JP2012018478A - External keypad - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an external keypad offering superior operational feeling and simple input operation when operating an electronic apparatus with a touch panel capable of displaying a plurality of key top images.SOLUTION: An external keypad 1 which can be attached to an electronic apparatus 10 with a touch panel 11, capable of displaying a key top image 12a for enabling a desired input by a touch operation, includes: a keyboard 22 assembling key tops 22a corresponding to positions of respective key top images 12a; fixing means 41 and 42 for positioning the key tops 22a at the positions of the key top images 12a; and dome sections 22b which are located at the lower parts of the key tops 22a and are elastically bendable and deformable by pressing from the upper parts of the key tops 22a and release of the pressing.

Description

  The present invention relates to an external keypad arranged on a keyboard image displayed in a touch panel of an electronic device.

  Recently, in electronic devices such as portable electronic terminals, portable game devices, and ticket machines, there are an increasing number of devices that can be input by touch operations on a display. Unlike a relative coordinate input type pointing device, a touch sensor incorporated in such a device can input absolute coordinates on a display, and thus can be easily operated and can be input in accordance with an operator's sense. There are many types of touch sensors depending on the detection method, such as resistive film type, capacitance type, optical type, ultrasonic surface acoustic wave type, electromagnetic induction type, etc. A method and a capacitance method are known.

  An example of a resistive film type touch sensor is that a transparent conductive film made of ITO or the like is formed on each facing surface of two insulating substrates, and one transparent conductive film in which a potential gradient is formed and the other transparent conductive film are It is in a non-contact state. When pressed from one side, the one transparent conductive film and the other transparent conductive film come into contact with each other, and the absolute coordinates on the pressed surface are specified based on the voltage value detected on the other surface side.

  On the other hand, the capacitive touch sensor is divided into several methods such as a surface capacitive method, an inner capacitive method, and a projected capacitive method. The absolute coordinates of the operation position are specified using the change in capacitance between the operator's finger (corresponding to the other electrode). Among these, the projected capacitive touch sensor has recently attracted attention, and when the operator presses two points on the operation surface with two fingers, both coordinates can be specified. Some devices have been devised, and an image can be enlarged or reduced using two fingers. Such a capacitive touch sensor capable of multi-touch is disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example.

US Patent Application Publication 2008/0062139

  A touch panel made of transparent hard resin or glass is usually disposed on the operation surface of the touch sensor, and an operator can use his finger or a stylus pen (referred to as “finger etc.” as appropriate) from the touch panel. Use to operate. Even when a resistive film type or electrostatic capacity type touch sensor is incorporated, it is easy to touch with a finger or the like on an image called an icon displayed on the touch panel, and the operator does not feel uncomfortable. . On the other hand, when a touch operation is performed in an area where key tops or white keys, black keys, etc. (hereinafter referred to as “key tops”) of a key top or keying instrument are gathered, an operator usually operates on a hard touch panel. Touch continuously. According to a user's feeling familiar with a pressing operation device such as a keyboard, a continuous touch on a hard touch panel lacks an operational feeling and is difficult to input.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an external keypad that is excellent in operation feeling and easy to input when operating an electronic device including a touch panel capable of displaying a plurality of key top images. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to solve the above object, an embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad that can be attached to an electronic device including a touch panel capable of displaying a key top image that enables a desired input by a touch operation. A keyboard that collects key tops corresponding to the position of the top image, a fixing means for aligning the position of the key top with the position of the key top image, and a press from above and above the key top that is below the key top It is an external keypad provided with the dome part which can be elastically bent and deformed by releasing.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad in which the key top and the dome are made of a transparent material that allows the key top image to be visually recognized from the key top side.

  Another embodiment of the present invention includes at least a front cover that covers a surface on the touch panel side of an electronic device, a back cover that covers a surface opposite to the touch panel side, and a connecting portion that connects the front cover and the back cover. And an external keypad configured to include a keyboard and a window for touch-operating an area other than the keyboard on the front cover, and can be folded back in both directions on the touch panel side and the opposite side from the connecting portion.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad having a transparent plate inside the window.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad that includes a fixing unit at least on the back cover and uses the electronic device as a member that fixes the electronic device to the back cover.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad including a frame-shaped member that covers at least an outer edge portion of an electronic device, and a connecting portion that connects the keyboard and the frame-shaped member.

  Another form of the present invention is an external keypad in which the connecting portion is configured such that the keyboard can be folded back in both directions on the touch panel side and the opposite side.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad that includes a sheet end that is formed on a part of a keyboard and that can be fixed to a frame-shaped member.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad that includes a plurality of keyboards and allows a part of the keyboards to be selectively arranged on the key top image from the connecting portion.

