JP5828724B2 - Multi-directional input device - Google Patents

Multi-directional input device Download PDF

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JP5828724B2
JP5828724B2 JP2011201795A JP2011201795A JP5828724B2 JP 5828724 B2 JP5828724 B2 JP 5828724B2 JP 2011201795 A JP2011201795 A JP 2011201795A JP 2011201795 A JP2011201795 A JP 2011201795A JP 5828724 B2 JP5828724 B2 JP 5828724B2
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interlocking member
input device
interlocking
multidirectional input
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JP2013065398A (en
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亮介 内田
亮介 内田
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Alps Alpine Co Ltd
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Alps Electric Co Ltd
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Description

本発明は、多方向入力装置に関し、特に、携帯電話装置やゲーム機用コントローラなどにおける方位入力操作に好適な多方向入力装置に関する。   The present invention relates to a multidirectional input device, and more particularly, to a multidirectional input device suitable for a direction input operation in a mobile phone device, a game machine controller, or the like.

従来から、周囲の任意方向への操作が可能な操作軸を備え、この操作軸に対する操作方向および操作量に応じて信号出力を行う多方向入力装置が知られている。このような多方向入力装置として、例えば、操作部材の傾倒動作に応じて回動される、互いに直交配置された一対の駆動部材と、ハウジングと一対の駆動部材との間に組み込まれて両駆動部材を常時弾性付勢する復帰ばねと、を備えたものが提案されている(例えば、特許文献1参照)。   2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a multi-directional input device that includes an operation shaft that can be operated in a surrounding arbitrary direction and outputs a signal according to an operation direction and an operation amount with respect to the operation shaft is known. As such a multi-directional input device, for example, a pair of drive members that are rotated according to the tilting operation of the operation member and arranged between each other and a housing and a pair of drive members are both driven. A member provided with a return spring that constantly elastically biases a member has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

特開2009−9798号公報JP 2009-9798 A

上述した従来の多方向入力装置においては、操作部材は、下側に配置された駆動部材に対してスナップ係合されている。しかしながら、落下や衝撃、強い力による不所望な操作が発生する場合には、このスナップ係合が外れ、下側に配置される駆動部材から操作部材が脱落し得るという問題がある。   In the conventional multidirectional input device described above, the operation member is snap-engaged with the drive member disposed on the lower side. However, when an undesired operation due to a drop, an impact, or a strong force occurs, there is a problem that the snap engagement is disengaged and the operation member can be dropped from the drive member disposed on the lower side.

本発明は、かかる点に鑑みてなされたものであり、操作部材を回転可能に支持する部材に対する操作部材の係合が外れるのを防止でき、信頼性の高い多方向入力装置を提供することを目的とする。   The present invention has been made in view of this point, and can provide a highly reliable multidirectional input device that can prevent the operation member from being disengaged from the member that rotatably supports the operation member. Objective.

本発明の多方向入力装置は、開口を有するハウジングと、前記開口から操作部が露出した傾倒操作可能な操作部材と、前記操作部材の傾倒操作に応じて回動するとともに互いに回動軸線が直交するように延在して前記ハウジング内に保持された第1連動部材および第2連動部材と、前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材の回動動作をそれぞれ検出する第1検出手段および第2検出手段と、を備えた多方向入力装置において、前記操作部材には、前記操作部の下方側に配置される基部の下端部に下方側に開口した凹溝部が設けられるとともに、前記基部の少なくとも一部が側方側に延出した長手形状部が設けられ、前記第1連動部材には、前記操作部材の凹溝部が係合可能な軸部が設けられ、前記第2連動部材には、前記長手形状部を挿通可能な長孔が設けられており、前記第1連動部材は、前記第2連動部材の下方側に配置されており、前記操作部材は、前記凹溝部および前記長手形状部を前記第2連動部材の長孔の上方側から下方側へ挿通した状態から、前記凹溝部を所定角度回転させて前記第1連動部材の軸部に係合させることで当該第1連動部材に対して回転可能に支持される一方、前記第2連動部材の一部により上方側への移動が規制されることを特徴とする。 The multi-directional input device according to the present invention includes a housing having an opening, an operation member that can be tilted with the operation portion exposed from the opening, and a rotation axis that is rotated in response to the tilting operation of the operation member. A first interlocking member and a second interlocking member that extend so as to be held in the housing, and a first detecting means and a first detecting member that detect the rotational movements of the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member, respectively. In the multidirectional input device comprising two detection means, the operation member is provided with a concave groove portion that opens downward at a lower end portion of a base portion that is disposed on the lower side of the operation portion . A longitudinal portion at least partially extending to the side is provided, the first interlocking member is provided with a shaft portion that can be engaged with the concave groove of the operation member, and the second interlocking member is provided with the second interlocking member. , Through the long shape part And ability long hole is provided, wherein the first interlocking member, said being arranged on the lower side of the second interlocking member, said operating member, said concave groove portion and the longitudinally extending portion second interlocking member From the state where the long hole is inserted from the upper side to the lower side, the concave groove portion is rotated by a predetermined angle and engaged with the shaft portion of the first interlocking member so as to be rotatable with respect to the first interlocking member. On the other hand, the upward movement is restricted by a part of the second interlocking member.

この多方向入力装置によれば、第1連動部材が第2連動部材の下方側に配置されており、操作部材は、凹溝部を第1連動部材の軸部に係合させることで当該第1連動部材に対して回転可能に支持される一方、第2連動部材により上方側への移動が規制される。このため、第1連動部材に対する操作部材の係合が外れるのを防止でき、信頼性の高い多方向入力装置を提供することが可能となる。   According to this multidirectional input device, the first interlocking member is disposed on the lower side of the second interlocking member, and the operation member engages the concave groove portion with the shaft portion of the first interlocking member, thereby the first interlocking member. While supported rotatably with respect to the interlocking member, upward movement is restricted by the second interlocking member. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the operation member from being disengaged from the first interlocking member, and it is possible to provide a highly reliable multidirectional input device.

また、凹溝部が基部の下端部に下方側を開口したものであるので、第1連動部材の軸部と係合する際の位置決めが容易となり、組み立て性を良好なものとすることができる。   In addition, since the concave groove portion has a lower side opened at the lower end portion of the base portion, positioning when engaging with the shaft portion of the first interlocking member is facilitated, and the assemblability can be improved.

また、所定角度回転した状態の操作部材の長手形状部と第2連動部材との当接により操作部材の上方側への移動を確実に規制できるので、第1連動部材に対する操作部材の係合が外れるのを簡単な構成で確実に防止できる。
上記多方向入力装置は、前記操作部材を傾倒操作前の初期状態に復帰させる弾性部材を備え、前記弾性部材は、平面視して前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材の間に位置する4箇所にそれぞれ設けたコイルばねで構成されるとともに、前記操作部材の突出方向において前記コイルばねの少なくとも一部が前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材とオーバーラップすることが好ましい。前記コイルばねの下端部は、前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材の下方に配置された取付部材に当接し、前記コイルばねの上端部は、前記取付部材より上方に配置されたばね受け部材に当接することが好ましい。
Further , since the upward movement of the operating member can be reliably restricted by the contact between the long shape portion of the operating member rotated by a predetermined angle and the second interlocking member, the engagement of the operating member to the first interlocking member is prevented. Detachment can be reliably prevented with a simple configuration.
The multidirectional input device includes an elastic member that returns the operation member to an initial state before the tilting operation, and the elastic member is positioned between the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member in plan view. Preferably, the coil springs are provided at four locations, and at least a part of the coil spring overlaps the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member in the protruding direction of the operation member. A lower end portion of the coil spring is in contact with an attachment member disposed below the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member, and an upper end portion of the coil spring is a spring receiving member disposed above the attachment member. It is preferable to abut.

また、上記多方向入力装置において、前記操作部材の前記長手形状部よりも上方側に前記操作部としての頭部が設けられており、前記頭部は、前記ハウジングの前記開口よりも大きく、前記操作部材は、前記長手形状部が前記ハウジングの前記開口および前記第2連動部材の前記長孔を上方側から下方側へ通過するとともに、前記第2連動部材によって上方側への移動が規制された状態において、前記頭部が前記開口の上方側に露出することが好ましい。この場合には、第2連動部材により操作部材の上方側への移動が規制される一方、頭部により操作部材のハウジング内への移動が制限されることから、操作部材の脱落を考慮することなく多方向入力装置を組み立てることができるので、組み立て時の作業性を向上することが可能となる。   Further, in the multidirectional input device, a head as the operation portion is provided above the longitudinal shape portion of the operation member, and the head is larger than the opening of the housing, The operation member has its longitudinal portion passing through the opening of the housing and the long hole of the second interlocking member from the upper side to the lower side, and the upward movement is restricted by the second interlocking member. In the state, it is preferable that the head is exposed above the opening. In this case, since the movement of the operating member upward is restricted by the second interlocking member, the movement of the operating member into the housing is restricted by the head, so that the dropping of the operating member should be considered. Since the multi-directional input device can be assembled without any problems, the workability during assembly can be improved.

さらに、上記多方向入力装置において、前記長手形状部の上面は略円弧状に形成されるとともに、前記第2連動部材の長孔の短手方向端部の内面に略円弧状を有する凹部が形成されていることが好ましい。この場合には、操作部材の長手形状部の上面と第2連動部材の下面とを面で接触させることができるので、操作部材を上方向に引っ張った時の応力を分散することができ、各部材(操作部材、第2連動部材及びハウジング)の破損又は変形を抑制することが可能となる。   Further, in the multidirectional input device, the upper surface of the long shape portion is formed in a substantially arc shape, and a concave portion having a substantially arc shape is formed in the inner surface of the short direction end portion of the long hole of the second interlocking member. It is preferable that In this case, since the upper surface of the longitudinal shape portion of the operation member and the lower surface of the second interlocking member can be brought into contact with each other, the stress when the operation member is pulled upward can be dispersed, It becomes possible to suppress damage or deformation of the members (operation member, second interlocking member, and housing).

さらに、上記多方向入力装置において、前記ハウジングは、前記開口が形成された上ケースと、前記上ケースに対向配置される取付部材と、を備え、前記上ケースの前記開口の周囲には、上方側にドーム状に突出した壁部が設けられるとともに、前記第2連動部材は、上方側に向かってアーチ状に湾曲形成されており、前記第2連動部材のアーチ状部分が、前記上ケースの壁部の内部に収容されることが好ましい。この場合には、上ケースの開口の周囲に形成されたドーム状の壁部の内部に第2連動部材のアーチ状部分を収容できるので、上ケースのドーム状の壁部以外の部分を薄型化でき、多方向入力装置が搭載される機器の設計の自由度を確保することが可能となる。   Furthermore, in the multidirectional input device, the housing includes an upper case in which the opening is formed, and an attachment member disposed to face the upper case, and the upper case has an upper portion around the opening. A wall portion projecting in a dome shape is provided on the side, and the second interlocking member is formed in an arch shape toward the upper side, and the arched portion of the second interlocking member is formed on the upper case. It is preferable to be housed inside the wall. In this case, since the arched portion of the second interlocking member can be accommodated inside the dome-shaped wall portion formed around the opening of the upper case, the portion other than the dome-shaped wall portion of the upper case is made thinner. It is possible to ensure the degree of freedom in designing the equipment on which the multidirectional input device is mounted.

