JP3694443B2 - Cover member for push button switch and push button switch - Google Patents

Description

【０１２３】
表２は、この発明の実施の形態２に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材についての実験結果を表した一覧表である。
【０１２４】
【表２】

【０１２５】
表３は、この発明の実施の形態３に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材についての実験結果を表した一覧表である。
【０１２６】
【表３】

【０１２７】
以上のように、表１乃至表３に表わされた実験結果から、押圧操作部１の側壁の可撓薄肉部１９が０．２ｍｍ以上で押圧操作部１の天面の可撓性薄肉部１２の肉厚が０．２ｍｍ以上の場合に製品形成が可能であることがわかり、それ以下では可撓薄肉部に破れが発生してしまい使用できないことがわかった。
【０１２８】
また、可撓薄肉部の厚みが増すと可撓薄肉部の変形に必要な荷重が増すことからクリック感を失うことが判明した。
【０１２９】
実施の形態１にあっては、表１からわかるように、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．１ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚０．３ｍｍ〜０．６ｍｍ、側壁部０．２ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚０．２ｍｍ〜０．５ｍｍ、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．３ｍｍに対して天面の肉厚０．２ｍｍ〜０．５ｍｍ、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．４ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚０．１ｍｍ〜０．２ｍｍの条件のときに、製品としての形状が保てて良好なクリック感が得られた。
【０１３０】
更に、硬度５８度においては、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さは０．２ｍｍ、天面部の肉厚は０．３ｍｍ乃至０．４ｍｍ及び側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さは０．３ｍｍ、天面部の肉厚は０．２ｍｍで最も良好なクリック感が得られることがわかった。
【０１３１】
実施の形態２にあっては、表２からわかるように、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．１ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚は０．３ｍｍ〜０．４ｍｍ、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．２ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚は０．２ｍｍの条件のときに、製品としての形状が保てて良好なクリック感が得られた。
【０１３２】
実施の形態３にあっては、表３からわかるように、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．１ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚０．３ｍｍ〜０．５ｍｍ、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．２ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚０．２ｍｍ〜０．５ｍｍ、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さ０．３ｍｍに対して天面部の肉厚０．２ｍｍ〜０．５ｍｍの条件のときに、製品としての形状が保てて良好なクリック感が得られた。
【０１３３】
更に、硬度７６度においては、側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さの薄肉は０．２ｍｍ、天面部の肉厚は０．３ｍｍ乃至０．４ｍｍ及び側壁の可撓薄肉部１９の厚さは０．３ｍｍ、天面部の肉厚は０．２ｍｍで最も良好なクリック感が得られることがわかった。
【０１３４】
表４は、押圧操作部の天面部の可撓性薄肉部の肉厚を０．２ｍｍ、側壁の可撓薄肉部の厚さを０．２ｍｍと一定にした上で、隣接する押圧操作部の間隔を変えてその距離の感触に与える影響を最大荷重で表して確認した結果を示した一覧表である。
【０１３５】
【表４】

クリック感発生部としては直径５ｍｍ、２．３Ｎのメタルドームをポリエステル性粘着フィルムに組み込んだ市販品を使用した。
【０１３６】
良好なクリック感触を得るためには、クリック感発生部であるメタルドーム組み込みシートの持つクリック率、荷重特性である２．３Ｎをそのまま表した数値に近い値を示すものが最もスイッチ部材としては好ましい。
【０１３７】
表４からわかるように、側壁に設けられた可撓薄肉部の隣接する押圧操作部までの距離は大きな影響があり、この距離は、長い方が良好なスイッチ感触を得られることが確認された。
【０１３８】
表１、表２、表３、表４に示した一連の検証から、複数のスイッチ機能部位を１つのブロック部に収容したスイッチ部材において、耐久性に富むと共に最も良好なスイッチ感触を得るには、ゴム弾性体硬度をできるだけ低く、可撓性薄肉部の厚みは０．２ｍｍ以上で、ストロークは短い方がよく、側壁の可撓薄肉部の隣接する押圧操作部間の距離はできる限り長くする方がよいことがわかった。
【０１３９】
【発明の効果】
以上説明してきたように、各請求項に記載された発明によれば、隣り合うスイッチ機能部位を近接させることが実現されたため、従来の複数のスイッチ機能を一体化した従来より小型な、かつ、複数の操作キー部の操作部分で外観上明確な境目のない構造としたデザイン性の高い、押釦スイッチ用カバー部材が提供できる。
【０１４０】
請求項２に記載の発明によれば、上記効果に加えて、各操作キー部の操作時に確実なクリック感を奏する押釦スイッチ用カバー部材が提供できる。
【０１４１】
請求項３に記載の発明によれば、上記効果に加えて、従来より小型なスクロールスイッチに適用できる押釦スイッチ用カバー部材を提供することができる。
【０１４２】
請求項４に記載の発明によれば、上記効果に加えて、各々のスイッチ機能に応じた照光が互いに干渉することがないため、各々のスイッチ機能の照光が一層明瞭な押釦スイッチ用カバー部材が提供できる。
【０１４３】
請求項５記載の発明によれば、各々のスイッチ機能に応じた照光が互いに干渉することがないため、各々のスイッチ機能の照光が一層明瞭な押釦スイッチが提供できる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】この発明の実施の形態１に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の平面図である。
【図２】同実施の形態１に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材を示した図１のＡ−Ａ断面図である。
【図３】この発明の実施の形態２に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の平面図である。
【図４】同実施の形態２に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材を示した図３のＢ−Ｂ断面図である。
【図５】この発明の実施の形態３に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の平面図である。
【図６】同実施の形態３に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材を示した図５のＣ−Ｃ断面図である。
【図７】この発明の実施の形態４に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の平面図である。
【図８】同実施の形態４に係る押釦スイッチ用カバー部材を示した図７のＤ−Ｄ断面図である。
【図９】押釦スイッチの操作時に指にかかる荷重とキートップのストロークとの関係を示した一般的な特性曲線グラフである。
【図１０】複数の別個独立した操作キー部をカバー部材と一体にした従来の押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の要部縦断面図である。
【図１１】複数の操作キー部を一体に成形した従来の押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の要部縦断面図である。
【図１２】複数の操作キー部を主幹に対してヒンジにて一体成形した従来の押釦スイッチ用カバー部材の要部縦断面図である。
【図１３】従来の多方向スイッチ用部材の要部縦断面図である。
【符号の説明】
１，１５ 押圧操作部
２ 押圧突出部
３ クリック感発生部材
４ 回路基板
５ 固定接点
６ 樹脂シート
７ 押釦スイッチ用カバー部材
８ カバー基材
９ ブロック部
１０，１０ａ，１０ｂ，１０ｃ スイッチ機能部位
１１，１１ａ，１１ｂ 分割溝
１２，１３，１９ 可撓性薄肉部
１４ 導電性カーボン
１６ａ，１６ｂ 光源（ＬＥＤ）
１７ 遮蔽部材
１８ 遮蔽層[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention includes mobile communication devices such as mobile phones and automobile phones, measuring devices, remote controllers, data input devices such as handy terminals, switch devices, other home appliances, various input devices in the fields of electronics, communication, etc. More particularly, the present invention relates to a push button switch cover member having a novel design with good low stroke and high clickability keystroke load characteristics required for a push button switch member.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, there has been a strong demand for miniaturization and miniaturization of input devices in mobile communication devices such as mobile phones. In order to solve this, miniaturization and thinning of the operation key unit of the switch input unit are necessary conditions. .
