JP2012208914A - Input device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an input device capable of recording a movement locus by a usual writing tool or the like only by directly writing a note on a sheet placed in a frame using the writing tool and storing the locus as electronic data.SOLUTION: An input device D comprises an optical sensor S that includes a rectangular frame 1 and at least a pair of a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element and that detects blockage, which is caused by an object in the frame 1, of light reaching from the light-emitting element to the light-receiving element, so as to output positional information on the object in the frame 1. When a note is written in a part of a sheet P exposed from the inside of the frame of the optical sensor S by using a writing tool W or the like, a movement locus by the tip of the writing tool W is stored as electronic data in storage means M mounted in the input device or storage means placed outside the device.

Description

  The present invention relates to an input device including an optical position detection unit.

  Instead of keyboards and mice that require familiarity with operations, flat input devices such as tablets and touch panels are used as input devices (input devices) that allow anyone to easily operate information devices such as computers. . Such a flat input device is provided with a touch position detecting means for detecting in two dimensions (xy directions) a position where a finger or pen of a person operating the device touches the touch panel, etc. In cooperation with the display (picture pattern, icon, etc.) of a flat display such as a liquid crystal screen arranged under the panel, the information device can be operated intuitively (for example, see Patent Document 1) reference).

  As the touch position detection means (touch sensor) in the touch panel or the like, those using a resistance film method, a capacitance method, an electromagnetic induction method, or the like are usually used from the viewpoint of price, performance, durability, and the like. These types of touch panels have a structure in which a number of electrical contacts are formed in a matrix near the surface of the panel.

  On the other hand, there is an example in which the above-described configuration of a tablet, a touch panel, or the like is applied to a virtual electronic stationery. For example, an electronic memo device that digitizes (images) a handwritten memo has a display (touch panel) with a touch sensor that can display the memo to be input. By moving a tip of a pen or the like and moving the tip, the movement locus or handwriting (position information) of the tip of the finger or the like is input as information such as a memo and displayed on the display or the like. . Further, the movement trajectory of the tip displayed on the display or the like is stored (stored) in the electronic memo device as electronic data such as an image.

JP 2004-206613 A

  By the way, although the electronic memo device as described above is convenient because it can easily input characters and the like, it is convenient for people who are unfamiliar with the operation of computers, electronic information devices, etc., and elderly people. There is still a strong desire to leave a memo in a form in which handwriting remains directly on a medium such as paper, rather than an electronic memo on which characters and the like are displayed on a display or the like.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and by simply writing a memo or the like directly on a sheet placed in a frame with a normal writing instrument, the movement trajectory of the writing instrument or the like is recorded and stored as electronic data. The purpose is to provide an input device.

In order to achieve the above object, an input device according to the present invention includes a frame-shaped optical sensor (A) described below that surrounds at least a part of a sheet that can be written with a writing instrument, and the above-described optical sensor exposed from the frame of the optical sensor. And a storage unit that stores the movement locus of the tip of the writing tool as electronic data when writing on the paper with the writing tool.
(A) It is composed of a rectangular frame and at least one pair of light emitting elements and light receiving elements attached to the rectangular frame, and the light reaching the light receiving elements from the light emitting elements, which is generated in relation to the object in the frame. An optical sensor that outputs position information of the object in the frame by detecting blockage.

  The input device of the present invention is obtained from the optical sensor of the frame shape of (A) above, which is placed on a paper for writing and at least a part of the paper is exposed from within the frame, and the optical sensor. Storage means for storing the movement trajectory information of the writing instrument as electronic data. Therefore, if writing is performed on a portion of the paper exposed from the frame of the optical sensor with a writing tool or the like, the locus (handwriting) remains on the paper and is stored (stored) in the storage means as electronic data. . As a result, the input device of the present invention can move the writing tool by directly writing a memo etc. on the paper placed in the frame with a normal writing tool without paying special attention to digitization. The trajectory is automatically digitized. The computerized information can be extracted (reproduced) from the storage means by using a computer or the like, and can be shared with others, and knowledge and records can be easily stored. Convenient.

  In addition, the input device of the present invention is a light receiving device and a light receiving element (A) as a detection means (optical sensor) for the touch position of the tip of a writing instrument, and the above-described (A) rectangular frame. An optical sensor that outputs positional information of the object in the frame by detecting a blockage of light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which is generated in association with the object in the frame. Used. Therefore, there is no electrical (physical) contact on the detection surface of the touch position, which is excellent in durability and hardly affected by dust or dirt. In addition, when writing with a writing instrument, a large writing pressure such as a resistance film method, a capacitance method, and an electromagnetic induction method is not required, and natural writing can be performed without being conscious of the sensor.

  Further, as the frame-shaped optical sensor of (A), a plurality of light emitting cores are formed in one portion of the frame portion facing each other in the frame shape, and a plurality of light incident portions are formed in the other portion. And an optical waveguide in which the tip of each core is positioned at the inner edge of the frame is disposed so that the tip of the light emitting core and the tip of the light incident core face each other. An optical sensor in which light emitted from each light emitting core of the optical waveguide toward the light incident core forms a lattice of light that intersects in the vertical and horizontal directions in the frame. When using the optical sensor, the frame of the optical sensor can be made thin. In other words, since the optical waveguide can be formed thinly, such as in the form of a film or a sheet, even if it is incorporated in the frame of this optical sensor, the frame can be formed so as not to interfere with the writing operation when writing with a writing instrument. Can be formed thinly. As a result, writing on the paper can be performed in a more natural and easy posture.

  In the input device of the present invention, as the frame-shaped optical sensor of (A), a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged side by side in one portion of the frame facing each other in the frame shape, and the other portion. A plurality of light receiving elements are arranged side by side, the light emitting elements and the light receiving elements are positioned toward the inside of the frame, and the light emitted from the light emitting elements toward the light receiving element is vertically and horizontally in the frame. When using an optical sensor designed to form a grid of intersecting light, a light emitting diode (LED) or the like is used as the light emitting element (light source), a photodiode (PD) is used as the light receiving element, etc. General-purpose parts can be used. Therefore, it is advantageous in that the optical sensor can be configured at low cost. In addition, it has the advantages of excellent impact resistance and durability.

  In the input device of the present invention, as the frame-shaped optical sensor of (A), among the four corners of the frame, the light emitting element and the plurality of light receiving elements are provided at the corners on both sides of one side. The light receiving element array is vertically stacked, and a tape-like retroreflector is disposed on the inner surface of the three sides excluding the one side between the modules. When using an optical sensor in which the light emitted from the light emitting element of the module is reflected by the retroreflecting light reflector and recursively enters the light receiving element array of this module, the number of parts is small. Thus, the position of the tip of the writing instrument can be specified by triangulation. In addition, this input device can also be configured at low cost using general-purpose parts.

  In the input device of the present invention, the optical sensor and the storage means are integrally formed as a storage device, and the storage device places the optical sensor on the paper when the optical sensor is placed on the paper. The paper can be easily replaced with a new one when it can be installed or removed. Even if the paper is replaced with a new one, the stored content (movement trajectory) can be easily extracted (reproduced) from the storage means of the storage device using a computer or the like.

It is a figure explaining the whole structure of the input device in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the outline | summary of the memory | storage means used for the input device of other embodiment of this invention. It is a top view explaining the schematic structure of the input device in 1st Embodiment. It is a top view explaining the schematic structure of the input device in 2nd Embodiment. (A) is a top view explaining schematic structure of the input device in 3rd Embodiment, (b) is the Z section enlarged view. (A)-(f) is a figure explaining the manufacturing method of the optical waveguide used for the input device of 1st Embodiment.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an input device D according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The input device D stores, as electronic data, a frame-shaped optical sensor S that surrounds at least a portion of the paper P that can be written with the writing tool W, and the movement trajectory of the tip of the writing tool W within the frame of the optical sensor S. Storage means M. The optical sensor S includes a rectangular frame 1 and at least one set of light emitting elements (light sources) and light receiving elements attached to the frame 1, and an object (for example, a writing instrument) in the frame 1. The position information in the frame 1 such as the writing instrument W is output by detecting the blockage of the light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which occurs in connection with W or the like. This is the first feature of the input device D of the present invention.

  The input device D communicates with a communication (power supply) cable (may not be present), a battery for driving it, control means such as a driver of the light emitting element and the light receiving element, and information equipment such as a computer. Communication means (wired or wireless) is built in, which is not shown in the figure. In the above example, the position information of the writing instrument W detected by the optical sensor S is stored in the storage means M provided in contact with the optical sensor S. The input device D integrated with the storage means M (which may be built in the frame 1) may be referred to as a “storage device”.

  Next, a case will be described in which the location information (storage means) such as the writing instrument W detected by the input device D of the present invention is stored using an external device or a network. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the storage means used in the input device D according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  The input device D in this other embodiment also includes a frame-shaped optical sensor S surrounding a part of the paper P, and storage means for storing the movement trajectory of the tip of the writing instrument W as electronic data. The optical sensor S outputs position information of the writing tool W or the like in the frame 1 by detecting light blockage that occurs in association with the writing tool W or the like in the frame 1.

  The input device D in the other embodiment can store (record) position information such as the writing implement W as electronic data on various external devices and networks as shown in FIG. It has become. This is the second feature of the input device D of the present invention.

  The other embodiment will be described in detail. For example, when a flash memory such as a USB memory UM or a memory card SD in the figure is used as a storage unit, a slot or a connector provided on the side surface of the input device D or the like In addition, by connecting the flash memory, position information such as the writing implement W can be stored as electronic data in the flash memory. Further, the recorded information can be extracted (reproduced) from the storage means using a computer or the like, and can be shared with others, and knowledge and records can be easily stored. As the memory card (SD), various card-type media such as SD, MMC, MS, SM, xD, and CF can be used.

  When the desktop computer DT or laptop computer LT (including notebook type, netbook PC, tablet PC, etc.) in the figure is used as the storage means, the input device D and each of the computers DT, LT The communication may be connected via a wired (cable L or the like) or wireless [wireless LAN or Bluetooth (registered trademark) or the like]. Thereby, the positional information of the writing implement W etc. can be memorize | stored as electronic data in the memory | storage device incorporated in each said computer DT and LT.

  When position information is stored in each of the computers DT and LT, the information can be reproduced immediately using the computers DT and LT. As a storage device (storage medium), an optical medium such as a CD, a DVD, or a BD can be used in addition to a storage such as an HDD or an SSD. Further, a flash memory (see above) connected to the computers DT and LT can also be used. Further, when the computers DT and LT are connected by wire, power necessary for the operation may be supplied from the computers DT and LT to the input device D.

