JP2017142298A - Switching device and imaging instrument applying the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a switching device that allows an operation equivalent to that upon normal usage to be performed regardless of usage environments in the switching device to be used in an electronic instrument usable underwater.SOLUTION: A switching device comprises: an elastic member 32 that has a first a contact point 34 to be displaced to a first position when receiving a first amount of force and for outputting a first signal, and a second contact point 36 passing through the first position, and to be displaced to a second position when receiving a second amount of force greater than the first amount of force; an electric substrate 31 that has a first contact point pattern 35 contacting with the first contact point to output the first signal, and a second contact point pattern 37 contacting with the second contact point to output the second signal; and a detector 14 that detects an underwater depth; and control means 20 that, when the detector does not detect a prescribed underwater depth, causes a prescribed operation of the electronic instrument to be performed on the basis of the first signal, and when the detector detects the prescribed underwater depth, causes the prescribed operation of the electronic instrument to be performed on the basis of the second signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to a switch device applied to an electronic device, and more particularly to a switch device applied to an electronic device that can be used in water.

  Conventionally, various electronic devices corresponding to various applications have been put into practical use and widely spread. For example, an optical image formed by an imaging optical system is sequentially converted into an image signal using an imaging device or the like, and images based on the obtained image signal are sequentially displayed continuously using a display device. When the instruction signal is generated, an image signal of a still image or a moving image in a predetermined period before or after the generation of the instruction signal is acquired, converted into image data of a predetermined form, and recorded on a storage medium On the other hand, when a reproduction instruction signal is generated, the image data recorded on the storage medium is converted into an image signal of a predetermined form, and an image based on the image signal can be reproduced and displayed using a display device. In general, imaging devices such as digital cameras have been put into practical use.

  In order to realize various functions, an electronic device such as this type of imaging device has a switch device configured to receive an operation input of a user (user) and output an electrical signal. It is normal to be configured. In this case, the switch device includes a plurality of operation members and a plurality of switch members or electric contact portions (contact patterns) corresponding to the plurality of operation members.

  In recent years, various electronic devices that have a dustproof and waterproof function and can be used in water have been proposed and put into practical use. In a conventional switch device applied to an electronic device that can be used underwater, when the operation member is, for example, a press-type operation member, the operation member is pressed by water pressure when a predetermined depth of water is exceeded during use in water. There is a possibility of being.

  Therefore, in a conventional switch device applied to an electronic device that can be used underwater, for example, a configuration in which the amount of operation force is increased in consideration of the water pressure applied to the pressing-type operation member when used in water can be considered.

  Further, the means disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-37325 includes a first switch that outputs a first signal due to displacement of an operation member that is displaced by a pressing operation, and further pressing operation through the displacement of the operating member. A release switch device having a second switch that outputs a second signal according to the displacement and an underwater detection means for detecting underwater depth are provided. In this configuration, when it is determined by the underwater detection means that the device is not underwater, an automatic focusing operation is performed based on the first signal, and a normal release operation is performed in which an exposure operation is performed based on the second signal. Control is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined by the underwater detection means that the device is underwater, after the automatic focusing operation is performed using the second signal, the exposure operation is performed if there is a second signal again. The

JP2013-37325A

  However, in the switch device applied to the conventional electronic device that can be used underwater, there is a problem that when the operating force of the operating member is simply increased, the operational feeling of the operating member is significantly impaired.

  Further, since the means disclosed in the above Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-37325 is control limited to the release operation, it cannot be applied as it is to a switch device having other functions than the release operation. There is a problem. In addition, in the means disclosed in the above publication, the release operation procedure when the device is underwater is different from the general release operation procedure when the device is not underwater. There is a problem that it is necessary to get used to, and the operational feeling is impaired.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described points, and an object of the present invention is a switch device applied to an electronic device, particularly a switch device applied to an electronic device that can be used in water. Provided a switch device that can perform a pressing operation with almost the same amount of operation force as when used on land, etc. even when the electronic device is used underwater, and an imaging device to which this is applied It is to be.

  In order to achieve the above object, a switch device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a switch device applied to a waterproof electronic device. The switch device receives a first force and is displaced to a first position. In response to the first contact for outputting the first signal and the second position larger than the first force amount through the first position, the second signal is displaced to the second position. An elastic member having a second contact for outputting, a first contact pattern for contacting the first contact and outputting the first signal, and a contact for contacting the second contact An electric board having a second contact pattern for outputting a second signal, a detector for detecting underwater depth, and the first signal when the detector does not detect a predetermined underwater depth The electronic device is caused to perform a predetermined operation based on the Upon detection of a medium depth and a control means for controlling so as to perform the predetermined operation of the electronic apparatus of the waterproof based on the second signal.

  The switch device according to another aspect of the present invention is a switch device applied to a waterproof electronic device that can be used in water. The switch device is displaced according to the displacement of the pressed member and the pressed member. First contact means for generating a first signal at a predetermined displacement amount of the member to be pressed, and second for generating a second signal at a displacement amount larger than the predetermined displacement amount of the member to be pressed. When the contact means, the detector for detecting the underwater depth of the electronic device, and the detector do not detect the predetermined underwater depth, a predetermined operation of the electronic device is performed based on the first signal. And a control means for controlling the predetermined operation of the waterproof electronic device based on the second signal when the detector detects a predetermined underwater depth.

  An imaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the switch device and a focusing unit, and the predetermined operation is a focusing operation for performing imaging.

  According to the present invention, in a switch device applied to a waterproof electronic device, particularly a switch device applied to an electronic device that can be used underwater, even when the electronic device is used underwater, during normal use on land, etc. Can be provided, and a waterproof specification imaging apparatus to which the switch device can be obtained.

1 is an external perspective view showing an external appearance of an electronic device (imaging device) to which the switch device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied. The block block diagram which shows notionally the structure of the switch apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the structure of the switch apparatus of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. 3, and shows the state which has an elastic member in a 1st position The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. 3, and shows the state which has an elastic member in a 2nd position The flowchart which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the switch apparatus of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the switch apparatus of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. 8, and shows the state which has an operation member in a 1st position The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. 8, and shows the state which has an operation member in a 2nd position The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the switch apparatus of the 4th Embodiment of this invention The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. 11, and shows the state which has an operation member in a 1st position The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the effect | action of the switch apparatus of FIG. 11, and shows the state which has an operation member in a 2nd position

  The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. Each drawing used in the following description is schematically shown. In order to show each component in a size that can be recognized on the drawing, the dimensional relationship and scale of each member are different for each component. May be shown. Accordingly, the present invention is limited only to the illustrated embodiments with respect to the quantity of components, the shape of the components, the size ratio of the components, the relative positional relationship of the components, and the like described in the drawings. It is not something.

[First Embodiment]
First, before describing the waterproof specification switch device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a schematic configuration of a waterproof specification imaging device, which is an electronic device to which the switch device is applied, a so-called camera will be described with reference to FIG. Will be described below.

  FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an external appearance of a camera, which is a waterproof electronic device (imaging device) to which the switch device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied. In addition, in FIG. 1, the external appearance at the time of seeing from the back side mainly of the said imaging device is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a waterproof imaging device 1, which is an electronic device to which a waterproof switch device 30 of this embodiment (described later; see FIG. 3, etc.) is applied, has a box-shaped device casing as a whole. 10 and various components housed in the device casing 10 are mainly configured.