[0003]
In addition, automobiles and home appliances are also required to have an integrated design with the casing of the input device that supports the operation key unit for the same purpose or design requirement.
[0004]
FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of an essential part of a conventional cover member for a pushbutton switch in which a plurality of independent key tops are integrated with a cover member.
[0005]
In the conventional device shown in FIG. 10, in the operation key unit 30 for performing the switch operation, when a plurality of switch functions are to be realized within the minimum space, a separately formed key top 31 is used for the input device. It was necessary to incorporate it into the hole 33 provided in the housing 32.
[0006]
And in order to hold | maintain the installation position of the operation key part 30, the operation key part 30 is inserted | pinched between the housing | casing 32 and the circuit board 34 of an input device, and it is provided in the cover member 35 integrated under the operation key part 30. The flexible thin-walled portion 36 is elastically deformed to generate a click feeling and recognize that it has been operated.
[0007]
FIG. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a conventional cover member for a pushbutton switch in which a plurality of operation key portions are formed integrally with a cover member.
[0008]
Adjacent key tops 31 are connected with the same resin material as the key tops 31 to form a series of operation key portions 30, and the key tops 31 protrude from predetermined holes 33 provided in the casing 32 of the input device. It is what I did.
[0009]
And in order to hold | maintain the assembly position of the operation key part 30, the cover member 35 in which the operation key part 30 was integrally molded is pinched | interposed between the housing | casing 32 and the circuit board 34 of an apparatus, and the flexible thin wall of the cover member 35 is carried out. Due to the elastic deformation of the part 36, a click feeling is generated to recognize the operation.
[0010]
In the push button switch cover member 37 using a rubber elastic material as the click feeling generating member as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, when a specific key top 31 is pressed, the adjacent operation key portion 30. The flexible thin-walled portion 36 having a thickness of 0.2 to 0.4 mm is provided with an operation key so that the influence on the touch is minimized and the characteristic of generating the click feeling of the flexible thin-walled portion 36 is not lost as much as possible. Generally, it is formed at the bottom of the portion 30.
[0011]
FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a conventional cover member for a pushbutton switch in which a plurality of operation key portions are integrally formed with a main trunk by a hinge.
[0012]
Each key top 31 is connected to the same main trunk (not shown) via a hinge portion 38 so as to form a series of operation key portions 30, and the key top 31 is provided in the casing 32 of the input device. It protrudes from the predetermined hole 33.
[0013]
Then, in order to hold the installation position of the operation key unit 30, the operation key unit 30 is sandwiched between the casing 32 of the input device and the circuit board 34, and the hinge unit 38 connected to the side surface of the operation key unit 30. Due to the elastic deformation, a click feeling is generated to recognize the operation.
[0014]
Each of the above-described conventional pushbutton switch cover members 37 holds the position where the operation key unit 30 is assembled with the hole 33 provided in the housing 32 of the input device, and each keytop 31 and the housing 32 of the input device. In order to prevent interference, it is necessary to provide a sufficient space between the operation key unit 30 and the hole 33 of the housing 32.
[0015]
By the way, when using the key top 31 separately formed in the operation key unit 30 shown in FIG. 10, the key top 31 is prevented from falling off from the casing 32 of the input device or mounted light source ( In order to prevent illumination from a notch) from leaking through the gap between the hole 33 of the housing 32 of the input device and the key top 31, it is common to form a collar 39 at the skirt of the key top 31. is there.
[0016]
As for the size of the flange 39, it is necessary to provide a minimum of about 0.3 mm on the outer periphery of the key top 31. This value is determined because the gap between the side surface of the hole 33 provided in the housing 32 and the side surface of the key top 31 is 0.2 mm.
[0017]
Furthermore, when the casing 32 of the input device is formed of a thermosetting resin typified by ABS, PC (polycarbonate), PP (polypropylene), an input for partitioning adjacent operation key portions 30 due to strength problems. The minimum width of the rib portion 40 formed on the back surface of the casing 32 of the apparatus is generally 0.8 mm and partially 0.5 mm.
[0018]
Therefore, in this case, as shown in FIG. 10, a gap W of 0.3 mm + 0.2 mm + 0.5 mm + 0.2 mm + 0.3 mm = 1.5 mm or more is generated between the adjacent key tops 31.
[0019]
Further, in the case where the adjacent key tops 31 shown in FIG. 11 are connected with the same resin material as the key tops 31 to form a series of operation key portions 30, a separately formed key top 31 is used. Since the ridge 39 as in the case is not necessary, the interval between the adjacent key tops 31 can be reduced.
[0020]
However, when only a specific operation key unit 30 is operated, another operation key unit 30 adjacent to the operation key unit 30 does not move with the movement, so that it is 0.3 mm or more. In order to form a connecting portion for providing the flexible thin-walled portion 36, and to securely sandwich the cover member 35 in which the casing 32 and the circuit board 34 are integrated with the operation key portion 30, the presser portion 41 has a thickness of 0.00. A width of 5 mm is required.