  Further, when using a portable information device such as the tablet (pad) device TD, PDA (personal digital assistant device PD), or electronic dictionary in the figure as the storage means, similarly to the above, wired (not shown) or wireless It is sufficient to connect so that communication is possible. Thereby, the positional information of the writing instrument W etc. can be stored as electronic data in the storage device of each portable information device. When location information is stored in each portable information device, the information can be reproduced immediately using a display device of the device. Further, as a storage device (storage medium), it is possible to use a memory card (see above) connected to the storage device such as a flash memory built in the portable information device, an SSD, a micro drive, or the like. is there. Further, when a wired connection is made with the portable information device, the portable information device may receive power necessary for operation.

  In addition, when using a mobile communication device such as the mobile phone MF or the smartphone SF in the figure as the storage means, it may be connected to be communicable by wire (not shown) or wirelessly as described above. Thereby, the positional information on the writing implement W or the like can be stored as electronic data in the storage device of each portable communication device. Further, when the location information is stored in each portable communication device, the information can be immediately reproduced using the display device of the device. In addition, as a storage device (storage medium), in addition to storage such as a flash memory built in the portable communication device, a memory card (see above) or the like connected (inserted) to the storage can be used. .

  Then, as shown in FIG. 2, when various external information devices (computer, portable information device, portable communication device, etc.) communicating with the input device D of the present invention are connected to communication or an information network, these pieces of information. The position information of the writing instrument W or the like may be stored in a server SV or the like on the cloud computing system (or network computing system) via the device. Thereby, position information (electronic data) such as the writing instrument W can be stored (stored) in the data center or the like by the safest and most reliable method. Further, when the location information is stored in the server SV or the like on the cloud, ubiquitous computing is possible in which the information is immediately reproduced regardless of the information device, location, time, etc. to be used. Of course, as described above, even when the location information of the writing instrument W detected by the input device D is stored using an external device or network, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. You may use together the memory | storage means M attached (or built-in) to the input device D. FIG.

  Next, as a specific example of the input device (D), the light for detecting the tip of the writing instrument W is placed inside the frame 1 of the optical sensor (S1) by a light distribution mechanism using an optical waveguide. A first embodiment in which the lattice is formed will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of the input device D1 according to the first embodiment. In this figure, for ease of explanation, the long side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), and the short side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction). At the same time, the optical waveguide cores (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) inside the frame 1 are indicated by a one-dot chain line, and lattice-shaped light (invisible infrared light) inside the frame 1 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Further, the number of the optical waveguide cores and the number of lattice-shaped lights are omitted, and the battery for driving the input device D, the driver of the light emitting element and the light receiving element, etc., as in FIG. The control means, communication means (cable or wireless antenna) for communicating with information devices such as computers are not shown (the same applies to FIGS. 4 and 5).

  The input device D1 according to the first embodiment is placed on a paper (P) that can be written with the writing tool W, whereby the tip of the writing tool W in a square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. Optical sensor S1 having a touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of (touch position T), and movement locus information (x−) of the tip position of writing instrument W obtained by this optical sensor S1. storage means M for storing (change in y position).

  The frame 1 portion of the optical sensor S1 has a light emitting core 4a on the long side X1 side in the lateral direction as a light emitting part of the touch position detecting means as shown in FIG. A light emitting side optical waveguide 4 having a light emitting core 4b is disposed on the side Y1 side, and light emitted from the light emitting element (light source 2) is emitted from each light emitting core 4a, 4a, ... (horizontal direction) and the light emitting cores 4b, 4b, ... (vertical direction) are branched and distributed.

  Further, the frame 1 portion facing the square detection area has a light incident core 5a on the long side X2 side in the lateral direction as a light receiving portion of the touch position detecting means, The light receiving side optical waveguide 5 having the light incident core 5b is disposed on the short side Y2 side, passes through the detection region, and the light incident cores 5a, 5a,. (Horizontal direction) and light incident on each of the light incident cores 5b, 5b,... (Vertical direction) have a number of light receiving elements corresponding to each of the light incident cores 5a, 5b. It is guided to the element array 3.

  The light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 will be described in more detail. These optical waveguides 4 and 5 are, for example, an underclad layer and an over-layer formed using a resin material in the case of a polymer-based optical waveguide. Between the clad layers (both not shown), the cores 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b patterned in the above-described shape by a photolithography method or the like are arranged.

  In addition, since the light emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light receiving side optical waveguide 5 are for touch position detection, the tip end portions (emission portions) of the cores 4a and 4b branched from the light emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light receiving side As shown in FIG. 3, the tip portions (incident portions) of the cores 5a and 5b of the optical waveguide 5 are positioned on the inner edge of the frame 1 so as to face each other. And between the front-end | tip part of the core 4a of the light emission side optical waveguide 4 and the front-end | tip part of the core 5a of the light reception side optical waveguide 5 which oppose on both sides of the said detection area, and the core of the light emission side optical waveguide 4 Between the front end portion of 4b and the front end portion of the core 5b of the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 (horizontal direction), the above-described light lattice (two-dot chain line) is formed.

  In the above embodiments, the cores 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b of the optical waveguide are exemplified by polymer optical waveguides formed using a resin material (polymer material). However, these cores are configured. The material can also be made of a material having a higher refractive index than that of the clad layer disposed around, for example, glass. However, the difference in refractive index between the core and the surrounding cladding layer is preferably 0.01 or more, and a photosensitive resin such as an ultraviolet curable resin is most preferable in consideration of the patterning property of the above shape. Examples of the ultraviolet curable resin to be used include acrylic, epoxy, siloxane, norbornene, and polyimide.

  Further, the cladding layer around the core may be made of a material having a lower refractive index than the core among the photosensitive resins such as the ultraviolet curable resin. In addition, a material that also serves as a flat substrate such as glass, silicon, metal, or resin can be used for the cladding layer. The clad layer may be only the under clad layer below the core, and the over clad layer covering the core may not be formed. The optical waveguide can be manufactured by a dry etching method using plasma, a transfer method, a photolithography method using exposure / development, a photo bleach method, or the like.

  For the light emitting element (light source 2) used in the optical sensor S1, a light emitting diode (LED), a semiconductor laser, or the like is used, and among them, a VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser) excellent in light transmission is suitable. Used. The wavelength of the light emitted from the light source 2 is preferably near infrared (wavelength: 700 to 2500 nm).

  As the light receiving element (light receiving element array 3) used for the optical sensor S1, an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS, a CMOS linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a row, or the like can be used.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 1, when the optical sensor S1 (storage device) including the storage means M is detachably placed on the paper P so as to surround at least a part of the paper P that can be written on. When the tip of the writing tool W is lowered onto the portion of the paper P exposed from the inside of the frame of the optical sensor S1, a part of the lattice-like light passing through the inside of the frame as shown in FIG. Is detected by the light receiving element of the touch position detecting means, and the coordinate position (xy axis, “touch position T in FIG. 3” in the frame of the tip of the writing tool W is detected. And the coordinates thereof are stored in the storage means M. In this state, when the writing tool W is moved to write a memo or the like, a trajectory (writing information such as a memo) of the tip of the writing tool W accompanying the movement is detected, and the trajectory is digital data (electronic Data) is stored in the storage means M. That is, a memo or the like is written on the portion of the paper P exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S1 with the writing tool W, and information such as the memo is recorded in the memory or the like of the storage means M.

  In addition, the input device D1 of the first embodiment uses a film-like or sheet-like optical waveguide (about 1 mm at the maximum) as the touch position detecting means of the optical sensor S1 disposed in the frame 1. Therefore, the total thickness of the frame 1 can be formed to about 2 to 5 mm even if the thickness of the base, the protective plate, etc. is taken into consideration, so that the rectangular frame-shaped portion of the optical sensor S1 is written. This makes it easy to write. Further, since the film-like or sheet-like optical waveguide is thin as described above, the light emitted from the tip of each light emitting core 4a of the light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 is slightly from the surface of the paper P in the frame. Even if the writing tool W is written in a slightly inclined state, the trajectory detected by this light grating is the actual tip of the writing tool W. There is little deviation from the locus (memo on the paper P), and it can be stored (stored) in the storage means M in the same appropriate state as the human appearance.

  Moreover, in the said 1st Embodiment, although the memory | storage means M which memorize | stores the positional information etc. of the said writing implement W etc. showed the example attached to the said frame 1, this memory | storage means M is the said other implementation. As in the embodiment (FIG. 2), an external device or a storage unit on a network may be used.

  Next, in the frame 1 of the optical sensor (S2), by arranging a large number of light emitting diodes (LEDs) as light emitting elements (light sources) and arranging a large number of photodiodes (PD) as light receiving elements, The input device D2 according to the second embodiment, in which a light grating for detecting the tip of the writing instrument W is formed in the frame of the optical sensor (S2), will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of the input device D2 in the second embodiment. Also in this figure, the long side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), the short side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction), and the number of LEDs and PDs The number of grid-like lights is omitted, and the electrical wiring and the like in this frame are indicated by dotted lines. Also, the battery and communication means are not shown.

  The input device D2 in the second embodiment is also placed on the paper (P) on which the writing tool W can be written, so that the tip of the writing tool W in the square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. Optical sensor S2 having touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of (touch position T), and movement trajectory information (x−) of the tip position of writing instrument W obtained by this optical sensor S2. storage means MC (built-in) for storing the change in the y position).

  The input device D2 of the second embodiment is different from the input device (D1) of the first embodiment in that the light grating for detecting the touch position of the tip of the writing instrument W is as shown in FIG. , The light-emitting unit having a number of LEDs 6, 6,... Arranged in the frame 1 of the optical sensor S2 as light sources. In addition, the frame 1 portion (side X2, Y2) facing the portion (side X1, Y1) of the frame 1 in which each LED 6 is arranged has a large number of PDs 7, 7,. A light receiving portion is formed, and each of these PDs 7 is positioned side by side along the inner edge of the frame-like frame 1 in the same manner as the above-described LEDs 6 so that the tip thereof faces inward. Then, by controlling the storage means MC that also serves as the controller (control means) for each LED 6 and PD 7, the LEDs 6 are caused to emit light simultaneously or sequentially in the scanning direction, thereby forming a square detection area in the frame 1. Then, a light grid (two-dot chain line) for detecting the touch position is formed.

  In addition, as LED6 used as the said light emitting element (light source), the infrared LED (infrared light emitting diode) of the type which light-emits near infrared (wavelength: 700-2500 nm) light is preferable. Further, as the light receiving element, in addition to the photodiode (PD), a linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a line in a bar shape or an array shape, an image sensor, or the like may be used.