さらに、上記多方向入力装置において、前記取付部材の上面には、上方側に球面状に開口した凹部を有する軸受け部材が設けられるとともに、前記操作部材の基部の下端部は、球面状の凸部形状に形成されており、前記操作部材の基部の下端部が前記軸受け部材の前記凹部内に、当該凹部とクリアランスを有して対向配置されることが好ましい。この場合には、操作部材に不所望な押圧力が加えられた場合に、操作部材の下端の球面状の凸形状部が軸受け部材の凹部に当接することで押圧の負荷が第1連動部材に集中する事態を防止でき、第1連動部材の破損又は変形を抑制することが可能となる。   Further, in the multidirectional input device, a bearing member having a concave portion opened in a spherical shape on the upper side is provided on the upper surface of the mounting member, and a lower end portion of the base portion of the operation member is a spherical convex portion. Preferably, the lower end portion of the base portion of the operation member is disposed in the recess portion of the bearing member so as to face the recess portion with a clearance. In this case, when an undesired pressing force is applied to the operating member, the spherical convex shape portion at the lower end of the operating member comes into contact with the concave portion of the bearing member, so that the pressing load is applied to the first interlocking member. Concentration can be prevented, and damage or deformation of the first interlocking member can be suppressed.

本発明によれば、操作部材を回転可能に支持する部材に対する操作部材の係合が外れるのを防止でき、信頼性の高い多方向入力装置を提供することが可能となる。   According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the operation member from being disengaged from the member that rotatably supports the operation member, and it is possible to provide a highly reliable multidirectional input device.

第1の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置の分解斜視図である。1 is an exploded perspective view of a multidirectional input device according to a first embodiment. 第1の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置を後部斜め下方から見た分解斜視図である。It is the disassembled perspective view which looked at the multi-directional input device which concerns on 1st Embodiment from the rear diagonally downward. 上記多方向入力装置における第1連動部材の上面図である。It is a top view of the 1st interlocking member in the said multidirectional input device. 上記多方向入力装置における第2連動部材の上面図である。It is a top view of the 2nd interlocking member in the above-mentioned multidirectional input device. 図5Aは上記多方向入力装置における操作部材の側面図であり、図5Bは上記多方向入力装置における操作部材の下面図である。FIG. 5A is a side view of the operating member in the multidirectional input device, and FIG. 5B is a bottom view of the operating member in the multidirectional input device. 上記多方向入力装置を組み立てた状態の斜視図である。It is a perspective view in the state where the above-mentioned multidirectional input device was assembled. 上記多方向入力装置から上ケースを取り外した場合の斜視図である。It is a perspective view at the time of removing the upper case from the said multidirectional input device. 上記多方向入力装置の断面図であり、図7のA−A線矢視断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the said multidirectional input device, and is AA arrow sectional drawing of FIG. 上記多方向入力装置から上ケースを取り外した場合の断面図であり、図7のB−B線矢視断面図である。It is sectional drawing at the time of removing an upper case from the said multidirectional input device, and is BB arrow sectional drawing of FIG. 上記多方向入力装置から上ケースを取り外した場合の断面図であり、図7のC−C線矢視断面図である。It is sectional drawing at the time of removing an upper case from the said multidirectional input device, and is CC sectional view taken on the line of FIG. 図11Aは上記多方向入力装置における第1検出手段(第2検出手段)の構成を示す正面模式図であり、図11Bは上記多方向入力装置における第1検出手段(第2検出手段)の構成を示す側面模式図である。FIG. 11A is a schematic front view showing the configuration of the first detection means (second detection means) in the multidirectional input device, and FIG. 11B shows the configuration of the first detection means (second detection means) in the multidirectional input device. It is a side surface schematic diagram which shows. 上記多方向入力装置における操作部材、第1連動部材および第2連動部材を後部斜め下方から見た分解斜視図である。It is the disassembled perspective view which looked at the operation member, the 1st interlocking member, and the 2nd interlocking member in the above-mentioned multidirectional input device from the back slanting lower part. 上記多方向入力装置における操作部材の軸部を第2連動部材のスリット孔に挿通した状態を示す下面図である。It is a bottom view which shows the state which penetrated the axial part of the operation member in the said multidirectional input device through the slit hole of the 2nd interlocking member. 上記多方向入力装置における操作部材と第2連動部材と第1連動部材とを連結した状態を示す下面図である。It is a bottom view which shows the state which connected the operation member in the said multidirectional input device, the 2nd interlocking member, and the 1st interlocking member. 上記多方向入力装置で傾倒操作を受け付けた場合の操作状態を説明するための断面図である。It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the operation state at the time of accepting tilting operation with the said multi-directional input device. 上記多方向入力装置で傾倒操作を受け付けた場合の操作状態を説明するための断面図である。It is sectional drawing for demonstrating the operation state at the time of accepting tilting operation with the said multi-directional input device. 第2の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置の分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view of the multidirectional input device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. 第2の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置を後部斜め下方から見た分解斜視図である。It is the disassembled perspective view which looked at the multi-directional input device which concerns on 2nd Embodiment from rear diagonally downward. 図19Aは上記多方向入力装置における操作部材の側面図であり、図19Bは上記多方向入力装置における操作部材の下面図である。FIG. 19A is a side view of the operating member in the multidirectional input device, and FIG. 19B is a bottom view of the operating member in the multidirectional input device. 上記多方向入力装置から上ケースを取り外した場合の斜視図である。It is a perspective view at the time of removing the upper case from the said multidirectional input device. 上記多方向入力装置の断面図であり、図20のD−D線矢視断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the said multidirectional input device, and is DD sectional view taken on the line of FIG. 上記多方向入力装置から上ケースを取り外した場合の断面図であり、図20のE−E線矢視断面図である。It is sectional drawing at the time of removing an upper case from the said multidirectional input device, and is EE arrow sectional drawing of FIG.

(第1の実施の形態)
以下、本発明の実施の形態について添付図面を参照して詳細に説明する。
図1は、本発明の一実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1の分解斜視図である。図2は、多方向入力装置1を後部斜め下方から見た分解斜視図である。なお、以下においては、説明の便宜上、図1および図2に示す上下方向を「多方向入力装置1の上下方向」と呼ぶものとする。
(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a multidirectional input device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the multidirectional input device 1 as viewed from the rear and obliquely below. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the vertical direction shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is referred to as “the vertical direction of the multidirectional input device 1”.

図1および図2に示すように、この多方向入力装置1は、概して箱状のハウジング2内に、弾性部材を構成するコイルばね3と、コイルばね3の上端部を受けるばね受け部材4と、互いに直交した状態でハウジング2に回動可能に保持された第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6と、多方向入力装置1の上下方向に延在し、その傾倒動作に応じて第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6を回動させる操作部材7と、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の回動動作をそれぞれ検出する第1検出手段8および第2検出手段9と、を含んで構成される。   As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the multidirectional input device 1 includes a generally box-shaped housing 2, a coil spring 3 that constitutes an elastic member, and a spring receiving member 4 that receives the upper end of the coil spring 3. The first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 that are rotatably held in the housing 2 in a state of being orthogonal to each other, and extend in the vertical direction of the multi-directional input device 1, and in accordance with the tilting operation, the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 An operating member 7 for rotating the interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6; a first detecting means 8 and a second detecting means 9 for detecting the rotational operations of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6; It is comprised including.

ハウジング2は、開口部211が形成された上ケース21と、上ケース21に対向配置される蓋部材22と、上ケース21および蓋部材22の間に配置される中間ケース23と、から構成される。このようなハウジング2の内部(上ケース21と中間ケース23との間)には、一定の空間が形成され、この空間内に多方向入力装置1の各種の構成部材が収容される。   The housing 2 includes an upper case 21 in which an opening 211 is formed, a lid member 22 disposed to face the upper case 21, and an intermediate case 23 disposed between the upper case 21 and the lid member 22. The A constant space is formed inside the housing 2 (between the upper case 21 and the intermediate case 23), and various components of the multidirectional input device 1 are accommodated in this space.

上ケース21は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成され、概して下方側に開口した矩形状の箱状に形成されている。上ケース21の中央部には、円形状の開口部211が設けられている。開口部211の周囲には、上方側にドーム状に突出した上壁部としての壁部212が設けられている。上ケース21の外周壁部には、後述する蓋部材22の保持脚片222と係合する複数本(本実施の形態において8本)の係合溝213aが設けられている。係合溝213aの略中央部には、外側に突出する爪部213bが設けられている。爪部213bは、後述する保持脚片222のスナップ孔222aとスナップ係合する。上ケース21の外周壁部のうち、特定の隣接する2辺には、後述する第1検出手段8および第2検出手段9を配置するための下方側に開口した断面U字状(円弧状)の切り欠き部213cが設けられている(図2参照)。切り欠き部213cの周囲には、外側に突出する複数のボス213dが設けられている。これらのボス213dは、第1検出手段8を構成するGMR素子8bまたは第2検出手段9を構成するGMR素子9bが取り付けられた部分に位置するフレキシブル基板11および補強板11a,11bを上ケース21に取り付けるために利用されるものであり、後述するフレキシブル基板11および補強板11a,11bの貫通孔111に挿通されるとともに、この貫通孔111から突出する先端部がつぶされてかしめられる。なお、図2において、ボス213dは、かしめ後の形状で示されている。   The upper case 21 is formed by molding an insulating resin material, for example, and is generally formed in a rectangular box shape that opens downward. A circular opening 211 is provided at the center of the upper case 21. Around the opening 211, a wall portion 212 is provided as an upper wall portion protruding upward in a dome shape. A plurality of (eight in the present embodiment) engaging grooves 213 a that engage with holding leg pieces 222 of the lid member 22 described later are provided on the outer peripheral wall portion of the upper case 21. A claw portion 213b that protrudes outward is provided at a substantially central portion of the engagement groove 213a. The claw portion 213b is snap-engaged with a snap hole 222a of a holding leg piece 222 to be described later. Out of the outer peripheral wall portion of the upper case 21, two adjacent sides are U-shaped (arc-shaped) in a cross section that opens to the lower side for disposing the first detection means 8 and the second detection means 9 described later. A notch 213c is provided (see FIG. 2). A plurality of bosses 213d projecting outward are provided around the notch 213c. These bosses 213d attach the flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plates 11a and 11b, which are located on the portion to which the GMR element 8b constituting the first detection means 8 or the GMR element 9b constituting the second detection means 9 is attached, to the upper case 21. And is inserted into a through hole 111 of a flexible substrate 11 and reinforcing plates 11a and 11b, which will be described later, and a tip portion protruding from the through hole 111 is crushed and caulked. In FIG. 2, the boss 213d is shown in a shape after caulking.

上ケース21の下面には、開口部211を囲むように、下方側に突出して複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の壁部214a〜214dが設けられている。壁部214a〜214dには、それぞれ下方側に開口した断面U字状(円弧状)の軸受け部215が設けられている。壁部214aと上ケース21の外周壁部との間には、後述する磁石9aを収納するための収納部216aが設けられている。壁部214bと上ケース21の外周壁部との間には、後述する磁石8aを収納するための収納部216bが設けられている。また、上ケース21の下面(天井面)には、下方側に突出して複数本(本実施の形態において4本)の突起217が設けられている。上ケース21の下面には、後述する中間ケース23のクラッシュリブを有する突部233が圧入される、複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の孔部218が設けられている。   A plurality of (four in the present embodiment) wall portions 214 a to 214 d are provided on the lower surface of the upper case 21 so as to surround the opening 211 and protrude downward. Each of the wall portions 214a to 214d is provided with a bearing portion 215 having a U-shaped cross section (arc shape) that opens downward. Between the wall part 214a and the outer peripheral wall part of the upper case 21, an accommodating part 216a for accommodating a magnet 9a described later is provided. Between the wall part 214b and the outer peripheral wall part of the upper case 21, the accommodating part 216b for accommodating the magnet 8a mentioned later is provided. In addition, on the lower surface (ceiling surface) of the upper case 21, a plurality (four in the present embodiment) of protrusions 217 are provided so as to protrude downward. On the lower surface of the upper case 21, a plurality of (four in the present embodiment) hole portions 218 into which protrusions 233 having crash ribs of the intermediate case 23 described later are press-fitted are provided.