[0021]
In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, priority is given to the relationship between the gap between the side surface of the hole 33 provided in the housing 32 and the side surface of the key top 31 between the adjacent key tops 31. A gap W of 2 mm + 0.8 mm + 0.2 mm = 1.2 mm or more (> 0.3 mm + 0.5 mm + 0.3 mm = 1.1 mm) is generated.
[0022]
Further, in the case where a series of operation key portions 30 are formed by being connected to the same main trunk shown in FIG. 12 via a hinge portion, the space between the adjacent key tops 31 is shown in FIG. Like the case, a gap W of 0.3 mm + 0.2 mm + 0.5 mm + 0.2 mm + 0.3 mm = 1.5 mm or more is generated.
[0023]
As another form of a conventional push button switch cover member, there is a so-called multidirectional switch member in which a plurality of switch functions are arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction of one key top.
[0024]
In this conventional multi-directional switch member, as shown in FIG. 13, a so-called seesaw system in which the key top 43 can tilt in a plurality of directions around a fulcrum 42 provided at the center. In this case, since it is not the structure that the separate switch tops that carry out the adjacent switch functions are independent, the shape of the adjacent operation key portions 30 is not affected, In order to perform the seesaw motion, the distance between the switch function parts (movable contact parts) 44 facing the fulcrum 41 is rather larger than the case where a plurality of independent key tops are used.
[0025]
In addition, in relation to the flexible thin portion 36 that generates a click feeling, it is a limit to arrange one switch function portion 44 at a position where one key top 43 is equally divided into four in the circumferential direction. The distance between the adjacent switch function parts 44 is also larger than that of a plurality of independent key tops.
[0026]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
That is, in the conventional pushbutton switch cover member in which a plurality of switch functions are integrated, the interval between adjacent operation key portions cannot be made closer than a certain size due to the structural limitation.
[0027]
Therefore, despite the desire to reduce the size and thickness of various input device parts such as mobile phones, automobiles and home appliances that incorporate the operation key part, it has reached the limit due to structural problems, That was difficult to achieve.
[0028]
In addition, in mobile phones, automobiles, home appliances, etc., there is a great diversification of customer tastes, and it is desired to increase the degree of design freedom around the input device in which the operation key unit is incorporated. Therefore, a design in which the surface of the operation key unit and the casing of the input device that supports the operation key unit are integrated is also required. In this case, a switch member that has a clear outer appearance at the operation part of a plurality of operation key parts, but that provides a reliable click feeling when operating each operation key part was desired. could not.
[0029]
In view of this, the present invention provides a push button switch cover member in which adjacent switch function portions are brought close to each other in order to achieve further miniaturization, which cannot be achieved by a conventional push button switch member integrating a plurality of switch functions. It is an issue to provide. It is another object of the present invention to provide a push button switch cover member having a high design and having a structure having a clear boundary in appearance at the operation portions of a plurality of operation key portions.
[0030]
  In order to achieve such an object, the invention described in claim 1A cover base disposed in a state of surrounding a fixed contact on the circuit board; a block portion projecting upward from the cover base; and a flexibility for joining the cover base and the block portion A thin wall portion, a top surface portion of the block portion has a pressing operation portion, and a bottom surface portion of the block portion directly below the pressing operation portion is formed with a pressing protrusion corresponding to the pressing operation portion. The push button switch cover member has a plurality of switch function parts including the pressing operation part and the pressing protrusion part in the block part, and the adjacent parts of the switch function parts include the switch function part. The top surface portion and the side wall portion of the block portion have a dividing groove that becomes a flexible thin portion, and the top surface portion of the block portion and the surface of the side wall portion are flush with each other.It is characterized by.
[0031]
  In addition to the structure of Claim 1, the invention of Claim 2 isThe cover member for a pushbutton switch according to claim 1 is formed of a rubber elastic body having a Shore A hardness of 30 to 80, and the flexible thin wall portion of the side wall portion of the block portion and the top of the block portion. When the thickness of the side wall portion is 0.1 mm, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 to 0.6 mm, and the thickness of the side wall portion is 0. When the thickness is 2 mm, the thickness of the top surface is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. When the thickness of the side wall is 0.3 mm, the thickness of the top surface is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. When the thickness is 0.4 mm, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.1 to 0.2 mm, and the pressing load at the maximum load point when the pressing operation portion is pressed is F1, When the pressing load at the time when the deformation of the feeling generating member is finished and the electrical connection is made is F2, That one relationship of F2 was set to be (F1-F2) / F1 × 100 ≧ 15It is characterized by.
[0032]
  The invention according to claim 3In addition to the configuration according to claim 1 or 2, at least one of the switch functional parts is not adjacent to the side wall part of the block part, and is continuous to the entire outer periphery of the switch functional part as seen from a plane. A plurality of other switch function parts are arranged adjacent to each other in a substantially circumferential direction on the outside of the switch function part.It is characterized by.
[0033]
  The invention according to claim 4It is a cover member for pushbutton switches as described in any one of Claims 1 thru | or 3, Comprising: The light shielding layer is provided in the wall surface of the said division | segmentation groove | channel.It is characterized by.
[0034]
  The invention described in claim 5A light source corresponding to a switch function part is an illuminated pushbutton switch disposed on a circuit board, and the pushbutton switch cover member according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is mounted on the circuit board, A light shielding member that enters the dividing groove is erected on the circuit board, and the light shielding member maintains an interval that does not contact the inner peripheral surface of the dividing groove during the entire pressing operation. This is an illuminated pushbutton switch.
[0037]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0038]
Embodiment 1 of the Invention
1 is a plan view of a cover member for a pushbutton switch according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.
[0039]
As the pressing operation unit 1 and a switch mechanism corresponding to the pressing operation unit 1, the center of the click sensation generating member 3 made of a reverse hook-shaped conductive elastic member is formed at the tip of the pressing projection 2 formed at the lower part of each pressing operation unit 1. And the fixed contact 5 provided on the circuit board 4 in the projection plane of the click feeling generating member 3 is provided so that the pressing operation portion 1 is pressed and the central portion of the click feeling generating member 3 is opposed. A circuit corresponding to the fixed contact 5 can be electrically opened and closed by contacting the fixed contact 5.
