JP2013156095A - Sensor device, input device and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a sensor device that is excellent in durability and can provide a user with an operational feeling.SOLUTION: The sensor device comprises an input operation part and a sensor element. The input operation part has a pressed part and a plurality of protruding parts. The pressed part includes a first surface for receiving an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The plurality of protruding parts are configured so that the distribution of a pressure which is applied to the operator as a reaction is different between a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operator and a second state in which the first surface receives a second pressing force greater than the first pressing force by the operator. The sensor element is disposed facing the second surface and outputs different signals in the first and second states.

Description

  The present technology relates to a sensor device, an input device, and an electronic device that can give an operational feeling to a user.

  Some input devices improve the accuracy of operation by the user by giving an operational feeling to the user (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  The input device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a sheet portion and a substrate that face each other. In this input device, a rubber member is sandwiched between a sheet portion and a substrate. A plurality of openings are formed in the sheet portion. This input device is configured such that when the user presses the sheet portion toward the substrate, the rubber member pressed between the sheet portion and the substrate rises from the opening of the sheet portion. Therefore, the user who presses the sheet part receives a tactile feeling (operation feeling) of the protruding rubber member.

JP 2009-279825 A

  However, in the input device described in Patent Literature 1, the rubber member rises from the opening every time the user presses the sheet portion. Therefore, as the user repeatedly presses the sheet portion, wear of the opening portion of the sheet portion and deterioration of the rubber member occur.

  In view of the circumstances as described above, an object of the present technology is to provide a sensor device, an input device, and an electronic device that can give an operational feeling to a user and are excellent in durability.

In order to achieve the above object, a sensor device according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an input operation unit and a sensor element.
The input operation unit includes a pressing unit and a plurality of protrusions, and the pressing unit includes a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The plurality of protrusions include a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operating element, and a first state in which the first surface is greater than the first pressing force by the operating element. The distribution of the pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element is different from that in the second state in which the pressing force of 2 is received.
The sensor element is disposed opposite to the second surface and outputs different signals in the first state and the second state.
With this configuration, the sensor device can give different operational feelings to the user in the first state and the second state.

The sensor element may be a capacitive element whose electrostatic capacity is changed by the proximity of the operation element.
With this configuration, the sensor device can output a signal based on the capacitance in the first state and the second state.

The sensor element may be a contact sensor element having a pair of electrodes that can contact each other by receiving the second pressing force.
With this configuration, the sensor device can output a signal based on whether the pair of electrodes are in contact with each other in the first state and the second state.

The plurality of protrusions may be formed on the first surface, and may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion lower than the first protrusion.
With this configuration, it is not necessary to provide a movable part, so that the durability of the sensor device is improved.

The pressing part is elastically deformable, and the input operation part is opposed to a support part disposed between the second surface and the sensor element, with the support part being sandwiched between the second surface and the support part. And the plurality of protrusions may be formed on the third surface.
With this configuration, the user can be stimulated by the plurality of protrusions in the second state.

Openings may be formed at positions facing the plurality of protrusions in the pressing portion.
With this configuration, it is possible to apply a stronger stimulus to the user by the plurality of protrusions in the second state.

The pressing portion may be elastically deformed, and the plurality of protrusions may be formed on the first surface.
With this configuration, the sensor device can give different operational feelings to the user in the first state and the second state.

The input operation unit includes a support unit disposed between the second surface and the sensor element, and a third surface facing the second surface with the support unit interposed therebetween, The plurality of protrusions may be configured by a first protrusion formed on the first surface and a second protrusion formed on the third surface.
With this configuration, it is possible to give the user a feel different from the prediction in the second state.

An input device according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an input operation unit, a sensor element, and a controller.
The input operation unit includes a pressing unit and a plurality of protrusions, and the pressing unit includes a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The plurality of protrusions include a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operating element, and a first state in which the first surface is greater than the first pressing force by the operating element. The distribution of the pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element is different from that in the second state in which the pressing force of 2 is received.
The sensor element is disposed opposite to the second surface and outputs different input signals in the first state and the second state.
The controller includes a determination unit that determines a change from the first state to the second state based on the input signal.
With this configuration, the input device can determine the first state and the second state, and gives a different operational feeling to the user in the first state and the second state. It becomes possible to do.

The controller may further include a signal generation unit that generates an operation signal when the determination unit determines the change.
With this configuration, the input device can be applied to various electronic devices.

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an input operation unit, a sensor element, a controller, a processing device, and an output device.
The input operation unit includes a pressing unit and a plurality of protrusions, and the pressing unit includes a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The plurality of protrusions include a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operating element, and a first state in which the first surface is greater than the first pressing force by the operating element. The distribution of the pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element is different from that in the second state in which the pressing force of 2 is received.
The sensor element is disposed opposite to the second surface and outputs different input signals in the first state and the second state.
A controller that determines a change from the first state to the second state based on the input signal; and a signal generator that generates an operation signal when the controller detects the change. Part.
The processing device generates a command signal based on the operation signal.
The output device performs output based on the command signal.
With this configuration, the electronic device can determine the first state and the second state, and gives a different operational feeling to the user between the first state and the second state. It becomes possible to do.

The output device may be a display device, and the display device may display an image based on the command signal.
With this configuration, the electronic device can display an image based on an operation on the input device by the user on the display device.

  As described above, according to the present technology, it is possible to provide a sensor device, an input device, and an electronic device that can give an operational feeling to a user and are excellent in durability.

It is a top view of the input device concerning a 1st embodiment of this art. It is sectional drawing along the A-A 'line | wire of the input device shown in FIG. It is a block diagram of the electronic device using the input device shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the structural example of the input operation part shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the modification of the input operation part shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the manufacturing method of the input operation part shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the modification of the manufacturing method of an input operation part. It is the figure which showed the electrode structure of the input device shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the modification of the electrode structure of an input device. It is the figure which showed an example of the output signal of the input device shown in FIG. It is the top view which showed an example of the input device shown in FIG. It is the figure which showed the modification of the electrode structure of an input device. It is a schematic block diagram of the personal computer using the input device shown in FIG. It is a schematic block diagram of the personal computer shown in FIG. It is a schematic block diagram of the personal computer shown in FIG. It is a schematic block diagram of the personal computer shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing of the input device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this technique. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an input device according to Comparative Example 1. It is the figure which showed the relationship between the displacement of the key top in the input device shown in FIG. 18, and the reaction force added to a finger | toe. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an input device according to Comparative Example 1. It is sectional drawing of the input device which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this technique. It is sectional drawing of the input device which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this technique. It is sectional drawing of the input device which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this technique. It is sectional drawing of the input device which concerns on the 6th Embodiment of this technique.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawing, an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis that are orthogonal to each other are shown, and these are axes common to the respective embodiments.

<First Embodiment>
[overall structure]
FIG. 1 is a partial plan view showing one unit in the input device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, and FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the input device 1 along the line AA ′ in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the electronic device z using the input device 1.

  The input device 1 is formed in a flat plate shape and includes a capacitive element 11 and an input operation unit 14. The capacitive element 11 and the input operation unit 14 constitute a mutual capacitance type capacitive sensor device. The input operation unit 14 is a pressing unit that receives an operation with a user's finger f. The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 changes due to the proximity of the finger f, which is an operator associated with the operation of the input operation unit 14 by the user.

  In the present embodiment, a user's finger f will be described as an example of the operation element. However, the operation element may be perceived by the user and may be a body part other than the user's finger f.

  The input device 1 includes a controller c, and the controller c includes a determination unit c1 and a signal generation unit c2. The determination unit c1 determines what operation has been performed on the input operation unit 14 based on the amount of change in capacitance of the capacitive element 11 from the reference capacitance. The signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal based on the determination of the determination unit c1.