蓋部材22は、取付部材を構成するものであり、シールドとして機能する磁性体、例えば、ステンレス等の金属板で構成されている。蓋部材22は、コイルばね3の下端部を受ける矩形状の矩形状に設けられた底面部221と、この底面部221の外周辺部から上方側に向けて直角に延出する複数本(本実施の形態において8本)の保持脚片222と、同じく底面部221の外周辺部のうち特定の隣接する2辺から上方側に向けて直角に延出する遮蔽片223と、を有している。底面部221は、その一部を下方側へ突出させた弾性片221aを有している。保持脚片222は、それぞれ略矩形状にくり抜かれて形成されたスナップ孔222aを有している。これらの保持脚片222が、上ケース21の係合溝213aと係合し、スナップ孔222aと爪部213bとがスナップ結合することにより、蓋部材22と上ケース21とが結合する。遮蔽片223は、それぞれ上ケース21の切り欠き部213cに対応する位置に設けられている。また、蓋部材22の上面中央には、絶縁性の樹脂材料からなる軸受け部材10がかしめて取り付けられている。軸受け部材10には、上方側に突出する一対の壁部10aが対向して設けられている。一対の壁部10aの上面側は、球面状の凹部形状に形成されている。また、軸受け部材10には、一対の壁部10aと直交するように、略長方形状の凹部10bが設けられている。   The lid member 22 constitutes an attachment member, and is made of a magnetic body that functions as a shield, for example, a metal plate such as stainless steel. The lid member 22 includes a bottom surface portion 221 provided in a rectangular shape that receives the lower end portion of the coil spring 3, and a plurality of (a book) extending perpendicularly from the outer peripheral portion of the bottom surface portion 221 toward the upper side. Eight holding leg pieces 222 in the embodiment, and a shielding piece 223 that extends at right angles from two specific adjacent sides of the outer peripheral portion of the bottom surface portion 221 toward the upper side. Yes. The bottom surface portion 221 has an elastic piece 221a with a part protruding downward. Each holding leg piece 222 has a snap hole 222a formed by being cut out in a substantially rectangular shape. These holding leg pieces 222 engage with the engaging grooves 213a of the upper case 21, and the snap holes 222a and the claw portions 213b are snap-coupled, whereby the lid member 22 and the upper case 21 are coupled. The shielding pieces 223 are provided at positions corresponding to the notches 213c of the upper case 21, respectively. A bearing member 10 made of an insulating resin material is caulked and attached to the center of the upper surface of the lid member 22. The bearing member 10 is provided with a pair of wall portions 10a that protrude upward. The upper surface side of the pair of wall portions 10a is formed in a spherical concave shape. The bearing member 10 is provided with a substantially rectangular recess 10b so as to be orthogonal to the pair of wall portions 10a.

中間ケース23は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成され、概して矩形状に設けられている。中間ケース23の中央部には、矩形状の開口部231が設けられている。開口部231の周囲には、コイルばね3を挿通可能な複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の貫通孔232が設けられている。本実施の形態において、貫通部としての貫通孔232は、矩形状である開口部231の四隅に対応して設けられており、開口部231と連通している。中間ケース23の上面には、上方側に向けて突出する複数(本実施の形態において4つ)のクラッシュリブを備えた突部233が設けられている。突部233の外周に設けられたクラッシュリブは、中間ケース23と上ケース21を結合させる際に、上ケース21の孔部218に圧入されて潰され、中間ケース23が上ケース21に圧入固定される。中間ケース23には、上ケース21の収納部216a,216bに対応する位置に、貫通部234a,234bが設けられている。また、開口部231を挟んで、貫通部234bと対向する位置には、後述する第1連動部材5の軸部55bに設けられた突出片57が挿入されるスリット状の規制部235が設けられている。規制部235は、第1連動部材5が回動軸線方向に移動するのを規制する役割を果たす。中間ケース23には、後述するIC12に対応する位置に、開口部236が設けられている。中間ケース23の下面には、開口部236に隣接して、下方側に突出する複数のボス237が設けられている(図2参照)。これらのボス237は、IC12が取り付けられた部分に位置するフレキシブル基板11および補強板11cを中間ケース23に取り付けるために利用されるものであり、後述するフレキシブル基板11および補強板11cの貫通孔111に挿通されるとともに、この貫通孔111から突出する先端部が潰されてかしめられる。   The intermediate case 23 is configured, for example, by molding an insulating resin material, and is generally provided in a rectangular shape. A rectangular opening 231 is provided at the center of the intermediate case 23. Around the opening 231, a plurality of (four in the present embodiment) through-holes 232 into which the coil spring 3 can be inserted are provided. In the present embodiment, the through holes 232 as the penetrating portions are provided corresponding to the four corners of the rectangular opening 231 and communicate with the opening 231. On the upper surface of the intermediate case 23, there are provided projecting portions 233 having a plurality of (four in the present embodiment) crash ribs projecting upward. When the intermediate case 23 and the upper case 21 are joined, the crush rib provided on the outer periphery of the protrusion 233 is pressed into the hole 218 of the upper case 21 and crushed, and the intermediate case 23 is press-fitted and fixed to the upper case 21. Is done. The intermediate case 23 is provided with through portions 234 a and 234 b at positions corresponding to the storage portions 216 a and 216 b of the upper case 21. In addition, a slit-like restricting portion 235 into which a protruding piece 57 provided on a shaft portion 55b of the first interlocking member 5 described later is inserted is provided at a position facing the penetrating portion 234b across the opening portion 231. ing. The restricting portion 235 plays a role of restricting the first interlocking member 5 from moving in the rotation axis direction. The intermediate case 23 is provided with an opening 236 at a position corresponding to the IC 12 described later. On the lower surface of the intermediate case 23, a plurality of bosses 237 projecting downward are provided adjacent to the opening 236 (see FIG. 2). These bosses 237 are used to attach the flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plate 11c located at the portion where the IC 12 is attached to the intermediate case 23, and the through holes 111 of the flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plate 11c described later. And the tip protruding from the through hole 111 is crushed and caulked.

コイルばね3は、例えば、鉄(ピアノ線)などの導電性を有する金属線材により構成され、複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の略同一構造のコイルばね3a〜3dが中間ケース23の貫通孔232内に配置されている。多方向入力装置1における弾性部材としてコイルばね3を用いることにより、長期にわたって、良好な復帰性能を確保することが可能となる。   The coil spring 3 is made of, for example, a conductive metal wire such as iron (piano wire), and a plurality (four in the present embodiment) of substantially the same coil springs 3 a to 3 d penetrate the intermediate case 23. It is arranged in the hole 232. By using the coil spring 3 as an elastic member in the multidirectional input device 1, it is possible to ensure good return performance over a long period of time.

ばね受け部材4は、例えば、リン青銅などの非磁性体の金属板で構成され、概して矩形状に設けられた基部41と、基部41から上方側に向けて略直角に延出する複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の延出部42と、延出部42の上端部から外方側に向けて略直角に延出する受け部43と、受け部43の外端部から下方側に向けて略直角に延出する側壁部44と、を有している。基部41は、平板状に設けられ、その中央部には概して円形状の開口部41aが設けられている。延出部42は、略矩形状の基部41の四隅からそれぞれ上方側に延出する。受け部43は、平板状に設けられ、その中央部には平面視略円形状を有し、下方側に円筒状に突出する筒状部43aがそれぞれ設けられている。各筒状部43aには、上ケース21の突起217が挿通される。この突起217により、ばね受け部材4(受け部43)が上下移動可能に案内されている。また、各筒状部43aの外周側には、コイルばね3a〜3dがそれぞれ配置される。このとき、延出部42と側壁部44とでコイルばね3a〜3dを挟んだ状態となり、コイルばね3a〜3dの上端部は受け部43の下面に当接する。すなわち、ばね受け部材4の受け部43で、コイルばね3a〜3dの上端部を受ける状態となる。また、受け部43をL字状に曲げた側壁部44を設けることにより、ばね受け部材4の強度を高めることが可能となる。また、基部41は、受け部43で受けたコイルばね3の付勢力を後述する第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6に作用させている。すなわち、基部41は、第1連動部材5と第2連動部材6の下面に弾接している。なお、ばね受け部材4は、上ケース21と中間ケース23との間に配設されている。   The spring receiving member 4 is made of, for example, a non-magnetic metal plate such as phosphor bronze, and has a base portion 41 provided in a generally rectangular shape, and a plurality of (this book) extending from the base portion 41 upward at a substantially right angle. (In the embodiment, four) extending portions 42, a receiving portion 43 extending from the upper end portion of the extending portion 42 toward the outer side at a substantially right angle, and a lower side from the outer end portion of the receiving portion 43. And a side wall portion 44 extending substantially at a right angle. The base 41 is provided in a flat plate shape, and a generally circular opening 41a is provided at the center thereof. The extending portions 42 respectively extend upward from the four corners of the substantially rectangular base portion 41. The receiving part 43 is provided in a flat plate shape, and has a cylindrical part 43a that has a substantially circular shape in plan view and protrudes in a cylindrical shape on the lower side. The protrusions 217 of the upper case 21 are inserted through the respective cylindrical portions 43a. The spring receiving member 4 (receiving portion 43) is guided by the protrusion 217 so as to be vertically movable. Moreover, the coil springs 3a-3d are each arrange | positioned at the outer peripheral side of each cylindrical part 43a. At this time, the coil springs 3 a to 3 d are sandwiched between the extension portion 42 and the side wall portion 44, and the upper ends of the coil springs 3 a to 3 d are in contact with the lower surface of the receiving portion 43. That is, the receiving portion 43 of the spring receiving member 4 is in a state of receiving the upper end portions of the coil springs 3a to 3d. Further, the strength of the spring receiving member 4 can be increased by providing the side wall portion 44 in which the receiving portion 43 is bent in an L shape. Further, the base 41 causes the biasing force of the coil spring 3 received by the receiving portion 43 to act on the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 described later. That is, the base 41 is in elastic contact with the lower surfaces of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6. The spring receiving member 4 is disposed between the upper case 21 and the intermediate case 23.