  The device casing 10 is composed of a front cover 11 as an external member that mainly covers the front side and the peripheral side surface, and a back cover 12 that is an external member that mainly covers the back side. A rear display unit 13 is disposed on the rear side of the rear cover 12. The rear display unit 13 is a component unit that includes a display panel and the like. The display panel of the rear display unit 13 is disposed in a form exposed to the outside of the rear surface.

  A plurality of operation members are provided at predetermined positions on the outer surface of the device casing 10 so as to be partially exposed to the outside, and accept external operation inputs by the user. The plurality of operation members act on a control circuit (not shown in FIG. 1; will be described later) in the imaging device 1 and function as a part of a switch device that controls a predetermined operation of the imaging device 1 It is.

  Specifically, on the back surface of the back cover 12, a plurality of operation members (23, 25) are disposed in a region other than a region where the display panel of the back display unit 13 is disposed. A plurality of operation members (21, 22, 24) are disposed on the upper surface side of the front cover 11.

  The plurality of operation members (21, 22, 23, 24, 25) are operation members configured to perform a predetermined operation such as a pressing operation, a tilting operation, and a rotating operation. Specifically, for example, there are the push type (push type) operation members 21, 22, 23, the tilt type (lever type) operation member 24, and the rotation type (dial type) operation member 25. In addition to the above, the types of operation members include those corresponding to a sliding operation, for example, although not shown.

  Among the plurality of operation members, as the pressing type (push type) operation members (21, 22), there are a release button 21 and a power button 22, for example. Similarly, the push-type operation member 23 includes a moving image capturing button, an information display button, a playback mode switching button, a setting determination button, a menu call button, a wireless communication start button, and a four-way pressing button. . The four-way push button is an operation member for performing, for example, changing the exposure correction value setting, setting the operation mode switching of the flash light emitting device, switching setting of the drive mode, setting change of imaging conditions such as white balance or ISO sensitivity, and the like. is there.

  Further, as the tilting type (lever type) operation member 24, for example, there is a zoom lever for performing a zoom operation. Examples of the rotary (dial type) operation member 25 include a mode dial for switching operation modes.

  As described above, the plurality of operation members (21 to 25) provided in the imaging device 1 are provided as operation members that receive operation inputs from the user (user) in order to realize various functions.

  When the plurality of operation members (21 to 25) receive an operation input (for example, pressing force) by the user, the electric board 31 (not shown in FIG. 1; not shown in FIG. 2 (see FIG. 2 and the like) and is configured to act on a plurality of switch members (not shown in FIG. 1; described later) or contact patterns corresponding to the plurality of operation members.

  The plurality of switch members or contact patterns are configured to receive an operation input from a corresponding operation member of the plurality of operation members and to output an electrical signal. The electrical signals output from the plurality of switch members or contact patterns are output to the control circuit, and are configured to control a predetermined operation of the imaging device 1.

  In addition, the imaging device 1 can be used in water so that each part of the device housing 10, for example, a fitting portion between the front cover 11 and the rear cover 12, a mounting portion of the rear display unit 13, A known configuration for realizing a dustproof and waterproof function is applied to the mounting portions and the like of the plurality of operation members. Since the configuration for realizing the dustproof and waterproof function is a portion not directly related to the present invention, the description and illustration thereof are omitted as having a general configuration applied in a conventional imaging device. To do. The dustproof and waterproof structure around the switch device is publicly known and used, but will be described in detail in the description of the configuration of the switch device described later.

  Next, the configuration of the switch device of the present embodiment applied to the imaging device 1 will be described below with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is a block configuration diagram conceptually showing the configuration of the switch device of the present embodiment. 3 to 5 are longitudinal sectional views showing the configuration of the switch device of the present embodiment. Among these, FIG. 3 has shown the normal state in a switch apparatus. FIG. 4 shows a state where the elastic member is in the first position in the switch device. FIG. 5 shows a state where the elastic member is in the second position in the switch device. FIG. 6 is a flowchart (subroutine) showing the operation of the switch device of this embodiment. 4, 5, and 6 are diagrams for explaining the operation of the switch device, and details thereof will be described later.

  The switch device 30 exemplified in the present embodiment is a switch device having a pressing operation member as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the switch device 30 of the present embodiment includes an operation board 23, a plurality of contacts (34, 36), and a plurality of contact patterns (35, 37). 3), an elastic member 32 which is a waterproof means, a detector 14 which is a depth detector in water, a control circuit 20 which is a control means, and the like.

  As described above, as shown in FIG. 3, the operation member 23 is partly exposed to the outside from the outer surface of the device housing 10 and is disposed so as to be movable in the direction along the arrow Y in FIG. 3. Yes. In this case, the operation member 23 is configured to have a retaining portion 23 a so as not to fall off from the outer surface of the device housing 10. Further, a pressing portion 23 b that protrudes toward the inside of the device housing 10 is formed on one surface of the operation member 23.

  On the other hand, inside the device housing 10, it is formed in a direction along the Y in which the operation member 23 is displaced and is opposed to the pressing portion 23 b of the operation member 23 by a rubber material that is an elastic elastomer. An elastic member 32 is disposed. The elastic member 32 is fixedly disposed on the electric substrate 31 fixed inside the device casing 10 of the imaging device 1. In this case, it is assumed that the electric board 31 is disposed so as to be parallel to a plane orthogonal to the direction along the displacing arrow Y of the operation member 23 (see FIG. 3).

  The elastic member 32 is formed so as to have a convex portion 32a that protrudes toward the outside in a state where a part thereof is separated from the mounting surface of the electric substrate 31. As a result, a predetermined space 33, for example, a conical space is formed between the inner portion of the convex portion 32 a of the elastic member 32 and the mounting surface of the electric board 31. Then, the pressing portion 23b of the operation member 23 is bonded and fixed to the outer surface side of the convex portion 32a of the elastic member 32 so as to be integrated. In addition, the device casing 10 includes a through hole 10a through which the operation member 23 protrudes to the outside, and a part of waterproof means provided so as to extend vertically from the periphery of the through hole 10a on the inside of the device casing 10. A partition wall portion 10b serving as a portion to be formed is formed. A part of the structure of the waterproof means of the elastic member 32 in which the distal end portion of the partition wall portion 10b is in close contact with the electric substrate 31 so that water or the like entering from the through hole 10a does not enter the inside of the device housing 10. The flat portion 32b is in contact with and is in close contact with the flat portion 32b. With this configuration, the space 33 is configured to be watertight from the outside.

  With this configuration, the elastic member 32 receives an operation input (external force; pressing force in the present embodiment) from the outside through the operation member 23 in the direction along the arrow Y. It is configured to be displaced. In this case, the elastic member 32 is a pressed member that is pressed through the operation member 23. Further, the elastic member 32 is configured to return to its original position by its own elastic force when the external force (pressing force) applied via the operation member 23 is released.

  In addition, when the switch apparatus 30 of this embodiment exists in the state shown in FIG. 3, let this state be a normal state in the following description. When the switch device 30 is in the normal state, it is assumed that no external force is applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32. Further, in this case, the external force applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32 includes, for example, water pressure applied when the imaging device 1 is placed in an underwater environment, in addition to an operation input by the user. Further, the normal state shown in FIG. 3 is also a state in which the operation member 23 is in the position indicated by the reference numeral [A] shown in FIG.

