JP3902076B2

JP3902076B2 - Multi-directional input device

Info

Publication number: JP3902076B2
Application number: JP2002178298A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 幸雄神崎; 恵司細川
Original assignee: Alps Electric Co Ltd
Current assignee: Alps Alpine Co Ltd
Priority date: 2002-06-19
Filing date: 2002-06-19
Publication date: 2007-04-04
Anticipated expiration: 2022-06-19
Also published as: JP2004021790A

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明はゲーム機器等の電子機器に使用される多方向入力装置に関する。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来の多方向入力装置の図面を説明すると、図２６は従来の多方向入力装置の分解斜視図、図２７は従来の多方向入力装置に係り、操作部材の構成を示す断面図、図２８は従来の多方向入力装置に係り、操作部材が中央部に位置した状態における操作部材と固定接点パターンとの関係を示す要部平面図、図２９は従来の多方向入力装置に係り、操作部材が中央部から移動した状態における操作部材と固定接点パターンとの関係を示す要部平面図、図３０は従来の多方向入力装置に係り、絶縁基板の裏面図である。
【０００３】
次に、従来の多方向入力装置の構成を図２６〜図３０に基づいて説明すると、絶縁樹脂の成型品からなる箱形のハウジング５１は、底壁５１ａと、この底壁５１ａから上方に延びる側壁５１ｂとを有する。
このハウジング５１の底壁５１ａ上には、平面的な導電パターンからなる互いに分離した一対の固定接点パターン５２，５３が設けられると共に、この一対の固定接点パターン５２，５３は、側壁５１ｂ外に延びる引き出し部５２ａ、５３ａが設けられている。
【０００４】
板材からなるカバー５４は、中央部に四角状の孔５４ａを有し、このカバー５４は、ハウジング５１の上方の開放部を覆うように、ハウジング５１に取り付けられ、このカバー５４とハウジング５１とによって、一つの筺体が形成されている。
【０００５】
絶縁基板５５は、中央部に四角状の孔５５ａを有すると共に、この絶縁基板５５の下面には、図３０で示すように、Ｘ方向検出部材５６と、このＸ方向検出部材５６と直角方向に配置されたＹ方向検出部材５７とが設けられている。
そして、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材５６，５７は、それぞれ２個のパルス用パターン５６ａ、５７ａと、１個のコモン用パターン５６ｂ、５７ｂとからなる検出素子５６ｃ、５７ｃで構成されている。
そして、この絶縁基板５５は、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材５６，５７を下方にして、筺体内に固定されている。
【０００６】
絶縁材からなるＸ方向スライド部材５８は、中心部の長手方向に長孔５８ａを有し、このＸ方向スライド部材５８は、Ｘ方向にスライド移動可能に、ハウジング５１と絶縁基板５５間に取り付けられいる。
また、絶縁材からなるＹ方向スライド部材５９は、中心部の長手方向に長孔５９ａを有し、このＹ方向スライド部材５９は、Ｙ方向にスライド移動可能に、ハウジング５１と絶縁基板５５間に取り付けられている。
【０００７】
そして、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９は、互いに直交した状態で交差状態で配置され、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９のそれぞれの一端側には、バネ性ある金属板からなる摺動子６０，６１が取り付けられている。
この摺動子６０，６１は、それぞれＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９の移動と共に可動して、それぞれ検出素子５６ｃ、５７ｃ上を摺動する。
その結果、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材５６，５７によって信号が検出され、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の座標が検出されるようになる。
【０００８】
操作部材６２は、絶縁樹脂の成型品からなる保持体６３と、この保持体６３に取り付けられた操作部６４とで構成されている。
また、保持体６３は、四角状の鍔状部６３ａと、この鍔状部６３ａから上方に延びる筒状部６３ｂと、鍔状部６３ａの四方に設けられた４個の弾性腕部６３ｃとで構成されおり、そして、筒状部６３ｂにおいて、操作部６４が軸線方向に移動可能に取り付けられている。
【０００９】
また、このような操作部材６２は、鍔状部６３ａが固定接点パターン５２，５３と、下方に位置するＸ方向スライド部材５８との間に位置すると共に、操作部６４がＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９の交差する長孔５８ａ、５９ａと、絶縁基板５５の孔５５ａ、及びカバー５４の孔５４ａを通って外方に突出している。
【００１０】
そして、この操作部材６２は、ハウジング５１に対して平面的にＸ、Ｙ方向にスライド移動可能となっており、操作部材６２が移動すると、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９を引っかけて、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９が操作部材６２の移動に追従して可動し、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材５６，５７が操作されるようになる。
【００１１】
また、操作部材６２の移動範囲の末端近傍においては、弾性腕部６３ｃがハウジング５１の側壁５１ｂに当接して、ハウジング５１に対する操作部材６２の衝撃を軟らかくしている。
【００１２】
プッシュ型のスイッチ６５は、特に図２７に示すように、一対の摺動接点６６、６７と、この一対の摺動接点６６，６７間をＯＮ、ＯＦＦするドーム状の可動接点６８とで構成されている。
この一対の摺動接点６６，６７は、それぞれ接触部６６ａ、６７ａと、この接触部６６ａ、６７ａを支持する板状の支持部６６ｂ、６７ｂと、この支持部６６ｂ、６７ｂに繋がれた接点部６６ｃ、６７ｃとを有する。
【００１３】
そして、一対の摺動接点６６，６７は、保持体６３に埋設して取り付けられ、接触部６６ａ、６７ａが下方に突出した状態で、板状の支持部６６ｂ、６７ｂが保持体６３の下面に露出すると共に、接点部６６ｃ、６７ｃが筒状部６３ｂの底面に露出した状態となっている。
【００１４】
また、可動接点６８は、操作部６４によって押圧可能に筒状部６３ｂ内に収納されて、周辺部が接点部６６ｃに常時接触すると共に、中央部が接点部６７ｃに接離可能に配置されており、操作部６４が押圧された際、可動接点６８が変形して、中央部が接点部６７ｃに接触して、一対の摺動接点６６，６７間をＯＮ状態とし、また、操作部６４の押圧を解除すると、可動接点５８は自己のバネ性により元の状態に戻って、一対の摺動接点６６，６７間がＯＦＦの状態となる。
【００１５】
このような構成を有するスイッチ６５は、操作部材６２が筺体に取り付けられた際、板状の支持部６６ｂ、６７ｂがそれぞれ固定接点パターン５２，５３と近接した状態で対向すると共に、接触部６６ａ、６７ａがそれぞれ固定接点パターン５２，５３に接触した状態となる。
【００１６】
そして、一方の接触部６６ａは、操作部材６２の移動範囲内において、一方の固定接点パターン５２との接触が離れることが無く、また、他方の接触部６７ａは、操作部材６２の移動範囲内において、他方の固定接点パターン５３との接触が離れることが無いようになっており、このため、操作部材６２の移動範囲内においては、スイッチ６５のＯＮ、ＯＦＦの信号が引き出し部５２ａ、５３ａから引き出せるようになっている。
【００１７】
板材からなる板状部材６９は、第１，第２板部７０，７１で構成され、第１板部７０は、カバー５４と絶縁基板５５の孔５４ａ、５５ａより大きな外形を有し、中央部に操作部６４と同等の大きさの孔７０ａが設けられ、また、第２板部７１は、カバー５４と絶縁基板５５の孔５４ａ、５５ａより大きな外形を有し、中央部のＹ方向に長孔７１ａが設けられている。
【００１８】
そして、第１板部７０は絶縁基板５５上に配置されると共に、第２板部７１は、第１板部７０とカバー５４との間に配置されて、第１，第２板部７０，７１によって、カバー５４の孔５４ａの目隠し用としての機能を果たしており、操作部６４が孔７０ａと長孔７１ａを通って外方に突出している。
また、操作部材６２をスライド移動した際、第１板部７０は、操作部材６２の移動に追従して可動するが、第２板部７１は、操作部材６２のＸ方向の移動時のみ可動し、Ｙ方向の移動時は可動しないようになっている。
【００１９】
次に、従来の多方向入力装置の動作を説明すると、操作部６４を摘んで操作部材６２をスライド移動すると、これに追従して、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９、及び摺動子６０，６１が移動し、その結果、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材５６，５７が操作されて、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の座標が検出されるようになる。
【００２０】
そして、このような操作部材６２の動作は、図２８で示す移動範囲の中央の位置から図２９で示す移動範囲の末端の位置の間で行われる。
その間において、一対の摺動接点６６，６７の接触部６６ａ、６７ａは、それぞれ固定接点パターン５２，５３との接触が維持された状態となる。
【００２１】
次に、操作部６４を押圧すると、可動接点６８が変形して、中央部が接点部６７ｃに接触して、一対の摺動接点６６，６７間がＯＮ状態となり、その結果、固定接点パターン５２，５３間が導通した状態となる。
また、操作部６４の押圧を解除すると、可動接点５８は自己のバネ性により元の状態に戻って、一対の摺動接点６６，６７間がＯＦＦの状態となり、その結果、固定接点パターン５２，５３間が非導通の状態となる。
このスイッチ６５によって、例えば、座標位置の決定等を行うものである。
【００２２】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
従来の多方向入力装置は、スイッチ６５による信号の検出が行えるが、操作部材６２の移動末端での信号の検出ができないという問題がある。
また、摺動子６０，６１は、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９の片側のみに配置されているため、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材５８，５９のバランスが悪く傾きを生じ、操作部材６２のスムースな移動ができないという問題がある。また、目隠し用の板状部材６９が絶縁基板５５上に載置されたものあるため、カバー５４の孔５４ａと板状部材６９の間から侵入した埃等は、絶縁基板５５上に落ち、この埃等が絶縁基板５５と板状部６９との間の平面部を経由して、絶縁基板５５の孔５５ａから固定接点パターン５２，５３上に侵入するという問題がある。
【００２３】
そこで、本発明は、操作部材の移動末端での信号の検出が行えると共に、操作性の良好な多方向入力装置を提供することを目的とする。
【００２４】
【課題を解決するための手段】
上記課題を解決するための第１の解決手段として、ハウジングと、このハウジングに対して平面的にＸ，Ｙ方向にスライド移動可能な操作部材と、この操作部材のＸ方向の移動によってＸ方向にスライド可能なＸ方向スライド部材と、このＸ方向スライド部材に直交した状態で交差し、前記操作部材のＹ方向の移動によってＹ方向にスライド可能なＹ方向スライド部材と、前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材の移動によって操作されるＸ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材と、前記操作部材のＸ方向の移動による移動範囲の末端、或いは末端近傍の位置の検出を行う第１検出部材と、前記操作部材のＹ方向の移動による移動範囲の末端、或いは末端近傍の位置の検出を行う第２検出部材を有する末端検出部材とを備え、前記Ｘ方向スライド部材の一端側には前記Ｘ方向検出部材が配設されると共に、前記Ｘ方向スライド部材の他端側には前記第１検出部材が配設され、また、前記Ｙ方向スライド部材の一端側には前記Ｙ方向検出部材が配設されると共に、前記Ｙ方向スライド部材の他端側には前記第２検出部材が配設されて、前記第１、第２検出部材は、互いに直角状態で配置されると共に、前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材が互いに直角状態で配置されて、前記第１，第２検出部材、及び前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材は、前記操作部材の移動によって操作されるようにした構成とした。
【００２８】
また、第２の解決手段として、前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材は、それぞれ検出素子を設けた絶縁基板と、前記検出素子上を摺動する摺動子とで構成され、前記絶縁基板と前記摺動子の何れか一方が前記ハウジングに取り付けられ、他方が前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側に取り付けられた構成とした。
【００２９】
また、第３の解決手段として、前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側には、前記絶縁基板が取り付けられて、前記絶縁基板が前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と共に移動し、前記ハウジングには、前記検出素子上を摺動する前記摺動子が取り付けられた構成とした。
【００３０】
また、第４の解決手段として、前記末端検出部材は、検出素子を設けた絶縁基板と、前記検出素子上を摺動する摺動子とで構成され、前記絶縁基板と前記摺動子の何れか一方が前記ハウジングに取り付けられ、他方が前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側に取り付けられた構成とした。
【００３１】
また、第５の解決手段として、前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側には、前記絶縁基板が取り付けられて、前記絶縁基板が前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と共に移動し、前記ハウジングには、前記検出素子上を摺動する前記摺動子が取り付けられた構成とした。
【００３２】
また、第６の解決手段として、前記操作部材は、ダンパー部材を介して移動が停止するようにした構成とした。
【００３３】
また、第７の解決手段として、前記ダンパー部材は、前記操作部材に設けられたバネ部材で構成され、前記バネ部材は、前記操作部材の移動範囲の末端近傍の位置で前記ハウジングに当接してから前記操作部材が停止するまでの間において変位するようにした構成とした。
【００３４】
また、第８の解決手段として、前記ダンパー部材は、前記ハウジングに設けられたバネ部材で構成され、前記バネ部材は、前記操作部材の移動範囲の末端近傍の位置で前記操作部材、或いは前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側に当接してから前記操作部材が停止するまでの間において変位するようにした構成とした。
【００３５】
また、第９の解決手段として、前記操作部材には、軸線方向に移動可能な操作部を設けると共に、この操作部の軸線方向の移動によって操作される押圧検出部材を備えた構成とした。
【００３６】
また、第１０の解決手段として、前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材の上方を覆うカバーを有し、このカバーに設けた孔から前記操作部材の操作部が外方に突出すると共に、前記カバーと前記Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材との間には、前記孔を塞ぐ板状部材と、この板状部材の後方に位置する板状の防塵部材とを配置し、前記防塵部材には、前記操作部の周囲を囲んだ状態で、前記板状部材の後面に当接する環状の凸条部を設けた構成とした。
【００３７】
【発明の実施の形態】
本発明の多方向入力装置の図面を説明すると、図１は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係る分解斜視図、図２は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向スライド部材の状態を示す要部断面図、図３は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｙ方向スライド部材の状態を示す要部断面図、図４は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ハウジングの平面図である。
【００３８】
また、図５は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部との関係を示す平面図、図６は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部との関係を示す裏面図、図７は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部との関係を示す斜視図である。
【００３９】
また、図８は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部材との関係を示す平面図、図９は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部材との関係を示す裏面図、図１０は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部材との関係を示す斜視図である。
【００４０】
また、図１１は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ハウジングにＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材が組み込まれた状態を示す平面図、図１２は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、保持体の平面図、図１３は図１２の１３−１３線における断面図、図１４は図１２の１４−１４線における断面図である。
【００４１】
また、図１５は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材を示す平面図、図１６は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、末端検出部材を示す平面図、図１７は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ダンパー部材がハウジングに当接した状態を示す平面図、図１８は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ダンパー部材が変位して、操作部材の移動が停止した状態を示す平面図、図１９は本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ダンパー部材の押し込み量と荷重との関係を示すグラフである。
【００４２】
また、図２０は本発明の多方向入力装置の第２実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材と末端検出部材を示す平面図、図２１は本発明の多方向入力装置の第３実施例に係り、ダンパー部材の構成を示す平面図、図２２は本発明の多方向入力装置の第４実施例に係り、ダンパー部材の構成を示す平面図、図２３は本発明の多方向入力装置の第５実施例に係り、防塵構造を示す要部断面図、図２４は本発明の多方向入力装置の第６実施例に係り、防塵構造を示す要部の分解斜視図、図２５は本発明の多方向入力装置の第６実施例に係り、防塵構造を示す要部の断面図である。
【００４３】
次に、本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例の構成を図１〜図１９に基づいて説明すると、絶縁樹脂の成型品からなる箱形のハウジング１は、底壁１ａと、この底壁１ａの四方の外周部から上方に延びる側壁１ｂと、斜向かいの一対の隅部に設けられた短い突起１ｃと、斜向かいのもう一対の隅部に設けられた長い突起１ｄと、４個の側壁１ｂの近傍に位置する底壁１ａに設けられた４個の矩形状の孔１ｅと、対向する一対の側壁１ｂの外面に設けられた係止突部１ｆと、底壁１ａから下方に突出する複数個の凸部１ｇとを有する。
そして、長い突起１ｄは、多方向入力装置が電子機器に組み込まれる際の位置決めとして用いられると共に、下部の突部１ｇは、電子機器の回路基板上に多方向入力装置を載置する際の位置決め用として使用される。
【００４４】
金属板からなる一対の固定接点パターン２，３は、矩形状の平面的な摺接部２ａ、３ａと、それぞれの摺接部２ａ、３ａと繋がった２個の端子部２ｂ、３ｂとを有する。
そして、この固定接点パターン２，３は、ハウジング１に埋設されて取り付けられ、平面的な摺動部２ａ、３ａが互いに絶縁した状態で底壁１ａ上に露出し、端子部２ｂ、３ｂがそれぞれハウジング１から外方に突出している。
【００４５】
バネ性ある金属板からなる４個の第１，第２，第３，第４摺動子４，５，６，７は、それぞれ複数個の摺動部４ａ、５ａ、６ａ、７ａと、この摺動部４ａ、５ａ、６ａ、７ａに繋がった端子部４ｂ、５ｂ、６ｂ、７ｂとを有する。
そして、これ等の４個の第１，第２，第３，第４摺動子４，５，６，７は、それぞれハウジング１に埋設されて取り付けられ、摺動部４ａ、５ａ、６ａ、７ａは孔１ｅ内に位置した状態で、孔１ｅから上方に突出し、また、端子部４ｂ、５ｂ、６ｂ、７ｂは、それぞれハウジング１から外方に突出している。
また、第１，第２，第３，第４摺動子４，５，６，７が埋設された際、第１，第２摺動子４，５は互いに対向する位置に配置されると共に、第３，第４摺動子６，７は互いに対向する位置に配置されている。
【００４６】
板材からなるカバー８は、四角形の上面板８ａと、この上面板８ａの中央部に設けられた四角状の孔８ｂと、上面板８ａの４隅に設けられた円形の孔８ｃと、上面板８ａの四方から下方に折り曲げられた側面板８ｄと、対向する一対の側面板８ｄに設けられた係止孔８ｅと、対向するもう一対の側面板８ｄに設けられた取付脚８ｆとを有する。
【００４７】
このカバー８は、上面板８ａがハウジング１の上方の開放部を覆うように配置され、係止孔８ｅ内にハウジング１の係止突起１ｆをスナップ係合させて、ハウジング１に取り付けられ、このカバー８とハウジング１とによって、一つの筺体が形成されている。
また、取付脚８ｆは、電子機器の回路基板に挿入、掛け止めされた状態で配線パターンに半田付けされて、多方向入力装置の取付を行うものである。
【００４８】
金属板等からなるＸ方向スライド部材９は、中心部の長手方向に長孔９ａを有し、このＸ方向スライド部材９は、Ｘ方向にスライド移動可能に、ハウジング１内に取り付けられている。
また、金属板等からなるＹ方向スライド部材１０は、中心部の長手方向に長孔１０ａを有し、このＹ方向スライド部材１０は、Ｙ方向にスライド移動可能に、ハウジング１内に取り付けられいる。
【００４９】
そして、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０は、互いに直交した状態で交差状態で配置され、Ｘ方向スライド部材９の両端側には、絶縁材からなる第１，第２保持部材１１，１２が取り付けられると共に、Ｙ方向スライド部材１０の両端側には、絶縁材からなる第３，第４保持部材１３，１４が取り付けられている。また、Ｘ方向、及びＹ方向スライド部材９，１０に取り付けられる第１、第２，第３，第４保持部材１１，１２，１３，１４の一方は、保持部材の孔内へ側方から軽圧入によって結合されているが、他方は、熱カシメ等によって強固に結合されている。
これにより、熱カシメした側の保持部材を基準として、他方の軽圧入した保持部材がスライド時にならうので、多少の取付誤差があってもスムーズにスライド移動できる。
【００５０】
絶縁基板１５は、特に図１５に示すように、矩形状をなし、この絶縁基板１５の一面には、検出素子１６が形成されている。
この検出素子１６は、中央部に位置する帯状の抵抗体１６ａと、この抵抗体１６ａの両端に接続され、抵抗体１６ａと並設された二つの導電体１６ｂ（ハッチング部分）とで構成されると共に、この検出素子１６は、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の座標位置を検出するために使用される。
【００５１】