第1連動部材5は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成される。図3は、第1連動部材5の上面図である。第1連動部材5は、対向して配置される長尺の一対の側壁部51と、これらの側壁部51の両端部同士を連結する連結部52と、を有している。側壁部51は、その両端部から長手方向の中央位置にかけて、上方側になだらかな凸形状となるように形成されている。側壁部51および連結部52の内側には、平面視にて概して長方形状の長孔からなる開口部53が設けられている。側壁部51の長手方向の中央位置には、一対の側壁部51を連結するように、概して円柱状の軸部54が設けられている。軸部54は、その中央部の径が、両端部の径よりも小径に形成されている。軸部54は、後述する操作部材7と係合して、この操作部材7の上方側および下方側への移動を規制する役割を果たす。この軸部54により操作部材7の上方側および下方側への移動を規制できるので、操作部材7とハウジング2との直接的な接触を防止することができ、操作部材7やハウジング2の破損を防止することが可能となる。また、連結部52には、それぞれ装置本体の側方側に突出して設けられる概して円柱状の軸部55a,55bが設けられている。軸部55a,55bは、それぞれ上ケース21の壁部214b,214dに設けられた軸受け部215に挿通されることにより、上ケース21(壁部214b,214d)と中間ケース23の上面との間で回動可能に支持されている。一方の軸部55aの先端部には、磁石受け56が設けられている。この磁石受け56には、第1連動部材5の回動動作を検出する第1検出手段8を構成する磁石8aがかしめで固定されている。磁石8aは、概して円筒形状を有し、上ケース21の収納部216b内に収納可能な寸法に設けられている。他方の軸部55bの先端部には、下方側に突出する突出片57が設けられている。さらに、連結部52には、それぞれ開口部53側に突出して設けられる規制部58が設けられている。規制部58は、円柱状の軸部55a,55bを開口部53側に突出させ、その上半分を斜めに切り落とした形状に設計されている。この規制部58は、操作部材7が一定位置以上に回動するのを規制する役割を果たす。なお、ばね受け部材4の基部41と当接する第1連動部材5の下面、本実施の形態における側壁部51の両端部と連結部52の下面は、平坦面となっている。操作部材7の非操作時には、第1連動部材5の下面(平坦面)は、コイルばね3の付勢力を受けたばね受け部材4の基部41と面接触している(図9参照)。   For example, the first interlocking member 5 is formed by molding an insulating resin material. FIG. 3 is a top view of the first interlocking member 5. The first interlocking member 5 has a pair of long side wall portions 51 arranged to face each other, and a connecting portion 52 that connects both end portions of these side wall portions 51. The side wall 51 is formed so as to have a gently convex shape upward from the both end portions to the center position in the longitudinal direction. Inside the side wall portion 51 and the connecting portion 52, an opening portion 53 having a generally rectangular long hole in a plan view is provided. A generally cylindrical shaft portion 54 is provided at the longitudinal center position of the side wall portion 51 so as to connect the pair of side wall portions 51. The shaft portion 54 is formed such that the diameter of the central portion thereof is smaller than the diameter of both end portions. The shaft portion 54 engages with an operation member 7 to be described later and plays a role of restricting the upward and downward movement of the operation member 7. Since this shaft portion 54 can restrict the movement of the operating member 7 upward and downward, direct contact between the operating member 7 and the housing 2 can be prevented, and the operating member 7 and the housing 2 can be damaged. It becomes possible to prevent. Further, the connecting portion 52 is provided with generally cylindrical shaft portions 55a and 55b provided so as to protrude from the side of the apparatus main body. The shaft portions 55 a and 55 b are inserted into bearing portions 215 provided on the wall portions 214 b and 214 d of the upper case 21, respectively, so that the space between the upper case 21 (wall portions 214 b and 214 d) and the upper surface of the intermediate case 23 is reached. It is supported so that it can rotate. A magnet receiver 56 is provided at the tip of one shaft portion 55a. The magnet receiver 56 is fixed by caulking with a magnet 8a that constitutes first detection means 8 that detects the rotation of the first interlocking member 5. The magnet 8a has a generally cylindrical shape and is dimensioned to be housed in the housing portion 216b of the upper case 21. A protruding piece 57 that protrudes downward is provided at the tip of the other shaft portion 55b. Further, the connecting portion 52 is provided with a restricting portion 58 that protrudes toward the opening 53. The restricting portion 58 is designed to have a shape in which cylindrical shaft portions 55a and 55b protrude toward the opening 53 and the upper half thereof is cut off obliquely. The restricting portion 58 plays a role of restricting the operation member 7 from rotating beyond a certain position. In addition, the lower surface of the 1st interlocking member 5 contact | abutted with the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4, the both ends of the side wall part 51 in this Embodiment, and the lower surface of the connection part 52 are flat surfaces. When the operation member 7 is not operated, the lower surface (flat surface) of the first interlocking member 5 is in surface contact with the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4 that receives the biasing force of the coil spring 3 (see FIG. 9).

第2連動部材6は、第1連動部材5の上方側に、延在方向(回動軸線方向)が第1連動部材5に対して直交するように配設されている。第2連動部材6は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成される。図4は、第2連動部材6の上面図である。第2連動部材6は、上方側に向かってアーチ状に湾曲形成されており、そのアーチ状部分の長手方向に沿って長孔61が形成されている。アーチ状部分は、上ケース21のドーム状に突出した壁部212の内部に収容される寸法に設定されている(図8参照)。このように、上ケース21の開口部211の周囲に形成された壁部212の内部に第2連動部材6のアーチ状部分を収容できるので、上ケース21の壁部212以外の部分を薄型化でき、多方向入力装置1が搭載される機器の設計の自由度を確保できる。また、長孔61は、後述する操作部材7の肩部73の寸法と略同一に設定されている。長孔61の下面の長辺部分に沿って、すなわち、短手方向端部の内面側には、略円弧状の凹部61aが設けられている。また、第2連動部材6の長手方向の両端には、側壁部62が設けられている。これらの側壁部62には、それぞれ装置本体の側方側に突出して設けられる概して円柱状の軸部63a,63bが設けられている。軸部63a,63bは、それぞれ上ケース21の壁部214a,214bに設けられた軸受け部215に挿通されることにより、上ケース21(壁部214a,214b)と中間ケース23の上面との間で回動可能に支持される。一方の軸部63aの先端部には、磁石受け64が設けられている。この磁石受け64には、第2連動部材6の回動動作を検出する第2検出手段9を構成する磁石9aがかしめで固定されている。磁石9aは、上ケース21の収納部216a内に収納可能な寸法に設けられている。なお、ばね受け部材4の基部41と当接する第2連動部材6の下面である側壁部62の下面は、平坦面となっている。操作部材7の非操作時において、第2連動部材6の下面は、コイルばね3の付勢力により、ばね受け部材4の基部41と面接触している(図10参照)。   The second interlocking member 6 is disposed above the first interlocking member 5 so that the extending direction (rotation axis direction) is orthogonal to the first interlocking member 5. For example, the second interlocking member 6 is formed by molding an insulating resin material. FIG. 4 is a top view of the second interlocking member 6. The second interlocking member 6 is curved and formed in an arch shape toward the upper side, and a long hole 61 is formed along the longitudinal direction of the arched portion. The arch-shaped part is set to a size that is accommodated in the wall 212 protruding in a dome shape of the upper case 21 (see FIG. 8). As described above, since the arched portion of the second interlocking member 6 can be accommodated in the wall portion 212 formed around the opening 211 of the upper case 21, the portion other than the wall portion 212 of the upper case 21 is thinned. It is possible to secure the degree of freedom in designing the equipment on which the multidirectional input device 1 is mounted. Further, the long hole 61 is set to be approximately the same as the size of a shoulder portion 73 of the operation member 7 described later. A substantially arc-shaped recess 61a is provided along the long side portion of the lower surface of the long hole 61, that is, on the inner surface side of the end portion in the short direction. Side walls 62 are provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the second interlocking member 6. These side wall portions 62 are provided with generally cylindrical shaft portions 63a and 63b that protrude from the side of the apparatus main body. The shaft portions 63a and 63b are inserted into bearing portions 215 provided on the wall portions 214a and 214b of the upper case 21, respectively, so that the space between the upper case 21 (wall portions 214a and 214b) and the upper surface of the intermediate case 23 is increased. It is supported so that it can rotate. A magnet receiver 64 is provided at the tip of one shaft portion 63a. The magnet receiver 64 is fixed by caulking to a magnet 9a that constitutes second detection means 9 that detects the rotation of the second interlocking member 6. The magnet 9 a is provided with a size that can be stored in the storage portion 216 a of the upper case 21. In addition, the lower surface of the side wall part 62 which is the lower surface of the 2nd interlocking member 6 contact | abutted with the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4 is a flat surface. When the operation member 7 is not operated, the lower surface of the second interlocking member 6 is in surface contact with the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4 by the biasing force of the coil spring 3 (see FIG. 10).

操作部材7は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成され、上端部に設けられた平面視にて概して円形状の頭部71と、基部を構成する円柱状の軸部72と、軸部72の上下方向の中間位置に設けられた肩部73と、を有している。図5Aは、操作部材7の側面図であり、図5Bは、操作部材7の下面図である。操作部を構成する頭部71の径は、上ケース21の開口部211の径よりも大径に設定されている。また、軸部72の径は、上ケース21の開口部211の径よりも小径に設定されている。多方向入力装置1を組み立てた状態では、上ケース21の開口部211には開口部211の径より小径である軸部72が挿通される。したがって、開口部211と軸部72との間に生じる隙間から、異物がハウジング2内に入り込むおそれがある。これに対し、操作部材7に、少なくとも非操作状態において開口部211を覆う目隠し部を設けてもよい。目隠し部の形状は、例えば、鍔状や上ケース21のドーム状に突出した壁部212に沿った形状とすることができる。この目隠し部は、操作部材7に一体に成形して設けてもよいし、エラストマー等を操作部材7に2色成形して設けてもよい。また、操作部材7とは別部材のエラストマーやラバー等からなるリング状の弾性部材を、操作部材7に取り付けることにより目隠し部を設けてもよい。軸部72の下端部は、蓋部材22に取り付けられた軸受け部材10における壁部10aの球面状の凹部形状に対応して、球面状の凸部形状に形成されている。また、軸部72の下端部には、下方側に開口した断面U字状(円弧状)の凹溝部72aが設けられている。凹溝部72aは、第1連動部材5の軸部54とスナップ係合する。肩部73は、長手形状部を構成するものであり、概して直方体形状を有しており、長辺部分が軸部72から装置全体の両側方側(図5Aの左右方向)に突出して設けられている(図5B参照)。肩部73の上面は、短辺部分に沿って上に凸となる略円弧状に形成されている。肩部73の短辺の寸法は、軸部72の径と略同一である。肩部73の長辺方向の両端部における下部側中央には、略直方体形状に切り欠かれた切り欠き部74が設けられている。   The operation member 7 is formed by molding an insulating resin material, for example, and has a generally circular head portion 71 in a plan view provided at the upper end portion, and a columnar shaft portion 72 constituting a base portion, And a shoulder portion 73 provided at an intermediate position in the vertical direction of the shaft portion 72. FIG. 5A is a side view of the operation member 7, and FIG. 5B is a bottom view of the operation member 7. The diameter of the head 71 constituting the operation unit is set to be larger than the diameter of the opening 211 of the upper case 21. Further, the diameter of the shaft portion 72 is set to be smaller than the diameter of the opening portion 211 of the upper case 21. In the assembled state of the multidirectional input device 1, the shaft portion 72 having a smaller diameter than the diameter of the opening 211 is inserted into the opening 211 of the upper case 21. Therefore, foreign matter may enter the housing 2 through a gap generated between the opening 211 and the shaft portion 72. On the other hand, the operating member 7 may be provided with a blindfold covering the opening 211 at least in the non-operating state. The shape of the blindfolded portion can be, for example, a shape along the wall portion 212 protruding like a bowl or the dome shape of the upper case 21. The blindfold may be formed integrally with the operation member 7 or may be formed by molding the operation member 7 with two colors. In addition, a blindfold may be provided by attaching a ring-shaped elastic member made of an elastomer, rubber, or the like, which is a separate member from the operation member 7, to the operation member 7. The lower end portion of the shaft portion 72 is formed in a spherical convex shape corresponding to the spherical concave shape of the wall portion 10 a in the bearing member 10 attached to the lid member 22. In addition, the lower end portion of the shaft portion 72 is provided with a concave groove portion 72a having a U-shaped cross section (arc shape) that opens downward. The recessed groove portion 72a snap-engages with the shaft portion 54 of the first interlocking member 5. The shoulder portion 73 constitutes a longitudinally shaped portion, and generally has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the long side portion is provided so as to protrude from the shaft portion 72 to both sides (the left-right direction in FIG. 5A) of the entire apparatus. (See FIG. 5B). The upper surface of the shoulder portion 73 is formed in a substantially arc shape that protrudes upward along the short side portion. The short side dimension of the shoulder portion 73 is substantially the same as the diameter of the shaft portion 72. A notch 74 that is cut into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape is provided at the lower center of both ends of the shoulder 73 in the long side direction.