  Detection of the touch position of the writing instrument W using the input device D2 of the second embodiment is performed in the following procedure. That is, first, as shown in FIG. 1, an optical sensor S2 (storage device) including a storage means MC that also serves as a controller is detachably mounted on the paper P so as to surround at least a part of the writable paper P. Placed on. Next, as calibration, the intensity of light (grating light) reaching the PD 7 corresponding (opposite) to the LED 6 is emitted while sequentially emitting the LEDs 6 of the light emitting unit one by one (from the end). Measurement is performed at the time and when no light is emitted, and a threshold value for detecting / not detecting an object by light shielding is determined for each PD 7 and stored as a table or the like in the storage means MC.

  Next, a sheet exposed from the inside of the optical sensor S2 in a state in which the LEDs 6 are sequentially emitted by the storage means MC also serving as the controller and the inside of the detection area of the optical sensor S2 is scanned. When the tip of the writing tool W is lowered to the portion P, a part of the lattice light passing through the frame is blocked by the tip of the writing tool W as shown in FIG. By being detected by the corresponding light receiving element of the means, a coordinate position (xy axis, see “touch position T” in FIG. 4) in the frame of the writing instrument W tip is specified, and the coordinates are stored in the memory. Stored in means MC.

  When the writing instrument W is moved to write a memo or the like, a locus (writing information such as a memo) of the tip of the writing instrument W accompanying the movement is detected, and the locus is converted into digital data (electronic data) as described above. Stored in the storage means MC. That is, a memo or the like is written to the portion of the paper P exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S2 with the writing tool W, and information such as the memo is recorded in the memory or the like of the storage means MC also serving as the controller. .

  According to the input device D2 of the second embodiment as described above, general-purpose components such as a light emitting diode (LED) or the like as a light emitting element (light source) and a photodiode (PD) as a light receiving element are used. Therefore, the input device D2 can be configured at a low cost.

  In the second embodiment, the storage means MC that also stores the position information of the writing instrument W or the like and that also serves as a controller is shown as being incorporated in the frame 1, but this storage means (MC ) May use an external device or a storage unit on a network as in the other embodiment (FIG. 2).

  Next, modules composed of a light emitting element and a light receiving element array are arranged at two corners of the frame 1 of the optical sensor (S3), respectively, and the tip of the writing instrument W in the frame using these two modules. An input device D3 according to the third embodiment that specifies the position of the image by triangulation will be described.

  FIG. 5A is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of the input device D3 in the third embodiment, and FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a Z portion thereof. In these drawings, the long side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), and the short side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction). Illustration of communication means and the like is omitted.

  The input device D3 according to the third embodiment is also placed on the paper (P) on which the writing tool W can be written, so that the tip of the writing tool W in the square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. Optical sensor S3 having touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of (touch position T), and movement locus information (x-) of the tip position of writing instrument W obtained by this optical sensor S3. storage means MC (built-in) for storing the change in the y position).

  The difference between the input device D3 of the third embodiment and the input devices (D1, D2) of the first and second embodiments is that one of the four corners of the frame 1 of the optical sensor S3 is one. Light receiving and emitting by combining the light emitting element (LED 6) and the light receiving element array (image sensor 8) vertically as shown in FIG. 5B at the corners 1a and 1b on both sides of one side (X1 in this example). Modules (camera modules C1, C2) are respectively arranged, and on the inner side surfaces of three sides (X2, Y1, Y2) excluding the one side (X1) between the camera modules C1, C2, FIG. ), A tape-like retroreflector (retroreflective tape 9) is attached. Note that the storage means MC also serves as a controller (control means) for the LED 6 and the image sensor 8 as in the second embodiment.

  With this configuration, the optical sensor S3 in the third embodiment allows the light emitted from the LEDs 6 of the camera modules C1 and C2 to be reflected on the retroreflective tape 9 to the emission source camera modules C1 and C2. In the frame, a cross of radial light occurs in which light spreads in a ripple pattern for each of the camera modules C1 and C2, as shown in FIG.

  The light emitting elements (light sources) of the camera modules C1 and C2 are preferably infrared LEDs (infrared light emitting diodes) that emit near-infrared (wavelength: 700 to 2500 nm) light. As the light receiving element, an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS, a CMOS linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a row, or the like can be used.

  Further, the retroreflector that is attached to the inner surface of the three sides (X2, Y1, Y2) of the frame 1 may be either a microprism type or a glass bead type. Further, in the above example, a tape-shaped molded body is used for easy handling, but instead, the inner surface of the three sides (X2, Y1, Y2) has optical recursion. A paint or the like may be applied.

  Detection of the touch position of the writing instrument W using the input device D3 of the third embodiment is performed in the following procedure. That is, first, as shown in FIG. 1, an optical sensor S3 (storage device) having a storage means MC that also serves as a controller is detachably mounted on the paper P so as to surround at least a part of the writable paper P. Placed on. Next, as calibration, the intensity of light (recursive light) returning to the image sensors 8 of the camera modules C1 and C2 while emitting the LEDs 6 of the camera modules C1 and C2 is set to Measurement is performed when no light is emitted, and a threshold value for detection / non-detection of an object due to light shielding is determined for each of the camera modules C1 and C2, and stored as a table or the like in the storage means MC.

  Next, when the tip of the writing instrument W is lowered to the portion of the paper P exposed from the inside of the frame of the optical sensor S3 in a state where each LED 6 is caused to emit light by the memory means MC also serving as the controller, FIG. As shown in FIG. 5 (a), a part of the crossed light passing through the frame is blocked by the tip of the writing tool W, and the blocked part is detected by the corresponding light receiving element of each of the camera modules C1 and C2. Thus, the storage means MC also serving as the controller performs a calculation using the triangulation method, and the coordinate position [xy axis, “touch position T” in FIG. 5A in the frame of the writing instrument W tip. The memory means MC stores the coordinates.

  When the writing instrument W is moved to write a memo or the like, similarly, the locus (writing information such as the memo) of the tip of the writing instrument W accompanying the movement is detected and calculated, and digital data ( Electronic data) is stored in the storage means MC. That is, a memo or the like is written to the portion of the paper P exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S3 with the writing tool W, and at the same time, information such as the memo is recorded in the memory or the like of the storage means MC also serving as the controller. .

  According to the input device D3 of the third embodiment as described above, general-purpose components such as using a light emitting diode (LED) as a light emitting element (light source) and using an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS as a light receiving element. Therefore, it is possible to configure the input device D3 at low cost in combination with the small number of optical components to be configured.

  In the third embodiment, the storage means MC that also stores the position information of the writing instrument W or the like and that also serves as a controller is shown as being incorporated in the frame 1, but this storage means (MC ) May use an external device or a storage unit on a network as in the other embodiment (FIG. 2).

  Next, an example of a method for manufacturing the input device D1 (first embodiment using the optical waveguides 4 and 5) described in the above embodiment will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

First, the manufacturing method of the optical waveguides 4 and 5 used for the input device D1 will be described.
6A to 6F are views for explaining a method of manufacturing the optical waveguides 4 and 5 used in the input device D1 of this embodiment.

  In this embodiment, a light emitting side optical waveguide 4 having a light emitting core 4a (long side X1 side) and a core 4b (short side Y1 side), and a light receiving side optical waveguide having a core 5b (short side Y2 side). 5 are integrally formed in a frame shape (see FIG. 3).

(Preparation of substrate)
First, a rectangular frame-shaped substrate 10 for forming the optical waveguides 4 and 5 is prepared. Examples of the material for forming the substrate 10 include metal, resin, glass, quartz, and silicon.

(Preparation of underclad layer)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6A, a rectangular frame-like under cladding layer 11 having the same shape is formed on the surface of the rectangular frame-like substrate 10. The under cladding layer 11 can be formed by photolithography using a photosensitive resin as a forming material. The thickness of the under cladding layer 11 is set within a range of 5 to 50 μm, for example.

(Production of core)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (b), the light emitting cores 4a and 4b (not shown) of the pattern and the light incident surface are formed on the surface of the rectangular frame-like under cladding layer 11 by photolithography. Cores 5a and 5b (not shown) are formed. In FIG. 5B, only the core 4a and the core 5a are representatively shown. Further, as a material for forming the cores 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b, a photosensitive resin having a higher refractive index than the material for forming the under cladding layer 11 and the over cladding layer 12 described later (see FIG. 6E) is used. Used.

(Preparation of over clad layer)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6C, a translucent square frame-shaped mold 20 for forming an over clad layer is prepared. The mold 20 is provided with a recess 20a having a mold surface corresponding to the surface shape of the overcladding layer 12 [see FIG. 6 (e)]. Then, the mold 20 is placed on a molding stage (not shown) with the concave portion 20a facing up, and a photosensitive resin (varnish) 12 ′, which is a material for forming the over clad layer 12, is placed in the concave portion 20a. Fill.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (d), the cores 4a, 5a (4b, 5b) patterned on the surface of the under cladding layer 11 are positioned with respect to the recess 20a of the mold 20, and in this state The under-cladding layer 11 is pressed against the mold 20, and the cores 4a and 5a are immersed in the photosensitive resin 12 ′, which is a material for forming the over-cladding layer 12. In this state, the photosensitive resin 12 ′ is irradiated with ultraviolet rays or the like through the mold 20 to expose the photosensitive resin 12 ′. As a result, the photosensitive resin 12 ′ is cured, and a square frame-shaped over clad layer 12 having a square frame-shaped inner peripheral edge formed on the lens portion 12 a is formed.

(Optical waveguide removal)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (e) (upside down from FIG. 6 (d)), the overcladding layer 12 is transferred from the mold 20 to the substrate 10 and the undercladding layer 11. And it demolds with core 4a, 5a (4b, 5b). Then, as shown in FIG. 6 (f), the substrate 10 is peeled from the under cladding layer 11, and has a rectangular frame shape including the under cladding layer 11, the cores 4 a, 4 b, 5 a, 5 b and the over cladding layer 12. Integrated optical waveguides 4 and 5 are obtained.

  In the above embodiment, in order to improve the light transmission efficiency of the optical waveguide, the tip portions of the light emitting cores 4a and 4b and the tip portions of the light incident cores 5a and 5b are formed in the lens portion. Although the tip portion of the over clad layer 12 covering the lens portion 12a is also shown as an example, if the light (space) transmission efficiency within the frame of the optical sensor S1 is sufficient, the lens portion is It may be formed on only one of the cores, or not both. In the above embodiment, the light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 are integrally manufactured. However, these may be manufactured separately or formed by combining more optical waveguide parts. May be.

  Next, the optical sensor S <b> 1 is manufactured using the rectangular frame-shaped and integrated optical waveguides 4 and 5.

(Production of optical sensor)
First, a square-frame-shaped holding plate that serves as a base (frame) for the optical sensor S1 is prepared. This holding plate is formed such that each side of the square frame shape is slightly thicker than the optical waveguides 4 and 5 of the square frame shape. Examples of the material for forming the holding plate include metal, resin, glass, quartz, and silicon. Among these, stainless steel is preferable because it is excellent in maintaining flatness. The thickness of the holding plate is set to about 0.5 mm, for example.