[0040]
The outside of the click feeling generating member 3 is covered with a resin sheet 6 in order to maintain the positional relationship between the adjacent click feeling generating members 3, and the pressing protrusion 2 of the pressing operation unit 1 and the click feeling generating member 3. A resin sheet 6 is interposed between the central portion.
[0041]
Specifically, the click sensation generating member 3 is arranged on a resin sheet 6 of an adhesive-attached polyester sheet having a thickness of about 25 μm using a metal reverse spring-shaped spring member having a stroke of about 0.2 mm. ing.
[0042]
  The push button switch cover member 7 is disposed so as to surround the periphery of the click feeling generating member 3 provided on the circuit board 4.Cover base 8And thisCover base 8And a block portion 9 that is integrally connected to the click feeling generating member 3. Therefore, a state in which one block portion 9 protrudes integrally from the push button switch cover member 7 is obtained.
[0043]
The block portion 9 has a plurality of pressing operation portions 1a, 1b, 1c and pressing protrusions 2a, 2b formed below the pressing operation portions 1a, 1b, 1c so that a plurality of switch functions can be achieved. , 2c, a plurality of switch function parts 10a, 10b, 10c are formed adjacent to each other.
[0044]
Each pressing operation part 1a, 1b, 1c is connected mutually, and there is no unevenness | corrugation which divides each pressing operation part 1a, 1b, 1c on the external appearance, The block part 9 in which the pressing operation parts 1a, 1b, 1c are arrange | positioned The surface is a smooth flat surface or curved surface.
[0045]
Inside the block portion 9, a dividing groove 11 that communicates with the outside of the block portion 9 (downward in FIG. 2) is provided at a location adjacent to the switch functional portions 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, and the switch functional portions 10 a, 10 b, 10 c are provided. However, each can be operated independently. The closed side of the dividing groove 11 (upper side of FIG. 2 corresponding to the top surface portion of the block portion 9) forms a flexible thin portion 12 that connects the adjacent pressing operation portions 1 to each other and presses a specific pressing operation portion 1. In addition, the pressing force is not transmitted to the adjacent switch function part 10.
[0046]
  The first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 shows a case where three switch function parts 10a, 10b, 10c are arranged in a vertical line, and the central switch function part 10b is divided on both sides thereof. The flexible thin portions 12 and 12 on both sides formed by the grooves 11 and 11 are in the pressing direction (FIG.It can be elastically deformed (below).
[0047]
  Further, the outer periphery of the bottom of the block 9 that hits the boundary between the block 9 and the pushbutton switch cover member 7Cover base 8Are connected by a flexible thin portion 13, and when the left and right end pressing operation portions 1a and 1c are pressed, the flexibility around the flexible thin portion 13 and the central pressing operation portion 1b. The thin portion 12 is elastically deformed so that the pressing force is not transmitted to the central pressing operation portion 1b.
[0048]
  Next to each otherSwitch function partThere is a flexible thin portion 19 formed by the dividing grooves 11, 11 on the side wall of the block portion 9 that is between 10 and the flexible thin portion of the top surface portion of the block portion 9 when the pressing operation portion 1 is operated. As the portion 12 is deformed, the vicinity thereof is elastically deformed.
[0049]
In the first embodiment, the push button switch cover member 7 is preferably a rubber elastic body, and a resin such as EPDM, IIR, IR, or urethane may be employed.
[0050]
The rubber elastic body may have a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 80 degrees.
[0051]
[Embodiment 2 of the Invention]
3 is a plan view of a cover member for a pushbutton switch according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of FIG.
[0052]
In the second embodiment, an inverted saddle-like click feeling generating member 3 is arranged opposite to the fixed contact 5 provided on the circuit board 4, and the inverted saddle-like apex of the click feeling generating member 3 is arranged. Conductive carbon 14 is printed on the inner surface of the part.
[0053]
The tip of the pressing protrusion 2 formed at the lower part of the pressing operation portion 15 is in contact with the outer surface of the inverted saddle-shaped apex portion of the click feeling generating member 3, and the click feeling generating member is pressed by pressing the pressing operation portion 15. 3 is in contact with the fixed contact 5 facing the conductive carbon 14, and the switch circuit corresponding to the fixed contact 5 can be electrically opened and closed.
[0054]
In the click feeling generating member 3 of the second embodiment, the conductive carbon 14 is printed on the polyester film 45, and the periphery of the portion where the conductive carbon 14 is printed is heated and press-molded, and the height is about 0.4 mm. It is formed in a reverse saddle shape. A spacer 46 is interposed between the polyester film 45 and the circuit board 4 in order to adjust the strength of the click feeling, but it may not be necessary.
[0055]
  The push button switch cover member 7 is disposed so as to surround the periphery of the click feeling generating member 3 provided on the circuit board 4.Cover base 8When,This cover base 8And a block portion 9 that is integrally connected to the click feeling generating member 3.
[0056]
The block portion 9 is formed with one switch function portion 10a at the center and four switch function portions 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e arranged on the outer side in the circumferential direction so as to be adjacent to each other. .
[0057]
Inside the block portion 9, a split groove 11 a communicating with the outside of the block portion 9 (downward in FIG. 4) is provided at a location adjacent to the outer peripheral switch function portions 10 b, 10 c, 10 d, and 10 e, and the central switch function A dividing groove 11b that communicates with the outside of the block portion 9 (downward in FIG. 4) is also provided at a location adjacent to the portion 10a and the outer switch function portions 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e, and the switch function portions 10a, 10b, and 10c are provided. , 10d, and 10e can be independently pressed.
[0058]
  As a result, the central dividing groove that is continuous with the entire outer periphery of the central switch function part 15a as viewed from the pressing operation unit 15 side11bThis central dividing groove as seen from the plane is formed11bTo outer circumferential dividing groove11aWill be formed to extend radially (See Figure 3).
[0059]
The closed side of the dividing grooves 11a and 11b (upper side in FIG. 4) forms a flexible thin portion 12 that connects the adjacent pressing operation portions 15 to each other. The pressing force is not transmitted to the matching switch function part 10.
[0060]
Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted.
[0061]
The operation of the push button switch cover member according to the second embodiment will be described below.