  The electronic device z illustrated in FIG. 3 includes a processing device p that performs processing based on an operation signal generated by the signal generation unit c2 of the input device 1, and an output device o that is operated by the processing device p.

[Input device]
The input operation unit 14 includes a first surface (a surface on the upper side in the Z-axis direction) that receives an operation by the user, and a second surface (a surface on the lower side in the Z-axis direction) bonded to the capacitive element 11. The capacitive element 11 has an X electrode 12 and a Y electrode 13. The X electrode 12 is disposed on the input operation unit 14 side (upper side in the Z-axis direction) than the Y electrode 13.

  The capacitive element 11 is configured by laminating a plurality of base materials including a substrate on which the X electrode 12 is formed and a substrate on which the Y electrode 13 is formed. Examples of the material forming the base material include plastic materials such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PI (polyimide), and PC (polycarbonate).

  The input operation unit 14 includes a flat portion 14a formed to have a uniform thickness, and two protrusions 14b and 14c protruding upward from the flat portion 14a in the Z-axis direction. The first protrusion 14b is configured as a substantially square frame extending upward in the Z-axis direction, and a recess 14d is formed inside thereof. The second protrusions 14c are formed in the vicinity of the four corners in the recess 14d, and are configured as four cylinders extending upward in the Z-axis direction. The first protrusion 14b is formed to be larger than the second protrusion 14c in both the height in the Z-axis direction and the dimensions in the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

  The length W of one side of the recess 14d formed by the first protrusion 14b can be determined as appropriate, but in this embodiment, W = 10 mm. In the present embodiment, the distance between the first protrusion 14b and the second protrusion 14c and the distance between the second protrusions 14c are both about 1 mm to 2 mm. For example, when nine protrusions 14b and 14c are provided with a width of 10 mm, the interval between the protrusions 14b and 14c is 1 mm, and when four protrusions 14b and 14c are provided with a width of 10 mm, the protrusions The interval between the portions 14b and 14c is 2 mm.

  The input operation unit 14 is formed of an insulating material that is not easily deformed even when operated by the finger f. Examples of such materials include polyethylene terephthalate, silicon, polyethylene, polypropylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, and rubber materials. For the formation of the input operation unit 14, for example, a film, a molded body, or a fiber cloth formed of the above material is used.

  FIG. 2B shows a touch state (first state) in which the input operation unit 14 receives a touch operation with the user's finger f. In the touch state, the finger f exerts a very small force on the input operation unit 14. At this time, the finger f is in contact with the first protrusion 14b, but is not in contact with the second protrusion 14c because it does not enter the recess 14d. Therefore, in the touch state, the first protrusion 14b applies pressure to the finger f, but the second protrusion 14c does not apply pressure to the finger f.

  The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state shown in FIG. 2B is the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the state where there is no influence of the finger f shown in FIG. Lower than capacity.

  FIG. 2C shows a push state (second state) in which the input operation unit 14 receives a push operation with the finger f. In the push state shown in FIG. 2C, the finger f is deformed and enters the recess 14d as the finger f is pressed downward in the Z-axis direction against the input operation unit 14 from the touch state shown in FIG. At the same time, it comes into contact with the second protrusion 14c. Therefore, in the push state, in addition to the first protrusion 14b, the second protrusion 14c also applies pressure to the finger f.

  Thus, the finger f is closer to the capacitive element 11 in the push state than in the touch state. Therefore, the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the push state illustrated in FIG. 2C is further lower than the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state illustrated in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, the distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the finger f from the input operation unit 14 differs between the touch state and the push state. Thereby, since the user receives a different feeling (operation feeling) between the push state and the touch state, the user can intuitively identify the touch state and the push state.

  The determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c is configured to be able to determine the touch state and the push state in accordance with the timing at which the user identifies the touch state and the push state based on the touch of the input operation unit 14. ing.

  The input device 1 has a configuration capable of switching between a first mode that operates in the touch state and does not operate in the push state, and a second mode that operates in the push state and does not operate in the touch state. May be. In this case, for example, a switch for switching between the first mode and the second mode may be provided in the input device 1 or the processing device p.

(Input operation part)
The amount of change in capacitance when the touch state changes to the push state depends on the depth in the Z-axis direction where the finger f enters the recess 14b. In order for the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) to determine whether the state is the push state or the touch state, the amount of change in capacitance needs to be sufficiently large. Therefore, the height difference Hs in the Z-axis direction between the first protrusion 14b and the second protrusion 14c is required to be greater than or equal to a predetermined value. Specifically, it is desirable to use the length W of one side of the recess 14d formed by the first protrusion 14b described above and satisfy the relationship of Hs> 0.1 × W.

  The input device 1 includes the unit shown in FIG. For example, the input device 1 may form a matrix in which an arbitrary number of units illustrated in FIG. 1 are arranged in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction as illustrated in FIG. 4.

  The surface shape of each unit of the input operation unit 14 formed by the first projection 14b and the second projection 14c can be any shape other than the shape shown in FIG.

  The surface shape of each unit of the input operation unit 14 is such that, for example, first protrusions 14b and second protrusions 14c extending in the Y-axis direction as shown in FIG. A line-up shape, a shape in which the protrusions 14b and 14c in FIG. 5A as shown in FIG. 5B are divided at a predetermined interval in the Y-axis direction, and a relative shape as shown in FIG. In particular, the first protrusions 14b row formed in a large-diameter columnar shape and the second protrusions 14c row formed in a relatively small-diameter columnar shape are alternately arranged in the X-axis direction. It is also possible.

  In addition, the surface shape of each unit of the input operation unit 14 is a second cylindrical shape at the center in a plurality of recesses 14d formed in a circle on the first protrusion 14b as shown in FIG. The second protrusion 14c having an elliptical column shape is formed in a plurality of recesses 14d formed in an ellipse on the first protrusion 14b as shown in FIG. 5E. It is also possible to have a different shape.

  Further, the surface shape of each unit of the input operation unit 14 is such that the columnar first projection 14b and the second projection 14c formed in the same diameter as shown in FIG. It is also possible to have a shape alternately arranged in the direction and the Y-axis direction.

  The surface shape of each unit of the input operation unit 14 is such that a wall-like second protrusion 14c is formed in the first protrusion 14b forming a rectangular frame as shown in FIG. Shape, shape having second protrusion 14c including embossed characters in first protrusion 14b forming a rectangular frame as shown in FIG. 5 (H), polygonal shape as shown in FIG. 5 (I) Any shape having the first protrusion 14b forming the frame can be used.

  On the other hand, the surface shape of each unit of the input operation unit 14 may be a shape in which the first protrusions 14b and the second protrusions 14c having the above-described shapes are arranged opposite to each other. In any case, the distance W between the first protrusions 14b and the height difference Hs between the first protrusions 14b and the second protrusions 14c in the Z-axis direction are Hs> 0.1 ×. It is desirable to satisfy the relationship of W.

(Method for manufacturing the input operation unit)
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing the input operation unit 14 of the input device 1 according to the present embodiment. First, as shown in FIG. 6A, the UV resin R1 is placed on the transparent plate T. As the resin R1, a solid sheet material or a liquid UV curable material may be used. Then, as shown in FIG. 6B, the concave-convex pattern of the mold 101 is transferred to the UV resin R1 by the roll-shaped mold 101 on which the predetermined concave-convex pattern is formed, and the transparent plate T side The UV resin R1 is cured by UV irradiation. Then, as shown in FIG. 6C, the UV resin R1 is peeled off from the transparent plate T, and the input operation unit 14 is taken out.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a modification of the method for manufacturing the input operation unit. First, as shown in FIG. 7A, an injection mold 102 having a predetermined shape is prepared. Then, as shown in FIG. 7B, the resin R2 is injection-molded by injecting a molten thermoplastic resin R2 into the mold 102 from the injection port 102a. Then, as shown in FIG. 7C, the resin material R2 is released from the injection mold 102, and the input operation unit 114 is taken out.

