction, electrodes arranged along one side of the substrate 13 among the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b Are switched as detection electrode groups, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are switched as drive electrodes. First, the X-axis electrodes 14a to 17a are switched as detection electrode groups, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14b to 17b and Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are switched as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Z1). Next, the Y-axis electrodes 18a to 20a are switched as detection electrode groups, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18b to 20b are switched as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Z2). Next, the X-axis electrodes 14b to 17b are switched as detection electrode groups, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14a to 17a and Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are switched as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Z3). Next, the Y-axis electrodes 18b to 20b are switched as detection electrode groups, and the remaining X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a to 20a are switched as drive electrodes (Table 1: Electrode pattern Z4).

  Next, the arithmetic processing of the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the calculation process of the detection target in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 7, first, the detected object is detected by the electrode patterns X1 to X4 shown in Table 1 above, and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a used as the detection electrode pairs in the electrode pattern having the maximum output signal. , 17b are determined (step S1). Next, the detection target is detected by the electrode patterns Y1 to Y3 shown in Table 1 above, and the positions of the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b used as the detection electrode pairs in the electrode pattern having the maximum output signal are determined. (Step S2). As described above, the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a and 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a and 20b that have obtained the maximum output are specified, and the detected object existence region is indicated by X1 to X7 and Y1 shown in FIG. Determination is made in the range of ~ Y5 (step S3).

  Next, an object to be detected is detected by the electrode patterns Z1 to Z4 shown in Table 1 above, and the output signals of the detection electrodes of the electrode patterns Z1 to Z4 and the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a obtained in Step S1 above. , 17b is used to determine the position of the detected object in the X-axis direction (step S4). Next, the detected object position in the Y-axis direction is determined using the output signals of the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b obtained in step S1 (step S5).

  Finally, the detected object position is determined based on the detected object position in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction obtained in steps S4 and S5 (step S6). As described above, by measuring a plurality of times while switching the electrodes serving as detection electrodes for the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, respectively, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction are measured. The detected object position in the triaxial direction is detected.

  Next, output signals of the electrode patterns X1 to X4 and the electrode patterns Y1 to Y3 in a state where the detection target does not exist in the detection region will be described with reference to FIGS. FIGS. 8A to 8D are diagrams showing the electrode patterns X1 to X4 when detecting the position of the detection target in the X-axis direction, and FIGS. 9A to 9D are FIGS. It is a figure which shows the intensity | strength of the output signal in (d).

  In the electrode pattern X1 using the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b as the detection electrode pair shown in FIG. 8A, the output signal in the vicinity of the X-axis electrode 14a (X2.5, Y1) becomes the maximum, and the X-axis electrode 14b (X2. 5, Y5) the output in the vicinity is minimized (FIG. 9A). Further, the signal intensity decreases toward 0 as the distance from the X-axis electrode 14a increases, and the signal intensity increases toward 0 as the distance from the X-axis electrode 14b increases. Thus, in the electrode pattern X1, the output signal changes greatly in the vicinity of the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b serving as the detection electrode pair, and the change in the output signal decreases as the distance from the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b increases. From this result, it can be seen that when the detected object is present in the vicinity of the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b, the change in the output signal becomes large.

  In the electrode patterns X2 to X4 shown in FIGS. 8B to 8D, the X-axis electrodes 15a (X3.5, Y1), 16a (X4.5, Y1), which are detection electrode pairs, like the electrode pattern X1, The output signal in the vicinity of 17a (X5.5, Y1) is maximized, and the output in the vicinity of X-axis electrodes 15b (X3.5, Y5), 16b (X4.5, Y5), 17b (X5.5, Y5) is minimized. (FIGS. 9B to 9D). From these results, the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b in the vicinity of the region where the detected object exists are switched as detection electrode pairs by sequentially switching the electrode patterns X1 to X4 to detect the detected object position. In this case, the change of the output signal becomes the largest, and it can be seen that the detection object position in the X-axis direction can be detected.

  FIGS. 10A to 10C are diagrams showing the electrode patterns Y1 to Y3 when detecting the position of the detection target in the Y-axis direction. FIGS. 11A to 11C are FIGS. It is a figure which shows the intensity | strength of the output signal in (c).