[0062]
  When the pressing operation portion 15a corresponding to the central switch function part 10a is pressed, the central switch function part 10a11bAnd outer dividing groove11aThe flexible thin-walled portion 12 formed by the elastic deformation in the pressing direction (downward in FIG. 4) prevents the pressing force from being transmitted to the outer switch function portions 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e. Only the functional part 10a is lowered to push down the click feeling generating member 3 below, and finally the conductive carbon 14 on the inner surface of the click feeling generating member 3 is connected to the fixed contact 5 facing the click feeling generating member 3. Contact, the switch circuit corresponding to the fixed contact 5 is electrically opened and closed.
[0063]
Similarly, in the pressing operation portions 15b, 15c, 15d, and 15e corresponding to the outer peripheral switch function portions 10b, 10c, 10d, and 10e, when any one of the pressing operation portions 15 is pressed, the adjacent outer peripheral switch function portions 15b. , 15c, 15d, 15e are formed by the flexible thin portion 12 formed by the outer peripheral dividing groove 1a, and the outer switch function parts 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e and the central switch function part 15a are in the center. The flexible thin-walled portion 12 formed by the dividing groove 11b is elastically deformed in the pressing direction (downward in FIG. 4), so that the adjacent switch function parts 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e on the outer periphery and the center switch function part No pressing force is transmitted to 15a, only the pressed switch function part 15 is lowered and the click feeling below it The raw member 3 is pushed down, and finally the conductive carbon 14 on the inner surface of the click feeling generating member 3 contacts the fixed contact 5 facing the click feeling generating member 3, so that the switch corresponding to the fixed contact 5 The circuit is electrically opened and closed.
[0064]
Embodiment 3 of the Invention
5 is a plan view of a pushbutton switch cover member according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG.
[0065]
The pushbutton switch cover member 7 is provided with light sources 16a and 16b that illuminate in accordance with each switch function of each switch function part 10 on the circuit board 4. As the light source, for example, FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, when the switch function is working, the LED (light source) 16a is illuminated green, and when the switch function is not working, the LED (light source) 16b is illuminated red.
[0066]
  In the third embodiment, three blocks are arranged in one row in the same block unit 9 as in the first embodiment.Switch function part10a, 10b, and 10c are shown, and the light blocking member 17 is disposed in the space of the dividing groove 11 by making the width of the dividing groove 11 larger than that of the first embodiment. The light shielding member 17 is erected on the flat portion of the resin sheet 6 formed between the adjacent click feeling generating members 3, and maintains a predetermined distance from the inner peripheral surface of the dividing groove 11. Even when the parts 10a, 10b, and 10c are pressed, the light shielding member 17 and the switch function parts 10a, 10b, and 10c are prevented from contacting each other.
[0067]
Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted.
[0068]
The operation of the pushbutton switch cover member according to Embodiment 3 will be described below.
[0069]
The light emitted from the light sources 16a and 16b arranged on the circuit board 4 impinges on the light shielding member 17 arranged so as to partition the adjacent switch function parts 10a, 10b and 10c, thereby preventing the progress thereof. The light does not leak to the adjacent switch function parts 10a, 10b, 10c. For this reason, the illumination according to each switch function does not interfere with each other, and the display by illumination becomes clear.
[0070]
Since other operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.
[0071]
[Embodiment 4 of the Invention]
7 is a plan view of a cover member for a pushbutton switch according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along the line DD of FIG.
[0072]
The pushbutton switch cover member 7 is provided with light sources 16a and 16b that illuminate in accordance with each switch function of the switch function part 10 on the circuit board 4. As the light source, for example, as shown in FIG. As shown, the LED (light source) 16a illuminates green when the switch function is working, and the LED (light source) 16b shines red when the switch function is not working.
[0073]
In the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, a plurality of switch function parts 10, 10, 10,... Are arranged in one block portion 9, and each switch function part 10 is shown. , 10, 10,... Are provided on the inner wall surface of the dividing groove 11.
[0074]
As the pressing operation unit 1 and a switch mechanism corresponding to the pressing operation unit 1, the center of the click sensation generating member 3 made of a reverse hook-shaped conductive elastic member is formed at the tip of the pressing projection 2 formed at the lower part of each pressing operation unit 1. Are attached to each other, and the fixed contact 5 provided on the circuit board 4 in the projection plane of the click feeling generating member 3 is provided so that the pressing operation portion 1 is pressed and the central portion of the click feeling generating member 3 is opposed. The switch circuit corresponding to the fixed contact 5 can be electrically opened and closed by contacting the fixed contact 5.
[0075]
The block portion 9 has a plurality of pressing operation portions 1, 1, 1,... And a lower portion of the pressing operation portions 1, 1, 1,. A plurality of switch function parts 10, 10, 10,... Composed of the formed pressing protrusions 2, 2, 2,.
[0076]
Other configurations are the same as those of the fourth embodiment, and the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.
[0077]
The operation of the pushbutton switch cover member according to the fourth embodiment will be described below.
[0078]
The light illuminated from the light sources 16 a and 16 b arranged on the circuit board 4 enters the dividing groove 11 that partitions the adjacent switch function parts 10, and the light is a light shielding layer provided on the inner wall surface of the dividing groove 11. Therefore, the light does not leak to the adjacent switch function part 10. For this reason, the illumination according to each switch function does not interfere with each other, and the display by illumination becomes clear.
[0079]
Since other operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.
[0080]
【Example】
Specific embodiments relating to the manufacture of the pushbutton switch cover member according to the present invention will be described below.
[0081]
[Example 1]
First, a specific example of the first embodiment will be described below.
[0082]
As molding material, 100 parts by weight of silicone rubber KE-9510 manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. and 2 parts by weight of vulcanized material C-8 manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. are formed in a desired color tone. In order to obtain a sheet-like rubber elastic material, the pigment was added and kneaded for 30 minutes with a mixing roll. Thereafter, this sheet-like rubber elastic material was cut to the product weight and placed in a molding die.
[0083]
The flexible thin portion 12 formed by the dividing groove 11 has a thickness of 0.2 mm × width 0.3 mm on the top surface side of the pressing operation portion 1, and the thickness of the side wall of the flexible thin portion 19 is 0.2 mm. X The width was 0.3 mm.