  The elastic member 32 has the plurality of contacts (34, 36). The plurality of contacts (34, 36) are provided at a predetermined portion facing the space 33 in the convex portion 32a. Here, the plurality of contacts (34, 36) are a first contact 34 (first contact means) and a second contact 36 (second contact means), respectively. With this configuration, the elastic member 32 (see FIG. 3) functions as a waterproof means for waterproofing the plurality of contacts, that is, the first contact 34 and the second contact 36.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3, two first contacts 34 and one second contact 36 are provided. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. Further, in FIG. 2, the configuration of the switch device 30 is conceptually illustrated, and therefore the number of the first contacts 34 and the second contacts 36 is not illustrated.

  On the other hand, the electric board 31 has the plurality of contact patterns (35, 37). Here, the plurality of contact patterns are a first contact pattern 35 and a second contact pattern 37 formed on the mounting surface of the electric substrate 31 and in the space 33, respectively. The same number of the first contact patterns 35 are provided corresponding to the first contacts 34 (two pieces) of the elastic member 32, and each of the first contact patterns 35 is disposed at a position facing the first contact 34. Yes. Similarly, the same number of second contact patterns 37 are provided corresponding to the second contacts 36 (one piece) of the elastic member 32, and are disposed at positions facing the second contacts 36.

  Therefore, with such a configuration, the elastic member 32 receives the first force amount through the operation member 23 and is displaced, and the first contact 34 contacts the first contact pattern 35. A first signal is output by reaching a position (described later). In addition, after passing through the first position, the elastic member 32 receives a second force amount larger than the first force amount through the operation member 23 to displace the second contact point 36. A second signal is output by reaching a second position (described later) in contact with the second contact pattern 37.

  The first position of the elastic member 32 refers to a position corresponding to the amount of displacement of the elastic member 32 when the switch device 30 is in the state shown in FIG. At the first position, as described above, the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are in contact with each other. At this time, the second contact point 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are not in contact with each other and are in a separated state. The state at this time is also a state in which the operation member 23 is in a position (indicated by a dotted line) indicated by a symbol [B] illustrated in FIG.

  The second position of the elastic member 32 refers to a position corresponding to the amount of displacement of the elastic member 32 when the switch device 30 is in the state shown in FIG. At the second position, as described above, the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are in contact with each other. At this time, the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are also in contact with each other. The state at this time is also a state in which the operation member 23 is at a position (indicated by a two-dot chain line) indicated by a symbol [C] shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 2, the elastic member 32 having a plurality of contacts (34, 36) is displaced when a pressing force in the direction of arrow F is applied by the operating member 23. The displacement at that time is moved in the direction of arrow R. This is indicated by the rotation. That is, it is shown that the elastic member 32 is displaced from the normal position indicated by the symbol [A] in FIG. 2 to the second position indicated by the symbol [C] through the first position indicated by the symbol [B]. Here, when the operating member 23 is displaced from the first position indicated by the symbol [B] in FIG. 2 to the second position indicated by the symbol [C], the elastic member 32 is deformed by the amount of pressing force in the direction of the arrow F, Contact between the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 is obtained.

  As described above, when the elastic member 32 is displaced via each operation member 23, the first signal and the second signal output in accordance with the displacement amount are respectively control means. It is output to the control circuit 20.

  The control circuit 20 is composed of a plurality of electronic components including, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit; see FIG. 2), and is formed on the electric substrate 31. The control circuit 20 includes various functions in the imaging device 1, for example, a focusing circuit (focusing means) that performs focus adjustment control, an image processing circuit that appropriately adjusts acquired image data, and the like. ing. The control circuit 20 itself is similar to a control circuit including a general CPU (Central Processing Unit) applied in a conventional imaging device, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The detector 14 is a sensor unit that detects the underwater depth of the imaging device 1. The detector 14 is disposed, for example, on the outer surface of the device housing 10 of the imaging device 1 (see FIG. 3). The configuration of the switch device 30 of the present embodiment is as described above.

  Next, the operation of the switch device 30 of the present embodiment will be described below. First, the mechanical action of the switch device 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 to 5.

  When the imaging device 1 to which the switch device 30 is applied is in a normal use environment (land) other than underwater, the switch device 30 is in a normal state shown in FIG. 3 (see reference sign [A] in FIG. 2). Yes. In other words, in this normal state, no external force is applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32, so that the operation member 23 is in the space 33 of the convex portion 32 a by the elastic force of the elastic member 32. The contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are separated (off state), and the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are also separated (off state).

  In this normal state, when an external force (pressing force) is applied to the operating member 23 and the elastic member 32 in the direction indicated by the arrow Y in FIG. Thus, the elastic member 32 is displaced to the first position shown in FIG. 4 (see reference sign [B] in FIG. 2).

  At this time, as the external force of the first force applied to the operation member 23, in addition to a pressing operation input to the operation member 23 by the user, it depends on water pressure when the imaging device 1 is put in water and reaches a predetermined depth in water. The pressing force is also included.

  Here, the imaging device 1 includes the detector 14 for detecting the depth of water as described above. Therefore, the detection result of the detector 14 determines whether the imaging device 1 is in a normal use environment (land) or in water, and the first force applied to the operation member 23 is determined by the user's pressing operation input. Or whether the pressure is water pressure.

  In the state shown in FIG. 4, when the operation member 23 receives an external force, the elastic member 32 receives the first force in the direction of arrow F via the operation member 23 and is displaced to the first position. At this time, the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are in contact (on state). Further, the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are separated (off state).

  In the state shown in FIG. 4, when an external force (pressing force) is applied to the operating member 23 and the elastic member 32 by a second force amount in the same direction (F direction) larger than the first force amount, In response to this, the elastic member 32 is further displaced through the first position, and is displaced to the second position shown in FIG. 5 (see symbol [C] in FIG. 2). In this case, the external force of the second force applied to the operation member 23 is a pressing operation input to the operation member 23 by the user.

  In the state shown in FIG. 5, the elastic member 32 receives the second force amount in the direction of the arrow F via the operation member 23 and is displaced to the second position. At this time, while the contact state (ON state) between the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 is maintained, the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are in contact (ON state). Become.

  On the other hand, in the state shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, when the external force applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32 is released, the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32 are moved to their original positions (by the elastic force of the elastic member 32 ( The normal state shown in FIG. 3 is restored. As a result, the contact state (ON state) between the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 is released, and then the contact state (ON state) between the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35. Is also released.

  In this case, the external force applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32 is released, for example, when the user stops pressing the operation member 23 and releases the finger from the operation member 23. This is a case where the imaging device 1 that has been underwater at a depth of underwater is pulled out of the water.

  An electrical action executed in the switch device 30 capable of realizing such a series of mechanical actions will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Assume that the imaging apparatus 1 is in a usable state with its power turned on and is set to an operation mode in which an imaging operation is performed. In this state, the control circuit 20 of the imaging device 1 monitors the output of the detector 14 in step S1 of FIG. 6 and determines whether or not the imaging device 1 is in water. In this case, when the detector 14 does not detect a predetermined depth of water, it is determined that the imaging device 1 is not underwater, and the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, the control circuit 20 checks whether or not the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are in contact with each other. Here, when the contact between the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step S3, and in this step S3, the control circuit 20 outputs the first signal. . When the contact between the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 is not confirmed, the process returns to the above-described step S1.