  Another form of the present invention is an external keypad in which the fixing means is an adhesive layer on the back side of the keyboard and on which the keyboard can be detachably attached.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad in which the fixing means is a band that is wound around an electronic device and a keyboard is disposed on a key top image.

  Another form of the present invention is an external keypad in which the fixing means is a slider configured to be slidable on the key top image.

  Another embodiment of the present invention is an external keypad that includes a conductive member on a key top and is configured to be groundable when the key top is pressed.

  Another aspect of the present invention is an external keypad further provided with a box for storing items that can be used when using the electronic apparatus.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, when operating the electronic device provided with the touchscreen which can display the keyboard image which collected the key top image, it is excellent in an operation feeling and can input easily.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which an external keypad according to the first embodiment of the present invention is set in an electronic device. FIG. 2 is a plan view of an electronic device set on the external keypad shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the operation surface side. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a state where the front cover of the external keypad shown in FIG. 2 is opened and folded back from the touch panel. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a state where the front cover of the external keypad shown in FIG. 2 is opened. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the front cover constituting the external keypad shown in FIG. 1 and a partially enlarged view of the cross-sectional view. FIG. 6 is a view showing a modification having a different form from the partially enlarged view shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view taken along line AA showing a modification of the keyboard and a partially enlarged view of the cross-sectional view. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example different from the lower structure of the key top shown in FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example different from the lower structure of the key top shown in FIG. 7, as in FIG. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a modified example of the external keypad further including a box for placing an article that can be used when the electronic device is used in the external keypad shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a plan view of an external keypad according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 12 is a plan view showing each situation before and after attaching the external keypad shown in FIG. 11 to the electronic device. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the external keypad shown in FIG. 11 taken along line BB. FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a situation where an external keypad according to the third embodiment of the present invention is attached to an electronic device. FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a situation in which an external keypad according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is attached to an electronic device. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a situation in which an external keypad according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is attached to an electronic device. FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a situation in which an external keypad according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is attached to an electronic device. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of the front cover constituting the external keypad shown in FIG. 17 and a partially enlarged view of the cross-sectional view. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an external keypad according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a plan view of the state in which the electronic device is set on the external keypad according to the eighth embodiment when viewed from the operation surface side. FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation surface including an ATM touch panel.

  Next, each embodiment of the external keypad according to the present invention will be described.

<First embodiment>

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which an external keypad according to the first embodiment of the present invention is set in an electronic device. FIG. 2 is a plan view of an electronic device set on the external keypad shown in FIG. 1 as viewed from the operation surface side. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a state where the front cover of the external keypad shown in FIG. 2 is opened and folded back from the touch panel. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a state where the front cover of the external keypad shown in FIG. 2 is opened.

  The external keypad 1 according to the first embodiment includes a front cover 2 that covers the surface on the touch panel 11 side of the electronic device 10, a back cover 4 that covers a surface opposite to the touch panel 11, and the front cover 2. At least a connecting portion 3 that connects the back cover 4 is provided. The front cover 2 and the back cover 4 are preferably slightly larger than the surface on the touch panel 11 side of the electronic device 1 and the surface on the back side thereof. The front cover 2 includes a keyboard 22 having a plurality of key tops 22 a and a window 21 for touching an area other than the keyboard image 12 displayed in the touch panel 11. The window 21 is formed in a shape and size that are substantially close to the upper region of the keyboard image 12. Further, a transparent film (an example of a transparent plate) 23 is fitted in the window 21. The entire front cover 2 can be made of a transparent material. Here, “transparent” includes colorless and transparent, colored and transparent, translucent, and the like, and means a state opposite to an opaque state in which the back side is not completely visible.

  The front cover 2 is configured to be able to be folded back from the connecting portion 3 in both directions on the touch panel 11 side and the opposite side. A through hole 24 is formed below the keyboard 22 in the front cover 2 so as to match the position of the button (for example, activation button) 14 of the electronic device 10. However, when the entire front cover 2 is made transparent, the button 14 can be seen from the front cover 2, and thus the through hole 24 is not necessarily required.

  Fixing bands (an example of fixing means) 41 capable of inserting and fixing the corners of the electronic device 10 are provided at each corner of the surface (inner surface) of the back cover 4 that contacts the electronic device 10. Yes. When each corner of the electronic device 10 is inserted into the fixed band 41 and fixed to the inner surface of the back cover 4, the positional relationship between the touch panel 11 and the front cover 2 of the electronic device 10 is determined. For this reason, the position of the key top image 12a and the position of the key top 22a can be superimposed. Further, the back cover 4 includes a fixing belt (an example of a fixing means) 42 that can be fixed to the front cover 2 on the side opposite to the connecting portion 3 in the left-right direction. A button recess 2a fixed to the cover 2 and a button protrusion 42a that can be fitted are provided. By fitting the button convex portion 42a and the button concave portion 2a, the front cover 2 can be fixed in position with respect to the back cover 4, and cannot be folded back from the connecting portion 3. For this reason, the position of the key top image 12a and the position of the key top 22a can be made to coincide with each other, and the keyboard 22 can be effectively prevented from being displaced from the keyboard image 12 when the keyboard 22 is operated.