第1検出手段8を構成する磁気検出素子としてのGMR素子(巨大磁気抵抗効果素子)8bおよび第2検出手段9を構成する磁気検出素子としてのGMR素子9bは、フレキシブル基板11上に設けられている。フレキシブル基板11には、GMR素子8b,9bの他に、アンプとして機能するIC12と、コネクタ13とが設けられている。GMR素子8b,9bは、磁石8a,9aの回転角度を検出し、IC12によって検出結果を増幅して、コネクタ13を介して検出結果を外部に出力する。GMR素子8b,9bが設けられた部分のフレキシブル基板11の裏面には、補強板11b,11aが両面粘着テープ等によって取り付けられている。フレキシブル基板11および補強板11a,11bには、上ケース21のボス213dを挿通するための貫通孔111が設けられている。IC12が設けられた部分のフレキシブル基板11の裏面には、補強板11cが取り付けられている。フレキシブル基板11および補強板11cには、中間ケース23のボス237を挿通するための貫通孔111が設けられている。なお、GMR素子8b,9bおよびIC12は樹脂により封止されている。   A GMR element (giant magnetoresistive element) 8b as a magnetic detection element constituting the first detection means 8 and a GMR element 9b as a magnetic detection element constituting the second detection means 9 are provided on a flexible substrate 11. Yes. In addition to the GMR elements 8b and 9b, the flexible substrate 11 is provided with an IC 12 that functions as an amplifier and a connector 13. The GMR elements 8b and 9b detect the rotation angles of the magnets 8a and 9a, amplify the detection result by the IC 12, and output the detection result to the outside via the connector 13. Reinforcing plates 11b and 11a are attached to the back surface of the flexible substrate 11 where the GMR elements 8b and 9b are provided by a double-sided adhesive tape or the like. The flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plates 11a and 11b are provided with a through hole 111 through which the boss 213d of the upper case 21 is inserted. A reinforcing plate 11c is attached to the back surface of the flexible substrate 11 where the IC 12 is provided. The flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plate 11c are provided with a through hole 111 through which the boss 237 of the intermediate case 23 is inserted. The GMR elements 8b and 9b and the IC 12 are sealed with resin.

続いて、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1を組み立てた状態について説明する。図6は、多方向入力装置1を組み立てた状態の斜視図である。図7は、図6に示す多方向入力装置1から上ケース21を取り外した場合の斜視図である。図8は、多方向入力装置1に上ケース21を取り付けた場合における、図7のA−A線矢視断面図である。図9は、図6に示す多方向入力装置1から上ケース21を取り外した場合の断面図であり、図7のB−B線矢視断面図である。図10は、図6に示す多方向入力装置1から上ケース21を取り外した場合の断面図であり、図7のC−C線矢視断面図である。   Then, the state which assembled the multidirectional input device 1 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the assembled multidirectional input device 1. FIG. 7 is a perspective view when the upper case 21 is removed from the multidirectional input device 1 shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 7 when the upper case 21 is attached to the multidirectional input device 1. 9 is a cross-sectional view when the upper case 21 is removed from the multidirectional input device 1 shown in FIG. 6, and is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view when the upper case 21 is removed from the multidirectional input device 1 shown in FIG. 6, and is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG.

図6に示すように、このような構成を有する多方向入力装置1を組み立てると、上ケース21の係合溝213aに蓋部材22の保持脚片222が係合し、爪部213bとスナップ孔222aとがスナップ結合した状態で、上ケース21と蓋部材22とが中間ケース23を介して一体化され、ハウジング2が構成される。GMR素子8b(図6において不図示)に対応して設けられた補強板11bは、貫通孔111にボス213dが挿通されて、かしめで取り付けられている。GMR素子8bと対向する部分の補強板11bを覆うように、蓋部材22の遮蔽片223が位置している。操作部材7(軸部72)は、上方向に突出しており、操作部材7の操作部としての頭部71が、上ケース21の開口部211から露出した状態で、各構成部品がハウジング2内の空間に収容される。コネクタ13は、ハウジング2の外部に露出している。   As shown in FIG. 6, when the multidirectional input device 1 having such a configuration is assembled, the holding leg piece 222 of the lid member 22 is engaged with the engagement groove 213a of the upper case 21, and the claw portion 213b and the snap hole are engaged. The upper case 21 and the lid member 22 are integrated with each other through the intermediate case 23 in a state in which the housing 222 is snap-coupled to the housing 222. The reinforcing plate 11b provided corresponding to the GMR element 8b (not shown in FIG. 6) is attached by caulking with the boss 213d inserted through the through hole 111. The shielding piece 223 of the lid member 22 is positioned so as to cover the reinforcing plate 11b at a portion facing the GMR element 8b. The operation member 7 (shaft portion 72) protrudes upward, and each component is inside the housing 2 with the head 71 as the operation portion of the operation member 7 exposed from the opening 211 of the upper case 21. Of space. The connector 13 is exposed to the outside of the housing 2.

図7に示すように、上ケース21の内部においては、第2連動部材6の下方側に第1連動部材5が直交して配置されている。第2連動部材6および第1連動部材5の下面の平坦面に、ばね受け部材4の基部41が当接して配置されている。コイルばね3(3a〜3d)の一部(下端側部分)は、それぞれ中間ケース23の貫通孔232に収容されている。コイルばね3の下端部は、蓋部材22の底面部221に当接しており、コイルばね3の上端部は、それぞればね受け部材4の受け部43に当接している。このように、コイルばね3の一部を、蓋部材22およびばね受け部材4の間に位置する貫通孔232内に弾性変形可能に設けることにより(図8参照)、多方向入力装置1の上下方向(操作部材7の突出方向)において、コイルばね3の少なくとも一部を、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6とオーバーラップさせている。この構成により、高さ方向の寸法を小さくすることができるので、コイルばね3が収容されるハウジング2を薄型化することができ、ひいては多方向入力装置1全体の薄型化が可能となる。   As shown in FIG. 7, in the upper case 21, the first interlocking member 5 is disposed orthogonally below the second interlocking member 6. The base 41 of the spring receiving member 4 is disposed in contact with the flat surfaces of the lower surfaces of the second interlocking member 6 and the first interlocking member 5. Part of the coil spring 3 (3a to 3d) (lower end portion) is accommodated in the through hole 232 of the intermediate case 23, respectively. The lower end portion of the coil spring 3 is in contact with the bottom surface portion 221 of the lid member 22, and the upper end portion of the coil spring 3 is in contact with the receiving portion 43 of the spring receiving member 4. As described above, a part of the coil spring 3 is provided in the through hole 232 positioned between the lid member 22 and the spring receiving member 4 so as to be elastically deformable (see FIG. 8), so that the upper and lower sides of the multidirectional input device 1 are At least a part of the coil spring 3 is overlapped with the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 in the direction (projection direction of the operation member 7). With this configuration, since the dimension in the height direction can be reduced, the housing 2 in which the coil spring 3 is accommodated can be reduced in thickness, and as a result, the entire multidirectional input device 1 can be reduced in thickness.

また、コイルばね3a〜3dは、ハウジング2内において、平面視にて直交して配置される第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の延設方向の間の方向に配置されている。すなわち、図7において、操作部材7の突出方向側(上方側)から見た場合に、磁石8aの位置を0°、磁石9aの位置を90°、第1連動部材5の軸部55bの位置を180°、第2連動部材6の軸部63bの位置を270°と表わすと、コイルばね3a〜3dの位置は、それぞれ45°、135°、225°、315°と表わすことができる(ただし、図7においてコイルばね3b(135°)は不図示)。このような構成とすることで、デッドスペースとなり易いハウジング2内の四隅部近傍のスペースを有効に利用することができるため、ハウジング2の小型化が可能となる。   In addition, the coil springs 3 a to 3 d are disposed in the housing 2 in a direction between the extending directions of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 that are disposed orthogonally in plan view. That is, in FIG. 7, when viewed from the protruding direction side (upper side) of the operation member 7, the position of the magnet 8 a is 0 °, the position of the magnet 9 a is 90 °, and the position of the shaft portion 55 b of the first interlocking member 5. Is 180 ° and the position of the shaft portion 63b of the second interlocking member 6 is 270 °, the positions of the coil springs 3a to 3d can be expressed as 45 °, 135 °, 225 °, and 315 °, respectively (however, In FIG. 7, the coil spring 3b (135 °) is not shown). By adopting such a configuration, the space near the four corners in the housing 2 that is likely to become a dead space can be used effectively, so that the housing 2 can be downsized.

なお、図8に示すように、コイルばね3が収容される中間ケース23の貫通孔232は2段構造となっており、第1の収容部を構成するその下側(蓋部材22側)の径が第2の収容部を構成する上側(ばね受け部材4側)の径よりも小径に構成されている。この構成により、コイルばね3の下端部である座巻部分は、貫通孔232に対してほとんど隙間なく収容される。一方、コイルばね3の下端部寄りの中間部分(座巻以外の部分)は、貫通孔232に対して隙間を有して収容される。これにより、コイルばね3が弾性変形した際に、コイルばね3の下端部の横ずれを防ぎ、また、コイルばね3の中間部分の側面が貫通孔232の内側壁面に当たることを防ぐことができる。したがって、コイルばね3の弾性変形に伴う動きを円滑にすることができるため、操作性が損なわれる事態を防止することが可能となる。   In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, the through-hole 232 of the intermediate case 23 in which the coil spring 3 is accommodated has a two-stage structure, on the lower side (the lid member 22 side) constituting the first accommodating portion. The diameter is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the upper side (spring receiving member 4 side) constituting the second accommodating portion. With this configuration, the end winding portion that is the lower end portion of the coil spring 3 is accommodated in the through hole 232 with almost no gap. On the other hand, an intermediate portion (portion other than the end winding) near the lower end portion of the coil spring 3 is accommodated with a gap with respect to the through hole 232. Thereby, when the coil spring 3 is elastically deformed, the lateral displacement of the lower end portion of the coil spring 3 can be prevented, and the side surface of the intermediate portion of the coil spring 3 can be prevented from hitting the inner wall surface of the through hole 232. Therefore, since the movement accompanying the elastic deformation of the coil spring 3 can be smoothed, it is possible to prevent a situation where the operability is impaired.

また、図8に示すように、金属材料からなるばね受け部材4と蓋部材22とは、金属線材からなるコイルばね3を介して導通している。蓋部材22には、下方側へ突出する弾性片221aが設けられている(図2参照)。これにより、操作部材7に落ちた操作者の静電気を、ばね受け部材4、コイルばね3および蓋部材22を介して、多方向入力装置1が実装されるプリント基板などのグランドパターンに放出することができるため、静電気に起因する装置内部のIC等の電気部品の破壊を防止することが可能となる。   As shown in FIG. 8, the spring receiving member 4 made of a metal material and the lid member 22 are electrically connected via a coil spring 3 made of a metal wire. The lid member 22 is provided with an elastic piece 221a protruding downward (see FIG. 2). Thereby, the static electricity of the operator who has fallen on the operation member 7 is discharged to the ground pattern such as a printed board on which the multidirectional input device 1 is mounted via the spring receiving member 4, the coil spring 3 and the lid member 22. Therefore, it is possible to prevent destruction of electrical components such as an IC inside the apparatus due to static electricity.