この絶縁基板１５は、第１，第３保持部材１１，１３に掛け止めする等の適宜手段により取り付けられ、第１保持部材１１に取り付けられた絶縁基板１５上の検出素子１６には、第１摺動子４の３本の摺動部４ａが摺動可能となって、Ｘ方向検出部材１７が構成され、また、第３保持部材１３に取り付けられた絶縁基板１５上の検出素子１６には、第３摺動子６の３本の摺動部６ａが摺動可能となって、Ｙ方向検出部材１８が構成される。
【００５２】
そして、このＸ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材１７，１８によって、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の座標位置が検出され、Ｘ方向検出部材１７は、第１摺動子４の端子部４ｂから取り出されると共に、Ｙ方向検出部材１８は、第３摺動子６の端子部６ｂから取り出される。
また、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材１７，１８は、互いに直角状態で配置されている。
なお、この検出素子１６は、抵抗体以外に、パルスを発生する導電パターン等を使用しても良い。
【００５３】
絶縁基板１９は、特に図１６に示すように、絶縁基板１５とほぼ同一外形サイズの矩形状をなし、この絶縁基板１９の一面には、検出素子２０が形成されている。
この検出素子２０は、絶縁基板１９の両端部に設けられたコ字状の導電体２０ａ（ハッチング部分）で構成され、この検出素子２０は、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の移動範囲の末端を検出するために使用される。
なお、検出素子２０は、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の座標位置検出時の信号が末端位置においても途切れることがないよう、検出素子１６の両端位置と並設して重なるように対応させて配置されている。
【００５４】
そして、この絶縁基板１９は、第２，第４保持部材１２，１４に掛け止めする等の適宜手段により取り付けられ、第２保持部材１２に取り付けられた絶縁基板１９上の検出素子２０には、第２摺動子５の摺動部５ａが摺動可能となって、Ｘ方向の末端検出部材２１が構成され、また、第４保持部材１４に取り付けられた絶縁基板１９上の検出素子２０には、第４摺動子７の摺動部７ａが摺動可能となって、Ｙ方向の末端検出部材２２が構成される。
【００５５】
即ち、導電体２０ａのそれぞれには、３本の摺動部５ａ、７ａの内の２本が接触して、信号が検出され、Ｘ方向の末端検出部材２１は、第２摺動子５の端子部５ｂから取り出されると共に、Ｙ方向の末端検出部材２２は、第４摺動子７の端子部７ｂから取り出される。
また、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の末端検出部材２１，２２は、摺動方向がＸ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材１７，１８に平行になるように配置されると共に、互いに直角状態で配置されている。
なお、この検出素子２０は、導電体以外に、抵抗体等を使用しても良い。
【００５６】
なお、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材１７，１８，及び末端検出部材２１，２２は、摺動子を固定側とし、絶縁基板を可動側にしたもので説明したが、両者を反対にして、摺動子を可動側とし、絶縁基板を固定側にしても良い。
【００５７】
操作部材２３は、絶縁樹脂の成型品からなる保持体２４と、この保持体２４に取り付けられる取付部２５と、保持体２４と取付部２５とで移動可能に保持された操作部２６とで構成されている。
【００５８】
保持体２４は、特に図１２〜図１４に示すように、四角状の鍔状部２４ａと、この鍔状部２４ａから上方に延びる４つの筒状部２４ｂと、中心部に設けられた収納部２４ｃと、鍔状部２４ａの四方に設けられた４個の弾性腕部からなるダンパー部材２７とで構成されおり、この保持体２４は、鍔状部２４ａが底壁１ａ上に載置された状態で配置されている。
【００５９】
板状の取付部２５は、保持体２４の筒状部２４ｂ上に位置した状態で、保持体２４に設けた突起を熱カシメする等の手段により、取付部２５が保持体２４に取り付けられる。
この時、取付部２５と保持体２４は、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０を上下から挟むように配置された状態となっている。
そして、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０は、それぞれの長手方向が対向する筒状部２４ｂの壁面間にスライド可能に位置規制されている。
【００６０】
また、絶縁樹脂の成型品からなる操作部２６は、特に図５〜図７に示すように、十字状に延びる係合部２６ａと、この係合部２６ａの中心から上方に延びる摘み部２６ｂと、係合部２６ａの中心から下方に延び、下面に半円球状の凸部を設けた押圧部２６ｃとを有する。
【００６１】
そして、この操作部２６は、保持体２４と取付部２５との間に係合部２６ａを位置した状態で、軸線方向に移動可能に取り付けられる。
この時、十字状の係合部２６ａは、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０の長孔９ａ、１０ａ内に係合すると共に、押圧部２６ｃは、長孔９ａ、１０ａの交差部を貫通した状態となっている。
【００６２】
そして、このような操作部材２３は、摘み部２６ｂがカバー８の孔８ｂを通って外部に突出すると共に、ハウジング１に対して平面的にスライド移動可能となり、この操作部材２３の移動時、筒状部２４ｂによってＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０を案内して、これを移動すると共に、絶縁基板１５，１９も共に移動し、その結果、絶縁基板１５の移動によって、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材１７，１８が操作されるようになる。
【００６３】
また、操作部材２３の移動範囲の末端近傍においては、ダンパー部材２７がハウジング１の側壁１ｂに当接して、弾性腕部の撓みにより操作荷重が増して、操作者の手指を介して末端位置であることを知覚させると共に、絶縁基板１９の移動によって、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の末端検出部材２１，２２が操作されて、操作部材２３の移動範囲の末端での信号が検出される。
【００６４】
図１９のグラフを基にして、末端検出動作を説明すると、操作部材２３に設けられたダンパー部材２７が側壁１ｂに当接した位置Ａから、操作力が徐々に増加して、位置Ｂで末端検出部材２１，２２が動作し、そして、保持体２４の鍔状部２４ａが側壁１ｂにぶつかった位置Ｃで、操作部材２３の移動が停止されるようになっている。
【００６５】
なお、末端検出部材２１，２２が動作は、位置Ａから位置Ｃの範囲中に行うようにしても良い。
【００６６】
プッシュ型のスイッチ２８は、特に図２、図１２〜図１４に示すように、一対の摺動接点２９，３０と、この一対の摺動接点２９，３０間をＯＮ、ＯＦＦするドーム状の可動接点３１とで構成されている。
【００６７】
この一対の摺動接点２９，３０は、それぞれ接触部２９ａ、３０ａと、この接触部２９ａ、３０ａを支持する板状の支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂと、この支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂに繋がれた接点部２９ｃ、３０ｃとを有する。
そして、一対の摺動接点２９，３０は、保持体２４に埋設して取り付けられ、接触部２９ａ、３０ａが下方に突出した状態で、板状の支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂが保持体２４内に埋設されると共に、接点部２９ｃ、３０ｃが筒状部２４ｂの底面に露出した状態となっている。
【００６８】
この時、保持体２４の下面には、接触部２９ａ、３０ａのみが露出し、支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂは、保持体２４内に位置して、支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂと保持体２４の下面との間には、保持体２４の一部で構成される絶縁部材３２が介在した状態となっている。
【００６９】
また、可動接点３１は、操作部２６によって押圧可能に収納部２４ｃ内に収納されて、周辺部が接点部３０ｃに常時接触すると共に、中央部が接点部２９ｃに接離可能に配置されており、操作部２６が押圧された際、可動接点３１が変形して、中央部が接点部２９ｃに接触して、一対の摺動接点２９，３０間をＯＮ状態とし、また、操作部２６の押圧を解除すると、可動接点３１は自己のバネ性により元の状態に戻って、一対の摺動接点２９，３０間がＯＦＦの状態となる。
【００７０】
このような構成を有するスイッチ２８は、操作部材２３が筺体に取り付けられた際、板状の支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂがそれぞれ固定接点パターン２，３と対向し、且つ、絶縁部材３２を介して絶縁された状態で配置されると共に、接触部２９ａ、３０ａがそれぞれ固定接点パターン２，３に接触した状態となる。
【００７１】
そして、一方の接触部２９ａは、操作部材２３の移動範囲内において、一方の固定接点パターン２との接触が離れることが無く、また、他方の接触部３０ａは、操作部材２３の移動範囲内において、他方の固定接点パターン３との接触が離れることが無いようになっており、このため、操作部材２３の移動範囲内においては、スイッチ２８のＯＮ、ＯＦＦの信号が端子部２ｂ、３ｂから引き出せるようになっている。
【００７２】
なお、この実施例では、一対の摺動接点２９，３０の支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂが保持体２４に埋設され、保持体２４の一部からなる絶縁部材３２によって、支持部２９ｂ、３０ｂは、固定接点パターン２，３との間が絶縁されたもので説明したが、保持体２４の下面に絶縁シートを設け、この絶縁シートの孔から接触部２９ａ、３０ａを突出させ、接触部２９ａ、３０ａ以外の箇所を絶縁シートで覆って、固定接点パターン２，３との絶縁を図っても良い。
【００７３】
また、保持体２４の下面に絶縁膜を設け、この絶縁膜の孔から接触部２９ａ、３０ａを突出させ、接触部２９ａ、３０ａ以外の箇所を絶縁膜で覆って、固定接点パターン２，３との絶縁を図っても良い。
【００７４】
中央に開口を有する板材からなる押さえ部材３３は、ハウジング１に取り付けられ、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０の浮き上がりを防止している。
また、板材からなる板状部材３４は、第１，第２、第３板部３５，３６，３７で構成され、第１板部３５は、カバー８の孔８ｂより大きな外形を有し、中央部のＹ方向に長孔３５ａが設けられ、また、第２板部３６は、カバー８の孔８ｂより大きな外形を有し、中央部に摘み部２６ｂと同等の大きさの孔３６ａが設けられ、更に、第３板部３７は、カバー８の孔８ｂより大きな外形を有し、中央部のＸ方向に長孔３７ａが設けられている。
【００７５】
そして、第１板部３５は押さえ部３３上に配置されると共に、第２板部３６は、第１板部３５上に配置され、更に、第３板部３７は、カバー８と第２板部３６との間に配置され、これ等の第１，第２、第３板部３５，３６，３７によって、カバー８の孔８ｂの目隠し用としての機能を果たしており、操作部２６の摘み部２６ｂが長孔３５ａ、３７ａ、及び孔３６ａを通って外方に突出している。
【００７６】
また、操作部材２３をスライド移動した際、Ｙ方向の移動に際しては、第１、第２板部３５，３６が操作部材２３の移動に追従して可動し、また、Ｘ方向移動に際しては、第２、第３板部３６、３７が操作部材２３の移動に追従して可動するようになる。
【００７７】
次に、本発明の多方向入力装置の動作を説明すると、操作部２６の摘み部２６ｂを摘んで操作部材２３をスライド移動すると、これに追従して、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０、及び絶縁基板１５，１９が移動し、その結果、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材１７，１８が操作されて、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の座標が検出されるようになる。
【００７８】
そして、操作部材２３が移動範囲の末端近傍になると、図１７に示すように、ダンパー部材２７が側壁１ｂに当接し、また、ダンパー部材２７の弾性に抗して更に移動を続けると、図１８に示すように、保持体２４が側壁１ｂにぶつかって、操作部材２３の移動が停止する。
【００７９】
その間において、Ｘ方向の移動に際しては、Ｘ方向の末端検出部材２１が操作れて、Ｘ方向の末端の検出が行われ、また、Ｙ方向の移動に際しては、Ｙ方向の末端検出部材２２が操作されて、Ｙ方向の末端の検出が行われるようになる。
なお、この末端検出時においても、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向の検出部材の座標検出の信号が途切れることがない。
更に、操作部材２３の移動範囲において、一対の摺動接点２９，３０の接触部２９ａ、３０ａは、それぞれ固定接点パターン２，３との接触が維持された状態となる。
また、本実施例おいては、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の検出部材と、末端検出部材をスライド部材の両端側に振り分けて設けたので、バランスが良く、スライド方向への移動をスムーズに行うことができる。
また、絶縁基板を可動する操作部材側に対して、ハウジング側に固定された摺動子を上向きに設けたので、塵埃や水滴が侵入したとしても、絶縁基板上に堆積することがなく、信頼性の高い検出を行える。
【００８０】
次に、操作部２６を押圧すると、可動接点３１が変形して、中央部が接点部２９ｃに接触して、一対の摺動接点２９，３０間がＯＮ状態となり、その結果、固定接点パターン２，３間が導通した状態となる。
また、操作部２６の押圧を解除すると、可動接点３１は自己のバネ性により元の状態に戻って、一対の摺動接点２９，３０間がＯＦＦの状態となり、その結果、固定接点パターン２，３間が非導通の状態となる。
このスイッチ２８によって、例えば、座標位置の決定等を行うものである。
【００８１】
また、図２０は本発明の第２実施例を示し、この第２実施例は、Ｘ，Ｙ方向の座標を検出するための検出素子１６と、末端位置を検出するための検出素子２０が一枚の絶縁基板４０に設けられたものである。
この場合、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０の一端側には、この絶縁基板４０が直角状態で取り付けられて、それぞれＸ、Ｙ方向の検出を行うと共に、Ｘ、Ｙ方向の末端の検出を行うものである。
この第２実施例においても、検出素子１６と検出素子２０の配置関係は第１実施例と同様であり、両者はスライド方向に互いに平行に、且つ、末端検出時に座標検出が途切れないよう、対応づけて配置している。
【００８２】
また、図２１は本発明の第３実施例を示し、この第３実施例は、ダンパー部材２７ａ，２７ｂが固定側であるハウジング１に設けられたものである。
そして、弾性腕部からなるダンパー部材２７ａは、操作部材２３とぶつかるようになり、また、コイルバネ等からなるダンパー部材２７ｂは、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材９，１０側にぶつかるようになっている。
なお、このダンパー部材２７ａ、２７ｂは、何れか一方でも良い。
【００８３】
また、図２２は本発明の第４実施例を示し、この第４実施例は、第１実施例の弾性腕部からなるダンパー部材２７に代えて、バネ性ある金属板を操作部材２３に取り付けて、ダンパー部材２７を構成したものである。
【００８４】
また、図２３は本発明の第５実施例を示し、この第５実施例は、板状からなる防塵部材４１に環状の凸条部４１ａを設け、この防塵部材４１が板状部材３４の後面に配置され、凸条部４１ａが板状部材３４に当接した状態で、この凸条部４１ａが操作部２６の摘み部２６ｂの外周を囲むようにしたものである。
【００８５】
このような構成にすると、カバー８の孔８ｂと板状部材３４の間から侵入した埃等は、防塵部材４１上に落ち、この埃等が凸条部４１ａで遮られて、固定接点パターン２，３上に侵入することがない。
【００８６】
また、図２４，図２５は本発明の第６実施例を示し、この第６実施例は、カバー８の孔８ｂを塞ぐ板状部材４２と、この板状部材４２の後面に配置され、環状の凸条部４３ａを有する防塵部材４３とで構成されたものである。
そして、防塵部材４３の凸条部４３ａが板状部材４２に当接した状態で、この凸条部４３ａが操作部２６の摘み部２６ｂの外周を囲むようにしたものである。
【００８７】
このような構成にすると、カバー８の孔８ｂと板状部材４２の間から侵入した埃等は、防塵部材４３上に落ち、この埃等が凸条部４３ａで遮られて、固定接点パターン２，３上に侵入することがない。
【００８８】
【発明の効果】
本発明の多方向入力装置は、ハウジングと、このハウジングに対して平面的にＸ，Ｙ方向にスライド移動可能な操作部材と、この操作部材のＸ方向の移動によって操作されるＸ方向検出部材と、操作部材のＹ方向の移動によって操作されるＹ方向検出部材と、操作部材の移動範囲の末端、或いは末端近傍の位置で操作される末端検出部材とを備え、操作部材の操作時には、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材が操作されると共に、移動範囲の末端、或いは末端近傍に操作部材が移動した時には、末端検出部材が操作されるようにした構成とした。
この構成によって、操作部材の移動範囲の末端、或いは末端近傍の位置で、信号を検出できて、この検出を種々の機能に利用できる。
【００８９】
また、Ｘ方向にスライド可能なＸ方向スライド部材と、このＸ方向スライド部材に直交した状態で交差し、Ｙ方向にスライド可能なＹ方向スライド部材とを備え、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材は、操作部材の移動に追従して可動し、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材の移動によって、Ｘ方向検出部材とＹ方向検出部材、及び末端検出部材が操作されるようにしたため、その構成が簡単で、操作の確実なものが得られる。
【００９０】
また、末端検出部材は、第１，第２検出部材を有し、第１検出部材は、操作部材のＸ方向の移動による検出を行うと共に、第２検出部材は、操作部材のＹ方向の移動による検出を行い、第１，第２検出部材は、互いに直角状態で配置されると共に、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材が互いに直角状態に配置されて、第１，第２検出部材、及びＸ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材は、操作部材の移動によって操作されるようにしたため、Ｘ、Ｙ方向と操作部材の末端での検出を確実に行うことができる。
【００９１】
また、Ｘ方向スライド部材の一端側にはＸ方向検出部材が配設されると共に、Ｘ方向スライド部材の他端側には第１検出部材が配設され、また、Ｙ方向スライド部材の一端側にはＹ方向検出部材が配設されると共に、Ｙ方向スライド部材の他端側には第２検出部材が配設されたため、その構成が簡単で、操作の確実なものが得られると共に、摺動子の押圧がバランス良くなって、操作性の良好なものが得られる。
【００９２】
また、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材は、それぞれ検出素子を設けた絶縁基板と、検出素子上を摺動する摺動子とで構成され、絶縁基板と摺動子の何れか一方がハウジングに取り付けられ、他方がＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側に取り付けられたため、その構成が簡単で、操作の確実なものが得られる。
【００９３】
また、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側には、絶縁基板が取り付けられて、絶縁基板がＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と共に移動し、ハウジングには、検出素子上を摺動する摺動子が取り付けられたため、検出の取り出しが簡単で、生産性の良いものが得られる。
【００９４】
また、末端検出部材は、検出素子を設けた絶縁基板と、検出素子上を摺動する摺動子とで構成され、絶縁基板と摺動子の何れか一方がハウジングに取り付けられ、他方がＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側に取り付けられたため、その構成が簡単で、操作の確実なものが得られる。
【００９５】
また、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側には、絶縁基板が取り付けられて、絶縁基板がＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と共に移動し、ハウジングには、検出素子上を摺動する摺動子が取り付けられたため、検出の取り出しが簡単で、生産性の良いものが得られる。
【００９６】
また、操作部材は、ダンパー部材を介して移動が停止するようにしたため、操作感触の変化によって操作者に操作部材の末端位置への近接を知覚させることができる。
【００９７】
また、ダンパー部材は、操作部材に設けられたバネ部材で構成され、バネ部材は、操作部材の移動範囲の末端近傍の位置でハウジングに当接してから操作部材が停止するまでの間において変位するようにしたため、その構成が簡単で、末端検出部材の操作の確実なものが得られる。
【００９８】
また、ダンパー部材は、ハウジングに設けられたバネ部材で構成され、バネ部材は、操作部材の移動範囲の末端近傍の位置で操作部材、或いはＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材側に当接してから操作部材が停止するまでの間において変位するようにしたため、その構成が簡単で、末端検出部材の操作の確実なものが得られる。
【００９９】
また、操作部材には、軸線方向に移動可能な操作部を設けると共に、この操作部の軸線方向の移動によって操作される押圧検出部材を備えたため、末端検出部材の他に信号の検出を行うことができて好適である。
【０１００】
また、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材の上方を覆うカバーを有し、このカバーに設けた孔から操作部材の操作部が外方に突出すると共に、カバーとＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材との間には、孔を塞ぐ板状部材と、この板状部材の後方に位置する板状の防塵部材とを配置し、防塵部材には、操作部の周囲を囲んだ状態で、板状部材の後面に当接する環状の凸条部を設けたため、固定接点パターンへの埃等の侵入が無く、確実な操作を行うことができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係る分解斜視図。
【図２】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向スライド部材の状態を示す要部断面図。
【図３】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｙ方向スライド部材の状態を示す要部断面図。
【図４】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ハウジングの平面図。
【図５】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部との関係を示す平面図。
【図６】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部との関係を示す裏面図。
【図７】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部との関係を示す斜視図。
【図８】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部材との関係を示す平面図。
【図９】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部材との関係を示す裏面図。
【図１０】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材と操作部材との関係を示す斜視図。
【図１１】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ハウジングにＸ方向、Ｙ方向スライド部材が組み込まれた状態を示す平面図。
【図１２】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、保持体の平面図。
【図１３】図１２の１３−１３線における断面図。
【図１４】図１２の１４−１４線における断面図。
【図１５】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材を示す平面図。