  Next, the rectangular frame-shaped optical waveguides 4 and 5 are attached to predetermined positions on the surface of the holding plate, and as shown in FIG. The VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) is aligned and optically aligned, and the light receiving element array 3 is received at the light emitting side end of the light receiving side optical waveguide 5 to receive light corresponding to the cores 5a and 5b. Align and attach so that the optical axes of the elements coincide.

  Next, the upper surface of the optical waveguide excluding the lens portion 12a of the over clad layer 12 is covered with a protective plate or the like to obtain a frame-shaped optical sensor S1 as shown in FIG. Examples of the material for forming the protective plate include resin, metal, glass, quartz, and silicon. Further, the thickness of the protective plate is preferably about 0.5 mm, for example. When wirelessly communicating with an information device, when outputting information wirelessly, if the protective plate 40 is made of stainless steel, radio waves are transmitted. Desirably, the resin is made of a transparent polycarbonate or the like.

  In addition, the storage means M which memorize | stores the movement locus | trajectory information of the front-end | tip position of the writing tool W mentioned above is attached to the outer periphery of the said frame-shaped optical sensor S1. The storage means M may be a detachable type such as a USB memory.

  Further, the frame-shaped optical sensor S1 communicates / connects with devices not shown in FIG. 3, for example, a battery for driving the input device D1, control means such as a driver IC, and information devices. A communication means (cable connection port or wireless antenna) or the like is attached to each other, and both of them can be sandwiched in the space between the holding plate and the protective plate constituting the frame 1 (such as film-like parts and It is desirable to use micro-type electrical components). Thereby, when writing with a writing instrument, the frame can be thinly formed so as not to interfere with the writing operation (total thickness of about 2 to 3 mm).

[Example 1]
Next, the details of the input device manufactured based on the above embodiment will be described.

[Material for forming the underclad layer of the optical waveguide]
Component A: 75 parts by weight of an epoxy resin containing an alicyclic skeleton (manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, EHPE3150) Component B: 25 parts by weight of an epoxy group-containing acrylic polymer (manufactured by NOF Corporation, Marproof G-0150M) Component C: light 4 parts by weight of an acid generator (manufactured by San Apro, CPI-200K) These components A to C are dissolved in cyclohexanone (solvent) together with 5 parts by weight of an ultraviolet absorber (manufactured by Ciba Japan, TINUVIN479), thereby undercladding. A layer forming material was prepared.

[Material for forming core of optical waveguide]
Component D: 85 parts by weight of an epoxy resin containing bisphenol A skeleton (manufactured by Japan Epoxy Resin, 157S70) Component E: 5 parts by weight of an epoxy resin containing bisphenol A skeleton (manufactured by Japan Epoxy Resin, Epicoat 828) Component F: Epoxy group Containing styrenic polymer (manufactured by NOF Corporation, Marproof G-0250SP) 10 parts by weight These components D to F and 4 parts by weight of the above component C were dissolved in ethyl lactate to prepare a core forming material.

[Formation material for optical cladding overcladding layer]
Component G: 100 parts by weight of an epoxy resin having an alicyclic skeleton (manufactured by ADEKA, EP4080E) By mixing this component G and 2 parts by weight of the above component C, a material for forming an overcladding layer was prepared.

[Production of optical waveguide]
The undercladding layer forming material (varnish) was applied to the surface of a rectangular frame-shaped stainless steel substrate (thickness 50 μm), followed by heat treatment at 160 ° C. for 2 minutes to form a photosensitive resin layer. Subsequently, the photosensitive resin layer was irradiated with ultraviolet rays to be exposed to an integrated light amount of 1000 mJ / cm ² to form a 10 μm-thick rectangular frame-like underclad layer (refractive index 1.510 at a wavelength of 830 nm).

Next, the core forming material was applied to the surface of the rectangular frame-like under cladding layer, and then heat treatment was performed at 170 ° C. for 3 minutes to form a photosensitive resin layer. Next, ultraviolet rays were irradiated through a photomask (gap 100 μm), and exposure with an integrated light amount of 3000 mJ / cm ² was performed. Subsequently, a heat treatment at 120 ° C. for 10 minutes was performed, and then development was performed using a developer (γ-butyrolactone), whereby unexposed portions were dissolved and removed. Thereafter, a drying process at 120 ° C. for 5 minutes was performed to pattern a core having a width of 30 μm and a height of 50 μm (refractive index of 1.570 at a wavelength of 830 nm).

  Next, a rectangular frame-shaped mold having translucency for forming an overcladding layer was prepared. In this mold, a recess having a mold surface corresponding to the surface shape of the overcladding layer is formed (see FIG. 6C). Then, with the concave portion facing up, the mold was placed on the molding stage, and the concave portion was filled with the material for forming the over clad layer.

Next, the core patterned on the surface of the under cladding layer is positioned with respect to the concave portion of the molding die, and in this state, the under cladding layer is pressed against the molding die, The core was soaked. In this state, ultraviolet rays are irradiated through the mold to the material for forming the over clad layer to perform exposure with an accumulated light amount of 8000 mJ / cm ² , and a rectangular frame-shaped inner peripheral edge is a convex lens. A quadrangular frame-like over clad layer formed on the portion was formed. The convex lens portion had a lens curved surface (curvature radius of 1.4 mm) having a substantially circular arc shape in a side sectional shape.

  Next, the over clad layer was removed from the mold together with the substrate, the under clad layer, and the core. And the said board | substrate was peeled from the under clad layer, and the square frame-shaped optical waveguide (total thickness 1mm) which consists of an under clad layer, a core, and an over clad layer was obtained (refer FIG. 3).

[Production of optical sensor]
Next, a rectangular frame-shaped stainless steel holding plate (thickness 0.5 mm) having three sides slightly wider than the optical waveguide and the remaining one side having a margin wider than the other three sides. Prepare and paste the rectangular frame-shaped optical waveguide at a predetermined position on the surface of the holding plate, and on the outer edge of the thickest side of the holding plate, a thin electric device such as a film polymer battery or a film antenna The parts were fixed. Next, the light emitting element (manufactured by Optiwell, SM85-2N001) and the light receiving element (manufactured by Hamamatsu Photonics, S-10226) are aligned and fixed, and the USB memory connection port, AC adapter connection port, etc. Parts to be placed on the outer edge were attached.

  Thereafter, a protective plate made of polycarbonate (thickness 0.5 mm) for protecting the optical waveguide, the electrical component, and the like was attached on the holding plate to obtain an optical sensor. In this optical sensor, the optical waveguide portion has a total thickness of 2 mm including the holding plate and the protective plate on the front and back surfaces, and the portion on which the other electrical components are fixed is the holding portion on the front and back surfaces. The total thickness of the plate and the protective plate was 3 mm.

[Check input device operation]
A memory serving as a storage means was attached to the memory connection port of the optical sensor, and this input device was placed on the paper, and a memo was written on the paper portion exposed from the frame with a writing instrument. Then, the information stored in the memory of the input device can be communicated by connecting the input device and the notebook computer via wireless communication [Bluetooth (registered trademark)] and using the notebook computer. As a result, the same memo written on the paper can be displayed on the display of the notebook computer. In addition, when the notebook computer is used to write a memo on the paper, the memo information (electronic information) is stored in the memory of the notebook computer. Similarly, on the notebook computer display, The same memo written on the paper could be displayed immediately.

  The input device of the present invention can write information such as a memo on a sheet exposed from the frame, and at the same time digitize the information such as the memo.

1 frame D input device S optical sensor M storage means P paper W writing instrument

  The present invention relates to an input device including an optical position detection unit.

  Instead of keyboards and mice that require familiarity with operations, flat input devices such as tablets and touch panels are used as input devices (input devices) that allow anyone to easily operate information devices such as computers. . Such a flat input device is provided with a touch position detecting means for detecting in two dimensions (xy directions) a position where a finger or pen of a person operating the device touches the touch panel, etc. In cooperation with the display (picture pattern, icon, etc.) of a flat display such as a liquid crystal screen arranged under the panel, the information device can be operated intuitively (for example, see Patent Document 1) reference).

  As the touch position detection means (touch sensor) in the touch panel or the like, those using a resistance film method, a capacitance method, an electromagnetic induction method, or the like are usually used from the viewpoint of price, performance, durability, and the like. These types of touch panels have a structure in which a number of electrical contacts are formed in a matrix near the surface of the panel.

  On the other hand, there is an example in which the above-described configuration of a tablet, a touch panel, or the like is applied to a virtual electronic stationery. For example, an electronic memo device that digitizes (images) a handwritten memo has a display (touch panel) with a touch sensor that can display the memo to be input. By moving a tip of a pen or the like and moving the tip, the movement locus or handwriting (position information) of the tip of the finger or the like is input as information such as a memo and displayed on the display or the like. . Further, the movement trajectory of the tip displayed on the display or the like is stored (stored) in the electronic memo device as electronic data such as an image.

JP 2004-206613 A

  By the way, although the electronic memo device as described above is convenient because it can easily input characters and the like, it is convenient for people who are unfamiliar with the operation of computers, electronic information devices, etc., and elderly people. There is still a strong desire to leave a memo in a form in which handwriting remains directly on a medium such as paper, rather than an electronic memo on which characters and the like are displayed on a display or the like.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and by simply writing a memo or the like directly on a sheet placed in a frame with a normal writing instrument, the movement trajectory of the writing instrument or the like is recorded and stored as electronic data. The purpose is to provide an input device.

In order to achieve the above object, an input device according to the present invention includes a frame-shaped optical sensor (A) described below that surrounds at least a part of a sheet that can be written with a writing instrument, and the above-described optical sensor exposed from the frame of the optical sensor. And a storage unit that stores the movement locus of the tip of the writing tool as electronic data when writing on the paper with the writing tool.
(A) A rectangular frame having a thickness of 2 to 5 mm, and at least a pair of light-emitting elements and light-receiving elements attached to the frame, and light on one of the frame portions facing each other in the frame shape. A plurality of cores for emission are formed, a plurality of cores for light incidence are formed on the other part, and the tip of the core for light emission and the tip of the core for light incidence are opposed to each other An optical waveguide having a core tip positioned at the inner edge of the frame is disposed, and light emitted from each light emitting core of the optical waveguide toward the light incident core is placed in the frame. By detecting a blockage of light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which is related to the object in the frame, and forming a lattice of light that intersects vertically and horizontally, In the frame Optical sensor for outputting the position information.