  The keyboard 22 preferably has a shape and a size that match the position of the keyboard image 12 displayed on the touch panel 11. Each key top 22 a protrudes from the keyboard 22 and is arranged in accordance with the position of each key top image 12 a in the keyboard image 12. As will be described later, each key top 22 a is provided so as to be able to be pushed in the reverse direction with respect to the keyboard 22. However, the key tops 22a may be flush with each other without protruding from the keyboard 22.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in a state where the front cover 2 is placed on the surface of the electronic device 10 on the touch panel 11 side, the keyboard 22 overlaps the keyboard image 12 and each key top 22a overlaps each key top image 12a. . Each key top 22a is preferably composed of insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, or other resin such as acrylic resin or PC resin, but the electronic device 10 is a capacitive touch panel. 11, it is particularly preferable to use a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide. When each key top 22a is made of a transparent material, the key function display of each key top image 12a arranged on the back side can be easily visually recognized even if the key function display is not printed on each key top 22a itself. it can. However, each key top 22a may be made of an opaque material or coated with an opaque material so that the key function display of each key top image 12a is not visible. In that case, it is preferable to form a key function display on each key top 22a itself by printing or the like. Moreover, you may comprise parts other than each keytop 22a of the keyboard 22 with a transparent material. The operator can easily visually recognize the object 15 displayed outside the area of the keyboard image 12 on the touch panel 11 through the transparent film 23. In addition, the transparent film 23 is thin enough to operate the touch panel 11 from above. For this reason, the operator can also perform enlargement / reduction, movement, or the like of the object 15 by an operation from the transparent film 23, for example.

  When the operator completes the input using the keyboard 22, as shown in FIG. 3, the operator can turn the front cover 2 back from the connecting portion 3 to completely expose the touch panel 11 of the electronic device 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when the keyboard image 12 is not displayed and various icons 16 on the touch panel 11 are touch-operated, the keyboard 22 can be folded back to expose the touch panel 11 completely.

  FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of the front cover constituting the external keypad shown in FIG. 1 and a partially enlarged view of the cross-sectional view. FIG. 6 is a view showing a modification having a form different from the partially enlarged view shown in FIG.

  The keyboard 22 includes a substrate 25 on the back side, and forms a space between the keyboard 22 and the substrate 25. The substrate 25 is preferably a thin and soft resin layer or mesh layer, and is a flexible layer that can follow the pressure from above. This is because the pressing position from each key top 22a is determined and the damage on the touch panel 11 needs to be reduced. The keyboard 22 has a plurality of through holes 22c communicating with the space. One key top 22a protrudes from each through hole 22c. Each key top 22a is connected to an elastically deformable dome (an example of a dome portion) 22b on the back side. As a result, the key top 22a and the dome 22b constitute a dome switch. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5, when each key top 22a is pressed in the direction indicated by arrow F from above, each key top 22a descends in the through hole 22c while deforming the dome 22b downward. To do. Next, when the pressure on each key top 22a is released, the dome 22b returns to its original state, and accordingly, each key top 22a rises in the through hole 22c. Each dome 22b is preferably composed of an insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, acrylic resin, PC resin, or the like, as with each key top 22a. In the case where the capacitive touch panel 11 is provided, it is particularly preferable to use a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide. Further, each dome 22b is preferably designed so that when the pressure from above is gradually applied, the dome 22b collapses at once when a predetermined limit pressure is reached. This is transmitted to the operator's finger, and the operator has a clear operational feeling. As described above, in addition to the lowering of the key top 22a, the operator can obtain a good operational feeling that cannot be obtained by a touch operation on the touch panel 11 due to the rapid deformation of the dome 22b.

Each key top 22a includes a conductive layer (metal plate, ITO film, etc.) 27, which is an example of a conductive material, on the back side. Here, the “conductive material” refers to a material having an electric resistivity of 1.0 × 10 ⁵ (Ω · m) or less. When the conductive layer 27 is provided in each key top 22a, when the electronic device 10 is a device provided with a capacitive touch sensor, the operation position can be detected by the conductive layer 27 at the pressed position approaching the touch panel 11 side. In this case, since each conductive layer 27 needs to be grounded, it is extended to the front side surface of each key top 22a so as to be electrically connected to the finger, or is grounded by another route not passing through the finger. It is preferable to leave. When the conductive layer 27 is disposed on the back side of each key top 22a, the thickness of each key top 22a is large, and the distance between the electrode inside the touch panel 11 and the operator's finger (corresponding to the other electrode) is large. Even if it becomes too much, the distance between the conductive layer 27 and the inner electrode of the touch panel 11 can be reduced. As a result, accurate position detection can be performed even with the electronic device 10 including a capacitive touch sensor.