  Here, when the imaging device 1 is not in water and the detector 14 does not detect a predetermined depth in water (step S1 to step S2), the first force is applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32. When the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are in a contact state (on state) (reference [B] in FIGS. 4 and 2), a first signal is output (step S2 to step S2). S3). In this case, the external force generated by the first force is a pressing operation input by the user. Thereafter, the series of processes is terminated, and the process returns to the original process (for example, the main sequence) (return). That is, the imaging device 1 is not in water, and a force greater than the second force greater than the first force is applied to the operation member 23, and the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are brought into contact with each other. However, this is ignored, and the second signal is not read.

  On the other hand, when the detector 14 detects the predetermined depth in water in the process of step S1 described above, the process proceeds to step S4 when it is determined that the imaging device 1 is underwater.

  In step S4, the control circuit 20 checks whether or not the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are in contact with each other. Here, when the contact between the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step S3, and in this step S3, the control circuit 20 outputs the second signal. . If the contact between the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 is not confirmed, the process returns to the above-described step S1.

  Here, when the imaging device 1 is in water at a predetermined depth, the operation member 23 is in a state where a predetermined water pressure is applied. Therefore, at this time, even if the user does not operate the operation member 23, the external force of the first force is applied to the operation member 23 and the elastic member 32 by the water pressure, so that the first contact 34 and the first contact The pattern 35 comes into contact.

  However, in the switch device 30 of the present embodiment, when the detector 14 detects a predetermined underwater depth (step S1 to step S4), the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 are in contact with each other. In this case, the second signal is checked without outputting the first signal, that is, ignoring the contact between the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35. Then, in addition to the first force amount due to the water pressure, a second force amount due to the pressing operation input by the user is added, and the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 are brought into a contact state (ON state). (Symbol [C] in FIGS. 5 and 2) and the second signal are output (steps S4 to S3).

  Thereafter, the series of processes is terminated, and the process returns to the original process (for example, the main sequence) (return).

  Then, after exiting the processing sequence of FIG. 6, a predetermined operation process of the imaging device 1, for example, receiving the signal (first signal or second signal) output in the process of step S3, A focusing operation process or the like is executed (not shown).

  In short, when the detector 14 does not detect a predetermined underwater depth, the control circuit 20 causes the imaging device 1 to perform a predetermined operation (focusing operation or the like) based on the first signal. When the detector 14 detects a predetermined underwater depth, the control circuit 20 controls the imaging device 1 to perform a predetermined operation (focusing operation or the like) based on the second signal. In other words, the first signal when the imaging device 1 is not underwater and the second signal when the imaging device 1 is underwater are identified and control of a predetermined operation in the imaging device 1 is performed.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, in the switch device 30 applied to the imaging device 1 that is a waterproof electronic device, the switch device 30 receives an external force and is displaced to receive the first force. The first contact 34 for displacing to the position and outputting the first signal and the second force larger than the first force through the first position are received and displaced to the second position. An elastic member 32 having a second contact 36 for outputting a second signal, a first contact pattern 35 for contacting the first contact 34 and outputting the first signal, and the above An electric substrate 31 having a second contact pattern 37 for contacting the second contact 36 and outputting the second signal, and the first contact 34 and the second contact of the elastic member 32 36 and a detector 1 for detecting the depth of water. When, is configured by including a control circuit 20 which is a control means.

  Here, when the detector 14 does not detect a predetermined underwater depth, the control circuit 20 performs control to perform a predetermined operation of the electronic device (imaging device 1) based on the first signal, When the detector 14 detects a predetermined depth in water, the electronic device (imaging device 1) is controlled to perform the predetermined operation based on the second signal.

  With this configuration, for example, when the imaging device 1, which is a waterproof electronic device, is determined not to be at a predetermined underwater depth by the detector 14, the electronic device (on the basis of the normal operation, that is, the first signal) Control to perform a predetermined operation (for example, a focusing operation) of the imaging device 1) is performed. On the other hand, when the imaging device 1 that is an electronic device is underwater and is located at a place deeper than a predetermined depth, the first member even if the operation member 23 is pressed by water pressure. Without waiting for the second signal generated in response to the pressing operation with the second power, and based on the second signal, the predetermined operation of the electronic device (imaging device 1) (for example, (Focusing operation) is controlled.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it can be used for a general operation switch, and the imaging device 1 is in a state where water pressure is applied to the operation member 23, for example, even when used underwater, such as on land. Since the pressing operation can be performed with an operation force amount substantially equal to that in use, the operability is not impaired due to the difference in use environment whether or not it is underwater, and the operation can be performed with the same operational feeling.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a switch device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a switch device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

  The switch device 30A of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment described above. In the first embodiment, the first contact 34 and the second contact 36 are provided on the elastic member 32, and the first contact pattern 35 and the second contact pattern 37 are provided on the electric substrate 31, and the elastic member is provided. By displacing 32, the contact point and the contact pattern are sequentially brought into contact with each other so that two types of signals (first signal and second signal) are sequentially generated.

  In contrast to the configuration of the first embodiment as described above, the present embodiment incorporates a two-stage switch structure as a configuration for sequentially generating two types of signals (first signal and second signal). The only difference is that the switch member 38 is applied. Therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof is omitted, and only different portions are described in detail below.

  Note that the switch device 30 </ b> A exemplified in the present embodiment is a switch device having a pressing-type operation member, as in the first embodiment described above.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the switch device 30 </ b> A of the present embodiment includes an operation member 23, a switch member 38, an electric board 31 on which the switch member 38 is mounted, an elastic member 32 </ b> A that is a waterproof means, It includes a detector 14 that is a detector, a control circuit 20 (not shown) that is a control means, and the like.

  Among these, the switch member 38 is an electrical component incorporating a two-stage switch structure as described above. That is, the switch member 38 has a plurality of contact points (not shown; corresponding to the reference numerals 34 and 36) and a plurality of contact patterns (not shown; corresponding to the reference numerals 35 and 37) inside. Configured.

  When the elastic member 32A receives the first amount of force via the operation member 23 and is displaced to the first position, the first contact and the first contact pattern come into contact with each other and the first signal is output. . Further, when the elastic member 32A receives the second force amount larger than the first force amount through the first position and is displaced to the second position, the second contact and the second contact pattern come into contact with each other. A second signal is output. The first contact pattern and the second contact pattern are electrically connected to a control circuit (not shown) on the electric board 31.

  The operation member 23 has substantially the same form as that applied in the first embodiment described above, and has a retaining portion 23a and a pressing portion 23b. The operation member 23 is partly exposed to the outside from the outer surface of the device housing 10 and is disposed so as to be movable in the direction along the arrow Y. And the front-end | tip part vicinity of the press part 23b is adhesively fixed with respect to the predetermined | prescribed site | part 32Ab of 32 A of elastic members.

  Further, the elastic member 32A is fixedly disposed on the electric substrate 31 fixed inside the device casing 10 of the imaging device 1 as in the first embodiment. The electric board 31 is disposed so as to be parallel to a plane orthogonal to the direction along the arrow Y of the operation member 23 to be displaced. This is the same as the first embodiment described above.