図7に示すように、第1連動部材5の磁石受け56および磁石8aは、中間ケース23の貫通部234bにその一部が収容されている。この状態において、磁石8aは、図9に示すように、補強板11bに支持されたフレキシブル基板11上のGMR素子8bと対向している。第1連動部材5の回動動作は、磁石受け56を介して、磁石8aに伝達される。   As shown in FIG. 7, a part of the magnet receiver 56 and the magnet 8 a of the first interlocking member 5 are accommodated in the through portion 234 b of the intermediate case 23. In this state, the magnet 8a faces the GMR element 8b on the flexible substrate 11 supported by the reinforcing plate 11b, as shown in FIG. The rotation operation of the first interlocking member 5 is transmitted to the magnet 8 a through the magnet receiver 56.

同様に、第2連動部材6の磁石受け64および磁石9aは、中間ケース23の貫通部234aにその一部が収容されている。この状態において、磁石9aは、図10に示すように、補強板11aに支持されたフレキシブル基板11上のGMR素子9bと対向している。第2連動部材6の回動動作は、磁石受け64を介して、磁石9aに伝達される。   Similarly, a part of the magnet receiver 64 and the magnet 9 a of the second interlocking member 6 are accommodated in the through portion 234 a of the intermediate case 23. In this state, as shown in FIG. 10, the magnet 9a faces the GMR element 9b on the flexible substrate 11 supported by the reinforcing plate 11a. The rotation operation of the second interlocking member 6 is transmitted to the magnet 9 a via the magnet receiver 64.

このように、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1においては、第1連動部材5に連結された磁石8aと、この磁石8aに対向配置されるGMR素子8bとで、第1連動部材5の回動動作を検出する第1検出手段8を構成し、第2連動部材6に連結された磁石9aと、この磁石9aに対向配置されるGMR素子9bとで、第2連動部材6の回転動作を検出する第2検出手段9を構成している。本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1においては、非接触式の検出手段により第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の回動動作を検出できるので、接触式の検出手段に比べて磨耗等の不具合を防止でき、長期間にわたって検出精度を確保することが可能となる。   As described above, in the multidirectional input device 1 according to the present embodiment, the first interlocking member 5 includes the magnet 8a coupled to the first interlocking member 5 and the GMR element 8b disposed to face the magnet 8a. Rotation of the second interlocking member 6 is constituted by a magnet 9a connected to the second interlocking member 6 and a GMR element 9b arranged opposite to the magnet 9a. The second detection means 9 for detecting the operation is configured. In the multi-directional input device 1 according to the present embodiment, the rotation operation of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 can be detected by the non-contact detection means, and therefore wear compared to the contact detection means. It is possible to prevent problems such as these, and to ensure detection accuracy over a long period of time.

図11Aは、第1検出手段8(第2検出手段9)の構成を示す正面模式図であり、図11Bは、第1検出手段8(第2検出手段9)の構成を示す側面模式図である。図11Aに示すように、磁石8a(9a)は、中心を通る長手方向の軸で磁石8a(9a)を2分割した際に、その上半分と下半分とで磁極が異なるよう構成されている。このような磁石8a(9a)の構成とすることで、多方向入力装置1の周囲(例えば、下方側)の磁石の影響を受けにくくすることができる。なお、GMR素子8b(9b)は、磁石8a(9a)の中心位置に対向配置されている。   FIG. 11A is a schematic front view showing the configuration of the first detection means 8 (second detection means 9), and FIG. 11B is a schematic side view showing the configuration of the first detection means 8 (second detection means 9). is there. As shown in FIG. 11A, the magnet 8a (9a) is configured such that when the magnet 8a (9a) is divided into two by a longitudinal axis passing through the center, the upper half and the lower half have different magnetic poles. . By adopting such a configuration of the magnet 8a (9a), it is possible to reduce the influence of the magnet around the multidirectional input device 1 (for example, the lower side). The GMR element 8b (9b) is disposed opposite to the center position of the magnet 8a (9a).

第1検出手段8(第2検出手段9)においては、磁石8a(9a)による外部磁界(図11Bに示す矢印B)をGMR素子8b(9b)に作用させている。GMR素子8b(9b)の電気抵抗値は、磁石8a(9a)による外部磁場の向きに応じて変化するため、GMR素子8b(9b)の出力信号からGMR素子8b(9b)と磁石8a(9a)との相対回転量(回転角度)を検出できる。多方向入力装置1においては、第1検出手段8(第2検出手段9)で検出されるこの相対回転量(回転角度)に基づいて、第1連動部材5(第2連動部材6)の回転角度を検出することが可能となる。   In the first detection means 8 (second detection means 9), an external magnetic field (arrow B shown in FIG. 11B) by the magnet 8a (9a) is applied to the GMR element 8b (9b). Since the electrical resistance value of the GMR element 8b (9b) changes according to the direction of the external magnetic field by the magnet 8a (9a), the GMR element 8b (9b) and the magnet 8a (9a) are output from the output signal of the GMR element 8b (9b). ) And the relative rotation amount (rotation angle) can be detected. In the multidirectional input device 1, the rotation of the first interlocking member 5 (second interlocking member 6) is based on the relative rotation amount (rotation angle) detected by the first detecting means 8 (second detecting means 9). An angle can be detected.

この場合において、第1連動部材5の突出片57は、図7に示すように、中間ケース23に形成された規制部235に挿入されている。このように突出片57を規制部235に挿入することにより、第1連動部材5の回動軸線方向への移動を規制できる。このため、第1連動部材5を精度よく回動可能に保持することができ、第1検出手段8として磁石8aおよびGMR素子8bを利用する場合であっても、精度良く回転角度を検出することが可能となる。   In this case, the protruding piece 57 of the first interlocking member 5 is inserted into a restricting portion 235 formed in the intermediate case 23 as shown in FIG. By inserting the protruding piece 57 into the restricting portion 235 in this way, the movement of the first interlocking member 5 in the rotation axis direction can be restricted. For this reason, the 1st interlocking member 5 can be hold | maintained so that it can rotate accurately, and even if it is a case where the magnet 8a and the GMR element 8b are utilized as the 1st detection means 8, it can detect a rotation angle accurately. Is possible.

なお、本実施の形態では、第1連動部材5の回動軸線方向への移動を上ケース21の壁部214bによっても規制している。すなわち、壁部214bに設けられた軸受け部215に、第1連動部材5の軸部55aが挿通されることにより、壁部214bが連結部52と磁石受け56との間に配置されることで、第1連動部材5の回動軸線方向への移動が規制される。同様に、第2連動部材6の回動軸線方向への移動を上ケース21の壁部214aによって規制している。この場合には、壁部214aに設けられた軸受け部215に、第2連動部材6の軸部63aが挿通されることにより、壁部214aが側壁部62と磁石受け64との間に配置されることで、第2連動部材6の回動軸線方向への移動が規制される。このように、壁部214b,214aは、対応する連動部材(第1連動部材5または第2連動部材6)の回動軸線方向に沿った動きを規制する規制部として機能する。ここでは、連動部材(第1連動部材5または第2連動部材6)の回動軸線方向への移動を規制する規制部を上ケース21に設けた場合について説明しているが、規制部を中間ケース23に形成するようにしてもよい。また、上ケース21および中間ケース23の双方に設けることも可能である。第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6におけるそれぞれの回動軸線方向に沿った動きを規制する規制部を設けることにより、連動部材(第1連動部材5、第2連動部材6)を精度よく回動動作可能に保持することができ、検出手段(第1検出手段8、第2検出手段9)として、非接触式の磁石8a,9aとGMR素子8b,9bとを用いる場合であっても、精度よく回転角度を検出することが可能となる。   In the present embodiment, the movement of the first interlocking member 5 in the rotational axis direction is also restricted by the wall 214b of the upper case 21. That is, when the shaft portion 55a of the first interlocking member 5 is inserted into the bearing portion 215 provided on the wall portion 214b, the wall portion 214b is disposed between the connecting portion 52 and the magnet receiver 56. The movement of the first interlocking member 5 in the rotation axis direction is restricted. Similarly, the movement of the second interlocking member 6 in the rotation axis direction is restricted by the wall 214 a of the upper case 21. In this case, the wall portion 214a is disposed between the side wall portion 62 and the magnet receiver 64 by inserting the shaft portion 63a of the second interlocking member 6 into the bearing portion 215 provided on the wall portion 214a. This restricts the movement of the second interlocking member 6 in the direction of the rotational axis. In this way, the walls 214b and 214a function as a restricting portion that restricts the movement of the corresponding interlocking member (the first interlocking member 5 or the second interlocking member 6) along the rotation axis direction. Here, the case where the upper case 21 is provided with a restricting portion that restricts the movement of the interlocking member (the first interlocking member 5 or the second interlocking member 6) in the rotation axis direction has been described. You may make it form in the case 23. FIG. It is also possible to provide both the upper case 21 and the intermediate case 23. By providing the restricting portions for restricting the movement along the respective rotation axis directions in the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6, the interlocking members (the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6) can be accurately used. Even when the non-contact type magnets 8a and 9a and the GMR elements 8b and 9b are used as the detection means (the first detection means 8 and the second detection means 9). It becomes possible to detect the rotation angle with high accuracy.

操作部材7の軸部72は、ハウジング2内において直交して配置される第2連動部材6の長孔61および第1連動部材5の開口部53に挿通されている。そして、操作部材7は、軸部72に設けられた凹溝部72aが第1連動部材5の軸部54とスナップ係合することで、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6に連結されるとともに、第1連動部材5に回転可能に支持される。多方向入力装置1においては、このように連結される操作部材7により、操作者からの傾倒操作を受け付け可能に構成されている。   The shaft portion 72 of the operation member 7 is inserted through the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6 and the opening 53 of the first interlocking member 5 that are arranged orthogonally in the housing 2. The operating member 7 is coupled to the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 by snap-engaging the shaft portion 54 of the first interlocking member 5 with the groove portion 72 a provided in the shaft portion 72. At the same time, the first interlocking member 5 is rotatably supported. The multidirectional input device 1 is configured to be able to accept a tilting operation from an operator by the operation member 7 connected in this way.

操作部材7は、図7に示すように、傾倒操作されていない初期状態において、互いに直交するように配置された第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6のそれぞれの延在方向と交差する方向に突出している。より詳細には、操作部材7の軸部72は、軸部72の軸線方向(延在方向)が第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6のそれぞれ回動軸線と直交するように、上方向に突出して配置されている。そして、軸部72は、上ケース21の開口部211から外部へ突出している。このように、操作部材7が直立状態に保持されるのは、コイルばね3の付勢力を受けたばね受け部材4と面接触している第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6と操作部材7とが、係合していることによる。すなわち、本実施の形態においては、コイルばね3の付勢力が作用する第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6を介して、操作部材7が初期状態に復帰するものである。   As shown in FIG. 7, the operating member 7 intersects with the extending directions of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 arranged so as to be orthogonal to each other in the initial state where the tilting operation is not performed. Protruding. More specifically, the shaft portion 72 of the operation member 7 is moved upward so that the axial direction (extending direction) of the shaft portion 72 is orthogonal to the rotation axis of each of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6. It is arranged to protrude. The shaft portion 72 protrudes from the opening 211 of the upper case 21 to the outside. As described above, the operation member 7 is held in the upright state because the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 that are in surface contact with the spring receiving member 4 that receives the biasing force of the coil spring 3 and the operation member 7. Is due to the engagement. That is, in the present embodiment, the operating member 7 is returned to the initial state via the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 on which the biasing force of the coil spring 3 acts.