【図１６】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、末端検出部材を示す平面図。
【図１７】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ダンパー部材がハウジングに当接した状態を示す平面図。
【図１８】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ダンパー部材が変位して、操作部材の移動が停止した状態を示す平面図。
【図１９】本発明の多方向入力装置の第１実施例に係り、ダンパー部材の押し込み量と荷重との関係を示すグラフ。
【図２０】本発明の多方向入力装置の第２実施例に係り、Ｘ方向、Ｙ方向検出部材と末端検出部材を示す平面図。
【図２１】本発明の多方向入力装置の第３実施例に係り、ダンパー部材の構成を示す平面図。
【図２２】本発明の多方向入力装置の第４実施例に係り、ダンパー部材の構成を示す平面図。
【図２３】本発明の多方向入力装置の第５実施例に係り、防塵構造を示す要部断面図。
【図２４】本発明の多方向入力装置の第６実施例に係り、防塵構造を示す要部の分解斜視図。
【図２５】本発明の多方向入力装置の第６実施例に係り、防塵構造を示す要部の断面図。
【図２６】従来の多方向入力装置の分解斜視図。
【図２７】従来の多方向入力装置に係り、操作部材の構成を示す断面図。
【図２８】従来の多方向入力装置に係り、操作部材が中央部に位置した状態における操作部材と固定接点パターンとの関係を示す要部平面図。
【図２９】従来の多方向入力装置に係り、操作部材が中央部から移動した状態における操作部材と固定接点パターンとの関係を示す要部平面図。
【図３０】従来の多方向入力装置に係り、絶縁基板の裏面図。
【符号の説明】
１ハウジング
１ａ底壁
１ｂ側壁
１ｃ突起
１ｄ突起
１ｅ孔
１ｆ係止突部
１ｇ凸部
２固定接点パターン
２ａ摺動部
２ｂ端子部
３固定接点パターン
３ａ摺動部
３ｂ端子部
４第１摺動子
４ａ摺動部
４ｂ端子部
５第２摺動子
５ａ摺動部
５ｂ端子部
６第３摺動子
６ａ摺動部
６ｂ端子部
７第４摺動子
７ａ摺動部
７ｂ端子部
８カバー
８ａ上面板
８ｂ孔
８ｃ孔
８ｄ側面板
８ｅ係止孔
８ｆ取付脚
９Ｘ方向スライド部材
９ａ長孔
１０Ｙ方向スライド部材
１０ａ長孔
１１第１保持部材
１２第２保持部材
１３第３保持部材
１４第４保持部材
１５絶縁基板
１６検出素子
１６ａ抵抗体
１６ｂ導電体
１７Ｘ方向検出部材
１８Ｙ方向検出部材
１９絶縁基板
２０検出素子
２０ａ導電体
２１Ｘ方向の末端検出部材
２２Ｙ方向の末端検出部材
２３操作部材
２４保持体
２４ａ鍔状部
２４ｂ筒状部
２４ｃ収納部
２５取付部
２６操作部
２６ａ係合部
２６ｂ摘み部
２６ｃ押圧部
２７ダンパー部材
２８スイッチ
２９摺動接点
２９ａ接触部
２９ｂ支持部
２９ｃ接点部
３０摺動接点
３０ａ接触部
３０ｂ支持部
３０ｃ接点部
３１可動接点
３２絶縁部材
３３押さえ部材
３４板状部材
３５第１板部
３５ａ長孔
３６第２板部
３６ａ孔
３７第３板部
３７ａ長孔
４０絶縁基板
４１防塵部材
４１ａ凸条部
４２板状部材
４３防塵部材
４３ａ凸条部[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a multidirectional input device used for an electronic device such as a game device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a conventional multidirectional input device, FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an operation member according to the conventional multidirectional input device, and FIG. FIG. 29 is a plan view of a principal part showing a relationship between the operation member and the fixed contact pattern in a state where the operation member is located at the central portion, and FIG. 29 is related to the conventional multi-direction input device, and the operation member is The principal part top view which shows the relationship between the operation member in the state which moved from the center part, and a fixed contact pattern, FIG. 30 is related with the conventional multidirectional input device, and is a back view of an insulated substrate.
[0003]
Next, the configuration of a conventional multidirectional input device will be described with reference to FIGS. 26 to 30. A box-shaped housing 51 made of a molded product of insulating resin extends upward from the bottom wall 51a. And a side wall 51b.
On the bottom wall 51a of the housing 51, a pair of separated fixed contact patterns 52 and 53 each having a planar conductive pattern are provided, and the pair of fixed contact patterns 52 and 53 extend outside the side wall 51b. Drawers 52a and 53a are provided.
[0004]
The cover 54 made of a plate material has a square hole 54 a at the center, and the cover 54 is attached to the housing 51 so as to cover the open portion above the housing 51. A single housing is formed.
[0005]
The insulating substrate 55 has a square hole 55a in the center, and an X-direction detection member 56 and a perpendicular direction to the X-direction detection member 56 are formed on the lower surface of the insulation substrate 55 as shown in FIG. An arranged Y-direction detection member 57 is provided.
The X-direction and Y-direction detection members 56 and 57 are configured by detection elements 56c and 57c each including two pulse patterns 56a and 57a and one common pattern 56b and 57b.
The insulating substrate 55 is fixed in the housing with the X direction and Y direction detection members 56 and 57 facing downward.
[0006]
The X-direction slide member 58 made of an insulating material has a long hole 58a in the longitudinal direction of the central portion, and the X-direction slide member 58 is attached between the housing 51 and the insulating substrate 55 so as to be slidable in the X direction. Yes.
The Y-direction slide member 59 made of an insulating material has a long hole 59a in the longitudinal direction of the central portion. The Y-direction slide member 59 is slidably movable in the Y direction between the housing 51 and the insulating substrate 55. It is attached.
[0007]
The X-direction and Y-direction slide members 58 and 59 are arranged in an intersecting state so as to be orthogonal to each other, and one end side of each of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 58 and 59 is made of a springy metal plate. Sliders 60 and 61 are attached.
The sliders 60 and 61 move with the movement of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 58 and 59, respectively, and slide on the detection elements 56c and 57c, respectively.
As a result, signals are detected by the X direction and Y direction detection members 56 and 57, and coordinates in the X and Y directions are detected.
[0008]
The operation member 62 includes a holding body 63 made of a molded product of insulating resin and an operation section 64 attached to the holding body 63.
In addition, the holding body 63 includes a square hook-shaped portion 63a, a cylindrical portion 63b extending upward from the hook-shaped portion 63a, and four elastic arm portions 63c provided on four sides of the hook-shaped portion 63a. In the cylindrical portion 63b, the operation portion 64 is attached so as to be movable in the axial direction.
[0009]
Further, in such an operation member 62, the hook-shaped portion 63a is positioned between the fixed contact patterns 52 and 53 and the X-direction slide member 58 positioned below, and the operation portion 64 is slid in the X-direction and Y-direction. The members 58, 59 project outward through the long holes 58a, 59a intersecting each other, the hole 55a of the insulating substrate 55, and the hole 54a of the cover 54.
[0010]
The operation member 62 is slidable in the X and Y directions in a plane with respect to the housing 51. When the operation member 62 moves, the X and Y direction slide members 58 and 59 are hooked. The X direction and Y direction slide members 58 and 59 move following the movement of the operation member 62, and the X direction and Y direction detection members 56 and 57 are operated.
[0011]
Further, in the vicinity of the end of the movement range of the operation member 62, the elastic arm portion 63 c comes into contact with the side wall 51 b of the housing 51 to soften the impact of the operation member 62 on the housing 51.
[0012]
As shown in FIG. 27 in particular, the push-type switch 65 includes a pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 and a dome-shaped movable contact 68 that turns on and off between the pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67. ing.
The pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 are contact portions 66a and 67a, plate-like support portions 66b and 67b that support the contact portions 66a and 67a, and contact portions connected to the support portions 66b and 67b, respectively. 66c, 67c.
[0013]
The pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 are embedded and attached to the holding body 63, and the plate-like support parts 66 b and 67 b are formed on the lower surface of the holding body 63 with the contact parts 66 a and 67 a protruding downward. In addition to being exposed, the contact portions 66c and 67c are exposed on the bottom surface of the cylindrical portion 63b.
[0014]
The movable contact 68 is accommodated in the cylindrical portion 63b so that it can be pressed by the operation portion 64, the peripheral portion is always in contact with the contact portion 66c, and the central portion is disposed so as to be able to contact and separate from the contact portion 67c. When the operation portion 64 is pressed, the movable contact 68 is deformed, the central portion comes into contact with the contact portion 67c, and the pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 are turned on. When the pressing is released, the movable contact 58 returns to its original state due to its own spring property, and the pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 is turned off.
[0015]
In the switch 65 having such a configuration, when the operation member 62 is attached to the housing, the plate-like support portions 66b and 67b face each other in the state of being close to the fixed contact patterns 52 and 53, respectively, and the contact portions 66a, 67a comes into contact with the fixed contact patterns 52 and 53, respectively.
[0016]
One contact portion 66a does not leave contact with one fixed contact pattern 52 within the movement range of the operation member 62, and the other contact portion 67a does not move within the movement range of the operation member 62. Thus, the contact with the other fixed contact pattern 53 is not separated, and therefore, the ON / OFF signal of the switch 65 can be drawn out from the lead-out portions 52a and 53a within the movement range of the operation member 62. It is like that.
[0017]
A plate-like member 69 made of a plate material includes first and second plate portions 70 and 71, and the first plate portion 70 has an outer shape larger than the holes 54 a and 55 a of the cover 54 and the insulating substrate 55, and has a central portion. Is provided with a hole 70a having the same size as the operation portion 64, and the second plate portion 71 has a larger outer shape than the holes 54a and 55a of the cover 54 and the insulating substrate 55, and is long in the Y direction of the central portion. A hole 71a is provided.
[0018]
The first plate portion 70 is disposed on the insulating substrate 55, and the second plate portion 71 is disposed between the first plate portion 70 and the cover 54, and the first and second plate portions 70, 71 serves as a blindfold for the hole 54a of the cover 54, and the operation portion 64 protrudes outward through the hole 70a and the long hole 71a.
Further, when the operation member 62 is slid, the first plate portion 70 moves following the movement of the operation member 62, but the second plate portion 71 moves only when the operation member 62 moves in the X direction. When moving in the Y direction, it is not movable.
[0019]
Next, the operation of the conventional multi-directional input device will be described. When the operation member 62 is slid by moving the operation unit 64, the X- and Y-direction slide members 58 and 59 and the slider follow the operation member 62. As a result, the X and Y direction detecting members 56 and 57 are operated, and the coordinates in the X and Y directions are detected.
[0020]
Such operation of the operation member 62 is performed between the center position of the movement range shown in FIG. 28 and the end position of the movement range shown in FIG.
In the meantime, the contact portions 66a and 67a of the pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 are kept in contact with the fixed contact patterns 52 and 53, respectively.
[0021]
Next, when the operation portion 64 is pressed, the movable contact 68 is deformed, the central portion comes into contact with the contact portion 67c, and the pair of sliding contacts 66, 67 are turned on. As a result, the fixed contact pattern 52 , 53 become conductive.