  When the thickness of the key top 22a or the dome 22b is not excessively large, as shown in FIG. 6, the conductive layer 27 may be formed on the front surface (top surface) of each key top 22a. Furthermore, if the conductive layer 27 is grounded through a route that does not go through the finger, even if the operator operates with a thick glove, or operates with a highly insulating material (such as a pen). It can be detected.

  FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view taken along line AA showing a modification of the keyboard and a partially enlarged view of the cross-sectional view. 8 and 9 are cross-sectional views showing modifications different from the lower structure of the key top shown in FIG.

  The keyboard 22 shown in FIG. 7 is formed by connecting a plurality of key tops 22a, and is affixed to the substrate 25 in a state where a space is secured on the back side of each key top 22a. Each key top 22a is preferably composed of insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, or other resin such as acrylic resin or PC resin, but the electronic device 10 is a capacitive touch panel. 11, it is particularly preferable to use a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide. A metal dome (an example of a dome portion, hereinafter referred to as “metal dome”) 31 is disposed at the position of each key top 22 a on the substrate 25. Each key top 22a includes a pusher 30 protruding toward the metal dome 31 on the back side of the top surface. As shown in FIG. 7, when pressed in the direction of arrow F from above the key top 22a, the pusher 30 descends as shown by the alternate long and short dash line, and the metal dome 31 is elastically deformed downward. At this time, similar to the dome 22b described above, abrupt deformation of the metal dome 31 occurs, which gives a clear operational feeling to the operator's finger. If the metal dome 31 is used, characters or the like displayed on the key top image 12a cannot be viewed from above the key top 22a. Therefore, the constituent material of the key top 22a does not have to be a transparent material.

  As shown in FIG. 8, a resin dome (an example of a dome portion, hereinafter referred to as “resin dome”) 32 may be used instead of the metal dome 31. Each resin dome 32 is preferably fixed to the pusher 30. In such a case, even if the resin dome 32 is pressed against the touch panel 11 during operation, the risk of damaging the touch panel 11 is extremely low, and thus the substrate 25 may not be disposed.

  As shown in FIG. 9, when using the metal dome 31 or the resin dome 32, the dome 31, 32 is fixed with the opening surface facing the back side of each key top 22a so as to protrude to the substrate 25 side. You can also. In such a case, it is preferable to provide the pusher 33 on the substrate 25.

  FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a modified example of the external keypad further including a box for placing an article that can be used when the electronic device is used in the external keypad shown in FIG.

  The front cover 2 or the back cover 4 of the external keypad 1 may be provided with, for example, a battery case (an example of a box) 50 in which a spare battery 55 is inserted. The battery case 50 is formed by connecting half cases 51 and 52 so as to be freely opened and closed. Note that the battery compartment 50 may be provided in the connecting portion 3. Furthermore, in addition to the battery 55, a box for storing other articles such as an earphone can be provided at an arbitrary position of the external keypad 1.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad is not the so-called book cover form shown in the first embodiment, but a foldable keyboard on the opening side of the cover that covers the back side and outer periphery of the electronic device and opens the touch panel side. It is to be fixed. In each of the following embodiments including the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the portions common to the first embodiment, and the description overlapping with the above is omitted.

  FIG. 11 is a plan view of an external keypad according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a situation where the external keypad shown in FIG. 11 is attached to the electronic device.

  The external keypad 1 according to the second embodiment connects a back side covering portion 61 that covers the back side of the electronic device 10 and an outer periphery covering portion (an example of a frame-shaped member) 62 that covers the outer peripheral edge of the electronic device 10. Thus, the opening 63 is provided on the surface of the electronic device 10 on the touch panel 11 side. Since the area on the operation surface side of the electronic device 10 covered by the outer periphery covering portion 62 is relatively small, the button 14 of the electronic device 10 is exposed from the opening 63 of the external keypad 1. In addition, the back side coating | coated part 61 is not an essential structure, and you may make it cover the electronic device 10 only by the outer periphery coating | coated part 62. FIG. The external keypad 1 includes a keyboard 70 in a part of the outer periphery covering portion 62. 11 is a direction in which one end in the horizontal direction in FIG. 11 (the left end in this embodiment) is fixed to a connecting portion (an example of a fixing means) 71 and arranged on the touch panel 11 with the connecting portion 71 as a center. And can be folded back in both directions to be removed from the touch panel 11. The keyboard 70 is preferably formed to match the position and size of the keyboard image 12 displayed on the touch panel 11. The keyboard 70 includes a plurality of key tops 70a. Each key top 70 a is also arranged to match the position of each key top image 12 a in the keyboard image 12.