(Electrode configuration of capacitive element)
FIG. 8 is a plan view of the input device 1 as viewed from the upper side in the Z-axis direction, and shows only the X electrode 12 and the Y electrode 13 in the capacitive element 11. The X electrode 12 and the Y electrode 13 are formed by a so-called cross matrix type configuration. The input device 1 includes n columns of X electrodes 12 extending over the entire range in the Y-axis direction, and m rows of Y electrodes 13 extending over the entire range in the X-axis direction. The X electrode 12 is arranged over the entire range of the input device 1 in the X axis direction, and the Y axis electrode is arranged over the entire range of the input device 1 in the Y axis direction. The electrodes need not be arranged at regular intervals, and the pitch of the arrangement can be changed according to the position of each key.

  In the input device 1, the capacitive element 11 shown in FIG. 2 is formed at each position where the X electrode 12 and the Y electrode 13 intersect each other. Therefore, the input device 1 includes n × m capacitive elements 11 (see FIG. 2). In the case of an input device having the input operation unit 14 having the same area, the larger the values of n and m, the higher the density of the capacitive element 11 in the XY plane, so that the operation position can be detected more accurately. become.

  Although the input device 1 according to the present embodiment employs the mutual capacitance method, the input device 1 is not a so-called multi-touch method, and is a single-touch method in which operations on the input operation unit 14 are not performed simultaneously at a plurality of positions. A self-capacitance method can be adopted.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an electrode configuration when the self-capacitance method is employed. The X electrode 12a and the Y electrode 13a are rhombic electrodes arranged so as not to overlap each other in the Z-axis direction. The X electrode 12a has n columns extending in the Y-axis direction, and the Y electrode 13a has m rows extending in the X-axis direction. Note that when the self-capacitance method is adopted for the input device 1, the capacitance of the capacitor 11 in the touch state shown in FIG. 2B is the static capacitance of the capacitor 11 in the state shown in FIG. The capacitance of the capacitor 11 in the push state illustrated in FIG. 2C is higher than the capacitance of the capacitor 11 in the touch state illustrated in FIG. 2B.

(controller)
The controller c is typically composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit). In this embodiment, the controller c includes a determination unit c1 and a signal generation unit c2, and executes various functions according to a program stored in a storage unit (not shown). The determination unit c1 determines the state of the input operation unit 14 based on an electrical signal (input signal) output from the capacitive element 11, and the signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal based on the determination result. . Further, the controller c has a drive circuit for driving the input device 1.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an output signal from the capacitive element 11. The bar graph shown along the X axis in FIG. 10 indicates the amount of change in capacitance from the reference capacitance in any capacitance element 11 formed by each X electrode 12. Further, the bar graph shown along the Y-axis in FIG. 10 indicates the amount of change in capacitance from the reference capacitance in any capacitance element 11 formed by each Y electrode 13. Here, the reference electrostatic capacitance is the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitor 11 that is not affected by the finger f shown in FIG. Each bar graph is divided into a touch state (shown as “T”) shown in FIG. 2B and a push state (shown as “P”) shown in FIG.

  The determination unit c1 of the controller c illustrated in FIG. 3 indicates the X-axis direction and Y-axis direction coordinates of the operation position by the finger f in the input operation unit 14 and the capacitance obtained from each X electrode 12 and each Y electrode 13. Calculated based on the amount of change. That is, in FIG. 10, the determination unit c <b> 1 determines the X coordinate of the operation position by the finger f based on the ratio of the amount of change in capacitance in the capacitive element 11 formed by each X electrode 12 (X1, X2, X3, X4). The Y coordinate of the operation position by the finger f is calculated based on the ratio of the amount of change in capacitance in the capacitive element 11 formed by each Y electrode 13 (Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4). Thereby, the determination part c1 outputs the coordinate of the operation position in the input operation part 14 to the signal generation part c2 (refer FIG. 3).

  The determination unit c1 uses the capacitance element 11 formed by each X electrode 12 or each Y electrode 13 as an evaluation value as to whether the touch state illustrated in FIG. 2B or the push state illustrated in FIG. It is possible to use the maximum value of the amount of change in capacitance at.

  In addition, the determination unit c1 uses the electrostatic capacitance in the capacitive element 11 formed by each X electrode 12 as an evaluation value as to whether the touch state illustrated in FIG. 2B or the push state illustrated in FIG. It is also possible to use the total value of the amount of change in capacity (the total value of each value of the bar graph shown along the X axis in FIG. 10 and referred to as the X total value). Furthermore, instead of the X total value, the total value of the amount of change in capacitance in the capacitive element 11 formed by each Y electrode 13 (the total value of each value of the bar graph shown along the Y axis in FIG. It may be referred to as Y sum value). Furthermore, instead of the X sum value and the Y sum value, a value obtained by further adding the X sum value and the Y sum value may be used.

  Specifically, the determination unit c1 is set with a first threshold value and a second threshold value that is greater than the first threshold value. The determination unit c1 determines that the touch state is in the case where the evaluation value is greater than or equal to the first threshold and less than the second threshold, and is in the push state if the evaluation value is greater than or equal to the second threshold. Is determined. Then, the determination unit c1 outputs the determination result to the signal generation unit c2 (see FIG. 3).

  It is possible to set arbitrary values as the first threshold value and the second threshold value in the determination unit c1. For example, the first threshold value and the second threshold value are set low for users such as women and children with weak finger strength, and the first threshold value and the second threshold value are increased for users with strong finger strength. It can also be set. Further, in the case of a user with a large finger, since the area of the finger in contact with the input operation unit 14 is larger than that of a user with a small finger, the amount of change in the capacitive element 11 is large in both the touch state and the push state. Therefore, the first threshold value and the second threshold value can be set high for a user with a large finger.

  Thus, in the input device 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accurately determine whether the determination unit c1 is in the touch state or the push state.

  The signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal according to the output signal from the determination unit c1. Specifically, the signal generation unit c2 generates different operation signals for the touch state and the push state.

  As described above, since the input device 1 according to this embodiment does not include a movable part, it has a long life and is excellent in waterproofness.

[Electronics]
(Personal computer)
An example in which the input device 1 according to this embodiment is applied to a personal computer as an electronic device will be described. FIG. 11 is a top view of the input device 1. The input operation unit 14 is drawn with characters and symbols having the same key layout as a general personal computer keyboard.

  In the case of this example, the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 8 may be changed to the configuration shown in FIG. In the electrode configuration shown in FIG. 12, the X electrode 12b and the Y electrode 13b are arranged so that each capacitive element 11 is in a position corresponding to each key. Thereby, since the position of each key and the position of each unit of the input operation part 14 correspond, it becomes possible to determine more accurately the position of the key operated by the determination part c1.

  13 to 16 are schematic configurations of a personal computer z1 as an electronic apparatus z (see FIG. 3) including the input device 1 according to the present embodiment and a display device o1 as the output device o (see FIG. 3). FIG. The personal computer z1 has a processing device p (not shown) (see FIG. 3).

  When the personal computer z1 is a desktop type, the input device 1 is configured separately from the main body as the processing device p and the display device o1. The main body and the display device o1 may be configured as a single body or as separate bodies. The input device 1 may be connected to the main body and the display device o1 by a cable or wirelessly.

  On the other hand, when the personal computer z1 is a notebook type, the input device 1, the processing device p, and the display device o1 are integrally configured. In this case, the controller c of the input device 1 also serves as the processing device p. May be.

  FIG. 13 will be described. When the finger f performs a push operation to apply a pressing force to the position of the X-axis (first axis) coordinate and the Y-axis (second axis) coordinate corresponding to each key of the input operation unit 14, the input device 1. The determination unit c1 determines that the position of the key is in the push state, and outputs it to the signal generation unit c2 of the input device 1. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which performs the display corresponding to the character and design of the key in the position which became the push state, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 displays an image based on the command signal. In this way, the input device 1 can be used in the same manner as a general personal computer keyboard.