  As shown in FIG. 10A, in the electrode pattern Y1 using the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b as a detection electrode pair, the output signal in the vicinity of the Y-axis electrode 18a (X1.5, Y1) is minimized, and the Y-axis electrode 18b The output signal in the vicinity of (X6, Y1) is maximized (FIG. 11 (a)). Further, the signal intensity increases toward 0 as the distance from the Y-axis electrode 18a increases, and the signal intensity decreases toward 0 as the distance from the Y-axis electrode 18b increases. Thus, in the electrode pattern Y1, the output signal changes greatly in the vicinity of the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b serving as the detection electrode pair, and the change in the output signal decreases as the distance from the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b increases. From this result, it can be seen that when the detected object is present in the vicinity of the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b, the change in the output signal becomes large.

  As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, when the electrode patterns Y2 and Y3 are sequentially switched, the Y-axis electrodes 19a (X1.5 and Y3) and 20a (20a), which are detection electrode pairs, like the electrode pattern Y1. The output signal near X1.5, Y5) is minimized, and the output signal near Y-axis electrodes 19b (X6, Y3) and 20b (X6, Y5) is maximized (FIGS. 11B and 11C). From these results, the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b in the vicinity of the existence region of the detected object are switched as detection electrode pairs by sequentially switching the electrode patterns Y1 to Y3 to detect the detected object position. In this case, the change of the output signal becomes the largest, and it can be seen that the detection object position in the Y-axis direction can be detected.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, a change in the output signal of the detection electrode pair when the detection target exists in the detection region will be described. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the position of the detected object when the detected object exists in the detection region (X2, Y5), and FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the static object according to the present embodiment. It is a figure which shows the change of the output signal of a capacitive proximity sensor apparatus. 13A shows the amount of change in the output signal from the output signal value shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D when the detection object 41 is present in the region shown in FIG. FIG. 11B shows the amount of change in the output signal from the output signal values shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C when the detection object 41 is present in the region shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 13A, when the detected object 41 exists at (X2, Y5), the output signal is an electrode pattern X1 in which the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b in the vicinity of the detected object 41 form a detection electrode pair. The amount of change is the maximum. In addition, the amount of change in the output signal decreases as the distance between the detected object 41 and the electrode that forms the detection electrode pair increases (see electrode patterns X2 to X4). Further, as shown in FIG. 13B, the output signal is maximized in the electrode pattern Y1 in which the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b in the vicinity of the detection object 41 are a detection electrode pair. It can also be seen that the amount of change in the output signal decreases as the distance between the detected object 41 and the electrode that forms the detection electrode pair increases (see electrode patterns Y2 and Y3).

  Based on the above results, the electrode patterns X1 to X4 and the electrode patterns Y1 to Y3 are sequentially switched to detect the position of the detected body in the detection area, whereby the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b in the vicinity of the existing area of the detected body 41 are detected. It can be seen that the amount of change in the output signal increases when 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are used as detection electrode pairs. For this reason, the detected object position in the detection region can be accurately detected by detecting the change amount of the output signal.

  Next, the operation of the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG. 1 again. First, the multiplexer 21 switches the X axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b as drive electrodes and detection electrodes. Next, the drive voltage whose timing is controlled by the CPU 22 is applied to the X-axis electrodes 14 a, 14 b to 17 a, 17 b switched from the drive circuit 23 as drive electrodes. Here, when the object to be detected exists in the detection region A1, the capacitance formed between the electrodes changes, so that a signal corresponding to each capacitance is output from the detection electrode.

  Signals output from the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b as detection electrodes are input to the amplification circuit 25 of the detection circuit 24 and amplified. The output signal amplified by the amplifier circuit 25 is filtered and A / D converted by the A / D converter 26 and input to the CPU 22. The CPU 22 calculates the detected object position detected by the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b based on the input output signal. As described above, in the proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, based on the change in the capacitance of the sensor unit 11 caused by the approach of the detection object while switching the electrode group pattern according to the detection direction, The position of the detection object is detected.

  Thus, in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, the plurality of X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b are arranged to face each other along the X-axis direction with the detection region A1 interposed therebetween. Since the plurality of Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are arranged to face each other along the Y-axis direction, the accurate position of the detection target can be measured. For example, as shown in FIG. 14A, when the detection target exists in the region A2, the electrode pattern X3 having the X-axis electrodes 16a and 16b as the detection electrode pair and the Y-axis electrodes 18a and 18b are the detection electrodes. Since the output signal of the paired electrode pattern Y1 is maximized, it is possible to accurately specify the existence region of the detected object.