  The input device of the present invention is obtained from the optical sensor of the frame shape of (A) above, which is placed on a paper for writing and at least a part of the paper is exposed from within the frame, and the optical sensor. Storage means for storing the movement trajectory information of the writing instrument as electronic data. Therefore, if writing is performed on a portion of the paper exposed from the frame of the optical sensor with a writing tool or the like, the locus (handwriting) remains on the paper and is stored (stored) in the storage means as electronic data. . As a result, the input device of the present invention can move the writing tool by directly writing a memo etc. on the paper placed in the frame with a normal writing tool without paying special attention to digitization. The trajectory is automatically digitized. The computerized information can be extracted (reproduced) from the storage means by using a computer or the like, and can be shared with others, and knowledge and records can be easily stored. Convenient.

Moreover, the input device of the present invention is the above-mentioned (A) rectangular frame having a thickness of 2 to 5 mm and at least one set attached thereto as means for detecting the touch position of the tip of the writing instrument (optical sensor). The position information of the object in the frame is output by detecting the blocking of the light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which is generated in association with the object in the frame. An optical sensor is used. Therefore, there is no electrical (physical) contact on the detection surface of the touch position, which is excellent in durability and hardly affected by dust or dirt. In addition, when writing with a writing instrument, a large writing pressure such as a resistance film method, a capacitance method, and an electromagnetic induction method is not required, and natural writing can be performed without being conscious of the sensor.

Further, the frame-shaped optical sensor of the above (A) has a frame portion having a thickness of 2 to 5 mm, a plurality of cores for emitting light are formed in one portion facing each other in the frame shape, and the other portion is formed. A plurality of cores for light incidence are formed, and the tip of each core is positioned on the inner edge of the frame so that the tip of the core for light emission faces the tip of the core for light incidence. An optical waveguide is provided, and light emitted from each light emitting core of the optical waveguide toward the light incident core forms a lattice of light that intersects vertically and horizontally in the frame. and for that, the this frame (frame), may be a thin shape. In other words, since the optical waveguide can be formed thinly, such as in the form of a film or a sheet, even if it is incorporated in the frame of this optical sensor, the frame can be formed so as not to interfere with the writing operation when writing with a writing instrument. Can be formed thinly. As a result, writing on the paper can be performed in a more natural and easy posture.

In the input device of the present invention, the optical sensor and the storage means are integrally formed as a storage device, and when the storage device places the optical sensor on the paper, The paper can be easily replaced with a new one when it can be installed or removed. Even if the paper is replaced with a new one, the stored content (movement trajectory) can be easily extracted (reproduced) from the storage means of the storage device using a computer or the like.

The plurality In the input device, as a frame-shaped optical sensor of the (A), in the frame, are arranged side by side a plurality of light emitting elements in one of portions facing each other in the frame shape, the other part The light receiving elements are arranged side by side, the light emitting elements and the light receiving elements are positioned toward the inside of the frame, and the light emitted from the light emitting elements toward the light receiving element intersects the frame vertically and horizontally. When using an optical sensor designed to form a light grid, a light emitting diode (LED) or the like is used as the light emitting element (light source), and a photodiode (PD) is used as the light receiving element. Parts can be used. Therefore, it is advantageous in that the optical sensor can be configured at low cost. In addition, it has the advantages of excellent impact resistance and durability.

In the input device of the present invention, as the frame-shaped optical sensor of (A), among the four corners of the frame, the light-emitting element and the plurality of light-receiving elements are arranged at the corners on both sides of one side. The light receiving element array is vertically stacked, and a tape-like retroreflector is disposed on the inner surface of the three sides excluding the one side between the modules. When using an optical sensor in which the light emitted from the light emitting element of the module is reflected by the retroreflecting light reflector and recursively enters the light receiving element array of this module, the number of parts is small. Thus, the position of the tip of the writing instrument can be specified by triangulation. In addition, this input device can also be configured at low cost using general-purpose parts.

It is a figure explaining the whole structure of the input device in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the outline | summary of the memory | storage means used for the input device of other embodiment of this invention. It is a top view explaining the schematic structure of the input device in 1st Embodiment of this invention . It is a top view explaining schematic structure of the input device in a reference embodiment. (A) is a top view explaining schematic structure of the input device in other reference embodiment, (b) is the Z section enlarged view. (A)-(f) is a figure explaining the manufacturing method of the optical waveguide used for the input device of 1st Embodiment of this invention .

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an input device D according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The input device D stores, as electronic data, a frame-shaped optical sensor S that surrounds at least a portion of the paper P that can be written with the writing tool W, and the movement trajectory of the tip of the writing tool W within the frame of the optical sensor S. Storage means M. The optical sensor S includes a rectangular frame 1 and at least one set of light emitting elements (light sources) and light receiving elements attached to the frame 1, and an object (for example, a writing instrument) in the frame 1. The position information in the frame 1 such as the writing instrument W is output by detecting the blockage of the light reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element, which occurs in connection with W or the like. This is the first feature of the input device D of the present invention.

  The input device D communicates with a communication (power supply) cable (may not be present), a battery for driving it, control means such as a driver of the light emitting element and the light receiving element, and information equipment such as a computer. Communication means (wired or wireless) is built in, which is not shown in the figure. In the above example, the position information of the writing instrument W detected by the optical sensor S is stored in the storage means M provided in contact with the optical sensor S. The input device D integrated with the storage means M (which may be built in the frame 1) may be referred to as a “storage device”.

  Next, a case will be described in which the location information (storage means) such as the writing instrument W detected by the input device D of the present invention is stored using an external device or a network. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the storage means used in the input device D according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  The input device D in this other embodiment also includes a frame-shaped optical sensor S surrounding a part of the paper P, and storage means for storing the movement trajectory of the tip of the writing instrument W as electronic data. The optical sensor S outputs position information of the writing tool W or the like in the frame 1 by detecting light blockage that occurs in association with the writing tool W or the like in the frame 1.

  The input device D in the other embodiment can store (record) position information such as the writing implement W as electronic data on various external devices and networks as shown in FIG. It has become. This is the second feature of the input device D of the present invention.

  The other embodiment will be described in detail. For example, when a flash memory such as a USB memory UM or a memory card SD in the figure is used as a storage unit, a slot or a connector provided on the side surface of the input device D or the like In addition, by connecting the flash memory, position information such as the writing implement W can be stored as electronic data in the flash memory. Further, the recorded information can be extracted (reproduced) from the storage means using a computer or the like, and can be shared with others, and knowledge and records can be easily stored. As the memory card (SD), various card-type media such as SD, MMC, MS, SM, xD, and CF can be used.

  When the desktop computer DT or laptop computer LT (including notebook type, netbook PC, tablet PC, etc.) in the figure is used as the storage means, the input device D and each of the computers DT, LT The communication may be connected via a wired (cable L or the like) or wireless [wireless LAN or Bluetooth (registered trademark) or the like]. Thereby, the positional information of the writing implement W etc. can be memorize | stored as electronic data in the memory | storage device incorporated in each said computer DT and LT.

  When position information is stored in each of the computers DT and LT, the information can be reproduced immediately using the computers DT and LT. As a storage device (storage medium), an optical medium such as a CD, a DVD, or a BD can be used in addition to a storage such as an HDD or an SSD. Further, a flash memory (see above) connected to the computers DT and LT can also be used. Further, when the computers DT and LT are connected by wire, power necessary for the operation may be supplied from the computers DT and LT to the input device D.

  Further, when using a portable information device such as the tablet (pad) device TD, PDA (personal digital assistant device PD), or electronic dictionary in the figure as the storage means, similarly to the above, wired (not shown) or wireless It is sufficient to connect so that communication is possible. Thereby, the positional information of the writing instrument W etc. can be stored as electronic data in the storage device of each portable information device. When location information is stored in each portable information device, the information can be reproduced immediately using a display device of the device. Further, as a storage device (storage medium), it is possible to use a memory card (see above) connected to the storage device such as a flash memory built in the portable information device, an SSD, a micro drive, or the like. is there. Further, when a wired connection is made with the portable information device, the portable information device may receive power necessary for operation.

  In addition, when using a mobile communication device such as the mobile phone MF or the smartphone SF in the figure as the storage means, it may be connected to be communicable by wire (not shown) or wirelessly as described above. Thereby, the positional information on the writing implement W or the like can be stored as electronic data in the storage device of each portable communication device. Further, when the location information is stored in each portable communication device, the information can be immediately reproduced using the display device of the device. In addition, as a storage device (storage medium), in addition to storage such as a flash memory built in the portable communication device, a memory card (see above) or the like connected (inserted) to the storage can be used. .

  Then, as shown in FIG. 2, when various external information devices (computer, portable information device, portable communication device, etc.) communicating with the input device D of the present invention are connected to communication or an information network, these pieces of information. The position information of the writing instrument W or the like may be stored in a server SV or the like on the cloud computing system (or network computing system) via the device. Thereby, position information (electronic data) such as the writing instrument W can be stored (stored) in the data center or the like by the safest and most reliable method. Further, when the location information is stored in the server SV or the like on the cloud, ubiquitous computing is possible in which the information is immediately reproduced regardless of the information device, location, time, etc. to be used. Of course, as described above, even when the location information of the writing instrument W detected by the input device D is stored using an external device or network, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. You may use together the memory | storage means M attached (or built-in) to the input device D. FIG.

  Next, as a specific example of the input device (D), the light for detecting the tip of the writing instrument W is placed inside the frame 1 of the optical sensor (S1) by a light distribution mechanism using an optical waveguide. A first embodiment in which the lattice is formed will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of the input device D1 according to the first embodiment. In this figure, for ease of explanation, the long side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), and the short side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction). At the same time, the optical waveguide cores (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) inside the frame 1 are indicated by a one-dot chain line, and lattice-shaped light (invisible infrared light) inside the frame 1 is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Further, the number of the optical waveguide cores and the number of lattice-shaped lights are omitted, and the battery for driving the input device D, the driver of the light emitting element and the light receiving element, etc., as in FIG. The control means, communication means (cable or wireless antenna) for communicating with information devices such as computers are not shown (the same applies to FIGS. 4 and 5).

  The input device D1 according to the first embodiment is placed on a paper (P) that can be written with the writing tool W, whereby the tip of the writing tool W in a square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. Optical sensor S1 having a touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of (touch position T), and movement locus information (x−) of the tip position of writing instrument W obtained by this optical sensor S1. storage means M for storing (change in y position).

  The frame 1 portion of the optical sensor S1 has a light emitting core 4a on the long side X1 side in the lateral direction as a light emitting part of the touch position detecting means as shown in FIG. A light emitting side optical waveguide 4 having a light emitting core 4b is disposed on the side Y1 side, and light emitted from the light emitting element (light source 2) is emitted from each light emitting core 4a, 4a, ... (horizontal direction) and the light emitting cores 4b, 4b, ... (vertical direction) are branched and distributed.