  Next, FIG. 14 will be described. When the finger f in a state of touching the input operation unit 14 performs a touch operation that moves on the input operation unit 14, the determination unit c1 of the input device 1 determines that the position corresponding to the movement locus of the finger f is in the touch state. It determines and outputs to the signal generation part c2 of the input device 1. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which moves the pointer p based on the movement locus | trajectory of the finger | toe f, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 moves the pointer p based on the command signal. As described above, in the input device 1, the pointer can be moved sensuously like a general personal computer mouse or trackpad.

  In addition, when the input operation unit 14 receives a push operation in a state where the pointer p is on an icon (not shown) on the display device o1, the determination unit c1 of the input device 1 determines that the push device is in the push state, and the input device 1 to the signal generator c2. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which makes the said icon a selection state, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 selects the icon based on the command signal. As described above, the input device 1 has a function corresponding to a click or tap on a general mouse or trackpad for a personal computer.

  In addition, when the input operation unit 14 receives two consecutive push operations while the pointer p is on the icon in the display device o1, the determination unit c1 of the input device 1 is in a two-continuous, short-time push state. It determines and outputs to the signal generation part c2 of the input device 1. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which opens the said icon, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 opens an icon based on the command signal. Thus, the input device 1 has a function corresponding to a double click and a double tap on a general personal computer mouse or trackpad.

  Next, FIG. 15 will be described. When the finger f in a state of touching the input operation unit 14 performs a touch operation (also referred to as “swipe operation” or “flick operation”) that quickly moves on the input operation unit 14 in a short time, the determination unit of the input device 1. c1 detects the moving direction of the operation position in the touch state, and outputs it to the signal generation unit c2 of the input device 1. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which moves an image based on the moving direction of an operation position, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 moves the image based on the command signal. Further, with the same operation, the input device 1 can perform an operation of turning a page of the electronic book displayed on the display device o1. Furthermore, with the same operation, the input device 1 can also perform an operation of changing the display screen displayed on the display device o1 to another screen.

  Next, FIG. 16 will be described. When the two fingers f in a state of touching the input operation unit 14 perform a touch operation (also referred to as “pinch-out operation”) that opens on the input operation unit 14, the determination unit c1 of the input device 1 is in the touch state. It is detected that the operation positions are moving away from each other, and output to the signal generation unit c2 of the input device 1. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which expands an image, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 enlarges the image based on the command signal.

  Similarly, when the two fingers f in a state of touching the input operation unit 14 perform a touch operation (also referred to as “pinch-in operation”) that closes on the input operation unit 14, the determination unit c1 of the input device 1 touches. It is detected that the operation positions in the state move so as to be close to each other, and is output to the signal generation unit c2 of the input device 1. Accordingly, the signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal for reducing the image and outputs the operation signal to the processing device p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device o1 reduces the image based on the command signal.

  Thus, the input device 1 according to the present embodiment serves both as a keyboard function and a pointing device function in the personal computer z1. The input device 1 may be configured to be able to switch between a mode used as a keyboard and a mode used as a pointing device. In this case, for example, a mode change switch may be provided in the input device 1 or the processing device p.

  As mentioned above, although an example of the function by the input device 1 in the personal computer z1 was shown, the input device 1 can implement | achieve any function which a keyboard, a mouse | mouth, a trackpad, a touch panel etc. which are general input devices have. For example, a document or browser displayed on the display device o1 can be scrolled by the same operation as that of the general input device.

(Other electronic devices)
The input device 1 according to the present embodiment can be similarly applied to, for example, a numeric keypad for a portable terminal device, a shutter for an imaging device, an operation device for a portable music player, and a remote controller in addition to a keyboard for a personal computer. It is.

<Second Embodiment>
FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view showing one unit in the input device 2 according to the second embodiment of the present technology. The configuration other than the sensor element 21 of the input device 2 according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. FIG. 17 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment.

[overall structure]
The input device 2 according to the present embodiment includes a sensor element 21 that is different from that of the first embodiment, and an input operation unit 14 that is the same as that of the first embodiment. The sensor element 21 includes an upper electrode 22 and a lower electrode 23 facing each other, and constitutes a contact-type sensor device together with the input operation unit 14. The input operation unit 14 is a pressing unit that receives an operation with a user's finger f. In the sensor element 21, the upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 come into contact with each other and become conductive due to the pressing force accompanying the push operation to the input operation unit 14 by the user.

The electronic device using the input device 2 includes a controller c (see FIG. 3) similar to that of the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the controller c includes a determination unit c1 and a signal generation unit c2. The determination unit c1 determines whether or not a push operation has been performed on the input operation unit 14 based on whether or not the upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 are conductive. The signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal based on the determination of the determination unit c1.
[Input device]

  The sensor element 21 has an upper film 21a and a lower film 21b facing each other. The input operation unit 14 is bonded to the upper surface of the upper film 21a. An upper electrode 22 is formed on the lower surface of the upper film 21a. A lower electrode 23 is formed at a position facing the upper electrode 22 on the upper surface of the lower film 21b. The upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 are disposed below the concave portion 14 d of the input operation unit 14 in the Z-axis direction.

  The sensor element 21 connects the lower surface of the upper film 21a and the upper surface of the lower film 21b, forms a space between the upper film 21a and the lower film 21b, and supports the upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 apart from each other. It has the member 21c. The support member 21c supports the flat portion 14a outside the region where the first protrusion 14b of the input operation portion 14 is formed.

  FIG. 17B illustrates a touch state (first state) in which the input operation unit 14 receives a touch operation with the user's finger f. In the touch state, the finger f exerts a very small force on the input operation unit 14. At this time, the finger f is in contact with the first protrusion 14b, but is not in contact with the second protrusion 14c because it does not enter the recess 14d. Therefore, in the touch state, the first protrusion 14b applies pressure to the finger f, but the second protrusion 14c does not apply pressure to the finger f. In the touch state, the sensor element 21 has not changed from the state shown in FIG.

  FIG. 17C shows a push state (second state) in which the input operation unit 14 receives a push operation with the finger f. In the push state shown in FIG. 17C, the finger f is deformed and enters the recess 14d as the finger f is pressed downward in the Z-axis direction against the input operation unit 14 from the touch state shown in FIG. At the same time, it comes into contact with the second protrusion 14c.

  Therefore, the distribution of pressure applied as a reaction from the input operation unit 14 to the finger f differs between the touch state and the push state. Thereby, since the user receives a different feeling (operation feeling) between the push state and the touch state, the user can intuitively identify the touch state and the push state.

  In the push state, the upper film 21 a is bent downward in the Z-axis direction together with the input operation unit 14 pressed by the finger f, and the upper electrode 22 contacts the lower electrode 23. Thereby, the upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 are brought into conduction, and the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c determines that the push state is set.

  The input operation unit 14 is configured such that the finger f contacts the second protrusion 14c in accordance with the timing at which the upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 are in contact with each other.

(Input operation part)
As described above, in this embodiment, the same input operation unit 14 as in the first embodiment is used. However, unlike the first embodiment, when a push operation is received, the input operation unit 14 itself is elastically deformed and Z Bends downward in the axial direction. Therefore, the input operation unit 14 may be formed of an acrylic resin, a silicon resin containing silicon rubber, or the like as in the first embodiment, but may be formed of a softer material than these materials. Good.

(Sensor element)
When the input operation unit 14 receives a push operation, the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21 is elastically deformed together with the input operation unit 14 and bent downward in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the upper film 21a is formed of a material having elasticity and insulation. Examples of such a material include PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), polyethylene, and polypropylene. Furthermore, the upper film 21a may be formed of a material that has a certain degree of flexibility and can be processed thinly, such as cloth or leather. Moreover, although the lower film 21b may be formed with the material similar to an upper film, since the property which can be elastically deformed is not required, it may be formed with the material harder than the upper film 21a.