When the pressing of the operation unit 64 is released, the movable contact 58 returns to its original state due to its own spring property, and the pair of sliding contacts 66 and 67 are turned off. As a result, the fixed contact pattern 52, 53 is in a non-conductive state.
For example, the coordinate position is determined by the switch 65.
[0022]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The conventional multidirectional input device can detect a signal by the switch 65, but has a problem that it cannot detect a signal at the moving end of the operation member 62.
Further, since the sliders 60 and 61 are disposed only on one side of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 58 and 59, the balance of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 58 and 59 is poor, and the operation member is inclined. There is a problem that 62 cannot be moved smoothly. Further, since the blind member 69 is placed on the insulating substrate 55, dust or the like entering from between the hole 54a of the cover 54 and the plate member 69 falls on the insulating substrate 55. There is a problem that dust or the like enters the fixed contact patterns 52 and 53 from the hole 55a of the insulating substrate 55 through the flat portion between the insulating substrate 55 and the plate-like portion 69.
[0023]
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a multidirectional input device that can detect a signal at a moving end of an operation member and has good operability.
[0024]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
As a first solving means for solving the above-described problem, a housing, an operation member that can slide in the X and Y directions with respect to the housing, and movement of the operation member in the X direction are provided. An X-direction slide member that is slidable in the X direction, a Y-direction slide member that intersects the X-direction slide member in a state orthogonal to the X-direction slide member, and that is slidable in the Y direction by movement of the operation member in the Y direction; X direction and Y direction detection member operated by movement of Y direction slide member When, A first detection member for detecting the end of the movement range by movement of the operation member in the X direction or a position near the end; and detection of the end of the movement range by movement of the operation member in the Y direction or position near the end A second detection member for performing An end detection member, The X direction detection member is disposed on one end side of the X direction slide member, the first detection member is disposed on the other end side of the X direction slide member, and the Y direction slide member The Y-direction detection member is disposed on one end side of the Y-direction slide member, and the second detection member is disposed on the other end side of the Y-direction slide member. The first and second detection members are connected to each other. The X direction and Y direction detection members are arranged in a right angle state, and the first and second detection members and the X direction and Y direction detection members are moved by the operation member. By The configuration is such that it can be operated.
[0028]
The second 2 The X-direction and Y-direction detection members are each composed of an insulating substrate provided with a detection element and a slider that slides on the detection element. Either one is attached to the housing, and the other is attached to the X-direction and Y-direction slide members.
[0029]
The second 3 As a solving means, the insulating substrate is attached to the X direction and Y direction slide member side, the insulating substrate moves together with the X direction and Y direction slide member, and the housing has an upper surface on the detection element. It was set as the structure to which the said slider which slides was attached.
[0030]
The second 4 As a means for solving the problem, the end detection member includes an insulating substrate provided with a detecting element and a slider that slides on the detecting element, and either the insulating substrate or the slider is the It was set as the structure attached to the housing and the other was attached to the said X direction and Y direction slide member side.
[0031]
The second 5 As a solving means, the insulating substrate is attached to the X direction and Y direction slide member side, the insulating substrate moves together with the X direction and Y direction slide member, and the housing has an upper surface on the detection element. It was set as the structure to which the said slider which slides was attached.
[0032]
The second 6 As a solution to this, the operation member is configured to stop moving through the damper member.
[0033]
The second 7 As a means for solving the problem, the damper member is constituted by a spring member provided on the operation member, and the spring member comes into contact with the housing at a position near the end of the movement range of the operation member and then the operation member. It was set as the structure which displaced until it stopped.
[0034]
The second 8 As a means for solving the problem, the damper member is constituted by a spring member provided in the housing, and the spring member is located near the end of the movement range of the operation member, or the operation member or the X direction and the Y direction. The configuration is such that the operation member is displaced from the time when it abuts on the slide member side until the operation member stops.
[0035]
The second 9 As a means for solving this problem, the operation member is provided with an operation portion that is movable in the axial direction, and a pressing detection member that is operated by movement of the operation portion in the axial direction.
[0036]
The second 10 As a means for solving the problem, a cover for covering the X direction and Y direction slide member is provided, and an operation portion of the operation member protrudes outward from a hole provided in the cover, and the cover and the X direction, Between the Y-direction slide member, a plate-like member that closes the hole and a plate-like dust-proof member positioned behind the plate-like member are arranged, and the dust-proof member has a periphery of the operation portion. In the enclosed state, an annular ridge portion that contacts the rear surface of the plate-like member was provided.
[0037]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view according to a first embodiment of the multidirectional input apparatus of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a first embodiment of the multidirectional input apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the main part showing the state of the X-direction slide member. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the main part showing the state of the Y-direction slide member according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention. 1 is a plan view of a housing according to a first embodiment of a multidirectional input device of the invention;
[0038]
FIG. 5 relates to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation unit, and FIG. 6 shows the first multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a rear view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation unit according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 7 is related to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows the relationship with an operation part.
[0039]
FIG. 8 relates to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation members. FIG. FIG. 10 is a back view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation members according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 10 relates to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows the relationship with an operation member.
[0040]
FIG. 11 relates to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a plan view showing a state in which the X-direction and Y-direction slide members are incorporated in the housing, and FIG. FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along line 13-13 in FIG. 12, and FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 in FIG.
[0041]
15 is a plan view showing the X-direction and Y-direction detecting members according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 16 is related to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 17 relates to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a state where the damper member is in contact with the housing, and FIG. 18 is a multi-directional input device of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a state in which the damper member is displaced and the movement of the operation member is stopped, according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. It is a graph which shows the relationship between quantity and load.
[0042]
FIG. 20 relates to a second embodiment of the multi-directional input device according to the present invention. FIG. 21 is a plan view showing the X direction and Y direction detecting members and the end detecting member, and FIG. 21 is a third embodiment of the multi-directional input device according to the present invention. FIG. 22 is a plan view showing the configuration of a damper member according to the fourth embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention, and FIG. 23 is a multidirectional input device of the present invention. FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of the main part showing the dustproof structure according to the sixth embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention, and FIG. It is sectional drawing of the principal part which concerns on 6th Example of the multidirectional input device of invention and shows a dustproof structure.
[0043]
Next, the configuration of the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 19. A box-shaped housing 1 made of an insulating resin molded product has a bottom wall 1a and a bottom wall 1a. Four side walls 1b extending upward from the four outer peripheral parts of the wall 1a, a short protrusion 1c provided at a pair of diagonally opposite corners, and a long protrusion 1d provided at another pair of diagonally opposite corners Four rectangular holes 1e provided in the bottom wall 1a located in the vicinity of the side wall 1b, locking protrusions 1f provided on the outer surfaces of the pair of opposing side walls 1b, and downward from the bottom wall 1a And a plurality of protruding portions 1g.
The long protrusion 1d is used for positioning when the multidirectional input device is incorporated in the electronic device, and the lower protrusion 1g is positioned when the multidirectional input device is placed on the circuit board of the electronic device. Used for use.
[0044]
A pair of fixed contact patterns 2 and 3 made of a metal plate have rectangular planar sliding contact portions 2a and 3a and two terminal portions 2b and 3b connected to the respective sliding contact portions 2a and 3a. .
The fixed contact patterns 2 and 3 are embedded and attached to the housing 1, and are exposed on the bottom wall 1a in a state where the planar sliding portions 2a and 3a are insulated from each other, and the terminal portions 2b and 3b are respectively provided. Projecting outward from the housing 1.
[0045]