  On the other hand, in the conventional proximity sensor device, as shown in FIG. 14B, when the detection target exists in the region A3, the capacitance in the vicinity of 100a among the electrodes 100a to 100d is greatly reduced. To do. For this reason, for example, by detecting the detected object using the electrodes 100a and 100c as the detection electrodes, it can be determined that the detected object exists in the direction of the arrow D4 as viewed from the center point P1 of the sensor. It is difficult to detect accurately.

  In the above-described embodiment, the embodiment in which a pair of X-axis electrodes and Y-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other as detection electrode pairs is used as the detection electrode pair. However, a plurality of X-axis electrodes and Y-axis electrodes are used. A plurality of detection electrode pairs may be switched and used together. FIG. 15 shows another example of the electrode switching pattern in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 15, the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b and the X-axis electrodes 17a and 17b may be used as detection electrode pairs at the time of detection of the detection target in the X-axis direction. As described above, it is possible to detect a plurality of detection objects by detecting the detection object positions using two detection electrode pairs in the X-axis direction. Note that a plurality of detection electrode pairs may be similarly used in the Y-axis direction.

  Next, an application example of the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input device including the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the above embodiment. This input device includes the capacitive proximity sensor device 50 and a touch panel 51. In the capacitive proximity sensor 50, a plurality of electrodes 53 to 59 are arranged on four sides of a substantially rectangular substrate 52 in plan view, and a touch panel 51 having a similar shape to the substrate 52 is disposed at the center of the substrate 52. . The electrodes 53 to 59 are provided along the outer peripheral surface of the touch panel 51, the X-axis electrodes 53a to 56a and the X-axis electrodes 53b to 56b are arranged to face each other, and the Y-axis electrodes 57a to 59a and the Y-axis are arranged. The electrodes 57b to 59b are arranged to face each other. Thus, by using the touch panel 51 and the capacitive proximity sensor device 50 in combination as an input device, it is possible to detect the operator's hand as a detected object before touching the touch panel 50, so that non-contact An input operation can be realized. In addition, the input mode of the touch panel 51 can be changed according to the position of the operator's hand on the touch panel 51.

  As described above, in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, the plurality of X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b are arranged to face each other along the X-axis direction with the detection region interposed therebetween. Since the plurality of Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are arranged to face each other along the Y-axis direction, the position of the detection target can be detected with high accuracy.

  In particular, in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the present embodiment, the X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and the Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a with respect to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, respectively. By sequentially switching the detection electrode pairs within 20b, an output signal corresponding to the distance between each detection electrode pair and the detected object can be detected, so that the position of the detected object within the detection range can be detected accurately. It becomes possible to do. Therefore, it is possible to realize a capacitive proximity sensor device that can perform an input operation even in a multi-stage input operation or non-contact depending on the position of the detected object.

  The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and can be implemented with various modifications. For example, in the capacitive proximity sensor device according to the above embodiment, four pairs of X-axis electrodes 14a, 14b to 17a, 17b and three pairs of Y-axis electrodes 18a, 18b to 20a, 20b are used. However, the number of the X-axis electrodes and the Y-axis electrodes is not particularly limited as long as it is a number that can detect the detected object position within the detection range, and can be changed as appropriate.

  In the capacitive proximity sensor device of the above embodiment, the X-axis electrode and the Y-axis electrode are arranged on the four sides of the substantially rectangular substrate. The arrangement is not limited to this configuration as long as the position of the detected object within the detection range can be detected, and can be changed as appropriate. For example, an electrode arrangement such as a circle, an ellipse, and a rhombus may be used.

  In the capacitive proximity sensor device of the above embodiment, the X-axis electrodes 14a and 14b arranged opposite to each other are used as detection electrode pairs to detect the position of the detection object in the X-axis direction. As long as the pair can detect the position of the detection object, the X-axis electrodes arranged to face each other do not necessarily have to be the detection electrode pair. For example, the X-axis electrodes 14a and 15b may be used as a detection electrode pair, and the X-axis electrodes 15a and 14b may be used as a detection electrode pair. Similarly, the detection electrode pair can be changed in a timely manner in detecting the position of the detection target in the Y-axis direction. Other modifications may be made as appropriate without departing from the scope of the object of the present invention.