[0084]
The molding die was adjusted to 180 ° C. with a 150-ton temperature control press, and the raw material was pressurized and heated for 4 minutes to obtain a basic pushbutton switch cover member.
[0085]
If necessary, arbitrary characters, symbols, and the like can be applied to the portion that hits the pressing operation unit. In Example 1, silicone ink is printed on the pressing operation unit by a silk screen method, and the printing operation is performed at 180 ° C. for 20 minutes. A method of drying with a dryer was adopted.
[0086]
In Example 1, a SUS304 reverse saddle-shaped member is used as the click sensation generating member 3, and a metal dome sheet (manufactured by Fujikura Co., Ltd.) arranged on a polyester sheet previously coated with an adhesive is used. A pushbutton switch cover member was obtained by bonding with silicone RTV, KE-42 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.), and the pushbutton switch cover member 7 was mounted on the circuit board 4.
[0087]
[Example 2]
Next, a specific example of the second embodiment will be described below.
[0088]
A so-called scroll switch is used to change the position of the cursor on the liquid crystal display screen in order to provide a variety of switch functions within a limited size such as a cellular phone. It was created.
[0089]
As a molding material, 2 parts by weight of vulcanized material C-82 made by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. is added to 100 parts by weight of silicone KE-971TU made by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., and 30 minutes by a mixing roll. A sheet-like rubber elastic material kneaded and dispensed to a desired thickness was obtained. Thereafter, the sheet-like elastic material was cut to the product weight and placed in a molding die.
[0090]
The flexible thin portion 12 formed by the dividing groove 11 has a thickness of 0.1 mm × width 0.2 mm on the top surface side of the pressing operation portion 1, and the thickness of the side wall of the flexible thin portion 19 is 0.2 mm. X The width was 0.2 mm.
[0091]
The molding die was adjusted to 180 ° C. with a 150-ton temperature control press, and the raw material was pressurized and heated for 4 minutes to obtain a basic pushbutton switch cover member.
[0092]
If necessary, any character, symbol, or the like can be applied to the portion that hits the pressing operation unit 1, but in Example 2, silicone ink is printed on the pressing operation unit 1 by a silk screen method at 180 ° C. A method of drying with a dryer for 20 minutes was adopted.
[0093]
In Example 2, conductive carbon printing is applied to a desired position of a 75 μm thick polyester film Lumirror (manufactured by Toray Industries, Inc.) as the click sensation generating member 3, and after drying, the printed portion is temperature-controlled. Using a press machine, it is molded into a reverse bowl shape with a height of 0.4 mm, and is bonded to the previously formed cover member with silicone RTV, KE-42 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) to attach the cover member for the push button switch. As a result, the pushbutton switch cover member 7 was mounted on the circuit board 4.
[0094]
[Example 3]
Next, a specific example of the third embodiment will be described below.
[0095]
As a molding material, 100 parts by weight of silicone rubber compound DY32 made by Toray Dow Corning Co., Ltd. and 2 parts by weight of vulcanized material C-8 made by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. are added to the mixing roll. A sheet-like rubber elastic material was kneaded for 30 minutes and separated to a desired thickness. Thereafter, this sheet-like rubber elastic material was cut to the product weight and placed in a molding die.
[0096]
The flexible thin portion 12 formed by the dividing groove 11 has a thickness of 0.15 mm × width 0.3 mm on the top surface side of the pressing operation portion 1, and the thickness of the side wall of the flexible thin portion 19 is 0.2 mm. X The width was 0.4 mm.
[0097]
The molding die was adjusted to 180 ° C. with a 150-ton temperature control press, and the raw material was pressurized and heated for 4 minutes to obtain a basic pushbutton switch cover member.
[0098]
If necessary, arbitrary characters, symbols, and the like can be applied to the portion that hits the pressing operation portion. In Example 3, silicone ink is printed on the pressing operation portion by a silk screen method, and then at 180 ° C. for 20 minutes. A method of drying with a dryer was adopted, and then black silicone ink was applied to a thickness of 50 μm.
[0099]
Furthermore, the black ink part 18 was cut with the laser processing machine, and the character was formed.
[0100]
In the third embodiment, not only the display portion of characters and the like is illuminated to obtain night-time visibility, but also the visibility of each switch portion is further improved. In addition, a light source for turning red during operation was disposed on the circuit board 4.
[0101]
A molded product using polycarbonate manufactured by Sumitomo Dow Co., Ltd. was used as the light shielding member 17 in the space of the dividing groove 11.
[0102]
As the click sensation generating member 3, a reverse ridge-shaped member made of SUS301 is used, and a metal dome sheet (manufactured by Fujikura Co., Ltd.) arranged on a 50 μm thick polyester sheet previously coated with an adhesive is used for silicone RTV, KE 42 (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) was used to obtain a pushbutton switch cover member, and this pushbutton switch cover member was mounted on the circuit board 4.
[0103]
[Example 4]
Next, a specific example of the fourth embodiment will be described below.
[0104]
As a molding material, 100 parts by weight of silicone rubber compound DY32 made by Toray Dow Corning Co., Ltd. and 2 parts by weight of vulcanized material C-8 made by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. are added to the mixing roll. A sheet-like rubber elastic material was kneaded for 30 minutes and separated to a desired thickness. Thereafter, this sheet-like rubber elastic material was cut to the product weight and placed in a molding die.
[0105]
The flexible thin portion 12 formed by the dividing groove 11 has a thickness of 0.15 mm × width 0.2 mm on the pressing operation portion 1 side, and the thickness of the side wall of the flexible thin portion 19 is 0.2 mm × width 0. 3 mm.
[0106]
In order to provide a light-shielding layer in advance on the mold surface corresponding to the inner wall surface of the pressing operation portion and the mold surface corresponding to the pressing protrusion, black is applied to RTV, KE-445 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.). The pigment was kneaded in 0.2 parts by weight, diluted with RTV thinner 1204 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) to reduce the liquid viscosity to the extent that spray coating was possible, and the mold was painted to a thickness of 100 μm. .
[0107]
The molding die was adjusted to 180 ° C. with a 150-ton temperature control press, and the raw material was pressurized and heated for 4 minutes to obtain a basic pushbutton switch cover member.