  Each key top 70a is preferably composed of an insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, or a resin such as an acrylic resin or a PC resin, but the electronic device 10 is a capacitive touch panel. 11, it is particularly preferable to use a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide. In this embodiment, the keyboard 70 is formed of a transparent material that can be seen through the keyboard image 12 from the front side. For this reason, even if each key top 70a arrange | positioned at the keyboard 70 does not have a key function display, the operator can visually recognize the character, function, etc. which can be input by the operation. However, the key tops 70a and the keyboard 70 can also be made of an opaque material instead of a transparent material. In that case, it is preferable to form a key function display on the top surface of each key top 70a by printing or the like. Moreover, since the thickness of the keyboard 70 is thin, it can be bent easily. A suitable thickness of the keyboard 70 is 0.02 to 1 mm in a region excluding the key top 70a, and more preferably 0.05 to 0.5 mm. For this reason, the keyboard 70 can be easily bent so that the sheet end (an example of the fixing means) 72 on the opposite side of the connecting portion 71 in the keyboard 70 is inserted into the gap between the outer peripheral covering portion 62 and the electronic device 10. . Note that the sheet end 72 may be configured to be affixed on the outer periphery covering portion 62.

  13 is a cross-sectional view of the external keypad shown in FIG. 11 taken along line BB.

  The configuration of each key top 70a of the external keypad 1 and the configuration on the substrate 25 are the same as the configuration of the modification shown in FIG. 7 of the external keypad 1 according to the first embodiment. The description which overlaps is abbreviate | omitted about the structure to perform.

  The keyboard 70 is formed so as to be foldable in both directions on the touch panel 11 side and the back side of the electronic device 10 with the connecting portion 71 provided on the outer periphery covering portion 62 as a center. Therefore, when it is desired to place the keyboard 70 on the keyboard image 12 displayed on the touch panel 11, the keyboard 70 is arranged on the touch panel 11 side and another operation is performed on the touch panel 11. When the user does not want to use 70, the keyboard 70 can be folded back to the back side of the electronic device 10 around the connecting portion 71. Note that the connecting portion 71 may have an axial shape provided substantially perpendicular to the surface of the touch panel 11, the connecting portion 71 may be passed through the keyboard 70, and the keyboard 70 may be rotatable within the surface of the touch panel 11.

<Third embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad has a form in which a keyboard is mounted on an annular band. The configuration of the keyboard is common to the first embodiment.

  FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a state in which the external keypad according to the third embodiment is attached to an electronic device.

  The external keypad 1 according to the third embodiment has a form in which bands (an example of fixing means) 80 are connected in an annular shape on both sides of a keyboard 22 on which a plurality of key tops 22a are arranged. The band 80 can insert the electronic device 10 in the ring. By setting the peripheral length of the ring formed by the band 80 to be the same as or slightly larger than the peripheral length in the width direction of the electronic device 10, the keyboard 22 is placed on the keyboard image 12 so as to overlap each other. Can be prevented from shifting. Note that the band 80 may be configured to be connected and separated so that the size of the ring can be freely changed in accordance with the size of the electronic device 10.

<Fourth embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad has a form in which a keyboard is pasted on a touch panel of an electronic device. The configuration of the keyboard is common to the first embodiment.

  FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a situation where an external keypad according to the fourth embodiment is attached to an electronic device.

  The external keypad 1 according to the fourth embodiment includes an adhesive layer (an example of a fixing unit) 84 that can be attached to and detached from the touch panel 11 on the back surface of the keyboard 22 on which a plurality of key tops 22a are arranged. . As a material for the adhesive layer 84, for example, a self-adhesive protective film mainly composed of a polypropylene resin can be suitably used.

<Fifth embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad has a form in which the keyboard is slidable on the touch panel. The configuration of the keyboard is common to the first embodiment.

  FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a situation in which the external keypad according to the fifth embodiment is attached to an electronic device.