The four first, second, third, and fourth sliders 4, 5, 6, and 7 made of a metal plate having a spring property include a plurality of sliding portions 4a, 5a, 6a, and 7a, respectively. Terminal portions 4b, 5b, 6b and 7b connected to the sliding portions 4a, 5a, 6a and 7a are provided.
And these four 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th sliders 4, 5, 6, and 7 are respectively embedded and attached to the housing 1, and sliding parts 4a, 5a, 6a, 7a is located in the hole 1e and protrudes upward from the hole 1e, and the terminal portions 4b, 5b, 6b, and 7b protrude outward from the housing 1, respectively.
When the first, second, third, and fourth sliders 4, 5, 6, and 7 are embedded, the first and second sliders 4 and 5 are disposed at positions facing each other. The third and fourth sliders 6 and 7 are arranged at positions facing each other.
[0046]
The cover 8 made of a plate material includes a rectangular upper surface plate 8a, a square hole 8b provided at the center of the upper surface plate 8a, circular holes 8c provided at four corners of the upper surface plate 8a, and an upper surface plate. A side plate 8d bent downward from four sides of 8a, a locking hole 8e provided in the pair of side plates 8d facing each other, and a mounting leg 8f provided in the other pair of side plates 8d facing each other.
[0047]
The cover 8 is disposed so that the upper surface plate 8a covers the open portion above the housing 1, and is attached to the housing 1 by snap-engaging the locking projection 1f of the housing 1 into the locking hole 8e. One cover is formed by the cover 8 and the housing 1.
The attachment legs 8f are attached to the circuit board of the electronic device and soldered to the wiring pattern in a state where the attachment legs 8f are attached, thereby attaching the multidirectional input device.
[0048]
The X-direction slide member 9 made of a metal plate or the like has a long hole 9a in the longitudinal direction of the central portion, and the X-direction slide member 9 is attached in the housing 1 so as to be slidable in the X direction.
Further, the Y-direction slide member 10 made of a metal plate or the like has a long hole 10a in the longitudinal direction of the central portion, and this Y-direction slide member 10 is mounted in the housing 1 so as to be slidable in the Y direction. .
[0049]
The X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 are arranged in an intersecting state so as to be orthogonal to each other, and the first and second holding members 11 and 12 made of an insulating material are disposed on both ends of the X-direction slide member 9. Are attached, and third and fourth holding members 13 and 14 made of an insulating material are attached to both ends of the Y-direction slide member 10. One of the first, second, third, and fourth holding members 11, 12, 13, and 14 attached to the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 is light from the side into the hole of the holding member. The other is firmly joined by heat caulking or the like while being joined by press fitting.
As a result, the other lightly press-fitted holding member follows the heat-crimped holding member as a reference, so that it can be smoothly slid even if there is some mounting error.
[0050]
As shown in FIG. 15 in particular, the insulating substrate 15 has a rectangular shape, and a detection element 16 is formed on one surface of the insulating substrate 15.
The detection element 16 includes a strip-shaped resistor 16a located at the center, and two conductors 16b (hatched portions) connected to both ends of the resistor 16a and arranged in parallel with the resistor 16a. At the same time, the detection element 16 is used to detect coordinate positions in the X and Y directions.
[0051]
The insulating substrate 15 is attached by appropriate means such as hooking on the first and third holding members 11 and 13, and the detection element 16 on the insulating substrate 15 attached to the first holding member 11 has a first The three sliding portions 4a of the slider 4 are slidable to form the X direction detecting member 17, and the detecting element 16 on the insulating substrate 15 attached to the third holding member 13 includes The three sliding portions 6a of the third slider 6 are slidable, and the Y direction detection member 18 is configured.
[0052]
Then, the X and Y direction detecting members 17 and 18 detect the coordinate positions in the X and Y directions, and the X direction detecting member 17 is taken out from the terminal portion 4b of the first slider 4 and at the same time in the Y direction. The detection member 18 is taken out from the terminal portion 6 b of the third slider 6.
The X direction and Y direction detection members 17 and 18 are arranged at right angles to each other.
In addition to the resistor, the detection element 16 may use a conductive pattern that generates a pulse.
[0053]
As shown in FIG. 16 in particular, the insulating substrate 19 has a rectangular shape having substantially the same outer size as the insulating substrate 15, and a detection element 20 is formed on one surface of the insulating substrate 19.
This detection element 20 is composed of U-shaped conductors 20a (hatched portions) provided at both ends of the insulating substrate 19, and this detection element 20 detects the end of the movement range in the X and Y directions. Used for.
The detection element 20 is arranged so as to be overlapped in parallel with both end positions of the detection element 16 so that the signal at the time of detecting the coordinate position in the X and Y directions is not interrupted even at the end position. .
[0054]
The insulating substrate 19 is attached by appropriate means such as hooking on the second and fourth holding members 12 and 14, and the detection element 20 on the insulating substrate 19 attached to the second holding member 12 includes: The sliding portion 5a of the second slider 5 is slidable to form the X-direction end detection member 21. The detection element 20 on the insulating substrate 19 attached to the fourth holding member 14 The slidable portion 7a of the fourth slider 7 is slidable, and the end detection member 22 in the Y direction is configured.
[0055]
That is, two of the three sliding portions 5 a and 7 a are in contact with each of the conductors 20 a to detect a signal, and the end detection member 21 in the X direction is connected to the second slider 5. While being taken out from the terminal portion 5 b, the end detection member 22 in the Y direction is taken out from the terminal portion 7 b of the fourth slider 7.
Further, the end detection members 21 and 22 in the X and Y directions are disposed so that the sliding direction is parallel to the X and Y direction detection members 17 and 18 and are disposed at right angles to each other.
The detection element 20 may use a resistor or the like in addition to the conductor.
[0056]
The X direction and Y direction detection members 17 and 18 and the end detection members 21 and 22 have been described with the slider as the fixed side and the insulating substrate as the movable side. The moving element may be the movable side and the insulating substrate may be the fixed side.
[0057]
The operation member 23 includes a holding body 24 made of a molded product of insulating resin, an attachment portion 25 attached to the holding body 24, and an operation portion 26 held movably by the holding body 24 and the attachment portion 25. Has been.
[0058]
As shown in FIGS. 12 to 14, the holding body 24 includes a rectangular hook-shaped portion 24 a, four cylindrical portions 24 b extending upward from the hook-shaped portion 24 a, and a storage portion provided in the center portion. 24c and a damper member 27 composed of four elastic arm portions provided on four sides of the hook-shaped portion 24a. The holding body 24 has the hook-shaped portion 24a mounted on the bottom wall 1a. Arranged in a state.
[0059]
The plate-like attachment portion 25 is attached to the holding body 24 by means such as heat caulking a protrusion provided on the holding body 24 while being located on the cylindrical portion 24b of the holding body 24.
At this time, the attachment portion 25 and the holding body 24 are arranged so as to sandwich the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 from above and below.
The positions of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 are regulated so as to be slidable between the wall surfaces of the cylindrical portions 24b whose longitudinal directions face each other.
[0060]
In addition, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the operation unit 26 made of a molded product of insulating resin includes an engaging portion 26 a extending in a cross shape, and a knob 26 b extending upward from the center of the engaging portion 26 a. And a pressing portion 26c extending downward from the center of the engaging portion 26a and provided with a semispherical convex portion on the lower surface.
[0061]
And this operation part 26 is attached so that the movement to an axial direction is possible in the state which located the engaging part 26a between the holding body 24 and the attaching part 25. FIG.
At this time, the cross-shaped engaging portion 26a engages in the long holes 9a and 10a of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10, and the pressing portion 26c penetrates the intersecting portion of the long holes 9a and 10a. It has become a state.
[0062]
Such an operation member 23 has a knob 26b protruding outside through the hole 8b of the cover 8 and is slidable in a plane with respect to the housing 1. When the operation member 23 is moved, The guide member 24b guides the X- and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 to move them, and the insulating substrates 15 and 19 also move. As a result, the movement of the insulating substrate 15 causes the X and Y directions to move. The detection members 17 and 18 are operated.
[0063]
Further, in the vicinity of the end of the movement range of the operation member 23, the damper member 27 abuts against the side wall 1b of the housing 1, and the operation load increases due to the bending of the elastic arm portion, and at the end position via the operator's fingers. In addition, the movement of the insulating substrate 19 causes the end detection members 21 and 22 in the X and Y directions to be operated, and signals at the end of the movement range of the operation member 23 are detected.
[0064]
The end detection operation will be described based on the graph of FIG. 19. The operation force gradually increases from the position A where the damper member 27 provided on the operation member 23 abuts against the side wall 1b, and the end is detected at the position B. The detection members 21 and 22 are operated, and the movement of the operation member 23 is stopped at a position C where the hook-like portion 24a of the holding body 24 hits the side wall 1b.
[0065]
Note that the end detection members 21 and 22 may be operated in the range from the position A to the position C.
[0066]
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 12 to 14, the push-type switch 28 has a pair of sliding contacts 29, 30 and a dome-shaped movable that turns on and off between the pair of sliding contacts 29, 30. It is comprised with the contact 31. FIG.
[0067]
The pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are contact portions 29a and 30a, plate-like support portions 29b and 30b that support the contact portions 29a and 30a, and contact portions connected to the support portions 29b and 30b, respectively. 29c, 30c.
The pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are embedded and attached to the holding body 24, and the plate-like support portions 29b and 30b are embedded in the holding body 24 with the contact portions 29a and 30a protruding downward. In addition, the contact portions 29c and 30c are exposed on the bottom surface of the cylindrical portion 24b.
[0068]
At this time, only the contact portions 29 a and 30 a are exposed on the lower surface of the holding body 24, and the support portions 29 b and 30 b are located in the holding body 24, and the support portions 29 b and 30 b and the lower surface of the holding body 24 are An insulating member 32 constituted by a part of the holding body 24 is interposed therebetween.
[0069]
The movable contact 31 is housed in the housing section 24c so as to be pressed by the operation section 26, the peripheral section is always in contact with the contact section 30c, and the center section is disposed so as to be able to contact and separate from the contact section 29c. When the operation part 26 is pressed, the movable contact 31 is deformed, the central part comes into contact with the contact part 29c, the pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are turned on, and the operation part 26 is pressed. When is released, the movable contact 31 returns to its original state due to its own springiness, and the pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are in an OFF state.
[0070]
In the switch 28 having such a configuration, when the operation member 23 is attached to the housing, the plate-like support portions 29 b and 30 b face the fixed contact patterns 2 and 3, respectively, and are insulated via the insulating member 32. The contact portions 29a and 30a are in contact with the fixed contact patterns 2 and 3, respectively.
[0071]
One contact portion 29a does not leave contact with one fixed contact pattern 2 within the movement range of the operation member 23, and the other contact portion 30a does not move within the movement range of the operation member 23. The contact with the other fixed contact pattern 3 is not separated, and therefore, the ON / OFF signal of the switch 28 can be drawn from the terminal portions 2b and 3b within the movement range of the operation member 23. It is like that.
[0072]
In this embodiment, the support portions 29 b and 30 b of the pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are embedded in the holding body 24, and the support portions 29 b and 30 b are fixed by the insulating member 32 formed of a part of the holding body 24. The contact patterns 2 and 3 have been described as being insulated. However, an insulating sheet is provided on the lower surface of the holding body 24, and the contact portions 29a and 30a are projected from the holes of the insulating sheet so that the contact portions 29a and 30a are not provided. May be covered with an insulating sheet to insulate the fixed contact patterns 2 and 3 from each other.
[0073]
Further, an insulating film is provided on the lower surface of the holding body 24, the contact portions 29a and 30a are projected from the holes of the insulating film, and the portions other than the contact portions 29a and 30a are covered with the insulating film, and the fixed contact patterns 2 and 3 and Insulation may be achieved.
[0074]
A pressing member 33 made of a plate material having an opening in the center is attached to the housing 1 to prevent the X- and Y-direction sliding members 9 and 10 from being lifted.
The plate-like member 34 made of a plate material is composed of first, second, and third plate portions 35, 36, and 37. The first plate portion 35 has an outer shape larger than the hole 8b of the cover 8, and has a center. A long hole 35a is provided in the Y direction of the part, and the second plate part 36 has an outer shape larger than the hole 8b of the cover 8, and a hole 36a having a size equivalent to that of the knob part 26b is provided in the center part. Furthermore, the third plate portion 37 has an outer shape larger than the hole 8b of the cover 8, and is provided with a long hole 37a in the X direction of the central portion.
[0075]
The first plate portion 35 is disposed on the pressing portion 33, the second plate portion 36 is disposed on the first plate portion 35, and the third plate portion 37 includes the cover 8 and the second plate. The first, second, and third plate portions 35, 36, and 37 are disposed between the portion 36 and serve as a blindfold for the hole 8 b of the cover 8. 26b protrudes outward through the long holes 35a and 37a and the hole 36a.
[0076]
When the operating member 23 is slid, the first and second plate portions 35 and 36 move following the movement of the operating member 23 when moving in the Y direction, and the first and second plate portions 35 and 36 move when moving in the X direction. 2. The third plate portions 36 and 37 move following the movement of the operation member 23.
[0077]
Next, the operation of the multi-directional input device according to the present invention will be described. When the operation member 23 is slid by holding the knob 26b of the operation unit 26, the X- and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 follow this. As a result, the X and Y direction detecting members 17 and 18 are operated to detect the coordinates in the X and Y directions.
[0078]
When the operation member 23 comes close to the end of the movement range, as shown in FIG. 17, the damper member 27 comes into contact with the side wall 1b, and when the operation member 23 continues to move against the elasticity of the damper member 27, FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the holding body 24 hits the side wall 1b, and the movement of the operation member 23 stops.
[0079]
In the meantime, when moving in the X direction, the end detection member 21 in the X direction is operated to detect the end in the X direction, and when moving in the Y direction, the end detection member 22 in the Y direction is operated. Thus, the end in the Y direction is detected.
Even when the end is detected, the coordinate detection signal of the detection member in the X and Y directions is not interrupted.
Further, in the moving range of the operation member 23, the contact portions 29a and 30a of the pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are in a state in which contact with the fixed contact patterns 2 and 3 is maintained, respectively.
In this embodiment, since the detection member in the X and Y directions and the end detection member are provided on both ends of the slide member, the balance is good and the movement in the slide direction can be performed smoothly. .
In addition, since the slider fixed on the housing side is provided facing the operating member side that moves the insulating substrate, even if dust or water droplets enter, it does not accumulate on the insulating substrate, and is reliable. Highly sensitive detection.
[0080]
Next, when the operation portion 26 is pressed, the movable contact 31 is deformed, the central portion comes into contact with the contact portion 29c, and the pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 are turned on. As a result, the fixed contact pattern 2 , 3 are in a conductive state.
When the pressing of the operation unit 26 is released, the movable contact 31 returns to its original state due to its own springiness, and the state between the pair of sliding contacts 29 and 30 is turned off. As a result, the fixed contact pattern 2 A non-conductive state is established between the three.
For example, the coordinate position is determined by the switch 28.
[0081]
FIG. 20 shows a second embodiment of the present invention. In the second embodiment, the detection element 16 for detecting the coordinates in the X and Y directions and the detection element 20 for detecting the end position are integrated. This is provided on a single insulating substrate 40.
In this case, the insulating substrate 40 is attached to one end side of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 in a right angle state to detect the X- and Y-directions and to detect the end in the X- and Y-directions, respectively. Is to do.
Also in the second embodiment, the arrangement relationship between the detection element 16 and the detection element 20 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and both are parallel to the slide direction and the coordinate detection is not interrupted when detecting the end. It is arranged.
[0082]
FIG. 21 shows a third embodiment of the present invention, in which the damper members 27a and 27b are provided on the housing 1 on the fixed side.
The damper member 27a made of an elastic arm portion comes into contact with the operation member 23, and the damper member 27b made of a coil spring or the like hits the X-direction and Y-direction slide members 9 and 10 side. .
The damper members 27a and 27b may be either one.
[0083]
FIG. 22 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In this fourth embodiment, a spring metal plate is attached to the operation member 23 in place of the damper member 27 comprising the elastic arm portion of the first embodiment. Thus, the damper member 27 is configured.
[0084]
FIG. 23 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In the fifth embodiment, an annular ridge 41a is provided on a plate-like dustproof member 41, and the dustproof member 41 is a rear surface of the plate-like member 34. In this state, the ridge portion 41 a surrounds the outer periphery of the knob portion 26 b of the operation portion 26 in a state where the ridge portion 41 a is in contact with the plate-like member 34.
[0085]
With such a configuration, dust or the like that has entered from between the hole 8b of the cover 8 and the plate-like member 34 falls on the dust-proof member 41, and this dust or the like is blocked by the ridges 41a, so that the fixed contact pattern 2 , 3 does not enter.
[0086]
FIGS. 24 and 25 show a sixth embodiment of the present invention. This sixth embodiment is arranged on a plate-like member 42 that closes the hole 8b of the cover 8 and on the rear surface of the plate-like member 42. It is comprised with the dust-proof member 43 which has this convex part 43a.
Then, in a state in which the protruding strip portion 43 a of the dustproof member 43 is in contact with the plate-like member 42, the protruding strip portion 43 a surrounds the outer periphery of the knob portion 26 b of the operation unit 26.
[0087]
With such a configuration, dust or the like that has entered from between the hole 8b of the cover 8 and the plate-like member 42 falls on the dust-proof member 43, and this dust or the like is blocked by the ridges 43a, so that the fixed contact pattern 2 , 3 does not enter.
[0088]
【The invention's effect】