また、多方向入力装置1が組み立てられた状態において、図9に示すように、操作部材7の肩部73の上面は、第2連動部材6の凹部61aの下面とクリアランスを有して対向配置される。このため、操作部材7が不所望に上方側へ引っ張られると、操作部材7は、そのクリアランス分だけ上方へ移動した後、第2連動部材6の下面と当接する。ここで、操作部材7の肩部73の上面と第2連動部材6の下面との間のクリアランスは、第1連動部材5の軸部54の半径より小さく設定されている。このため、肩部73が凹部61aの下面と当接するまで上方へ移動しても、軸部54と操作部材7の凹溝部72aとのスナップ係合が外れることはない。   In the assembled state of the multidirectional input device 1, as shown in FIG. 9, the upper surface of the shoulder 73 of the operation member 7 is disposed opposite to the lower surface of the recess 61 a of the second interlocking member 6 with a clearance. Is done. For this reason, when the operation member 7 is undesirably pulled upward, the operation member 7 moves upward by an amount corresponding to the clearance, and then contacts the lower surface of the second interlocking member 6. Here, the clearance between the upper surface of the shoulder 73 of the operation member 7 and the lower surface of the second interlocking member 6 is set to be smaller than the radius of the shaft portion 54 of the first interlocking member 5. For this reason, even if the shoulder portion 73 moves upward until it comes into contact with the lower surface of the recess 61a, the snap engagement between the shaft portion 54 and the groove portion 72a of the operation member 7 is not released.

また、多方向入力装置1が組み立てられた状態において、操作部材7の軸部72の下端部(凸部形状の部分)は、軸受け部材10の壁部10aの上面に形成された凹部形状の内部に、壁部10aの上面(凹部形状の部分)とクリアランスを有して対向配置されている(図9参照)。このため、操作部材7が不所望に強い力で押し込まれると、軸部72の下端部が壁部10aの上面に当接する。この当接により、操作部材7から第1連動部材5の軸部54に加えられる押圧の荷重(負荷)を抑制することができ、軸部54を含む第1連動部材5の破損や変形を防止することが可能となる。ここで、軸部72の下端部は球面状の凸部形状に形成されており、壁部10aの上面が軸部72の下端部の凸部形状に対応した球面状の凹部形状となっていることから、操作部材7に加えられた押圧の荷重を、蓋部材22に取り付けられた軸受け部材10によって、効果的に受けることができる。   Further, in the assembled state of the multidirectional input device 1, the lower end portion (projection-shaped portion) of the shaft portion 72 of the operation member 7 is a recess-shaped interior formed on the upper surface of the wall portion 10 a of the bearing member 10. Further, they are arranged to face each other with a clearance from the upper surface (the concave portion) of the wall 10a (see FIG. 9). For this reason, when the operating member 7 is pushed in with an undesirably strong force, the lower end portion of the shaft portion 72 comes into contact with the upper surface of the wall portion 10a. By this contact, the pressing load applied to the shaft portion 54 of the first interlocking member 5 from the operating member 7 can be suppressed, and damage and deformation of the first interlocking member 5 including the shaft portion 54 can be prevented. It becomes possible to do. Here, the lower end portion of the shaft portion 72 is formed in a spherical convex shape, and the upper surface of the wall portion 10a has a spherical concave shape corresponding to the convex shape of the lower end portion of the shaft portion 72. Therefore, the pressing load applied to the operation member 7 can be effectively received by the bearing member 10 attached to the lid member 22.

続いて、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1の組み立て方法について説明する。なお、以下に示す組み立て順序は一例にすぎず、その順序は適宜変更が可能である。   Then, the assembly method of the multidirectional input device 1 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated. In addition, the assembly order shown below is only an example, and the order can be changed as appropriate.

まず、フレキシブル基板11を中間ケース23に取り付ける。具体的には、IC12が取り付けられた部分における補強板11cの貫通孔111に、中間ケース23の下面に設けられたボス237を挿通し、かしめて取り付ける。続いて、中間ケース23の貫通孔232に、それぞれコイルばね3a〜3dを収容する。その後、コイルばね3a〜3dの上端部が受け部43の下面に当接するように、コイルばね3a〜3d上にばね受け部材4を設置する。このとき、コイルばね3a〜3dの上端部内周側には筒状部43aが挿通され、かつ、ばね受け部材4の延出部42と側壁部44との間にコイルばね3a〜3dが収まった状態とする。   First, the flexible substrate 11 is attached to the intermediate case 23. Specifically, the boss 237 provided on the lower surface of the intermediate case 23 is inserted into the through hole 111 of the reinforcing plate 11c in the portion where the IC 12 is attached, and is attached by caulking. Subsequently, the coil springs 3 a to 3 d are accommodated in the through holes 232 of the intermediate case 23, respectively. Thereafter, the spring receiving member 4 is installed on the coil springs 3 a to 3 d so that the upper ends of the coil springs 3 a to 3 d are in contact with the lower surface of the receiving portion 43. At this time, the cylindrical portion 43a is inserted into the inner peripheral side of the upper ends of the coil springs 3a to 3d, and the coil springs 3a to 3d are accommodated between the extension portion 42 and the side wall portion 44 of the spring receiving member 4. State.

操作部材7は、軸部72を、上ケース21の開口部211に挿通した後、第2連動部材6の長孔61に挿通し、その後、軸部72に設けられた凹溝部72aと第1連動部材5に設けられた軸部54とをスナップ係合することにより取り付ける。これにより、上ケース21、操作部材7、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6が連結する。この操作部材7の取り付け方法について、すなわち、操作部材7、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の連結方法について、図面に基づいて詳細に説明する。図12は、操作部材7、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6を後部斜め下方から見た分解斜視図である。図13は、操作部材7の軸部72を第2連動部材6の長孔61に挿通した状態を示す下面図である。図14は、操作部材7と第2連動部材6と第1連動部材5とを連結した状態を示す下面図である。なお、理解を容易とするために、図12〜図14において、操作部材7の頭部71と第2連動部材6との間に配設される上ケース21は図示を省略する。   The operating member 7 inserts the shaft portion 72 into the opening 211 of the upper case 21, and then inserts the shaft portion 72 into the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6, and then the concave groove portion 72 a provided in the shaft portion 72 and the first groove 72 a. It attaches by snap-engaging with the axial part 54 provided in the interlocking member 5. FIG. Thereby, the upper case 21, the operation member 7, the first interlocking member 5, and the second interlocking member 6 are connected. A method for attaching the operation member 7, that is, a method for connecting the operation member 7, the first interlocking member 5, and the second interlocking member 6 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the operation member 7, the first interlocking member 5, and the second interlocking member 6 as viewed from the rear and obliquely below. FIG. 13 is a bottom view showing a state in which the shaft portion 72 of the operation member 7 is inserted through the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6. FIG. 14 is a bottom view showing a state in which the operation member 7, the second interlocking member 6, and the first interlocking member 5 are connected. In addition, in order to make an understanding easy, in FIGS. 12-14, illustration of the upper case 21 arrange | positioned between the head 71 of the operation member 7 and the 2nd interlocking member 6 is abbreviate | omitted.

図12に示すように、操作部材7には、略直方体形状の肩部73が設けられている。第2連動部材6には、略長方形状の長孔61が設けられている。第1連動部材5には、長手方向中央部に軸部54を有する略長方形状の開口部53が設けられている。図12に示す状態において、操作部材7の肩部73と第1連動部材5の開口部53とは、その長手方向が一致する。第2連動部材6の長孔61の長手方向は、肩部73および開口部53の長手方向と直交する。また、操作部材7の肩部73の長手方向の長さ、第2連動部材6の長孔61の長手方向の長さおよび第1連動部材5の開口部53の長手方向の長さは、略同一である。それぞれの短手方向の長さも、略同一である。また、操作部材7に設けられた凹溝部72aと、第1連動部材5に設けられた軸部54とは、図12に示す状態において、その長手方向(延在方向)が一致している。   As shown in FIG. 12, the operation member 7 is provided with a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shoulder portion 73. The second interlocking member 6 is provided with a substantially rectangular long hole 61. The first interlocking member 5 is provided with a substantially rectangular opening 53 having a shaft portion 54 at the center in the longitudinal direction. In the state shown in FIG. 12, the longitudinal direction of the shoulder 73 of the operation member 7 and the opening 53 of the first interlocking member 5 coincide. The longitudinal direction of the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6 is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the shoulder 73 and the opening 53. Further, the length in the longitudinal direction of the shoulder 73 of the operation member 7, the length in the longitudinal direction of the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6, and the length in the longitudinal direction of the opening 53 of the first interlocking member 5 are approximately Are the same. The lengths in the short direction are also substantially the same. Moreover, the concave direction 72a provided in the operation member 7 and the axial part 54 provided in the 1st interlocking member 5 correspond in the longitudinal direction (extending direction) in the state shown in FIG.

まず、上ケース21の開口部211に挿通された状態における操作部材7の軸部72を、第2連動部材6の長孔61に挿通する。図12に示す状態から操作部材7を下方へ移動し、その軸部72を、第2連動部材6の長孔61に挿通しようとすると、肩部73の長手方向の長さが長孔61の短手方向の長さよりも長いために、肩部73が長孔61を通過することができず、軸部72を長孔61に挿通させることができない。そのため、軸部72を長孔61に挿通させるには、まず、操作部材7を図12に示す状態から90°回転させ、肩部73の長手方向と長孔61の長手方向とを一致させる必要がある。肩部73の長手方向と長孔61の長手方向とを一致させた状態で、操作部材7を下方へ移動させると、肩部73が長孔61を通過し、軸部72を長孔61に挿通することができる(図13参照)。図13に示すように、肩部73の断面略長方形状と、長孔61の略長方形状とは、略同一形状に構成されている。   First, the shaft portion 72 of the operation member 7 inserted through the opening 211 of the upper case 21 is inserted into the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6. When the operation member 7 is moved downward from the state shown in FIG. 12 and the shaft portion 72 is to be inserted into the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6, the length of the shoulder portion 73 in the longitudinal direction is the length of the long hole 61. Since it is longer than the length in the short direction, the shoulder portion 73 cannot pass through the long hole 61, and the shaft portion 72 cannot be inserted into the long hole 61. Therefore, in order to insert the shaft portion 72 into the long hole 61, first, the operation member 7 needs to be rotated 90 ° from the state shown in FIG. 12 so that the longitudinal direction of the shoulder portion 73 and the longitudinal direction of the long hole 61 coincide with each other. There is. When the operating member 7 is moved downward in a state in which the longitudinal direction of the shoulder portion 73 and the longitudinal direction of the long hole 61 coincide with each other, the shoulder portion 73 passes through the long hole 61 and the shaft portion 72 becomes the long hole 61. It can be inserted (see FIG. 13). As shown in FIG. 13, the substantially rectangular shape of the cross section of the shoulder portion 73 and the substantially rectangular shape of the long hole 61 are configured to have substantially the same shape.