  The external keypad 1 according to the fifth embodiment includes one slider 85 on each side of the keyboard 22 on which a plurality of key tops 22a are arranged. Each slider 85 includes a horizontal portion 86 that extends in the horizontal direction from both longitudinal ends of the keyboard 22 and a vertical portion 87 that extends downward from the end in the extending direction of the horizontal portion 86. The length of each horizontal portion 86 is set so that the distance between both vertical portions 87 of the external keypad 1 is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the length of the electronic device 10 in the width direction. By providing such a slider 85 on the keyboard 22, the position of the electronic device 10 in the width direction of the external keypad 1 can be regulated, and the external keypad 1 can be moved in the length direction of the electronic device 10. become. Therefore, when the keyboard 22 is used, the keyboard 22 is superimposed on the keyboard image 12 on the touch panel 11, and when the keyboard 22 is not used, the external keypad 1 is slid in the length direction of the electronic device 10. It can be avoided where it does not get in the way.

<Sixth embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad is of a book cover type having a keyboard-like keyboard on the front cover.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing a situation in which the external keypad according to the sixth embodiment is attached to an electronic device.

  An external keypad 1 according to the sixth embodiment includes a keyboard 22 for inputting a character or the like provided in the external keypad 1 according to the first embodiment, and a keyboard-like keyboard 90 for a percussion instrument. It has been changed to. The keyboard 90 has a shape and a size that match a keyboard image (an example of a keyboard image) 17 displayed on the touch panel 11 of the electronic device 10. The keyboard 90 includes a plurality of white keys 91 and a plurality of black keys 92. The white key 91 is a position corresponding to the white key image (an example of a key top image) 18 in the keyboard image 17, and the black key 92 is a position corresponding to the black key image (an example of the key top image) 19 in the keyboard image 17. Respectively.

  18 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of the front cover constituting the external keypad shown in FIG. 17 and a partially enlarged view of the cross-sectional view.

  The keyboard 90 includes a cover 93 on the front side and a substrate 94 on the back side of the cover 93. A space is formed between the cover 93 and the substrate 94. The cover 93 has a plurality of through holes 95 so as to communicate with the space. The white key 91 is a thin operation plate and includes a key top 96 immediately below it. Each key top 96 protrudes from each through hole 95. In addition, each key top 96 is connected to an elastically deformable dome (an example of a dome portion) 97 on the back side thereof. As a result, the key top 96 and the dome 97 constitute a dome switch. Therefore, when each white key 91 is pressed from above, each key top 96 descends through the through hole 95 while deforming the dome 97 downward. Next, when the pressure on each white key 91 is released, the dome 97 returns to its original state, and accordingly, each key top 96 rises in the through hole 95. When the pressure from above is gradually applied, each dome 97 collapses at once when a predetermined limit pressure is reached. This is transmitted to the operator's finger, and the operator has a clear operational feeling. Thus, in addition to the lowering of the key tops 96, the operator can obtain a good operational feeling that cannot be obtained by a touch operation on the touch panel 11 due to abrupt deformation of each dome 97.

  Each black key 92 is a key top that does not have a top plate, and protrudes from each through hole 95 formed in the cover 93. Each black key 92 has an elastically deformable dome 97 connected to the back side thereof. As a result, the black key 92 and the dome 97 constitute a dome switch. For this reason, when each black key 92 is pressed from above, the black key 92 descends in the through hole 95 while deforming the dome 97 downward. Next, when the pressure on each black key 92 is released, the dome 97 returns to the original state, and accordingly, each black key 92 rises in the through hole 95. Each of the key top 96, the black key 92, and the dome 97 is preferably composed of an insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, acrylic resin, PC resin, or the like. When 10 includes the capacitive touch panel 11, it is particularly preferable to use a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide.

  The key top 96 and the black key 92 are each provided with a conductive layer (metal plate, ITO film, etc.) 98 which is an example of a conductive material on each back side. For this reason, when the electronic device 10 is a device including a capacitive touch sensor, the operation position can be detected when the conductive layer 98 at the pressed position approaches the touch panel 11 side. In this case, since each conductive layer 98 needs to be grounded, it is extended to the front surface of the key top 96 and the black key 92 so as to be electrically connected to the finger, or by another route not passing through the finger. It is preferable to be grounded. Further, when the thicknesses of the key top 96, the black key 92, and the dome 97 are not excessively large, the conductive layer 98 may be formed on each front surface of the key top 96 or the black key 92. Note that the advantage of providing the conductive layer 98 is the same as the advantage described in the external keypad 1 according to the first embodiment, and therefore, redundant description is omitted here.

<Seventh embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad has a form in which a front cover of the external keypad according to the first embodiment is added to the external keypad according to the sixth embodiment. The configuration of the keyboard is common to the first embodiment and the sixth embodiment.

  FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an external keypad according to the seventh embodiment.

  In the external keypad 1 according to the seventh embodiment, another connecting portion 3 is formed on the back cover 4 of the external keypad 1 according to the sixth embodiment, and the first embodiment is provided there. It has the structure which connected the front cover 2 which has the keyboard 22 demonstrated in the form. The external keypad 1 according to the seventh embodiment has a configuration in which two front covers 2 having different keyboards 90 and 22 can be folded from both sides of the back cover 4. For this reason, the front cover 2 can be changed according to the keyboard image 12 or the keyboard image 17 displayed on the touch panel 11 of the electronic device 10.