  The elastic member 32 </ b> A has a space 33 </ b> A that is watertight from the outside between the mounting surface of the electric substrate 31, as in the first embodiment. A switch member 38 is disposed in the space 33A. In other words, the space 33A of the elastic member 32A is formed so as to accommodate the switch member 38 therein.

  Further, the elastic member 32A has a convex portion 32Aa, a part of which protrudes toward the inside of the space 33A at a portion corresponding to the bonding portion 32Ab where the pressing portion 23b is bonded and fixed to the elastic member 32A. Is formed. The convex portion 32Aa is formed at a position where the elastic member 32A acts on the switch member 38 when the elastic member 32A is displaced via the operation member 23. With such a configuration, when the pressing portion 23b acts on the switch member 38, the first signal and the second signal are sequentially output at a predetermined timing.

  Here, a specific configuration of the two-stage switch structure itself in the switch member 38 is assumed to have the same configuration as that applied to a conventionally known switch member, and the detailed illustration and description thereof are as follows. Omitted. The concept of the signal generation mechanism by the two-stage switch structure is substantially the same as that described with reference to FIG. 2 in the description of the first embodiment.

  With such a configuration, the elastic member 32A is displaced in the direction along the arrow Y by receiving an operation input (external force; pressing force in the present embodiment) from the outside via the operation member 23 by the user. Acts on the member 38. Further, when the external force (pressing force) applied via the operation member 23 is released, the elastic member 32A returns to its original position by its own elastic force. Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment. The operation of the present embodiment is also substantially the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

  According to the second embodiment configured as described above, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a switch device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. 8 to 10 are longitudinal sectional views showing a switch device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Among these, FIG. 8 shows a normal state of the switch device. FIG. 9 shows a state in which the operation member is in the first position in the switch device. FIG. 10 shows a state in which the operating member is in the second position in the switch device.

  The switch device 30B of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment described above. In the first embodiment, the first contact 34 and the second contact 36 are provided on the elastic member 32, and the first contact pattern 35 and the second contact pattern 37 are provided on the electric substrate 31, and the elastic member is provided. By displacing 32, the contact point and the contact pattern are sequentially brought into contact with each other so that two types of signals (first signal and second signal) are sequentially generated.

  In contrast to the configuration of the first embodiment as described above, in the present embodiment, a plurality (three) of configurations for sequentially generating two types of signals (first signal and second signal) are provided. The switch segments (41 to 43) are provided, and the plurality (three) of the switch segments (41 to 43) are displaced by an external force via the operation member 23B, so that two kinds of signals (first signal, second signal) Signal) is generated sequentially. Therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof is omitted, and only different portions are described in detail below.

  Note that the switch device 30B exemplified in the present embodiment is also a switch device having a pressing operation member, as in the above-described embodiments.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the switch device 30B of the present embodiment includes an operation member 23B, a plurality of switch pieces (41 to 43), an electric board 31B, an elastic member 32B that is a waterproof means, and an underwater depth detector. And a control circuit 20 (not shown) as control means.

  The operation member 23B is configured in substantially the same form as that applied in each of the above-described embodiments, and has a retaining portion 23a and a pressing portion 23Bb. The operation member 23 </ b> B in the present embodiment is also partly exposed to the outside from the outer surface of the device housing 10 and is disposed so as to be movable in the direction along the arrow Y. This is the same as the first embodiment described above.

  Note that the pressing portion 23Bb of the operation member 23B in the present embodiment has a through hole 31Ba of the electric board 31B disposed inside the device housing 10 in a state where the switch device 30B is assembled to the device housing 10. It is arranged at a position where it can be inserted. In this case, when the normal state of FIG. 8 is established, the pressing portion 23Bb is inserted through the through hole 31Ba, and the tip thereof is disposed in a state where it is in contact with or close to the surface of the first switch piece 41 described later. Has been.

  A predetermined bonding portion 32Bb of the elastic member 32B is bonded and fixed to a middle portion of the pressing portion 23Bb. The elastic member 32B is fixedly disposed on the electric board 31B fixed to the inside of the device casing 10 of the imaging device 1 in substantially the same manner as in the first and second embodiments described above. The electric board 31B is arranged so as to be parallel to a plane orthogonal to the direction along the arrow Y of the operation member 23 to be displaced. This is the same as the first embodiment described above. And the elastic member 32B has the space 33B which becomes watertight from the exterior between the mounting surfaces of the electric substrate 31B, as in the second embodiment described above. Thereby, the elastic member 32B functions as a waterproof means for realizing a dustproof and waterproof function for the area where the electric board 31B is disposed from the outside of the device housing 10 in the vicinity of the operation member 23 in the switch device 30B. doing. The elastic member 32B also serves to return the operation member 23B to the original normal state when the external force applied to the operation member 23B is released.

  A plurality of switch segments (41 to 43) are disposed on the back surface side of the electric board 31B, that is, the surface on which the elastic member 32B is not fixed. The plurality of switch pieces (41 to 43) are plate-like members that are formed into a strip shape using, for example, a metal member having conductivity and elasticity.

  Each of the plurality of switch segments (41 to 43) is arranged in parallel to the plane of the electric board 31B, that is, in a direction orthogonal to the direction along the arrow Y. Each of the switch pieces (41 to 43) is arranged in a form in which the switch pieces (41 to 43) are stacked on the surface of the electric substrate 31B at a predetermined interval in the direction along the arrow Y. And each one end of each switch piece (41-43) is being fixed to the electric board 31B in the shape of a cantilever via fixing member 31Bb. As a result, when an external force in the direction along arrow Y is applied to the free end side of each switch segment (41-43), each switch segment (41-43) has each free end along arrow Y with the fixed end as a base point. It is comprised so that it can curve in a direction.

  The plurality of switch segments (41 to 43) are arranged such that the first switch segment 41, the second switch segment 42, and the third switch segment 43 are arranged at predetermined intervals in order from the side close to the surface of the electric board 31B. Yes.

  Among these, the 1st switch piece 41 is arrange | positioned in parallel so that it may contact the back surface side surface of the electric board 31B substantially. The distal end portion of the first switch piece 41 on the free end side is disposed so as to cover the through hole 31Ba formed in the electric substrate 31B. Then, when the switch device 30B is assembled and in the normal state shown in FIG. 8, the surface of the first switch piece 41 is in contact with the tip of the pressing portion 23Bb inserted through the through hole 31Ba, or It is configured to be arranged at a close position.

  With this configuration, when the external force in the direction of arrow F is applied to the operation member 23B in the normal state of FIG. 8, the pressing portion 23Bb is displaced in the direction of arrow F and presses the free end of the first switch piece 41. Then, the first switch piece 41 is bent. Thereby, the 1st switch piece 41 and the 1st contact part 42a mentioned later of the 2nd switch piece 42 contact (state of FIG. 9 mentioned later).

  At a position spaced from the first switch piece 41 by a predetermined distance in a direction along the arrow Y in a direction away from the back surface of the electric board 31B, the second switch piece 42 is located at the first switch piece 41. Are arranged in parallel. A first contact portion 42a (first contact means) and a second contact portion 42b (second contact means) are formed at a portion near the free end of the second switch piece 42.