  Further, the frame 1 portion facing the square detection area has a light incident core 5a on the long side X2 side in the lateral direction as a light receiving portion of the touch position detecting means, The light receiving side optical waveguide 5 having the light incident core 5b is disposed on the short side Y2 side, passes through the detection region, and the light incident cores 5a, 5a,. (Horizontal direction) and light incident on each of the light incident cores 5b, 5b,... (Vertical direction) have a number of light receiving elements corresponding to each of the light incident cores 5a, 5b. It is guided to the element array 3.

  The light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 will be described in more detail. These optical waveguides 4 and 5 are, for example, an underclad layer and an over-layer formed using a resin material in the case of a polymer-based optical waveguide. Between the clad layers (both not shown), the cores 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b patterned in the above-described shape by a photolithography method or the like are arranged.

  In addition, since the light emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light receiving side optical waveguide 5 are for touch position detection, the tip end portions (emission portions) of the cores 4a and 4b branched from the light emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light receiving side As shown in FIG. 3, the tip portions (incident portions) of the cores 5a and 5b of the optical waveguide 5 are positioned on the inner edge of the frame 1 so as to face each other. And between the front-end | tip part of the core 4a of the light emission side optical waveguide 4 and the front-end | tip part of the core 5a of the light reception side optical waveguide 5 which oppose on both sides of the said detection area, and the core of the light emission side optical waveguide 4 Between the front end portion of 4b and the front end portion of the core 5b of the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 (horizontal direction), the above-described light lattice (two-dot chain line) is formed.

  In the above embodiments, the cores 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b of the optical waveguide are exemplified by polymer optical waveguides formed using a resin material (polymer material). However, these cores are configured. The material can also be made of a material having a higher refractive index than that of the clad layer disposed around, for example, glass. However, the difference in refractive index between the core and the surrounding cladding layer is preferably 0.01 or more, and a photosensitive resin such as an ultraviolet curable resin is most preferable in consideration of the patterning property of the above shape. Examples of the ultraviolet curable resin to be used include acrylic, epoxy, siloxane, norbornene, and polyimide.

  Further, the cladding layer around the core may be made of a material having a lower refractive index than the core among the photosensitive resins such as the ultraviolet curable resin. In addition, a material that also serves as a flat substrate such as glass, silicon, metal, or resin can be used for the cladding layer. The clad layer may be only the under clad layer below the core, and the over clad layer covering the core may not be formed. The optical waveguide can be manufactured by a dry etching method using plasma, a transfer method, a photolithography method using exposure / development, a photo bleach method, or the like.

  For the light emitting element (light source 2) used in the optical sensor S1, a light emitting diode (LED), a semiconductor laser, or the like is used, and among them, a VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser) excellent in light transmission is suitable. Used. The wavelength of the light emitted from the light source 2 is preferably near infrared (wavelength: 700 to 2500 nm).

  As the light receiving element (light receiving element array 3) used for the optical sensor S1, an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS, a CMOS linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a row, or the like can be used.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 1, when the optical sensor S1 (storage device) including the storage means M is detachably placed on the paper P so as to surround at least a part of the paper P that can be written on. When the tip of the writing tool W is lowered onto the portion of the paper P exposed from the inside of the frame of the optical sensor S1, a part of the lattice-like light passing through the inside of the frame as shown in FIG. Is detected by the light receiving element of the touch position detecting means, and the coordinate position (xy axis, “touch position T in FIG. 3” in the frame of the tip of the writing tool W is detected. And the coordinates thereof are stored in the storage means M. In this state, when the writing tool W is moved to write a memo or the like, a trajectory (writing information such as a memo) of the tip of the writing tool W accompanying the movement is detected, and the trajectory is digital data (electronic Data) is stored in the storage means M. That is, a memo or the like is written on the portion of the paper P exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S1 with the writing tool W, and information such as the memo is recorded in the memory or the like of the storage means M.

  In addition, the input device D1 of the first embodiment uses a film-like or sheet-like optical waveguide (about 1 mm at the maximum) as the touch position detecting means of the optical sensor S1 disposed in the frame 1. Therefore, the total thickness of the frame 1 can be formed to about 2 to 5 mm even if the thickness of the base, the protective plate, etc. is taken into consideration, so that the rectangular frame-shaped portion of the optical sensor S1 is written. This makes it easy to write. Further, since the film-like or sheet-like optical waveguide is thin as described above, the light emitted from the tip of each light emitting core 4a of the light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 is slightly from the surface of the paper P in the frame. Even if the writing tool W is written in a slightly inclined state, the trajectory detected by this light grating is the actual tip of the writing tool W. There is little deviation from the locus (memo on the paper P), and it can be stored (stored) in the storage means M in the same appropriate state as the human appearance.

  Moreover, in the said 1st Embodiment, although the memory | storage means M which memorize | stores the positional information etc. of the said writing implement W etc. showed the example attached to the said frame 1, this memory | storage means M is the said other implementation. As in the embodiment (FIG. 2), an external device or a storage unit on a network may be used.

Next, in the frame 1 of the optical sensor (S2), by arranging a large number of light emitting diodes (LEDs) as light emitting elements (light sources) and arranging a large number of photodiodes (PD) as light receiving elements, An input device D2 according to a reference embodiment that forms a light grid for detecting the tip of the writing instrument W in the frame of the optical sensor (S2) will be described.

FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of the input device D2 in the reference embodiment. Also in this figure, the long side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), the short side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction), and the number of LEDs and PDs The number of grid-like lights is omitted, and the electrical wiring and the like in this frame are indicated by dotted lines. Also, the battery and communication means are not shown.

The input device D2 in the reference embodiment is also placed on the paper (P) on which the writing tool W can be written, so that the tip of the writing tool W in the square area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. Optical sensor S2 having touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of (touch position T), and movement trajectory information (x−) of the tip position of writing instrument W obtained by this optical sensor S2. storage means MC (built-in) for storing the change in the y position).

The input device D2 of the reference embodiment is different from the input device (D1) of the previous first embodiment in that the light grating for detecting the touch position of the tip of the writing instrument W is as shown in FIG. , The light-emitting unit having a number of LEDs 6, 6,... Arranged in the frame 1 of the optical sensor S2 as light sources. In addition, the frame 1 portion (side X2, Y2) facing the portion (side X1, Y1) of the frame 1 in which each LED 6 is arranged has a large number of PDs 7, 7,. A light receiving portion is formed, and each of these PDs 7 is positioned side by side along the inner edge of the frame-like frame 1 in the same manner as the above-described LEDs 6 so that the tip thereof faces inward. Then, by controlling the storage means MC that also serves as the controller (control means) for each LED 6 and PD 7, the LEDs 6 are caused to emit light simultaneously or sequentially in the scanning direction, thereby forming a square detection area in the frame 1. Then, a light grid (two-dot chain line) for detecting the touch position is formed.

  In addition, as LED6 used as the said light emitting element (light source), the infrared LED (infrared light emitting diode) of the type which light-emits near infrared (wavelength: 700-2500 nm) light is preferable. Further, as the light receiving element, in addition to the photodiode (PD), a linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a line in a bar shape or an array shape, an image sensor, or the like may be used.

The detection of the touch position of the writing instrument W using the input device D2 of the reference embodiment is performed in the following procedure. That is, first, as shown in FIG. 1, an optical sensor S2 (storage device) including a storage means MC that also serves as a controller is detachably mounted on the paper P so as to surround at least a part of the writable paper P. Placed on. Next, as calibration, the intensity of light (grating light) reaching the PD 7 corresponding (opposite) to the LED 6 is emitted while sequentially emitting the LEDs 6 of the light emitting unit one by one (from the end). Measurement is performed at the time and when no light is emitted, and a threshold value for detecting / not detecting an object by light shielding is determined for each PD 7 and stored as a table or the like in the storage means MC.

  Next, a sheet exposed from the inside of the optical sensor S2 in a state in which the LEDs 6 are sequentially emitted by the storage means MC also serving as the controller and the inside of the detection area of the optical sensor S2 is scanned. When the tip of the writing tool W is lowered to the portion P, a part of the lattice light passing through the frame is blocked by the tip of the writing tool W as shown in FIG. By being detected by the corresponding light receiving element of the means, a coordinate position (xy axis, see “touch position T” in FIG. 4) in the frame of the writing instrument W tip is specified, and the coordinates are stored in the memory. Stored in means MC.

  When the writing instrument W is moved to write a memo or the like, a locus (writing information such as a memo) of the tip of the writing instrument W accompanying the movement is detected, and the locus is converted into digital data (electronic data) as described above. Stored in the storage means MC. That is, a memo or the like is written to the portion of the paper P exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S2 with the writing tool W, and information such as the memo is recorded in the memory or the like of the storage means MC also serving as the controller. .

According to the input device D2 of the reference embodiment as described above, a general-purpose component such as a light emitting diode (LED) is used as a light emitting element (light source) and a photodiode (PD) is used as a light receiving element. Therefore, the input device D2 can be configured at a low cost.

In the above-described reference embodiment, an example in which the storage unit MC that also stores the position information of the writing instrument W or the like and that also serves as a controller is incorporated in the frame 1 is shown. ) May use an external device or a storage unit on a network as in the other embodiment (FIG. 2).

Next, modules composed of a light emitting element and a light receiving element array are arranged at two corners of the frame 1 of the optical sensor (S3), respectively, and the tip of the writing instrument W in the frame using these two modules. An input device D3 according to another reference embodiment that specifies the position of the image by triangulation will be described.

FIG. 5A is a plan view illustrating a schematic configuration of an input device D3 according to another reference embodiment, and FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of a Z portion thereof. In these drawings, the long side X1, X2 direction of the frame 1 is the horizontal direction (x direction), and the short side Y1, Y2 direction of the frame 1 is the vertical direction (y direction). Illustration of communication means and the like is omitted.

The input device D3 in the other reference embodiment is also placed on the paper (P) on which the writing tool W can be written, so that the writing tool W in the rectangular area (detection area) inside the frame-like frame 1 is placed. Optical sensor S3 having a touch position detecting means for detecting the position (xy coordinate) of the tip (touch position T) of the head, and movement trajectory information of the tip position of the writing instrument W obtained by the optical sensor S3 ( storage means MC (built-in) for storing xy position change).

Input device D3 embodiment of the other references are the input device of an embodiment of the previous reference (D1, D2) differs among the four corners of the frame 1 of the optical sensor S3, a A light emitting / receiving module in which light emitting elements (LEDs 6) and light receiving element arrays (image sensors 8) are vertically combined as shown in FIG. 5B at corners 1a and 1b on both sides of a side (X1 in this example). (Camera modules C1 and C2) are arranged, respectively, on the inner surface of the three sides (X2, Y1, Y2) excluding the one side (X1) between the camera modules C1 and C2, FIG. As described above, a tape-like retroreflector (retroreflective tape 9) is attached. The storage means MC also serves as a controller (control means) for the LED 6 and the image sensor 8 as in the above-described reference embodiment.