  The present invention is applicable to various input devices such as portable devices, digital photo frames, PCs, and audio operation panels.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Sensor part 12 Control circuit part 13, 32, 40, 52 Board | substrate 14a, 14b-17a, 17b, 53a, 53b-56a, 56b X-axis electrode 18a, 18b-20a, 20b, 57a, 57b-59a, 59b Y-axis Electrode 14A-17A, 14B-17B, 14F, 14G Detection electrode 14E, 18A-20A, 18B-20B Drive electrode 21 Multiplexer 22 CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 23 Drive circuit 24 Detection circuit 25 Amplification circuit 26 A / D converter 31 Shielding electrode 33 Spacer 50 Capacitive proximity sensor apparatus 51 Touch panel 100a-100d Electrode

Claims (9)

A plurality of X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other along the X-axis direction across the detection region; and a plurality of Y-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other along the Y-axis direction across the detection region; An electrode group comprising:
A drive circuit for outputting a drive voltage to be applied to an electrode to be a drive electrode in the electrode group;
A detection circuit for detecting a signal output from an electrode serving as a detection electrode in the electrode group;
A calculation means for calculating the detected object position in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the detection reference plane from the detection result of the detection circuit;
A capacitive proximity proximity device comprising: switching means for connecting an electrode serving as the drive electrode to the drive circuit in the electrode group and connecting an electrode serving as the detection electrode to the detection circuit. Sensor device. The switching means is
In detecting the position of the detected object in the X-axis direction, at least one pair of the X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other among the plurality of X-axis electrodes is connected to the detection circuit as a detection electrode pair, 2. The capacitive proximity sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the electrodes to be the detection electrode pair are sequentially switched. The switching means is
In detecting the position of the detection target in the Y-axis direction, at least a pair of the Y-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other among the plurality of Y-axis electrodes is connected to the detection circuit as a detection electrode pair, The capacitive proximity sensor device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electrodes to be the detection electrode pairs are sequentially switched. The switching means is
In detecting the position of the detected object in the Z-axis direction, an electrode switching pattern for connecting to the detection circuit using at least one X-axis electrode as a detection electrode, and connecting to the detection circuit using at least one Y-axis electrode as a detection electrode The capacitive proximity sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein an electrode switching pattern to be switched is switched. The switching means connects at least two X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other among the X-axis electrodes as detection electrode pairs to a detection circuit,
5. The calculation unit according to claim 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates at least two detection object positions in the X-axis direction from signals output from the at least two detection electrode pairs. Capacitive proximity sensor device. The switching means connects at least two pairs of Y-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other among the Y-axis electrodes as detection electrode pairs to a detection circuit,
6. The calculation unit according to claim 1, wherein the calculation unit calculates at least two detected object positions in the Y-axis direction from signals output from the at least two detection electrode pairs. Capacitive proximity sensor device.   An electronic apparatus comprising the capacitive proximity sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.   A touch panel and the capacitive proximity sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the X-axis electrodes are arranged to face each other in the Y-axis direction with the touch panel interposed therebetween. The input device is characterized in that the Y-axis electrodes are arranged to face each other in the X-axis direction with the touch panel interposed therebetween. A plurality of X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other along the X-axis direction across the detection region; and a plurality of Y-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other along the Y-axis direction across the detection region; An electrode group comprising:
A drive circuit for outputting a drive voltage to be applied to an electrode to be a drive electrode in the electrode group;
A detection circuit for detecting a signal output from an electrode serving as a detection electrode in the electrode group;
A capacitive proximity unit comprising: a calculation means for calculating a position of the detected body in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction perpendicular to the detection reference plane from the detection result of the detection circuit; An electrode driving method of a sensor device,
Among the X-axis electrodes, at least one pair of X-axis electrodes arranged opposite to each other is switched as a detection electrode pair, and the electrode serving as the detection electrode pair is directed from one end to the other end side in the X-axis direction. After detecting the position of the detected object in the X-axis direction by sequentially switching between
Among the Y-axis electrodes, at least one pair of opposing Y-axis electrodes is switched as a detection electrode pair, and the electrode serving as the detection electrode pair is directed from one end to the other end side in the Y-axis direction. An electrode driving method characterized by detecting the position of the detected object in the Y-axis direction by sequentially switching between them.

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