  The first contact portion 42a is formed by bending the tip of the free end of the second switch piece 42 so as to extend toward the electric board 31B in the direction along the arrow Y by a predetermined length. Yes.

  In this case, the length of the first contact portion 42a is such that the tip of the first contact portion 42a and the first switch piece 41 do not contact when the switch device 30B is in the normal state shown in FIG. It is set to have a sufficient interval.

  With this configuration, when the first switch piece 41 is displaced by receiving the external force of the first force amount via the operation member 23B (state of FIG. 9; described later), the first switch piece 41 is the second switch piece 42. The first signal is output by contacting the first contact portion 42a.

  The second contact portion 42b is disposed at a position near the free end of the second switch piece 42 in a direction opposite to the extending direction of the first contact portion 42a, that is, the first switch piece 41 and the electric board 31B. A part of the plane of the second switch piece 42 is formed to be recessed so as to protrude to the opposite side to the opposite side.

  In this case, the protruding height of the second contact portion 42b is such that when the switch device 30B is in the normal state shown in FIG. 8, the convex portion apex of the second contact portion 42b and a third switch piece 43 described later. Is set so as to have a sufficient interval so as not to touch.

  With this configuration, after the first switch piece 41 is displaced by receiving the external force having the first force amount via the operation member 23B, the external force having the second force amount is further applied via the operation member 23B and the first switch piece 41. When the second switch piece 42 is displaced (state shown in FIG. 10; described later), the second contact point 42b of the second switch piece 42 comes into contact with the third switch piece 43 to output the second signal. The

  The third switch piece 43 has the third switch piece 43 at a position spaced a predetermined distance away from the second switch piece 42 in the direction away from the second contact portion 42b of the second switch piece 42 in the direction along the arrow Y. One switch piece 41 and the second switch piece 42 are arranged in parallel.

  With this configuration, an external force in the direction of arrow F is applied to the operation member 23B in the normal state of FIG. 8, and the pressing portion 23Bb is displaced in the direction of arrow F to press the free end of the first switch piece 41. The switch piece 41 is bent, and the first switch piece 41 and the first contact portion 42a of the second switch piece 42 are brought into contact with each other (state shown in FIG. 9). Through this state, when an external force in the direction of arrow F is further applied to the operation member 23B, the pressing portion 23Bb is further displaced in the direction of arrow F to press the free end of the first switch piece 41, and the first The switch piece 41 is bent, and the second switch piece 42 is also bent. Thereby, the 1st switch piece 41 and the 2nd contact part 42b of the 2nd switch piece 42 contact (state of FIG. 10).

  Each of the first switch piece 41, the second switch piece 42, and the switch piece 43 is electrically connected to a control circuit (not shown) on the electric board 31B.

  In the switch device 30B of the present embodiment having such a configuration, the first switch piece 41 and the first contact portion 42a of the second switch piece 42 are the same as the first contact 34 and the first contact point in the first embodiment described above. Correspond to the first contact pattern 35, and both come into contact with each other to output the first signal. The second contact portion 42b and the third switch piece 43 of the second switch piece 42 correspond to the second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 in the first embodiment described above, and both are in contact with each other. Then, the second signal is output. Other configurations are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment.

  The operation of the thus configured switch device of this embodiment will be briefly described below with reference to FIGS.

  When the imaging device to which the switch device 30B of this embodiment is applied is in a normal use environment (land) other than underwater, the switch device 30B is in a normal state shown in FIG. In this normal state, since no external force is applied to the operation member 23B and the elastic member 32B, the operation member 23B is maintained in the state shown in FIG. 8 by the elastic force of the elastic member 32B. At this time, the first switch piece 41 and the first contact part 42a are in a separated state (off state), and the second contact part 42b and the third switch piece 42 are also separated (off state).

  At the same time, in this state, the detector 14 is operating, and control is performed to detect the underwater depth of the imaging device.

  In this normal state, when an external force (pressing force) is applied to the operating member 23B in the direction along the arrow Y in FIG. 8 and in the direction indicated by the arrow F, the operating member 23B receives this force. And the elastic member 32B is displaced to the 1st position shown in FIG.

  At this time, as the external force of the first force applied to the operation member 23B, in addition to a pressing operation input to the operation member 23B by the user, when the imaging device 1 is put in water and reaches a predetermined depth in water The pressing force by water pressure is included.

  The state shown in FIG. 9 shows a state in which the operating member 23B is displaced to the first position in response to the external force having the first force amount in the direction of the arrow F. In this state, the first switch piece 41 and the first contact portion 42a are in contact (on state). Further, the second contact portion 42b and the third switch piece 43 are in a separated state (off state).

  In the state shown in FIG. 9, when an external force (pressing force) is applied to the operating member 23B by a second force amount in the same direction (F direction) that is larger than the first force amount, the operation member 23B receives this and operates. The member 23B is further displaced through the first position, and is displaced to the second position shown in FIG. In this case, the external force of the second force applied to the operation member 23B is a pressing operation input to the operation member 23B by the user regardless of whether the imaging device is on land or underwater.

  In the state shown in FIG. 10, the operation member 23B receives the second force amount in the direction of the arrow F and is displaced to the second position. At this time, the contact state (ON state) between the first switch piece 41 and the first contact part 42a is maintained, and the second contact part 42b and the third switch piece 43 are in contact (ON state). .

  On the other hand, when the external force applied to the operation member 23B is released in the state shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the operation member 23B is moved back to the original position (normally shown in FIG. 8) by the elastic force of the elastic member 32B. State). As a result, the contact state (ON state) between the second contact portion 42b and the third switch piece 43 is released, and subsequently the contact state (ON state) between the first switch piece 41 and the first contact portion 42a is also released. Is done.

  In this case, the external force applied to the operation member 23B is released, for example, when the user stops pressing the operation member 23B and releases the finger from the operation member 23B. This is a case where the imaging device 1 suitable for the above is pulled out of the water.

  In the third embodiment having such a configuration, the electrical action is the same as that of the first embodiment. That is, when the first switch piece 41 and the first contact portion 42a are in contact with each other after being displaced from the state of FIG. 8 to the state of FIG. 9, the detector 14 detects a predetermined depth in water. If not, a predetermined operation (focusing operation or the like) of the imaging device (electronic device) is performed based on the first signal.

  Further, in the same state, when the detector 14 detects a predetermined underwater depth, the operation (focusing operation or the like) of the imaging device (electronic device) is not performed with the first signal alone, and continues in FIG. When the second contact portion 42b and the third switch piece 43 come into contact with each other due to the displacement from the state to the state of FIG. 10, the second signal is generated, and the imaging device (electronic device) is based on the second signal. (Equipment operation etc.) is performed.

  According to the third embodiment configured as described above, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a switch device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIGS. 11-13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the switch apparatus of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. Among these, FIG. 11 shows a normal state of the switch device. FIG. 12 shows a state in which the operation member is in the first position in the switch device. FIG. 13 shows a state where the operation member is in the second position in the switch device.

  The switch device 30C of the present embodiment basically has the same configuration as that of the above-described third embodiment. In the above-described third embodiment, a plurality (three) of switch segments (41 to 43) are provided, and the plurality (three) of switch segments (41 to 43) are displaced by an external force via the operation member 23B. Thus, two types of signals (first signal and second signal) are sequentially generated.