With this configuration, the optical sensor S3 in the other reference embodiment described above is configured so that the light emitted from the LEDs 6 of the camera modules C1 and C2 is reflected by the retroreflective tape 9 and is emitted from the camera modules C1 and C1. Recursion toward C2, and in the frame, as shown in FIG. 5 (a), a cross of radial light occurs where the light spreads in a ripple pattern for each of the camera modules C1 and C2.

  The light emitting elements (light sources) of the camera modules C1 and C2 are preferably infrared LEDs (infrared light emitting diodes) that emit near-infrared (wavelength: 700 to 2500 nm) light. As the light receiving element, an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS, a CMOS linear sensor array in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a row, or the like can be used.

  Further, the retroreflector that is attached to the inner surface of the three sides (X2, Y1, Y2) of the frame 1 may be either a microprism type or a glass bead type. Further, in the above example, a tape-shaped molded body is used for easy handling, but instead, the inner surface of the three sides (X2, Y1, Y2) has optical recursion. A paint or the like may be applied.

The detection of the touch position of the writing instrument W using the input device D3 of the other reference embodiment is performed in the following procedure. That is, first, as shown in FIG. 1, an optical sensor S3 (storage device) having a storage means MC that also serves as a controller is detachably mounted on the paper P so as to surround at least a part of the writable paper P. Placed on. Next, as calibration, the intensity of light (recursive light) returning to the image sensors 8 of the camera modules C1 and C2 while emitting the LEDs 6 of the camera modules C1 and C2 is set to Measurement is performed when no light is emitted, and a threshold value for detection / non-detection of an object due to light shielding is determined for each of the camera modules C1 and C2, and stored as a table or the like in the storage means MC.

  Next, when the tip of the writing instrument W is lowered to the portion of the paper P exposed from the inside of the frame of the optical sensor S3 in a state where each LED 6 is caused to emit light by the memory means MC also serving as the controller, FIG. As shown in FIG. 5 (a), a part of the crossed light passing through the frame is blocked by the tip of the writing tool W, and the blocked part is detected by the corresponding light receiving element of each of the camera modules C1 and C2. Thus, the storage means MC also serving as the controller performs a calculation using the triangulation method, and the coordinate position [xy axis, “touch position T” in FIG. 5A in the frame of the writing instrument W tip. The memory means MC stores the coordinates.

  When the writing instrument W is moved to write a memo or the like, similarly, the locus (writing information such as the memo) of the tip of the writing instrument W accompanying the movement is detected and calculated, and digital data ( Electronic data) is stored in the storage means MC. That is, a memo or the like is written to the portion of the paper P exposed from the frame of the optical sensor S3 with the writing tool W, and at the same time, information such as the memo is recorded in the memory or the like of the storage means MC also serving as the controller. .

According to the input device D3 of another reference embodiment as described above, a light emitting diode (LED) or the like is used as a light emitting element (light source), and an image sensor such as a CCD or CMOS is used as a light receiving element. Therefore, it is possible to configure the input device D3 at a low cost in combination with the small number of optical components to be configured.

In the other reference embodiment, an example in which the storage means MC that also stores the position information of the writing instrument W and the like and that also serves as a controller is incorporated in the frame 1 is shown. (MC) may use an external device or a storage unit on a network as in the other embodiment (FIG. 2).

  Next, an example of a method for manufacturing the input device D1 (first embodiment using the optical waveguides 4 and 5) described in the above embodiment will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

First, the manufacturing method of the optical waveguides 4 and 5 used for the input device D1 will be described.
6A to 6F are views for explaining a method of manufacturing the optical waveguides 4 and 5 used in the input device D1 of this embodiment.

  In this embodiment, a light emitting side optical waveguide 4 having a light emitting core 4a (long side X1 side) and a core 4b (short side Y1 side), and a light receiving side optical waveguide having a core 5b (short side Y2 side). 5 are integrally formed in a frame shape (see FIG. 3).

(Preparation of substrate)
First, a rectangular frame-shaped substrate 10 for forming the optical waveguides 4 and 5 is prepared. Examples of the material for forming the substrate 10 include metal, resin, glass, quartz, and silicon.

(Preparation of underclad layer)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6A, a rectangular frame-like under cladding layer 11 having the same shape is formed on the surface of the rectangular frame-like substrate 10. The under cladding layer 11 can be formed by photolithography using a photosensitive resin as a forming material. The thickness of the under cladding layer 11 is set within a range of 5 to 50 μm, for example.

(Production of core)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (b), the light emitting cores 4a and 4b (not shown) of the pattern and the light incident surface are formed on the surface of the rectangular frame-like under cladding layer 11 by photolithography. Cores 5a and 5b (not shown) are formed. In FIG. 5B, only the core 4a and the core 5a are representatively shown. Further, as a material for forming the cores 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b, a photosensitive resin having a higher refractive index than the material for forming the under cladding layer 11 and the over cladding layer 12 described later (see FIG. 6E) is used. Used.

(Preparation of over clad layer)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6C, a translucent square frame-shaped mold 20 for forming an over clad layer is prepared. The mold 20 is provided with a recess 20a having a mold surface corresponding to the surface shape of the overcladding layer 12 [see FIG. 6 (e)]. Then, the mold 20 is placed on a molding stage (not shown) with the concave portion 20a facing up, and a photosensitive resin (varnish) 12 ′, which is a material for forming the over clad layer 12, is placed in the concave portion 20a. Fill.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (d), the cores 4a, 5a (4b, 5b) patterned on the surface of the under cladding layer 11 are positioned with respect to the recess 20a of the mold 20, and in this state The under-cladding layer 11 is pressed against the mold 20, and the cores 4a and 5a are immersed in the photosensitive resin 12 ′, which is a material for forming the over-cladding layer 12. In this state, the photosensitive resin 12 ′ is irradiated with an irradiation beam such as ultraviolet rays through the mold 20 to expose the photosensitive resin 12 ′. As a result, the photosensitive resin 12 'is cured, and a square frame-shaped overclad layer 12 having a rectangular frame-shaped inner peripheral edge formed in the lens portion is formed.

(Optical waveguide removal)
Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (e) (upside down from FIG. 6 (d)), the overcladding layer 12 is transferred from the mold 20 to the substrate 10 and the undercladding layer 11. And it demolds with core 4a, 5a (4b, 5b). Then, as shown in FIG. 6 (f), the substrate 10 is peeled from the under cladding layer 11, and has a rectangular frame shape including the under cladding layer 11, the cores 4 a, 4 b, 5 a, 5 b and the over cladding layer 12. Integrated optical waveguides 4 and 5 are obtained.

In the above embodiment, in order to improve the light transmission efficiency of the optical waveguide, the tip portions of the light emitting cores 4a and 4b and the tip portions of the light incident cores 5a and 5b are formed in the lens portion. The example in which the tip portion of the over clad layer 12 covering the lens portion is also formed in the lens portion is shown. However, if the (space) transmission efficiency of light within the frame of the optical sensor S1 is sufficient, the lens portion is a core. These may be formed on only one of them, or both may not be formed. In the above embodiment, the light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 are integrally manufactured. However, these may be manufactured separately or formed by combining more optical waveguide parts. May be.

  Next, the optical sensor S <b> 1 is manufactured using the rectangular frame-shaped and integrated optical waveguides 4 and 5.

(Production of optical sensor)
First, a square-frame-shaped holding plate that serves as a base (frame) for the optical sensor S1 is prepared. This holding plate is formed such that each side of the square frame shape is slightly thicker than the optical waveguides 4 and 5 of the square frame shape. Examples of the material for forming the holding plate include metal, resin, glass, quartz, and silicon. Among these, stainless steel is preferable because it is excellent in maintaining flatness. The thickness of the holding plate is set to about 0.5 mm, for example.

  Next, the rectangular frame-shaped optical waveguides 4 and 5 are attached to predetermined positions on the surface of the holding plate, and as shown in FIG. The VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) is aligned and optically aligned, and the light receiving element array 3 is received at the light emitting side end of the light receiving side optical waveguide 5 to receive light corresponding to the cores 5a and 5b. Align and attach so that the optical axes of the elements coincide.

Next, the upper surface of the optical waveguide excluding the lens portion of the over clad layer 12 is covered with a protective plate or the like to obtain a frame-shaped optical sensor S1 as shown in FIG. Examples of the material for forming the protective plate include resin, metal, glass, quartz, and silicon. The thickness of the protective plate, for example, preferably about 0.5 mm, when performing communication with the information device by wireless, an upper Symbol protective plate 40, be made of a resin of polycarbonate or the like that transmits radio waves desirable.

  In addition, the storage means M which memorize | stores the movement locus | trajectory information of the front-end | tip position of the writing tool W mentioned above is attached to the outer periphery of the said frame-shaped optical sensor S1. The storage means M may be a detachable type such as a USB memory.

  Further, the frame-shaped optical sensor S1 communicates / connects with devices not shown in FIG. 3, for example, a battery for driving the input device D1, control means such as a driver IC, and information devices. A communication means (cable connection port or wireless antenna) or the like is attached to each other, and both of them can be sandwiched in the space between the holding plate and the protective plate constituting the frame 1 (such as film-like parts and It is desirable to use micro-type electrical components). Thereby, when writing with a writing instrument, the frame can be thinly formed so as not to interfere with the writing operation (total thickness of about 2 to 3 mm).

[Example 1]
Next, the details of the input device manufactured based on the above embodiment will be described.

[Material for forming the underclad layer of the optical waveguide]
Component A: 75 parts by weight of an epoxy resin containing an alicyclic skeleton (manufactured by Daicel Chemical Industries, EHPE3150) Component B: 25 parts by weight of an epoxy group-containing acrylic polymer (manufactured by NOF Corporation, Marproof G-0150M) Component C: light 4 parts by weight of an acid generator (manufactured by San Apro, CPI-200K) These components A to C are dissolved in cyclohexanone (solvent) together with 5 parts by weight of an ultraviolet absorber (manufactured by Ciba Japan, TINUVIN479), thereby undercladding. A layer forming material was prepared.

[Material for forming core of optical waveguide]
Component D: 85 parts by weight of an epoxy resin containing bisphenol A skeleton (manufactured by Japan Epoxy Resin, 157S70) Component E: 5 parts by weight of an epoxy resin containing bisphenol A skeleton (manufactured by Japan Epoxy Resin, Epicoat 828) Component F: Epoxy group Containing styrenic polymer (manufactured by NOF Corporation, Marproof G-0250SP) 10 parts by weight These components D to F and 4 parts by weight of the above component C were dissolved in ethyl lactate to prepare a core forming material.

[Formation material for optical cladding overcladding layer]
Component G: 100 parts by weight of an epoxy resin having an alicyclic skeleton (manufactured by ADEKA, EP4080E) By mixing this component G and 2 parts by weight of the above component C, a material for forming an overcladding layer was prepared.