[Electronics]
(Personal computer)
An example in which the input device 2 according to this embodiment is applied to a personal computer as an electronic device will be described. Similar to the first embodiment, the input operation unit 14 is drawn with characters and symbols having the same key layout as a general personal computer keyboard (see FIG. 11). Each unit of the input device 2 is arranged at a position corresponding to each key.

  When the finger f performs a push operation that applies a pressing force to the unit corresponding to each key of the input operation unit 14, the determination unit c1 of the controller c (see FIG. 3) of the input device 2 indicates that the unit is in the push state. It determines and outputs to the signal generation part c2 of the input device 2. Thereby, the signal generation part c2 produces | generates the operation signal which performs the display corresponding to the character and symbol of the key in the unit of the input device 2 which became the push state, and outputs the said operation signal to the processing apparatus p. The processing device p generates a command signal based on the operation signal, and the display device as the output device o displays an image based on the command signal. In this way, the input device 2 can be used in the same manner as a general personal computer keyboard.

(Other electronic devices)
The input device 2 according to the present embodiment can be similarly applied to, for example, a numeric keypad for a portable terminal device, a shutter for an imaging device, an operation device for a portable music player, and a remote controller in addition to a keyboard for a personal computer. It is.

[Comparative example]
(Comparative Example 1)
FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the input device 3 according to Comparative Example 1 of the present embodiment. The input device 3 according to this comparative example includes the upper and lower contact type sensor element 21 similar to the input device 2 according to the present embodiment, and a pantograph type input operation unit 34.

  The input operation unit 34 includes a key top 34a that receives a push operation by a user's finger f, and a pantograph 34 that regulates the moving direction of the key top 34a. The center of the pantograph 34 is positioned in the in-plane direction of the XY plane and restricts the movement of the key top 34a in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. As a result, the key top 34a can be slid in the Z-axis direction while maintaining a state parallel to the XY plane.

  The input device 3 includes a rubber dome 34 c that is disposed on the back side of the upper electrode 22 on the upper film 21 a of the sensor element 21 and holds the central portion of the key top 34 a on the sensor element 21. The rubber dome 34c is a rubber bowl-shaped structure that opens to the sensor element 21 side, and includes a pressing portion 34d that protrudes from the center to the sensor element 21 side.

  In a state where no force is applied to the key top 34a shown in FIG. 18A, the rubber dome 34c is not deformed, and the pressing portion 34d is separated from the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21.

  When the key top 34a is pressed from the state shown in FIG. 18A and the key top 23a is displaced downward in the Z-axis direction together with the pressing portion 34d, the rubber dome 34c is elastically deformed as shown in FIG. 18B. The pressing portion 34d comes into contact with the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21.

  When the key top 34a is further pressed from the state shown in FIG. 18B and the key top 23a is displaced downward together with the pressing portion 34d in the Z-axis direction, the pressing portion 34d is moved to the sensor element 21 as shown in FIG. The upper film 21a is bent downward in the Z-axis direction, and the upper electrode 22 of the upper film 21a contacts the lower electrode 23 of the lower film 21b. Thereby, the upper electrode 22 and the lower electrode 23 are electrically connected.

  FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the displacement d of the key top 34a pressed by the finger f downward in the Z-axis direction and the reaction force F applied to the finger f from the key top 34a.

  The reaction force F increases monotonously by the elastic recovery force of the rubber dome 34c from the state where the displacement d and the reaction force F shown in FIG. 18A are zero to the state of the displacement d1 shown in FIG. 18B. When the key top 34a is pushed down from the state of the displacement d1 shown in FIG. 18B, the elastic recovery force of the rubber dome 34c and the elastic recovery force of the upper film 21a bent downward are the reaction force F. To the finger f.

  In the process from the state shown in FIG. 18B to the state shown in FIG. 18C, the elastic recovery force of the upper film 21a increases monotonously as the displacement d increases, whereas the rubber dome 34c The elastic recovery force is maximized at the displacement d2. Therefore, when the displacement d2 is exceeded, the reaction force F temporarily decreases. Then, when the reaction force F exceeds the displacement d3, it again increases monotonously.

  As described above, in the input device 3, when the key top 34a is pushed by the finger f, the reaction force F to the finger f is temporarily reduced. The decrease in the reaction force F is recognized by the user as a feel (click feeling) different from a monotonous change in the reaction force F applied to the finger f. The user can determine whether or not the push operation has been performed accurately based on this feeling.

  As described above, even in the input device 3 according to the comparative example 1, the user can recognize the push state.

  However, the input device 3 according to the comparative example 1 includes a mechanical configuration such as a pantograph 34 b in the input operation unit 34. On the other hand, the input device 2 according to the present embodiment does not include a mechanical configuration in the input operation unit 14. Therefore, since the input device 2 according to the present embodiment has a simpler configuration with fewer parts than the input device 3 according to the comparative example 1, the manufacturing cost can be reduced and the manufacturing process can be shortened. it can.

  The input device 3 according to the comparative example 1 includes a rubber dome 34c that repeatedly undergoes deformation and recovery when receiving a push operation. The general rubber dome 34c is a consumable that deteriorates as the push operation is repeated. On the other hand, the input device 2 according to the present embodiment does not include a configuration corresponding to the rubber dome 34c according to the comparative example 1. Therefore, the input device 2 according to the present embodiment is more durable than the input device 3 according to Comparative Example 1.

(Comparative Example 2)
FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of the input device 4 according to Comparative Example 2 of the present embodiment. The input device 4 according to this comparative example includes the upper and lower contact type sensor element 21 and the metal dome type input operation unit 44 similar to those of the input device 2 according to the present embodiment.

  The input operation unit 44 includes a metal dome 44b disposed on the side opposite to the upper electrode 22 in the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21, and a cover member 44c that covers the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21 from above the metal dome 44b. Have. The metal dome 44b is a metal bowl-shaped structure opened to the sensor element 21 side. The cover member 44 is in close contact with the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21, and has a pressing portion 44c that protrudes with a gap from the metal dome 44b at a portion on the metal dome 44b.

  In a state where no force is applied to the pressing portion 44c shown in FIG. 20A, the pressing portion 44c is separated from the metal dome 44b.

  When the pressing portion 44c is pressed from the state shown in FIG. 20A and elastically deforms and is displaced downward in the Z-axis direction, the pressing portion 44c comes into contact with the metal dome 44b as shown in FIG. 20B.

  When the pressing portion 44c is further pressed from the state shown in FIG. 20B and is displaced downward in the Z-axis direction, the upper film 21a of the sensor element 21 is pressed through the metal dome 44c as shown in FIG. 20C. And bent downward in the Z-axis direction. As a result, the upper electrode 22 of the upper film 21a comes into contact with the lower electrode 23 of the lower film 21b and becomes conductive.

  In the process from the state shown in FIG. 20B to the state shown in FIG. 20C, the metal dome 44b is elastically deformed so that its curvature becomes small. Similar to the rubber dome 34c according to Comparative Example 1, the metal dome 44b has a displacement that maximizes the elastic recovery force in the process from the state shown in FIG. 20B to the state shown in FIG. 20C. It is configured as follows. Therefore, when the displacement is exceeded, the reaction force applied to the finger f temporarily decreases. Thereafter, the reaction force applied to the finger f monotonously increases again.

  As described above, in the input device 4, when the pressing portion 44c is pushed by the finger f, the reaction force against the finger f is temporarily reduced. This decrease in the reaction force is recognized by the user as a feel (click feeling) different from a monotonous change in the reaction force applied to the finger f. The user can determine whether or not the push operation has been performed accurately based on this feeling.

  As described above, even in the input device 4 according to the comparative example 2, the user can recognize the push state.