  In contrast to the configuration of the third embodiment, the configuration of the plurality of switch pieces is slightly different in the present embodiment. Therefore, the same configurations as those of the above-described third embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof is omitted, and only different portions are described in detail below.

  The switch device 30C exemplified in the present embodiment is a switch device having a pressing-type operation member, as in the above-described embodiments.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the switch device 30C of the present embodiment includes an operation member 23B, a plurality of switch pieces (41C, 42C, 43C, 44), an electric board 31B, an elastic member 32B that is a waterproof means, It includes a detector 14 that is an underwater depth detector, a control circuit 20 (not shown) that is a control means, and the like.

  The operation member 23B has a retaining portion 23a and a pressing portion 23Bb, substantially the same as that applied in the third embodiment described above. When the pressing portion 23Bb of the operation member 23B is in the normal state of FIG. 11, the through hole 31Ba is inserted, and the tip thereof is in contact with or close to the surface of the first switch piece 41C described later. Placed in.

  A predetermined bonding portion 32Bb of the elastic member 32B is bonded and fixed to a middle portion of the pressing portion 23Bb. The configuration of the elastic member 32B itself is substantially the same as that of the above-described third embodiment.

  A plurality of switch pieces (41C, 42C, 43C, 44) are arranged on the back surface side of the electric board 31B, that is, the surface on which the elastic member 32B is not fixed. The plurality of switch segments are the same as those in the third embodiment described above in that they are plate-like members that are formed into a strip shape using, for example, a metal member having conductivity and elasticity. .

  Also, the arrangement of each of the plurality of switch segments is substantially the same as in the third embodiment described above, in the direction orthogonal to the direction along the arrow Y, parallel to the plane of the electric board 31B. They are arranged in a stacked form at a predetermined interval. Then, each one end of each switch piece is fixed to the electric substrate 31B in a cantilever shape via a fixing member 31Bb so that each free end can be curved in a direction along the arrow Y with the fixed end as a base point. It is configured.

  The plurality of switch segments (41C, 42C, 43C, 44) include a fourth switch segment 44, a first switch segment 41C, a second switch segment 42C, and a third switch segment 43C in order from the side closer to the surface of the electric board 31B. Each is arranged at a predetermined interval.

  Among these, the 4th switch piece 44 is arrange | positioned in parallel so that it may contact the back surface side surface of the electric board 31B substantially. The distal end on the free end side of the fourth switch piece 44 is formed by being bent in a direction along the arrow Y by a predetermined length so as to extend toward the side opposite to the electric board 31B.

  At a position spaced from the fourth switch piece 44 by a predetermined distance in a direction away from the rear surface of the electric board 31B in the direction along the arrow Y, the first switch piece 41C is located at the fourth switch piece 44. Are arranged in parallel. The distal end portion on the free end side of the first switch piece 41C extends to a portion that intersects with the extension line of the through hole 31Ba formed in the electric board 31B. Then, when the switch device 30C is assembled and in the normal state shown in FIG. 11, a state where the tip of the pressing portion 23Bb inserted through the through hole 31Ba is in contact with one surface of the first switch piece 41C or It is configured to be arranged at a close position. In the normal state shown in FIG. 11, the tip end of the bent portion of the fourth switch piece 44 is in contact with the middle part of the first switch piece 41C. Therefore, the length of the first switch piece 41C in the longitudinal direction is set to be sufficiently longer than the fourth switch piece 44.

  With this configuration, when the external force in the direction of arrow F is applied to the operation member 23B in the normal state of FIG. 11, the pressing portion 23Bb is displaced in the direction of arrow F and presses the free end of the first switch piece 41C. Then, the first switch piece 41C is bent. As a result, the first switch section 41C and a later-described first contact portion 42Ca of the second switch section 42C come into contact with each other (state of FIG. 12 described later).

  At a position spaced from the first switch piece 41C by a predetermined distance in the direction along the arrow Y away from the back surface of the electric board 31B, the second switch piece 42C is located at the first switch piece 41C. Are arranged in parallel. The free contact end of the second switch piece 42C has a first contact portion formed by bending a predetermined length in the direction along the arrow Y so as to extend toward the first switch piece 41C. 42Ca (first contact means) is formed.

  In this case, the length of the first contact portion 42Ca is such that the tip of the first contact portion 42Ca and the first switch piece 41C do not contact when the switch device 30C is in the normal state shown in FIG. It is set to have a sufficient interval. The length of the second switch piece 42C in the longitudinal direction is set so as to have a length substantially equal to that of the fourth switch piece 44.

  With this configuration, when the first switch piece 41C is displaced by receiving the external force of the first force amount via the operation member 23B (see the state of FIG. 12 described later), the first switch piece 41C is the second switch piece 42C. The first signal is output by contacting the first contact portion 42Ca.

  The third switch piece 43C is located at a position spaced from the second switch piece 42C by a predetermined distance in the direction along the arrow Y in the direction away from the back surface of the electric board 31B. Are arranged in parallel. The length of the third switch piece 43C in the longitudinal direction is set to be longer than the second switch piece 42C and shorter than the first switch piece 41C.

  Further, the tip of the third switch piece 43C on the free end side is also bent and formed to extend toward the first switch piece 41C in a direction along the arrow Y by a predetermined length. And this front-end | tip bending site | part is made into 2nd contact part 43Cb (2nd contact means).

  In this case, the length of the second contact portion 43Cb is such that the tip of the second contact portion 43Cb and the first switch piece 41C do not contact when the switch device 30C is in the normal state shown in FIG. It is set to have a sufficient interval.

  With this configuration, after the first switch piece 41C is displaced by receiving the external force of the first force amount via the operation member 23B (see the state of FIG. 12 described later), the external force of the second force amount is transmitted via the operation member 23B. When the first switch piece 41C is further displaced (state shown in FIG. 13 to be described later), the second signal is generated by the contact between the first switch piece 41C and the second contact portion 43Cb of the third switch piece 43C. Is output.

  Each of the first switch piece 41C, the second switch piece 42C, and the switch piece 43C is electrically connected to a control circuit (not shown) on the electric board 31B.

  In the switch device 30C of the present embodiment having such a configuration, the first switch piece 41C and the first contact portion 42Ca of the second switch piece 42 are the same as the first switch piece 41 and the first switch piece 41 in the third embodiment described above. It corresponds to the first contact portion 42a of the two switch piece 42 (or the first contact 34 and the first contact pattern 35 in the first embodiment described above), and both contact to output the first signal. To do.

  Further, the first switch piece 41C and the second contact part 43Cb of the third switch piece 43C are the second contact part 42b of the second switch piece 42 and the third switch piece 43 in the third embodiment described above (or The second contact 36 and the second contact pattern 37 in the first embodiment described above correspond to each other and output a second signal. Other configurations are substantially the same as those of the third embodiment described above.

  The operation of the thus configured switch device according to the present embodiment will be briefly described below with reference to FIGS.

  When the imaging device to which the switch device 30C of this embodiment is applied is in a normal use environment (land) other than underwater, the switch device 30C is in a normal state shown in FIG. In this normal state, since no external force is applied to the operation member 23B and the elastic member 32B, the operation member 23B is maintained in the state shown in FIG. 11 by the elastic force of the elastic member 32B. At this time, the first contact portion 42Ca and the second contact portion 43Cb are separated from each other with respect to the first switch piece 41C (off state).