[Production of optical waveguide]
The undercladding layer forming material (varnish) was applied to the surface of a rectangular frame-shaped stainless steel substrate (thickness 50 μm), followed by heat treatment at 160 ° C. for 2 minutes to form a photosensitive resin layer. Subsequently, the photosensitive resin layer was irradiated with ultraviolet rays to be exposed to an integrated light amount of 1000 mJ / cm ² to form a 10 μm-thick rectangular frame-like underclad layer (refractive index 1.510 at a wavelength of 830 nm).

Next, the core forming material was applied to the surface of the rectangular frame-like under cladding layer, and then heat treatment was performed at 170 ° C. for 3 minutes to form a photosensitive resin layer. Next, ultraviolet rays were irradiated through a photomask (gap 100 μm), and exposure with an integrated light amount of 3000 mJ / cm ² was performed. Subsequently, a heat treatment at 120 ° C. for 10 minutes was performed, and then development was performed using a developer (γ-butyrolactone), whereby unexposed portions were dissolved and removed. Thereafter, a drying process at 120 ° C. for 5 minutes was performed to pattern a core having a width of 30 μm and a height of 50 μm (refractive index of 1.570 at a wavelength of 830 nm).

  Next, a rectangular frame-shaped mold having translucency for forming an overcladding layer was prepared. In this mold, a recess having a mold surface corresponding to the surface shape of the overcladding layer is formed (see FIG. 6C). Then, with the concave portion facing up, the mold was placed on the molding stage, and the concave portion was filled with the material for forming the over clad layer.

Next, the core patterned on the surface of the under cladding layer is positioned with respect to the concave portion of the molding die, and in this state, the under cladding layer is pressed against the molding die, The core was soaked. In this state, ultraviolet rays are irradiated through the mold to the material for forming the over clad layer to perform exposure with an accumulated light amount of 8000 mJ / cm ² , and a rectangular frame-shaped inner peripheral edge is a convex lens. A quadrangular frame-like over clad layer formed on the portion was formed. The convex lens portion had a lens curved surface (curvature radius of 1.4 mm) having a substantially circular arc shape in a side sectional shape.

  Next, the over clad layer was removed from the mold together with the substrate, the under clad layer, and the core. And the said board | substrate was peeled from the under clad layer, and the square frame-shaped optical waveguide (total thickness 1mm) which consists of an under clad layer, a core, and an over clad layer was obtained (refer FIG. 3).

[Production of optical sensor]
Next, a rectangular frame-shaped stainless steel holding plate (thickness 0.5 mm) having three sides slightly wider than the optical waveguide and the remaining one side having a margin wider than the other three sides. Prepare and paste the rectangular frame-shaped optical waveguide at a predetermined position on the surface of the holding plate, and on the outer edge of the thickest side of the holding plate, a thin electric device such as a film polymer battery or a film antenna The parts were fixed. Next, the light emitting element (manufactured by Optiwell, SM85-2N001) and the light receiving element (manufactured by Hamamatsu Photonics, S-10226) are aligned and fixed, and the USB memory connection port, AC adapter connection port, etc. Parts to be placed on the outer edge were attached.

  Thereafter, a protective plate made of polycarbonate (thickness 0.5 mm) for protecting the optical waveguide, the electrical component, and the like was attached on the holding plate to obtain an optical sensor. In this optical sensor, the optical waveguide portion has a total thickness of 2 mm including the holding plate and the protective plate on the front and back surfaces, and the portion on which the other electrical components are fixed is the holding portion on the front and back surfaces. The total thickness of the plate and the protective plate was 3 mm.

[Check input device operation]
A memory serving as a storage means was attached to the memory connection port of the optical sensor, and this input device was placed on the paper, and a memo was written on the paper portion exposed from the frame with a writing instrument. Then, the information stored in the memory of the input device can be communicated by connecting the input device and the notebook computer via wireless communication [Bluetooth (registered trademark)] and using the notebook computer. As a result, the same memo written on the paper can be displayed on the display of the notebook computer. In addition, when the notebook computer is used to write a memo on the paper, the memo information (electronic information) is stored in the memory of the notebook computer. Similarly, on the notebook computer display, The same memo written on the paper could be displayed immediately.

  The input device of the present invention can write information such as a memo on a sheet exposed from the frame, and at the same time digitize the information such as the memo.

1 frame D input device S optical sensor M storage means P paper W writing instrument

In order to achieve the above object, an input device according to the present invention includes a frame-shaped optical sensor (A) described below that surrounds at least a part of a sheet that can be written with a writing instrument, and the above-described optical sensor exposed from the frame of the optical sensor. And a storage unit that stores the movement locus of the tip of the writing tool as electronic data when writing on the paper with the writing tool.
(A) A rectangular frame having a thickness of 2 to 5 mm, and at least a pair of light-emitting elements and light-receiving elements attached to the frame, and light on one of the frame portions facing each other in the frame shape. A plurality of cores for emission are formed, a plurality of cores for light incidence are formed on the other part, and the tip of the core for light emission and the tip of the core for light incidence are opposed to each other An optical waveguide in which the tip of the core is positioned at the inner edge of the frame is disposed, and the overcladding layer of the optical waveguide that covers the tip of the core for light emission and the tip of the core for light incidence, The side cross-sectional shape in the thickness direction of the frame is formed in a lens portion having a ¼ arc shape, and light emitted from each light emitting core of the optical waveguide toward the light incident core is obtained from the writing instrument. said frame so as to be cut off at the tip Through the 0.6mm approximately slightly higher position with so as to form a grid of light from the surface of the paper, resulting in connection with the object in the frame, reaching the light receiving element from the light emitting element An optical sensor that outputs position information of the object in the frame by detecting blocking of light.

Further, the frame-shaped optical sensor of the above (A) has a frame portion having a thickness of 2 to 5 mm, a plurality of cores for emitting light are formed in one portion facing each other in the frame shape, and the other portion is formed. A plurality of cores for light incidence are formed, and the tip of each core is positioned on the inner edge of the frame so that the tip of the core for light emission faces the tip of the core for light incidence. An optical waveguide is disposed, and a side cross-sectional shape in the thickness direction of the frame of the over cladding layer of the optical waveguide that covers the leading end of the light emitting core and the leading end of the light incident core is ¼ arc shape From the surface of the paper in the frame so that the light emitted from the light emitting cores of the optical waveguide toward the light incident core is blocked by the tip of the writing instrument. Passing about 0.6mm at a slightly higher position , Within the frame, so as to form a grid of light that intersects the vertical and horizontal. Therefore , this frame (frame) can be made thin. In other words, since the optical waveguide can be formed thinly, such as in the form of a film or a sheet, even if it is incorporated in the frame of this optical sensor, the frame can be formed so as not to interfere with the writing operation when writing with a writing instrument. Can be formed thinly. As a result, writing on the paper can be performed in a more natural and easy posture.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6 (d), the cores 4a, 5a (4b, 5b) patterned on the surface of the under cladding layer 11 are positioned with respect to the recess 20a of the mold 20, and in this state The under-cladding layer 11 is pressed against the mold 20, and the cores 4a and 5a are immersed in the photosensitive resin 12 ′, which is a material for forming the over-cladding layer 12. In this state, the photosensitive resin 12 ′ is irradiated with an irradiation beam such as ultraviolet rays through the mold 20 to expose the photosensitive resin 12 ′. As a result, the photosensitive resin 12 'is cured, and a square frame-shaped over clad layer 12 in which a square frame-shaped inner peripheral edge portion is formed on the lens portion 12a is formed.

In the above embodiment, in order to improve the light transmission efficiency of the optical waveguide, the tip portions of the light emitting cores 4a and 4b and the tip portions of the light incident cores 5a and 5b are formed in the lens portion. Although the tip portion of the over clad layer 12 covering the lens portion 12a is also shown as an example, if the light (space) transmission efficiency within the frame of the optical sensor S1 is sufficient, the lens portion is It may be formed on only one of the cores, or not both. In the above embodiment, the light-emitting side optical waveguide 4 and the light-receiving side optical waveguide 5 are integrally manufactured. However, these may be manufactured separately or formed by combining more optical waveguide parts. May be.

Next, the upper surface of the optical waveguide excluding the lens portion 12a of the over clad layer 12 is covered with a protective plate or the like to obtain a frame-shaped optical sensor S1 as shown in FIG. Examples of the material for forming the protective plate include resin, metal, glass, quartz, and silicon. The thickness of the protective plate is preferably about 0.5 mm, for example, and when the communication with the information device is performed wirelessly, it is desirable that the protective plate 40 is made of resin such as polycarbonate that transmits radio waves. .

Claims (5)

The frame-shaped optical sensor (A) below that surrounds at least a part of the paper that can be written with the writing tool, and when writing with the writing tool to the portion of the paper that is exposed from within the frame of the optical sensor, An input device comprising: storage means for storing the movement trajectory of the tip as electronic data.
(A) It is composed of a rectangular frame and at least one pair of light emitting elements and light receiving elements attached to the rectangular frame, and the light reaching the light receiving elements from the light emitting elements, which is generated in relation to the object in the frame. An optical sensor that outputs position information of the object in the frame by detecting blockage.   In the frame portion of the frame-shaped optical sensor of (A) above, a plurality of light emitting cores are formed in one portion facing each other in the frame shape, and a plurality of light incident cores are formed in the other portion. And an optical waveguide in which the tip of each core is positioned at the inner edge of the frame so that the tip of the core for light emission and the tip of the core for light incidence face each other. 2. The input according to claim 1, wherein light emitted from each light emitting core of the waveguide toward the light incident core forms a lattice of light vertically and horizontally intersecting in the frame. device.   In the frame-shaped optical sensor frame of (A), a plurality of light-emitting elements are arranged side by side in one portion facing each other in the frame shape, and a plurality of light-receiving elements are arranged in the other portion, The light emitting element and the light receiving element are positioned toward the inside of the frame, and the light emitted from the light emitting element toward the light receiving element forms a lattice of light that intersects vertically and horizontally in the frame. The input device according to claim 1.   A module in which the light-emitting element and a light-receiving element array composed of a plurality of light-receiving elements are vertically stacked at the corners on both sides of one side among the four corners of the frame-shaped optical sensor frame of (A). Are arranged, tape-like retroreflectors are disposed on the inner surfaces of the three sides excluding the one side between these modules, and the light emitted from the light emitting element of one module is The input device according to claim 1, wherein the input device is reflected by the retroreflecting light reflector and recursively incident on the light receiving element array of the one module.   The said optical sensor and a memory | storage means are integrally formed as a memory | storage device, and the memory | storage device is installable or detachable with respect to the said sheet | seat. Input device.

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