  The input device 4 according to Comparative Example 2 includes a metal dome 44b that repeatedly undergoes deformation and recovery when receiving a push operation. The general metal dome 44b is a consumable that deteriorates as the push operation is repeated. On the other hand, in the input device 2 according to the present embodiment, the input operation unit 14 that has received the push operation is slightly deformed as shown in FIG. 17 (c), but the amount of deformation is much larger than that of the metal dome 44b. small. Therefore, the input device 2 according to the present embodiment is more durable than the input device 4 according to Comparative Example 2.

(Other comparative examples)
As a technique related to the present embodiment, an input device that includes a vibration generating element and is configured such that when a push operation is performed, the vibration generating element generates vibration is known. In such an input device, it is possible to recognize that the user has performed a push operation by giving the vibration element a vibration feeling to the user.

  However, such an input device needs to newly include a vibration element and a mechanism for driving the vibration element. Therefore, the number of parts of the input device increases. On the other hand, since the input device 2 according to the present embodiment has a small number of parts and a simple configuration, the manufacturing cost can be reduced and the manufacturing process can be shortened.

<Third Embodiment>
FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional view showing one unit in the input device 5 according to the third embodiment of the present technology. The configuration other than the input operation unit 54 of the input device 5 according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. FIG. 21 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment.

[overall structure]
The input device 5 according to the present embodiment includes a capacitive element 11 similar to that of the first embodiment, and an input operation unit 54 different from that of the first embodiment. The capacitive element 11 and the input operation unit 54 constitute a mutual capacitance type capacitive sensor device. The input operation unit 54 is a pressing unit that receives an operation with a user's finger f. The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 changes due to the proximity of the finger f accompanying the operation of the input operation unit 54 by the user.

  The electronic device using the input device 5 includes a controller c (see FIG. 3) similar to that of the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the controller c includes a determination unit c1 and a signal generation unit c2. The determination unit c1 determines what operation has been performed on the input operation unit 54 based on the amount of change in capacitance of the capacitive element 11 from the reference capacitance. The signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal based on the determination of the determination unit c1.

[Input device]
The input operation unit 54 includes an upper sheet 54f and a lower sheet 54a that face each other. The input operation unit 54 includes a support member 54e that is disposed between the lower surface of the upper sheet 54f and the upper surface of the lower sheet 54a and forms a space 54c between the upper sheet 54f and the lower sheet 54a. The lower sheet 54a is formed with a protrusion 54b that protrudes toward the upper sheet 54f (upward in the Z-axis direction). The support member 54e is disposed outside the region where the protrusion 54b is formed in the lower sheet 54a. The protrusion 54b is separated from the upper sheet 54f in the space 54c.

  The upper sheet 54f of the input operation unit 54 is formed of a material having elasticity and insulation. Examples of such a material include PET (Polyethylene terephthalate), polyethylene, and polypropylene. Further, the upper sheet 54f may be formed of a material that has a certain degree of flexibility and can be processed thinly, such as cloth or leather.

  On the other hand, the lower sheet 54f of the input operation unit 54 is formed of an insulating material that does not easily deform. Examples of such materials include polyethylene terephthalate, silicon, polyethylene, polypropylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, and rubber materials. For forming the lower sheet 54f, for example, a film, a molded body, or a fiber cloth formed of the above material is used.

  FIG. 21B shows a touch state (first state) in which the input operation unit 54 receives a touch operation with the user's finger f. In the touch state, the finger f exerts a very small force on the input operation unit 54. At this time, although the finger f is in contact with the first upper sheet 54f, the upper sheet 54f is not substantially deformed. Therefore, in the touch state, a substantially uniform pressure is applied to the entire contact surface of the finger f by the upper sheet 54f.

  The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state shown in FIG. 21B is the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the state where there is no influence of the finger f shown in FIG. Lower than capacity.

  FIG. 21C shows a push state (second state) in which the input operation unit 54 receives a push operation with the finger f. In the push state shown in FIG. 21C, when the upper sheet 54f of the input operation unit 54 is pressed from the touch state shown in FIG. 21B, the portion receiving the press in the upper sheet 54f enters the space 54e. At the same time, the upper sheet 54f contacts the protrusion 54b of the lower sheet 54a. At this time, the upper sheet 54f is deformed in accordance with the shape of the protrusion 54b of the lower sheet 54a. Accordingly, the upper sheet 54f pressed by the finger f enters the gap 54d between the adjacent protrusions 54b.

  Thus, the finger f is closer to the capacitive element 11 in the push state than in the touch state. For this reason, the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the push state illustrated in FIG. 21C is further lower than the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state illustrated in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, in the push state, the protrusion 54d applies a stimulus to the finger f through the upper sheet 54f. That is, in the touch state, a substantially uniform pressure is applied to the entire contact surface of the finger f by the upper sheet 54f, whereas in the push state, a non-uniform pressure is applied to the contact surface of the finger f by the upper sheet 54f. Specifically, in the push state, the pressure applied to the finger f is relatively high in the portion of the upper sheet 54f that is in contact with the protrusion 54b, and the portion of the upper sheet 54f that is not in contact with the protrusion 54b (gap 54d). The pressure applied to the finger f is relatively low in the part where it enters.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the distribution of pressure applied as a reaction from the upper sheet 54f to the finger f differs between the touch state and the push state. Thereby, since the user receives a different feeling (operation feeling) between the push state and the touch state, the user can intuitively identify the touch state and the push state.

  Further, the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c can determine the touch state and the push state in accordance with the timing at which the user identifies the touch state and the push state based on the touch of the input operation unit 54. It is configured.

  Since the input device 5 according to the present embodiment can determine the touch state and the push state by the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c, the same function as the input device 1 according to the first embodiment is achieved. Is done. Therefore, the input device 5 can be applied to electronic devices such as a personal computer, a portable terminal device, an imaging device, a portable music player, and a remote controller, like the input device 1 according to the first embodiment. is there.

  In the present embodiment, the protruding portion 54b is formed on the lower sheet 54a, but the protruding portion may have a different configuration. For example, the protruding portion may be directly formed at a position facing the upper sheet 54 f of the capacitive element 11.

<Fourth Embodiment>
FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view showing one unit in the input device 6 according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology. The configuration other than the upper sheet 64f of the input operation unit 64 in the input device 6 according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the third embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. FIG. 22 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 21 according to the third embodiment.

  In the upper sheet 64f according to the present embodiment, openings 64g are formed at positions facing the protrusions 54b of the lower sheet 54a.

  FIG. 22B shows a touch state (first state) in which the input operation unit 64 receives a touch operation with the user's finger f. In the touch state, the finger f exerts a very small force on the input operation unit 64. Although the finger f is in contact with the first upper sheet 54f, the upper sheet 54f is not substantially deformed. Therefore, in the touch state, a substantially uniform pressure is applied to the entire contact surface of the finger f by the upper sheet 54f.

  The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state shown in FIG. 22B is the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the state where there is no influence of the finger f shown in FIG. Lower than capacity.

  FIG. 22C shows a push state (second state) in which the input operation unit 64 receives a push operation with the finger f. In the push state shown in FIG. 22 (C), when the upper sheet 64f of the input operation unit 64 is pressed from the touch state shown in FIG. 22 (B), the pressed part of the upper sheet 64f enters the space 54e. Get in. At the same time, the protrusions 54b of the lower sheet 54a are inserted through the openings 64g of the upper sheet 64f facing each other, and the protrusions 54b enter the gaps 54g.