[0108]
In the fourth embodiment, not only the display portion of characters and the like is illuminated to obtain nighttime visibility, but also the visibility of each switch portion is further improved. In addition, a light source for turning red during operation was disposed on the circuit board 4.
[0109]
If necessary, arbitrary characters, symbols, and the like can be applied to the portion that hits the pressing operation unit. In Example 4, silicone ink is printed on the pressing operation unit by a silk screen method, and then at 180 ° C. for 20 minutes. A method of drying with a dryer was adopted, and then black silicone ink was applied to a thickness of 50 μm.
[0110]
Furthermore, the black ink part 18 was cut with the laser processing machine, and the character was formed.
[0111]
Using a SUS304 reverse metal dome with a diameter of 5 mm as the click feeling generating member 3, apply 2-7 mg of silicone adhesive KE-42 (manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.) to the tip of the pressing protrusion. The metal dome was bonded to the pressing protrusion and integrated.
[0112]
[Experimental result]
FIG. 9 is a general characteristic curve graph showing the relationship between the load on the finger and the key top stroke when the pushbutton switch is operated.
[0113]
In Embodiment 1 of the present invention, an inverted hook-shaped elastic member made of a conductive material provided below the key top is employed as a member that generates a click feeling.
[0114]
In general, when the circuit corresponding to this is electrically opened and closed by an inverted hook-shaped click sensation generating member made of a conductive material built in the lower part of the key top, the input by the change in load applied to the finger by the operator As shown in the graph of FIG. 9, when the operator presses the key top, the so-called click feeling is a load applied to the finger of the operator in proportion to the key top stroke (horizontal axis). When the (vertical axis) gradually rises and reaches a predetermined stroke point P (S1, F1), the central portion (vertex portion) of the reverse saddle-like click feeling generating member is inverted and deformed. Even if it increases, the load decreases on the contrary.
[0115]
After that, the center portion of the reverse hook-shaped click feeling generating member comes into contact with the fixed contact on the circuit board, and the electrical connection is made, and the deformation of the reverse hook-shaped click feeling generating member is finished (see FIG. 9). M: (S2, F2)).
[0116]
Here, if the key top is continuously pressed to increase the stroke, only the load increases rapidly without any special deformation.
[0117]
From the relationship between the load change and the key top stroke during operation as described above, ((load at the maximum load point-load at the point where the electrical connection is made) / maximum load is used as an index of click feeling. The desired click rate (%) value can be obtained from the relational expression of (point load) × 100.
[0118]
This value indicates the balance with the load drop when pressing against the stroke. Generally, the click rate is 30% or more when the stroke is 0.3 mm or more, and 15% or more when the click rate is less than 0.3 mm. In some cases, it is said that the value can be recognized as having a good click feeling that allows the operator to sufficiently confirm the operation during the operation.
[0119]
Therefore, in the experiment conducted by the inventor, this value was adopted as an index for improving the click feeling, and the quality was judged.
[0120]
In the shape of the mold, in order to examine the appropriateness of the distance between the press operation parts and the thickness of the flexible thin part, the thin wall of the top surface of the operation key part can be corrected in the mold additional machining direction. The thickness and the thickness of the flexible thin wall portion of the side wall were set from 0.1 mm, corrected in units of 0.1 mm, and verified by obtaining respective samples.
[0121]
Table 1 is a list showing experimental results for the pushbutton switch cover member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0122]
[Table 1]

[0123]
Table 2 is a list showing experimental results for the pushbutton switch cover member according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0124]
[Table 2]

[0125]
Table 3 is a list showing experimental results for the pushbutton switch cover member according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
[0126]
[Table 3]

[0127]
As described above, from the experimental results shown in Tables 1 to 3, the flexible thin portion 19 on the side wall of the pressing operation portion 1 is 0.2 mm or more and the flexible thin portion on the top surface of the pressing operation portion 1 It was found that product formation was possible when the thickness of 12 was 0.2 mm or more, and that the thickness was less than that, it was found that the flexible thin-walled portion was torn and could not be used.
[0128]
It has also been found that when the thickness of the flexible thin portion increases, the load necessary for deformation of the flexible thin portion increases, so that the click feeling is lost.
[0129]
In the first embodiment, as can be seen from Table 1, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm and the side wall portion is 0.2 mm with respect to the thickness 0.1 mm of the flexible thin portion 19 of the side wall. The thickness of the top surface portion is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, the thickness of the flexible thin wall portion 19 is 0.3 mm, and the thickness of the top surface is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. When the thickness of the top surface portion was 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm with respect to the thickness of the portion 19 of 0.4 mm, the shape as a product was maintained and a good click feeling was obtained.
[0130]
Further, at a hardness of 58 degrees, the thickness of the flexible thin portion 19 of the side wall is 0.2 mm, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm, and the thickness of the flexible thin portion 19 of the side wall is 0.1 mm. It was found that the best click feeling was obtained when the thickness of the top surface portion was 3 mm and 0.2 mm.
[0131]
  In the second embodiment, as can be seen from Table 2, the thickness of the flexible thin portion 19 on the side wall0.1When the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm with respect to mm, the thickness of the flexible thin portion 19 of the side wall is 0.2 mm, and the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.2 mm, the product As a result, a good click feeling was obtained.
[0132]
In the third embodiment, as can be seen from Table 3, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm with respect to the thickness 0.1 mm of the flexible thin portion 19 of the side wall, and the flexible thin wall of the side wall. The thickness of the top surface portion is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm with respect to the thickness 0.2 mm of the portion 19, and the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.2 mm to 0 with respect to the thickness 0.3 mm of the flexible thin portion 19 on the side wall. When the condition was 0.5 mm, the shape as a product was maintained and a good click feeling was obtained.
[0133]
Further, when the hardness is 76 degrees, the thickness of the flexible thin portion 19 on the side wall is 0.2 mm, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm, and the thickness of the flexible thin portion 19 on the side wall is It was found that the best click feeling was obtained at 0.3 mm and the thickness of the top surface portion was 0.2 mm.