  In the above structure, the front cover 2 can be alternately folded from the left and right sides of the back cover 4, but a plurality of front covers 2 are connected only to the left side (or right side) of the back cover 4. Depending on the image displayed on the touch panel 11, a desired front cover 2 may be selected and folded. Moreover, you may connect the some front cover 2 provided with the keyboard 22 of the same form to the connection part 3. FIG. For example, a plurality of keyboards 22 each having a different hardness of the dome 22b may be prepared, and the operator may select the keyboard 22 as appropriate, so that an operational feeling that suits the operator's preference may be achieved.

<Eighth embodiment>
Next, an external keypad according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. This external keypad is provided with a game keyboard on the front cover of the external keypad according to the first embodiment. The internal structure of the keyboard is the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 20 is a plan view of the state in which the electronic device is set on the external keypad according to the eighth embodiment when viewed from the operation surface side.

  The external keypad 1 according to the eighth embodiment is obtained by replacing the keyboard 22 for inputting characters and the like provided in the external keypad 1 according to the first embodiment with a game keyboard 102. It is. The keyboard 102 has a shape and a size that match the game keyboard image 112 displayed on the touch panel 11 of the electronic device 10. The keyboard 102 includes two multidirectional operation keys (an example of a key top) 102a. The multidirectional operation key 102a is arranged at a position corresponding to the multidirectional operation key image (an example of a key top image) 112a in the keyboard image 112. The multidirectional operation key 102a and the dome (not shown) below the multidirectional operation key 102a are preferably composed of an insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, a thermoplastic elastomer, an acrylic resin, a PC resin, or the like. When the electronic device 10 includes the capacitive touch panel 11, it is particularly preferable that the electronic device 10 be composed of a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide.

<Other embodiments>
The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. .

  For example, the external keypad according to the present invention can be used for a touch panel of a permanent electronic device such as a ticket machine or ATM.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation surface including an ATM touch panel.

  On the operation surface 130 of the ATM (an example of an electronic device) 120, a touch panel 131 and a bill / coin entrance / exit 132 are disposed. Two rails (an example of a slider) 141 having a groove on the inside and extending in the vertical direction of the touch panel 131 are fixed to both the left and right sides of the touch panel 131. The two rails 141 extend beyond the lower side of the touch panel 131. The left and right ends of the keyboard 142 are fitted in the grooves of the rails 141, and the keyboard 142 can slide on the rail 141 and move on the touch panel 131. Both the rail 141 and the keyboard 142 are components of the external keypad 140. The keyboard 142 has a form that can be used by being superimposed on the keyboard image 132 displayed on the touch panel 131, and the key tops 142 a are arranged so as to match the positions of the key top images 132 a in the keyboard image 132. is doing. The key top 142a and the dome (not shown) below the key top 142a are preferably composed of insulating silicone rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, acrylic resin, PC resin, or the like. In the case where the capacitive touch panel 131 is provided, it is particularly preferable to use a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber containing a large amount of zinc oxide. The operator performs the same input as touching the key top image 132a on the touch panel 131 by placing the keyboard 142 on the keyboard image 132 displayed on the touch panel 131 and pressing the key top 142a. Can do. When another touch operation is performed on the touch panel 131, the operator can lower the keyboard 142 along the rail 141 to avoid the touch panel 131. Note that the keyboard 142 can be avoided above the touch panel 131 or can be avoided on the right side or left side of the touch panel 131 by changing the length or mounting position of the rail 141. The configuration of the keyboard 142 is common to the first embodiment.

  The electronic device 10 may include any type of touch panel 11 that can be input by a touch operation on a panel such as a resistive film type or a capacitance type. The keyboard image 12 has a clear boundary in the touch panel 11 as an area including a plurality of key top images 12a, but may not have a clear boundary. The same applies to the keyboard images 112 and 132. The key top 22a is not limited to the same size as the key top image 12a, and may be larger or smaller than the key top image 12a as long as the key top image 12a can be selected. Further, the number and positions of the key tops 22a provided on the keyboard 22, the characters displayed on the key tops 22a, and the like are not limited to those exemplified in the above embodiment. Therefore, the keyboard 22 may be a keyboard for inputting Japanese, German, Chinese, numerals, and the like, for example. Furthermore, unevenness may be formed in the shape of braille or the like on the top surface of the key top 22a. These modifications are the same for the key top 96, the black key 92, and the multidirectional operation key 102a.