The multi-directional input device of the present invention includes a housing, an operation member that can slide in the X and Y directions with respect to the housing, and an X direction detection member that is operated by movement of the operation member in the X direction. A Y-direction detection member operated by movement of the operation member in the Y direction, and a terminal detection member operated at a terminal of the movement range of the operation member or at a position near the terminal, and when the operation member is operated, The Y direction detection member is operated, and the end detection member is operated when the operation member moves to or near the end of the moving range.
With this configuration, a signal can be detected at the end of the movement range of the operating member or at a position near the end, and this detection can be used for various functions.
[0089]
In addition, an X-direction slide member that is slidable in the X direction and a Y-direction slide member that intersects the X-direction slide member in a state orthogonal to the X-direction slide member and that can slide in the Y-direction. It moves following the movement of the operation member, and the X direction detection member, the Y direction detection member, and the end detection member are operated by the movement of the X direction and Y direction slide members. A reliable operation can be obtained.
[0090]
The end detection member includes first and second detection members. The first detection member performs detection by moving the operation member in the X direction, and the second detection member moves the operation member in the Y direction. The first and second detection members are arranged at right angles to each other, and the X direction and Y direction detection members are arranged at right angles to each other, and the first and second detection members and the X direction are arranged. Since the Y direction detection member is operated by the movement of the operation member, detection in the X and Y directions and the end of the operation member can be reliably performed.
[0091]
An X direction detection member is disposed on one end side of the X direction slide member, a first detection member is disposed on the other end side of the X direction slide member, and one end side of the Y direction slide member. Since the Y direction detection member is disposed on the other end of the Y direction slide member, the second detection member is disposed on the other end side of the Y direction slide member. The pressing force of the moving element is improved, and a good operability is obtained.
[0092]
The X-direction and Y-direction detection members are each composed of an insulating substrate provided with a detecting element and a slider that slides on the detecting element, and either the insulating substrate or the slider is attached to the housing. Since the other is attached to the slide member side in the X direction and the Y direction, the structure is simple and a reliable operation can be obtained.
[0093]
In addition, an insulating substrate is attached to the X direction and Y direction slide member side, the insulating substrate moves together with the X direction and Y direction slide members, and a slider that slides on the detection element is attached to the housing. Therefore, detection can be easily taken out and a product with good productivity can be obtained.
[0094]
The end detection member includes an insulating substrate provided with a detection element and a slider that slides on the detection element. Either the insulating substrate or the slider is attached to the housing, and the other is X Since it is attached to the direction and Y-direction slide member side, the structure is simple and a reliable operation can be obtained.
[0095]
In addition, an insulating substrate is attached to the X direction and Y direction slide member side, the insulating substrate moves together with the X direction and Y direction slide members, and a slider that slides on the detection element is attached to the housing. Therefore, detection can be easily taken out and a product with good productivity can be obtained.
[0096]
In addition, since the movement of the operation member is stopped via the damper member, the operator can perceive the proximity of the operation member to the end position by a change in operation feeling.
[0097]
In addition, the damper member is configured by a spring member provided on the operation member, and the spring member is displaced between the contact of the housing at a position near the end of the movement range of the operation member and the stop of the operation member. As a result, the structure is simple and a reliable operation of the end detection member can be obtained.
[0098]
The damper member is composed of a spring member provided in the housing, and the spring member is operated after contacting the operation member or the X direction and Y direction slide member side at a position near the end of the movement range of the operation member. Since the member is displaced until the member stops, the structure is simple and a reliable operation of the end detection member can be obtained.
[0099]
In addition, since the operation member is provided with an operation portion that is movable in the axial direction and is provided with a pressure detection member that is operated by the movement of the operation portion in the axial direction, a signal is detected in addition to the end detection member. This is preferable.
[0100]
In addition, a cover for covering the upper part of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members is provided, and an operation portion of the operation member protrudes outward from a hole provided in the cover, and between the cover and the X-direction and Y-direction slide members. Is arranged with a plate-like member that closes the hole and a plate-like dust-proof member positioned behind the plate-like member, and the dust-proof member surrounds the periphery of the operation unit, and the rear surface of the plate-like member. Since the annular ridge portion that comes into contact with is provided, dust or the like does not enter the fixed contact pattern, and a reliable operation can be performed.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view according to a first embodiment of a multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a principal part showing a state of an X-direction slide member according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a principal part showing a state of a Y-direction slide member according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a plan view of a housing according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation unit according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a back view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation unit according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation unit according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation members according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a rear view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation members according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the X-direction and Y-direction slide members and the operation members according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a state in which X-direction and Y-direction slide members are incorporated in a housing according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a plan view of a holder according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 in FIG.
14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG.
FIG. 15 is a plan view showing X-direction and Y-direction detection members according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a plan view showing a terminal detection member according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a plan view showing a state in which the damper member is in contact with the housing according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a plan view showing a state where the damper member is displaced and the operation member stops moving according to the first embodiment of the multi-directional input device of the present invention;
FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the pushing amount of the damper member and the load according to the first embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 20 is a plan view showing an X direction, a Y direction detection member, and a terminal detection member according to a second embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a plan view showing a configuration of a damper member according to a third embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 22 is a plan view showing a configuration of a damper member according to a fourth embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a principal part showing a dustproof structure according to a fifth embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of essential parts showing a dustproof structure in a sixth embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a relevant part showing a dustproof structure in a sixth embodiment of the multidirectional input device of the present invention.
FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a conventional multidirectional input device.
FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of an operation member according to a conventional multidirectional input device.
FIG. 28 is a main part plan view showing a relationship between an operation member and a fixed contact pattern in a state in which the operation member is located at a central portion in a conventional multidirectional input device.
FIG. 29 is a main part plan view showing a relationship between the operation member and the fixed contact pattern in a state where the operation member is moved from the central portion in the conventional multidirectional input device.
FIG. 30 is a rear view of an insulating substrate according to a conventional multidirectional input device.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Housing
1a Bottom wall
1b Side wall
1c protrusion
1d protrusion
1e hole
1f Locking protrusion
1g Convex part
2 Fixed contact pattern
2a Sliding part
2b Terminal section
3 Fixed contact pattern
3a Sliding part
3b terminal
4 First slider
4a Sliding part
4b Terminal section
5 Second slider
5a Sliding part
5b Terminal section
6 Third slider
6a Sliding part
6b Terminal section
7 Fourth slider
7a Sliding part
7b Terminal section
8 Cover
8a Top plate
8b hole
8c hole
8d side plate
8e Locking hole
8f Mounting leg
9 X direction slide member
9a long hole
10 Y-direction slide member
10a long hole
11 First holding member
12 Second holding member
13 Third holding member
14 Fourth holding member
15 Insulating substrate
16 detection element
16a resistor
16b conductor
17 X direction detection member
18 Y direction detection member
19 Insulating substrate
20 sensing element
20a Conductor
21 X-direction end detection member
22 End detection member in Y direction
23 Operation members
24 Holder
24a bowl
24b Tubular part
24c storage section
25 Mounting part
26 Operation unit
26a engaging part
26b Picking part
26c Pressing part
27 Damper member
28 switches
29 Sliding contact
29a Contact part
29b Support part
29c Contact section
30 Sliding contact
30a Contact part
30b Support part
30c Contact part
31 Movable contact
32 Insulating material
33 Holding member
34 Plate member
35 First plate
35a long hole
36 Second plate part
36a hole
37 Third plate
37a long hole
40 Insulating substrate
41 Dust-proof member
41a ridge
42 Plate member
43 Dust-proof material
43a ridge