  At the same time, in this state, the detector 14 is operating, and control is performed to detect the underwater depth of the imaging device.

  In this normal state, when an external force (pressing force) is applied to the operating member 23B in the direction along the arrow Y in FIG. 11 and in the direction indicated by the arrow F, the operating member 23B receives this force. And the elastic member 32B is displaced to the 1st position shown in FIG.

  At this time, as the external force of the first force applied to the operation member 23B, in addition to a pressing operation input to the operation member 23 by the user, the imaging device 1 is put in water and reaches a predetermined depth in water. The pressing force by water pressure is also included.

  The state shown in FIG. 12 shows a state in which the operating member 23B is displaced to the first position in response to the external force having the first force amount in the direction of the arrow F. In this state, the first switch piece 41C and the first contact portion 42Ca of the second switch piece 42C are in contact (on state). Further, the first switch piece 41C and the second contact part 43Cb of the third switch piece 43C are in a separated state (off state).

  In the state shown in FIG. 12, when an external force (pressing force) is applied to the operating member 23B by a second force amount in the same direction (F direction) that is larger than the first force amount, the operation member 23B receives this and operates. The member 23B is further displaced through the first position, and is displaced to the second position shown in FIG. In this case, the external force of the second force applied to the operation member 23B is a pressing operation input to the operation member 23B by the user regardless of whether the imaging device is on land or underwater.

  In the state shown in FIG. 13, the operation member 23B receives the second force amount in the direction of arrow F and is displaced to the second position. At this time, the contact state (ON state) between the first switch piece 41C and the first contact part 42Ca of the second switch piece 42C is maintained, and the second contact part of the first switch piece 41C and the third switch piece 43C. It will be in the state (on state) which 43Cb contacted.

  On the other hand, in the state shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, when the external force applied to the operation member 23B is released, the operation member 23B is moved to its original position (normally shown in FIG. 11) by the elastic force of the elastic member 32B. State). Thereby, the contact state (ON state) between the first switch piece 41C and the second contact portion 43Cb of the third switch piece 43C is released, and then the first switch piece 41C and the first switch piece 42C The contact state (ON state) with the contact part 42Ca is also released.

  In this case, the external force applied to the operation member 23B is released, for example, when the user stops pressing the operation member 23B and releases the finger from the operation member 23B. This is a case where the imaging device 1 suitable for the above is pulled out of the water.

  In the fourth embodiment having such a configuration, the electrical action is the same as that of the first embodiment. That is, when the first switch piece 41C and the first contact portion 42Ca come into contact with each other after being displaced from the state of FIG. 11 to the state of FIG. 12, the detector 14 detects a predetermined depth in water. If not, a predetermined operation (focusing operation or the like) of the imaging device (electronic device) is performed based on the first signal.

  Further, in the same state, when the detector 14 detects a predetermined underwater depth, the operation (focusing operation or the like) of the imaging device (electronic device) is not performed with the first signal alone, and continues in FIG. When the first switch piece 41C and the second contact portion 43Cb come into contact with each other due to the displacement from the state to the state of FIG. 13 and the second signal is generated, the imaging device (electronic device) is based on the second signal. (Equipment operation etc.) is performed.

  According to the fourth embodiment configured as described above, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained. In all of the above-described embodiments, when the imaging apparatus is not in water, the second signal output can be ignored and a predetermined operation can be performed. However, when the imaging apparatus is not in water, the first signal and the second signal can be controlled. A predetermined operation may be performed by using both of the signals, that is, an AND. However, in this case, the force of the pressing operation becomes heavy.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications can of course be implemented without departing from the spirit of the invention. Further, the above embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. For example, even if several constituent requirements are deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the above-described embodiment, if the problem to be solved by the invention can be solved and the effect of the invention can be obtained, this constituent requirement is deleted. The configured structure can be extracted as an invention. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The invention is not limited by the specific embodiments thereof, except as limited by the appended claims.

  The present invention is not limited to the switch device applied to the imaging device (digital camera, movie camera, etc.) exemplified in the above embodiments, and other forms of electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, electronic notebooks, etc. For switch devices applied to various electronic devices such as electronic dictionaries, personal digital assistants, personal computers, tablet terminal devices, game devices, television receivers, watches, navigation devices using GPS (Global Positioning System) In contrast, it can be widely applied.

  Further, for an electronic device having a function of acquiring an image using an imaging element and displaying the acquired image using a display device, for example, a switching device in an observation device such as a telescope, binoculars, monocular, and a microscope. Can be applied similarly. The present invention can also be applied to switch devices that are applied to imaging devices such as surveillance cameras and in-vehicle cameras, as well as industrial or medical observation devices such as endoscopes and microscopes. .

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Imaging device 10 ... Device housing | casing 10a ... Through-hole 10b ... Partition 11 ... Front cover 12 ... Back cover 13 ... Rear display unit 14 ... Detector 20 ... Control circuits 21, 22 , 23, 23B, 24, 25... Operation member 23a... Retaining part 23b, 23Bb... Pressing part 30, 30A, 30B, 30C... Switch device 31, 31B. Fixing members 32, 32A, 32B ... elastic members 32a, 32Aa ... convex part 32b ... flat parts 32Ab, 32Bb ... adhesion sites 33, 33A, 33B ... space 34 ... first contact 35 ... first 1 contact pattern 36 ... 2nd contact 37 ... 2nd contact pattern 38 ... switch members 41, 41C ... 1st switch piece 42, 42C ... 2nd switch piece 42a, 42C ...... first contact portion 42b ...... second contact portion 43,43C ...... third switch sections 43Cb ...... second contact portion 44 ...... fourth switch sections

Claims (4)

In switch devices applied to waterproof electronic devices,
A first contact for displacing in response to an external force, displacing to a first position in response to a first force and outputting a first signal, and the first force through the first position An elastic member having a second contact for receiving a large second force and displacing to a second position to output a second signal;
A first contact pattern for contacting the first contact and outputting the first signal, and a second contact pattern for contacting the second contact and outputting the second signal And an electric board having,
A detector for detecting underwater depth;
When the detector does not detect a predetermined underwater depth, the electronic device performs a predetermined operation based on the first signal, and when the detector detects a predetermined underwater depth, the second Control means for controlling the electronic device to perform the predetermined operation based on the signal of
A switch device comprising:   The switch device according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is displaced by receiving a pressing force via a pressing operation member. In a switch device applied to an electronic device that can be used underwater,
A pressed member;
First contact means for generating a first signal at a predetermined amount of displacement of the pressed member;
Second contact means for generating a second signal at a displacement amount greater than the predetermined displacement amount of the pressed member;
A detector for detecting the underwater depth of the electronic device;
When the detector does not detect a predetermined underwater depth, the electronic device performs a predetermined operation based on the first signal, and when the detector detects a predetermined underwater depth, the second Control means for controlling the electronic device to perform the predetermined operation based on the signal of
A switch device comprising: The switch device according to claim 1 or 3,
Focusing means;
Comprising
An imaging apparatus that can be used underwater, wherein the predetermined operation is a focusing operation for imaging.

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