[0134]
Table 4 shows that the thickness of the flexible thin portion of the top surface portion of the pressing operation portion is constant to 0.2 mm and the thickness of the flexible thin portion of the side wall is constant to 0.2 mm, and the adjacent pressing operation portion It is the list | wrist which showed the result which expressed the influence which changes the space | interval on the feeling of the distance by expressing with the maximum load.
[0135]
[Table 4]

A commercial product in which a metal dome having a diameter of 5 mm and 2.3 N was incorporated into a polyester adhesive film was used as the click feeling generating portion.
[0136]
In order to obtain a good click feeling, it is most preferable as a switch member to show a value close to a numerical value that directly represents 2.3N which is the click rate and load characteristics of the metal dome built-in sheet which is the click feeling generating portion. .
[0137]
As can be seen from Table 4, the distance to the adjacent pressing operation portion of the flexible thin wall portion provided on the side wall has a great influence, and it was confirmed that a longer switch can obtain a better switch feel. .
[0138]
  From the series of verifications shown in Table 1, Table 2, Table 3, and Table 4, a plurality ofSwitch function partIn order to obtain the best switch feel in a switch member that accommodates a single block part, the rubber elastic body hardness is as low as possible, the thickness of the flexible thin part is 0.2 mm or more, and the stroke It was found that the shorter the better, the longer the distance between adjacent pressing operation portions of the flexible thin wall portion of the side wall is.
[0139]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, according to the invention described in each claim, since it is realized that adjacent switch function parts are brought close to each other, it is smaller than the conventional one in which a plurality of conventional switch functions are integrated,In addition, it has a high design with a structure that has a clear boundary in appearance with the operation parts of multiple operation key parts.A cover member for a push button switch can be provided.
[0140]
  According to invention of Claim 2, in addition to the said effect,It is possible to provide a pushbutton switch cover member that provides a reliable click feeling when operating each operation key portion.
[0141]
  According to invention of Claim 3, in addition to the said effect,A cover member for a push button switch that can be applied to a scroll switch that is smaller than conventional ones can be provided.
[0142]
  According to invention of Claim 4, in addition to the said effect,Since the illumination according to each switch function does not interfere with each other, the illumination of each switch function is clearerA cover member for a push button switch can be provided.
[0143]
  According to invention of Claim 5,The pushbutton switch with clearer illumination of each switch function because the illumination according to each switch function does not interfere with each otherCan be provided.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a plan view of a pushbutton switch cover member according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;
2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 1 showing the pushbutton switch cover member according to the first embodiment. FIG.
FIG. 3 is a plan view of a pushbutton switch cover member according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;
4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. 3 showing a pushbutton switch cover member according to the second embodiment. FIG.
FIG. 5 is a plan view of a pushbutton switch cover member according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention;
6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 5 showing a pushbutton switch cover member according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a plan view of a pushbutton switch cover member according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention;
8 is a sectional view taken along the line DD of FIG. 7 showing a pushbutton switch cover member according to the fourth embodiment. FIG.
FIG. 9 is a general characteristic curve graph showing the relationship between the load on the finger and the key top stroke when the pushbutton switch is operated.
FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a conventional push button switch cover member in which a plurality of independent operation key portions are integrated with a cover member.
FIG. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a conventional push button switch cover member in which a plurality of operation key portions are integrally formed.
FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a conventional pushbutton switch cover member in which a plurality of operation key portions are integrally formed with a main trunk by a hinge.
FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a conventional multidirectional switch member.
[Explanation of symbols]
1,15 Press operation part
2 Pressing protrusion
3 Click feeling generating material
4 Circuit board
5 Fixed contacts
6 Resin sheet
7 Pushbutton cover member
8 Cover material
9 Block part
10, 10a, 10b, 10c Switch functional part
11, 11a, 11b Dividing groove
12, 13, 19 Flexible thin part
14 Conductive carbon
16a, 16b Light source (LED)
17 Shielding member
18 Shielding layer

Claims (5)

A cover base disposed in a state of surrounding a fixed contact on the circuit board; a block portion projecting upward from the cover base; and a flexibility for joining the cover base and the block portion A thin wall portion, a top surface portion of the block portion has a pressing operation portion, and a bottom surface portion of the block portion directly below the pressing operation portion is formed with a pressing protrusion corresponding to the pressing operation portion. The push button switch cover member has a plurality of switch function parts including the pressing operation part and the pressing protrusion part in the block part, and the adjacent parts of the switch function parts include the switch function part. A cover member for a pushbutton switch, characterized in that the top surface portion and the side wall portion of the block portion have a dividing groove that becomes a flexible thin portion, and the top surface portion and the side wall portion of the block portion are flush with each other. . The cover member for a pushbutton switch according to claim 1 is formed of a rubber elastic body having a Shore A hardness of 30 to 80, and the flexible thin wall portion of the side wall portion of the block portion and the top of the block portion. When the thickness of the side wall portion is 0.1 mm, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.3 to 0.6 mm, and the thickness of the side wall portion is 0. When the thickness is 2 mm, the thickness of the top surface is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. When the thickness of the side wall is 0.3 mm, the thickness of the top surface is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm. When the thickness is 0.4 mm, the thickness of the top surface portion is 0.1 to 0.2 mm, and the pressing load at the maximum load point when the pressing operation portion is pressed is F1, When the pressing load at the time when the deformation of the feeling generating member is finished and the electrical connection is made is F2, 1 and relationship between F2 is, (F1-F2) / F1 × the cover member for push button switch, characterized in that the set so that 100 ≧ 15. In addition to the configuration according to claim 1 or 2, at least one of the switch functional parts is not adjacent to the side wall part of the block part, and is continuous to the entire outer periphery of the switch functional part as seen from a plane. A cover member for a pushbutton switch, in which the divided groove is formed, the switch function part is centered, and a plurality of other switch function parts are arranged on the outer side thereof in a substantially circumferential direction . The pushbutton switch cover member according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a light shielding layer is provided on a wall surface of the dividing groove . A light source corresponding to a switch function part is an illuminated pushbutton switch disposed on a circuit board, and the pushbutton switch cover member according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is mounted on the circuit board, A light-shielding member that enters into the dividing groove is erected on the circuit board, and the light-shielding member maintains an interval that does not contact the inner peripheral surface of the dividing groove during the entire pressing operation. Illuminated pushbutton switch.

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