Claims

A housing, an operation member slidably movable in the X and Y directions with respect to the housing, an X direction slide member slidable in the X direction by movement of the operation member in the X direction, and the X direction slide member A Y-direction slide member that intersects with the operation member in the Y-direction and is slidable in the Y-direction, and an X-direction and Y-direction detection member that is operated by the movement of the X-direction and Y-direction slide members A first detection member that detects a position at or near the end of the movement range due to movement of the operation member in the X direction, and a position at or near the end of the movement range due to movement of the operation member in the Y direction. and a terminal detecting member having a second detection member for detecting, with the X-direction detecting member at one end of the X-direction sliding member is disposed, the X direction The first detection member is disposed on the other end side of the slide member, the Y direction detection member is disposed on one end side of the Y direction slide member, and the other end of the Y direction slide member. The second detection member is disposed on the side, and the first and second detection members are arranged at right angles to each other, and the X direction and Y direction detection members are arranged at right angles to each other, The multi-directional input device , wherein the first and second detection members and the X direction and Y direction detection members are operated by movement of the operation member .

The X-direction and Y-direction detection members each include an insulating substrate provided with a detection element and a slider that slides on the detection element, and one of the insulating substrate and the slider is the The multidirectional input device according to claim 1 , wherein the multidirectional input device is attached to a housing and the other is attached to the X direction and Y direction slide member side.

The insulating substrate is attached to the X direction and Y direction sliding member side, the insulating substrate moves together with the X direction and Y direction sliding member, and the housing slides on the detection element. The multidirectional input device according to claim 2 , wherein a slider is attached.

The end detection member is composed of an insulating substrate provided with a detecting element and a slider that slides on the detecting element, and either the insulating substrate or the slider is attached to the housing, the other is the X-direction, multi-directional input device according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that attached to the Y-direction sliding member.

The insulating substrate is attached to the X direction and Y direction sliding member side, the insulating substrate moves together with the X direction and Y direction sliding member, and the housing slides on the detection element. The multidirectional input device according to claim 4 , wherein a slider is attached.

The multi-directional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the operation member stops moving via a damper member.

The damper member is constituted by a spring member provided on the operation member, and the spring member is in contact with the housing at a position near the end of the movement range of the operation member until the operation member stops. The multi-directional input device according to claim 6 , wherein the multi-directional input device is displaced between the two.

The damper member is constituted by a spring member provided in the housing, and the spring member contacts the operation member or the X-direction and Y-direction slide member side at a position near the end of the movement range of the operation member. The multidirectional input device according to claim 6, wherein the operation member is displaced from the time of contact until the operation member stops.

Wherein the operating member, provided with an operation portion axially movable in claim 1, wherein 8 further comprising a pressing detecting member operated by the movement in the axial direction of the operation portion The multidirectional input device described.

A cover for covering the X direction and Y direction slide members; and an operation portion of the operation member projecting outward from a hole provided in the cover; and the cover and the X direction and Y direction slide members In between, a plate-like member that closes the hole and a plate-like dust-proof member located behind the plate-like member are arranged, and the dust-proof member surrounds the periphery of the operation unit, The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 , further comprising an annular ridge portion that comes into contact with a rear surface of the plate-like member.