  A part of the structure of the external keypad 1 according to the first embodiment can also be employed in the external keypad 1 according to another embodiment. For example, in the external keypad 1 according to the second to eighth embodiments, the structure shown in FIG. 5 or 6 may be adopted as the structure below these key tops. Further, the window 21 may be simply provided with an opening that does not include the transparent film 23. Further, instead of providing both the fixing band 41 and the fixing belt 42, any one fixing means may be used. However, in that case, in order to more securely fix the electronic device 10 and the external keypad 1, it is preferable to include at least a fixing band 41. Further, the numbers and forms of the fixing bands 41 and the fixing belts 42 are not limited to those described in the above embodiment.

  Further, if the key tops 22a, 70a, etc. themselves, or the members disposed immediately below, are made of a material having a function of a magnifying lens, characters displayed on the key top image 12a, etc. from above the keyboard 22, etc. It is possible to view in an enlarged state. In this case, there is a possibility that the pusher 30 is in the way, but by shifting the pusher 30 from the center of the key tops 22a, 70a and the like to the end, the enlarged characters and the like can be easily visually recognized.

  The present invention can be used as a keypad externally attached to an electronic device having a touch panel.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 External keypad 2 Front cover 3 Connection part 4 Back cover 10 Electronic device 11 Touch panel 12a Key top image 18 White key image (an example of a key top image)
19 Black key image (example of key top image)
21 window 22 keyboard 22a key top 22b dome (example of dome)
23 Transparent film (an example of a transparent operation panel)
27 Conductive layer (an example of a conductive member)
31 Metal dome (example of dome)
32 Resin dome (example of dome)
41 Fixing band (an example of fixing means)
42 fixing belt (an example of fixing means)
50 Battery compartment (an example of a box)
55 Batteries (examples of articles)
62 Outer periphery covering part (an example of a frame-shaped member)
70 keyboard 70a key top 71 connecting portion (an example of fixing means)
72 Sheet edge (an example of fixing means)
80 bands (an example of fixing means)
84 Adhesive layer (an example of fixing means)
85 Slider 90 Keyboard 92 Black key (example of key top)
96 key top 97 dome (example of dome)
98 conductive layer (an example of a conductive member)
102 Keyboard 102a Multidirectional operation key (example of key top)
112 Keyboard image 112a Multidirectional operation key image (an example of a key top image)
120 ATM (an example of electronic equipment)
131 Touch Panel 132a Key Top Image 140 External Keypad 141 Rail (Example of Slider)
142 Keyboard 142a Key Top

Claims (14)

An external keypad that can be attached to an electronic device including a touch panel capable of displaying a key top image that enables a desired input by a touch operation,
A keyboard that collects key tops corresponding to the positions of the key top images, and
Fixing means for aligning the position of the key top with the position of the key top image;
A dome part below the key top and elastically bent and deformable by pressing from above the key top and releasing the pressing;
An external keypad comprising:   The external keypad according to claim 1, wherein the key top and the dome portion are made of a transparent material that allows the key top image to be visually recognized from the key top side. A front cover that covers the touch panel side surface of the electronic device; a back cover that covers a surface opposite to the touch panel side; and a connecting portion that connects the front cover and the back cover.
The front cover is
The keyboard and a window for touch-operating an area other than the keyboard are provided, and are configured to be capable of being folded back and forth from the connecting portion to the touch panel side and the opposite side. Alternatively, the external keypad according to claim 2.   The external keypad according to claim 3, wherein the window includes a transparent plate inside thereof.   5. The external keypad according to claim 3, wherein the fixing means is a member that is provided at least on the back cover and fixes the electronic device to the back cover. A frame-like member covering at least the outer edge of the electronic device;
As the fixing means, a connecting portion that connects the keyboard and the frame-shaped member;
The external keypad according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising:   The external keypad according to claim 6, wherein the connecting portion is configured to be capable of folding the keyboard in both directions on the touch panel side and the opposite side.   The external keypad according to claim 7, wherein the fixing means further includes a sheet end formed on a part of the keyboard and fixable to the frame-shaped member. A plurality of keyboards;
The external keypad according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein a part of the keyboard can be selectively arranged on the key top image from the connecting portion.   3. The external key according to claim 1, wherein the fixing means is an adhesive layer on a back side of the keyboard and capable of detachably attaching the keyboard on the touch panel. pad.   3. The external keypad according to claim 1, wherein the fixing unit is a band that is wound around the electronic device and arranges the keyboard on the key top image. 4.   The external keypad according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixing means is a slider configured to be slidable on the key top image.   The external keypad according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the keytop includes a conductive member, and is configured to be groundable when the keytop is pressed.   The external keypad according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a box for storing an article that can be used when the electronic apparatus is used.

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