  Thus, the finger f is closer to the capacitive element 11 in the push state than in the touch state. For this reason, the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the push state illustrated in FIG. 22C is further lower than the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state illustrated in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, in the push state, the protrusion 54d inserted through the opening 64g of the upper sheet 64f directly stimulates the finger f. That is, in the touch state, a substantially uniform pressure is applied to the entire contact surface of the finger f by the upper sheet 64f, whereas in the push state, a non-uniform pressure is applied to the contact surface of the finger f by the upper sheet 64f. Specifically, in the push state, the pressure applied to the finger f is relatively high in the portion where the projection 54b passes through the opening 64g in the upper sheet 64f, and the portion where the opening 64g in the upper sheet 64f is not formed ( In the portion where the gap 54d enters, the pressure applied to the finger f is relatively low.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the distribution of pressure applied to the finger f from the input operation unit 64 differs between the touch state and the push state. Thereby, since the user receives a different feeling (operation feeling) between the push state and the touch state, the user can intuitively identify the touch state and the push state.

  In addition, the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c can determine the touch state and the push state in accordance with the timing at which the user identifies the touch state and the push state based on the touch of the input operation unit 64. It is configured.

<Fifth Embodiment>
FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view showing one unit in the input device 7 according to the fifth embodiment of the present technology. The configuration other than the input operation unit 74 of the input device 7 according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. FIG. 23 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment.

[overall structure]
The input device 7 according to the present embodiment includes a capacitive element 11 similar to that of the first embodiment, and an input operation unit 74 different from that of the first embodiment. The capacitive element 11 and the input operation unit 74 constitute a mutual capacitance type capacitive sensor device. The input operation unit 74 is a pressing unit that receives an operation with a user's finger f. The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 changes due to the proximity of the finger f accompanying the operation of the input operation unit 74 by the user.

  An electronic device using the input device 7 includes a controller c (see FIG. 3) similar to that of the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the controller c includes a determination unit c1 and a signal generation unit c2. The determination unit c1 determines what operation has been performed on the input operation unit 74 based on the amount of change in the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 from the reference capacitance. The signal generation unit c2 generates an operation signal based on the determination of the determination unit c1.

[Input device]
The input operation unit 74 includes a sheet 74 a that faces the capacitive element 11, and a support member 74 e that is disposed so as to form a space 74 d between the sheet 74 a and the capacitive element 11. A plurality of protrusions 74b extending on the side opposite to the capacitive element 11 (upper side in the Z-axis direction) are arranged at the center of the sheet 74a. That is, a gap 74c is formed between the protrusions 74b adjacent to each other. The support member 74e is disposed outside the region of the sheet 74a where the protrusion 74b is formed.

  The sheet 74a of the input operation unit 74 is formed of a material having elasticity and insulation. Examples of such materials include polyethylene terephthalate, silicon, polyethylene, polypropylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, and rubber materials. For the formation of the sheet 74a, for example, a film, a molded body, or a fiber cloth formed of the above material is used.

  The support member 74e is formed of a hard resin material or ceramic material that is not easily deformed by an operation with the finger f on the sheet 74a.

  FIG. 23B illustrates a touch state (first state) in which the input operation unit 74 receives a touch operation with the user's finger f. In the touch state, the finger f exerts a very small force on the input operation unit 74. At this time, the finger f in contact with the protrusion 74b of the sheet 74a receives the first pressure pushed back by the protrusion 74b.

  The electrostatic capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state shown in FIG. 23B is the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the state where there is no influence of the finger f shown in FIG. Lower than capacity.

  FIG. 23C shows a push state (second state) in which the input operation unit 74 receives a push operation with the finger f. In the push state shown in FIG. 23C, the sheet 74a is bent toward the capacitive element 11 side (the lower side in the Z-axis direction) by being pressed from the touch operation state shown in FIG. The portion pressed by the finger f of the sheet 74a enters the space 74d.

  Thus, the finger f is closer to the capacitive element 11 in the push state than in the touch state. Therefore, the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the push state illustrated in FIG. 23C is further lower than the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state illustrated in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, in the push state, the tips of the protrusions 74b adjacent to each other approach each other due to a change in the curvature of the sheet 74a as the sheet 74a bends downward in the Z-axis direction. That is, as the sheet 74a bends downward in the Z-axis direction, the width of the upper portion of the gap 74c becomes narrower.

  Therefore, when the state shown in FIG. 23B is changed to the state shown in FIG. 23C, the fingers f pressing the sheet 74a are adjacent to each other as well as the first pressure pushed back to the protrusion 74b. The second pressure sandwiched between the tips of the protrusions 74b is also received.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the distribution of pressure applied as a reaction from the upper sheet 54f to the finger f differs between the touch state and the push state. Thereby, since the user receives a different feeling (operation feeling) between the push state and the touch state, the user can intuitively identify the touch state and the push state.

  In addition, the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c can determine the touch state and the push state in accordance with the timing at which the user identifies the touch state and the push state based on the touch of the input operation unit 74. It is configured.

  Since the input device 7 according to the present embodiment can determine the touch state and the push state by the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c, the same function as the input device 1 according to the first embodiment is achieved. Is done. Similarly to the input device 1 according to the first embodiment, the input device 7 can be applied to electronic devices such as a personal computer, a portable terminal device, an imaging device, a portable music player, and a remote controller.

<Sixth Embodiment>
FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional view showing one unit in the input device 8 according to the sixth embodiment of the present technology. The configuration other than the lower sheet 84f of the input operation unit 84 in the input device 8 according to this embodiment is the same as that of the fifth embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. FIG. 24 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 23 according to the fifth embodiment.

  The input operation unit 84 according to the present embodiment includes a lower sheet 84a between the capacitive element 11 and the support member 74e. The lower sheet 84a is bonded to the capacitive element 11, and a second protrusion 84b is formed in the central region of the lower sheet 84a.

  The second protruding portion 84b faces the sheet 74a side (the Z-axis direction upper side) and is separated from the sheet 74a in the space 74d. Further, the second protrusion 84b is formed at a position facing the gap 74c of the sheet 74a. The second protrusions 84b are formed at equal intervals. The region where the second protrusion 84b is formed in the lower sheet 84a is narrower than the region where the protrusion 74b is formed in the sheet 74a.

  The lower sheet 84a is formed of an insulating material that does not easily deform. Examples of such materials include polyethylene terephthalate, silicon, polyethylene, polypropylene, acrylic, polycarbonate, and rubber materials. For forming the lower sheet 54f, for example, a film, a molded body, or a fiber cloth formed of the above material is used.

  FIG. 24B shows a touch state (first state) in which the input operation unit 84 receives a touch operation with the user's finger f. In the touch state, the finger f exerts a very small force on the input operation unit 84. At this time, the finger f in contact with the protrusion 84b of the sheet 84a receives the first pressure pushed back by the protrusion 84b.

  The capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state shown in FIG. 24B is the electrostatic capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the state where there is no influence of the finger f shown in FIG. Lower than capacity.

  FIG. 24C illustrates a push state (second state) in which the input operation unit 84 receives a push operation with the finger f. In the push state shown in FIG. 24C, the sheet 74a is bent toward the capacitive element 11 side (the lower side in the Z-axis direction), and a portion pressed by the finger f of the sheet 74a enters the space 74d.

  Thus, the finger f is closer to the capacitive element 11 in the push state than in the touch state. Therefore, the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the push state illustrated in FIG. 24C is further lower than the capacitance of the capacitive element 11 in the touch state illustrated in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, in the pushed state, the portion of the gap 74c in the sheet 74a is pushed up by the second protrusion 84b and deformed.

  Also in this embodiment, as in the fifth embodiment, the finger f that presses the sheet 74a is sandwiched between the first pressure pushed back by the projection 74b and the tip of the projection 74b adjacent to each other. And receive the pressure. However, in this embodiment, since the sheet 74a is pushed up by the second protrusion 84b, both the first pressure and the second pressure are different from those of the fifth embodiment.

  In general, the user may be able to predict the feel when pressing the sheet 74a on which the protrusion 74b is formed visually. However, in the input device 8 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to give a feel different from the user's prediction to the finger f pressing the sheet 74a by the action of the second protrusion 84b that cannot be visually recognized from the appearance. It is.

  In addition, the arrangement | positioning of the 2nd projection part 84b should just give the touch different from expectation to the user who pressed the sheet | seat 74a. Each second protrusion 84b may be formed, for example, at a position facing the protrusion 74b in the lower sheet 84a, or an area facing the area where the protrusion 74b of the sheet 74a is formed in the lower sheet 84a. It may be formed randomly.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the distribution of pressure applied as a reaction from the upper sheet 54f to the finger f differs between the touch state and the push state. Thereby, since the user receives a different feeling (operation feeling) between the push state and the touch state, the user can intuitively identify the touch state and the push state.

  In addition, the determination unit c1 (see FIG. 3) of the controller c can determine the touch state and the push state in accordance with the timing at which the user identifies the touch state and the push state based on the touch of the input operation unit 84. It is configured.

  In the present embodiment, the second protrusion 84b is formed on the lower sheet 84a, but the protrusion may have a different configuration. For example, the protrusion may be directly formed at a position facing the sheet 74 a of the capacitive element 11.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this technique was described, this technique is not limited only to the above-mentioned embodiment, Of course, in the range which does not deviate from the summary of this technique, various changes can be added.

  For example, the touch panel display can be configured by configuring the input device to be transparent in the thickness direction and disposing a display device as an output device on the surface opposite to the input operation unit. Thereby, since it becomes possible to operate the display device with a finger, a more intuitive operation is possible, and the operability is remarkably improved.

  In the above embodiment, the input device is a flat plate, but the shape of the input device is not limited to this. For example, the input device may have a configuration in which the input operation unit is formed in a curved surface, or a configuration in which the input device itself can be freely deformed in the thickness direction.

  Furthermore, although the capacitive sensor and the contact type sensor have been described as examples of the sensor element in the above-described embodiment, other sensor elements such as a magnetic sensor may be employed in addition to the above.

In addition, this technique can also take the following structures.
(1) It has a pressing portion and a plurality of protrusions, and the pressing portion includes a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface, The plurality of protrusions include a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operating element, and a second pressing force in which the first surface is larger than the first pressing force by the operating element. An input operation unit configured to have a different distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element in the second state of receiving pressure;
A sensor element disposed opposite to the second surface and outputting different signals in the first state and the second state;
A sensor device comprising:
(2) The sensor device according to (1) above,
The sensor device is a capacitive element whose electrostatic capacity is changed by the proximity of an operator.
(3) The sensor device according to (1) above,
The sensor element is a contact sensor element having a pair of electrodes that can contact each other by receiving the second pressing force.
(4) The sensor device according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The plurality of protrusions are formed on the first surface, and are configured by a first protrusion and a second protrusion lower than the first protrusion.
(5) The sensor device according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The pressing part is elastically deformable,
The input operation unit includes a support unit disposed between the second surface and the sensor element, and a third surface facing the second surface with the support unit interposed therebetween,
The plurality of protrusions are formed on the third surface.
(6) The sensor device according to (5) above,
An opening is formed at each of the pressing portions at positions facing the plurality of protrusions.
(7) The sensor device according to any one of (1) to (3) above,
The pressing part is elastically deformable,
The plurality of protrusions are formed on the first surface.
(8) The sensor device according to (7) above,
The input operation unit includes a support unit disposed between the second surface and the sensor element, and a third surface facing the second surface with the support unit interposed therebetween,
The plurality of protrusions are configured by a first protrusion formed on the first surface and a second protrusion formed on the third surface.
(9) It has a pressing portion and a plurality of protrusions, and the pressing portion includes a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface, The plurality of protrusions include a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operating element, and a second pressing force in which the first surface is larger than the first pressing force by the operating element. An input operation unit configured to have a different distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element in the second state of receiving pressure;
A sensor element disposed opposite to the second surface and outputting different input signals in the first state and the second state;
A controller having a determination unit for determining a change from the first state to the second state based on the input signal;
An input device comprising:
(10) The input device according to (9) above,
The input device further includes a signal generation unit that generates an operation signal when the determination unit determines the change.
(11) It has a pressing portion and a plurality of protrusions, and the pressing portion includes a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface, The plurality of protrusions include a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by the operating element, and a second pressing force in which the first surface is larger than the first pressing force by the operating element. An input operation unit configured to have a different distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element in the second state of receiving pressure;
A sensor element disposed opposite to the second surface and outputting different input signals in the first state and the second state;
A determination unit that determines a change from the first state to the second state based on the input signal; and a signal generation unit that generates an operation signal when the determination unit determines the change. A controller,
A processing device for generating a command signal based on the operation signal;
An output device for performing output based on the command signal;
An electronic device comprising:
(12) The electronic device according to (11) above,
The output device is a display device, and the display device displays an image based on the command signal.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Input device 11 ... Capacitance element 12 ... X electrode 13 ... Y electrode 14 ... Input operation part 14a ... Flat part 14b ... 1st projection part 14c ... 2nd projection part 14d ... Recessed part

Claims (12)

A pressing portion; and a plurality of protrusions, the pressing portion including a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the plurality of protrusions And a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by an operator, and a first surface receives a second pressing force that is greater than the first pressing force by the operator. An input operation unit configured to have a different distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element in the second state;
A sensor element that is disposed opposite to the second surface and outputs different signals in the first state and the second state;
A sensor device comprising: The sensor device according to claim 1,
The sensor element is a capacitive element whose electrostatic capacity is changed by the proximity of an operator. The sensor device according to claim 1,
The sensor element is a contact-type sensor element having a pair of electrodes that can contact each other by receiving the second pressing force. The sensor device according to claim 1,
The plurality of protrusions are formed on the first surface, and are configured by a first protrusion and a second protrusion lower than the first protrusion. The sensor device according to claim 1,
The pressing portion is elastically deformable,
The input operation unit further includes a support unit disposed between the second surface and the sensor element, and a third surface facing the second surface with the support unit interposed therebetween. ,
The plurality of protrusions are formed on the third surface. The sensor device according to claim 5,
An opening is formed in each of the pressing portions at positions facing the plurality of protrusions. The sensor device according to claim 1,
The pressing portion is elastically deformable,
The plurality of protrusions are formed on the first surface. The sensor device according to claim 7,
The input operation unit further includes a support unit disposed between the second surface and the sensor element, and a third surface facing the second surface with the support unit interposed therebetween. ,
The plurality of protrusions are configured by a first protrusion formed on the first surface and a second protrusion formed on the third surface. A pressing portion; and a plurality of protrusions, the pressing portion including a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the plurality of protrusions And a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by an operator, and a first surface receives a second pressing force that is greater than the first pressing force by the operator. An input operation unit configured to have a different distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element in the second state;
A sensor element that is disposed opposite to the second surface and outputs different input signals in the first state and the second state;
A controller having a determination unit for determining a change from the first state to the second state based on the input signal;
An input device comprising: The input device according to claim 9,
The controller further includes a signal generation unit that generates an operation signal when the determination unit determines the change. A pressing portion; and a plurality of protrusions, the pressing portion including a first surface that receives an operation by an operator and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the plurality of protrusions And a first state in which the first surface receives a first pressing force by an operator, and a first surface receives a second pressing force that is greater than the first pressing force by the operator. An input operation unit configured to have a different distribution of pressure applied as a reaction to the operation element in the second state;
A sensor element that is disposed opposite to the second surface and outputs different input signals in the first state and the second state;
A determination unit that determines a change from the first state to the second state based on the input signal; and a signal generation unit that generates an operation signal when the determination unit determines the change. A controller,
A processing device for generating a command signal based on the operation signal;
An output device for performing output based on the command signal;
An electronic device comprising: The electronic device according to claim 11,
The output device is a display device, and the display device displays an image based on the command signal.