続いて、軸部72に設けられた凹溝部72aと第1連動部材5に設けられた軸部54とをスナップ係合する。このスナップ係合の前に、凹溝部72aの長手方向と、軸部54の長手方向とを一致させるため、再度、操作部材7を90°回転させる。図13に示す状態から、操作部材7を90°回転させると、肩部73の長手方向と長孔61の長手方向とが直交した状態となるため、肩部73が長孔61を通過できなくなり、操作部材7は第2連動部材6の一部により上方側への移動が規制される。そして、凹溝部72aの長手方向と、軸部54の長手方向とを一致させた状態で、操作部材7を下方へ移動させると、凹溝部72aと軸部54とが当接し、さらに、操作部材7を下方へ移動させることで凹溝部72a内に軸部54が押し込まれて、両者をスナップ係合することができる(図14参照)。なお、軸部54が凹溝部72aにスナップ係合される部分は、図14より理解できるように、軸部54の中央部ではなく、その両端部(太径部分)である。すなわち、凹溝部72aを挟んで互いにわずかに突出する突出部分が操作部材7の軸部72の下端部に設けられており、この突出部分が軸部54の両端部を乗り越えることで、両者がスナップ係合している。これにより、操作部材7が第1連動部材5に対して回転可能に支持される。このように第1連動部材5に回転可能に支持される一方、第2連動部材6により上方側への移動が規制されることから、組み立てられた多方向入力装置1において、第1連動部材5に対する操作部材7の係合が外れるのを防止でき、装置における信頼性を高めることができる。特に、所定角度回転した状態の操作部材7の肩部73と、第2連動部材6との当接により操作部材7の上方側への移動を規制しているので、第1連動部材5に対する操作部材7の係合が外れるのを簡単な構成で確実に防止できる。   Subsequently, the groove portion 72 a provided in the shaft portion 72 and the shaft portion 54 provided in the first interlocking member 5 are snap-engaged. Before the snap engagement, the operation member 7 is again rotated by 90 ° in order to make the longitudinal direction of the concave groove portion 72 a coincide with the longitudinal direction of the shaft portion 54. When the operation member 7 is rotated 90 ° from the state shown in FIG. 13, the shoulder 73 does not pass through the slot 61 because the longitudinal direction of the shoulder 73 and the longitudinal direction of the slot 61 are orthogonal to each other. The operation member 7 is restricted from moving upward by a part of the second interlocking member 6. When the operating member 7 is moved downward in a state where the longitudinal direction of the recessed groove portion 72a and the longitudinal direction of the shaft portion 54 coincide with each other, the recessed groove portion 72a and the shaft portion 54 come into contact with each other. By moving 7 downward, the shaft portion 54 is pushed into the recessed groove portion 72a, and both can be snap-engaged (see FIG. 14). In addition, the part by which the shaft part 54 is snap-engaged with the concave groove part 72a is not the center part of the shaft part 54 but the both ends (large diameter part) so that it can understand from FIG. That is, a protruding portion that slightly protrudes from each other across the concave groove portion 72 a is provided at the lower end portion of the shaft portion 72 of the operating member 7. Is engaged. Thereby, the operation member 7 is supported rotatably with respect to the first interlocking member 5. Since the second interlocking member 6 restricts the upward movement of the first interlocking member 5 while being rotatably supported by the first interlocking member 5, the first interlocking member 5 in the assembled multidirectional input device 1. It is possible to prevent the operation member 7 from being disengaged from and to improve the reliability of the apparatus. In particular, since the upward movement of the operating member 7 is restricted by the contact between the shoulder 73 of the operating member 7 rotated by a predetermined angle and the second interlocking member 6, the operation on the first interlocking member 5 is controlled. Disengagement of the member 7 can be reliably prevented with a simple configuration.

なお、このとき、略円弧状に形成された肩部73の上面は、長孔61の長辺に沿って下面に形成された略円弧状の凹部61aに沿った状態で対向配置されている。これにより、肩部73の上面と第2連動部材6の下面とを面で接触させることができるので、操作部材7を上方向に引っ張った時の応力を分散することができ、各部材(操作部材、第2連動部材及びハウジング)の破損又は変形を抑制することが可能となる。特に、第1連動部材5に設けられた軸部54と操作部材7に設けられた凹溝部72aとを係合させ、第1連動部材5で操作部材7を回転可能に支持しているので、例えば、一対の突起と一対の凹部とで操作部材7を回転可能に支持する場合と比べて部材の磨耗を低減でき、長期間に亘って精度の高い操作部材7の回転動作を維持させることが可能となる。また、凹溝部72aが下方側を開口したものであることから、第1連動部材5の軸部54にスナップ係合する際の位置決めが容易となり、組み立て性を良好なものとすることができる。なお、本実施の形態においては、操作部材7の凹溝部72aは、軸部72の軸線方向(延在方向)に沿って下方側を開口するものであるが、凹溝部72aはこれに限られず、軸線方向に対して角度を有して下方側を開口していてもよい。   At this time, the upper surface of the shoulder 73 formed in a substantially arcuate shape is disposed so as to face along the substantially arcuate recess 61 a formed in the lower surface along the long side of the long hole 61. Thereby, since the upper surface of the shoulder 73 and the lower surface of the second interlocking member 6 can be brought into contact with each other, the stress when the operation member 7 is pulled upward can be dispersed. Breakage or deformation of the member, the second interlocking member, and the housing) can be suppressed. Particularly, since the shaft portion 54 provided in the first interlocking member 5 and the concave groove portion 72a provided in the operating member 7 are engaged, and the operating member 7 is rotatably supported by the first interlocking member 5, For example, the wear of the member can be reduced as compared with the case where the operation member 7 is rotatably supported by the pair of protrusions and the pair of recesses, and the operation member 7 can be rotated with high accuracy over a long period of time. It becomes possible. Further, since the concave groove portion 72a has an opening on the lower side, positioning when snap-engaging with the shaft portion 54 of the first interlocking member 5 is facilitated, and assemblability can be improved. In the present embodiment, the recessed groove portion 72a of the operation member 7 opens on the lower side along the axial direction (extending direction) of the shaft portion 72, but the recessed groove portion 72a is not limited thereto. The lower side may be opened with an angle with respect to the axial direction.

このように、操作部材7は、軸部72が上ケース21の開口部211に挿通された後、第2連動部材6および第1連動部材5と連結される。この場合において、操作部材7の頭部71は、上ケース21の開口部211より大きい。したがって、第2連動部材6により操作部材7の上方側への移動が規制される一方、頭部71により操作部材7のハウジング2内への移動が制限されることから、操作部材7の脱落を考慮することなく多方向入力装置1を組み立てることができるので、組み立て時の作業性を向上することが可能となる。   Thus, the operating member 7 is connected to the second interlocking member 6 and the first interlocking member 5 after the shaft portion 72 is inserted through the opening 211 of the upper case 21. In this case, the head 71 of the operation member 7 is larger than the opening 211 of the upper case 21. Accordingly, the second interlocking member 6 restricts the upward movement of the operation member 7, while the head 71 restricts the movement of the operation member 7 into the housing 2. Since the multidirectional input device 1 can be assembled without consideration, it is possible to improve workability during assembly.

続いて、多方向入力装置1を組み立てるために、操作部材7、第2連動部材6と連結された第1連動部材5を、ばね受け部材4の基部41上に設置する。このとき、第1連動部材5に連結された磁石8aの一部が、中間ケース23の貫通部234bに収容され、突出片57が、中間ケース23の規制部235に挿入されるよう位置を調整する。また、第2連動部材6に連結された磁石9aの一部が、中間ケース23の貫通部234aに収容されるよう位置を調整する。このように位置を調整した後、上ケース21の孔部218に、中間ケース23のクラッシュリブを備えた突部233を圧入し、上ケース21と中間ケース23とを固定する。   Subsequently, in order to assemble the multidirectional input device 1, the first interlocking member 5 coupled to the operation member 7 and the second interlocking member 6 is installed on the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4. At this time, a part of the magnet 8 a coupled to the first interlocking member 5 is accommodated in the through portion 234 b of the intermediate case 23, and the position is adjusted so that the protruding piece 57 is inserted into the restriction portion 235 of the intermediate case 23. To do. Further, the position is adjusted so that a part of the magnet 9 a connected to the second interlocking member 6 is accommodated in the penetrating portion 234 a of the intermediate case 23. After adjusting the position in this manner, the protrusion 233 having the crash rib of the intermediate case 23 is press-fitted into the hole 218 of the upper case 21 to fix the upper case 21 and the intermediate case 23.

その後、GMR素子8bが取り付けられた部分のフレキシブル基板11および補強板11bの貫通孔111に、上ケース21の外側面に設けられたボス213dを挿通し、かしめて取り付ける。同様に、GMR素子9bが取り付けられた部分のフレキシブル基板11および補強板11aの貫通孔111に、ボス213dを挿通し、かしめて取り付ける。そして、一体化した中間ケース23および上ケース21と、蓋部材22とを組み立てる。具体的には、上ケース21の係合溝213aと蓋部材22の保持脚片222とを係合し、さらに、爪部213bとスナップ孔222aとをスナップ係合して、一体化した中間ケース23および上ケース21に、蓋部材22を取り付ける。これにより、ハウジング2が完成し、図6に示すような多方向入力装置1が組み立てられる。   Thereafter, the boss 213d provided on the outer surface of the upper case 21 is inserted into the through hole 111 of the flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plate 11b where the GMR element 8b is attached, and is attached by caulking. Similarly, the boss 213d is inserted into the portion of the flexible substrate 11 to which the GMR element 9b is attached and the through hole 111 of the reinforcing plate 11a, and is attached by caulking. Then, the integrated intermediate case 23 and upper case 21 and the lid member 22 are assembled. Specifically, the intermediate case integrated by engaging the engaging groove 213a of the upper case 21 and the holding leg piece 222 of the lid member 22 and further snap-engaging the claw portion 213b and the snap hole 222a. The lid member 22 is attached to the upper case 21 and the upper case 21. Thereby, the housing 2 is completed, and the multidirectional input device 1 as shown in FIG. 6 is assembled.

また、多方向入力装置1の組み立て方法として、ハウジング2を構成する中間ケース23および上ケース21を一体化した後にこれを逆さにした状態で、中間ケース23の貫通孔232に、それぞれコイルばね3a〜3dを収容することもできる。これにより、組み立て時の作業性を向上させることが可能となる。   Further, as an assembly method of the multidirectional input device 1, the intermediate case 23 and the upper case 21 constituting the housing 2 are integrated and then turned upside down, and the coil springs 3 a are respectively inserted into the through holes 232 of the intermediate case 23. ~ 3d can also be accommodated. Thereby, workability at the time of assembly can be improved.

次に、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1において、操作部材7に対して傾倒操作を受け付けた場合の動作の一例について説明する。図15,16は、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1で傾倒操作を受け付けた場合の操作状態を説明するための断面図である。図15は、操作部材7に対して、第2連動部材6の長手方向(X方向とする)に傾倒操作を受け付けた場合の断面図を示している。ここで、図15は、中間ケース23の上面が見えるように、わずかに斜め上方側から見た断面図としている。図16は、操作部材7に対して、第2連動部材6の短手方向(Y方向とする)に傾倒操作を受け付けた場合の断面図を示している。なお、図15,16においては、説明の便宜上、上ケース21を取り外した状態について示している。   Next, in the multidirectional input device 1 according to the present embodiment, an example of an operation when a tilting operation is received with respect to the operation member 7 will be described. 15 and 16 are cross-sectional views for explaining an operation state when a tilting operation is received by the multidirectional input device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the operation member 7 when a tilting operation is received in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the second interlocking member 6. Here, FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view as seen from a slightly oblique upper side so that the upper surface of the intermediate case 23 can be seen. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the operation member 7 when a tilting operation is received in the short direction (Y direction) of the second interlocking member 6. 15 and 16 show a state where the upper case 21 is removed for convenience of explanation.

図15に示すように、操作部材7に対してX方向への傾倒操作を受け付けた場合、操作部材7は、第1連動部材5の両端部に設けられた軸部55a,55bを回動支点として、同図に示すP方向に回動する。この場合、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作は、第1連動部材5におけるX方向の回動動作に変換される。第1連動部材5のX方向の回動動作に伴って、第1連動部材5に連結された磁石8a(図15において不図示)も同一方向に回転する。そして、この磁石8aの回転に応じた信号が、第1検出手段8によって検出される。具体的には、磁石8aの回転によって、磁石8aによる外部磁場の向きが変化し、GMR素子8bの電気抵抗値が変化する。このGMR素子8bの出力信号から検出される、GMR素子8bと磁石8aとの相対回転量(回転角度)に基づいて、磁石8aの回転角度が検出される。   As shown in FIG. 15, when the tilting operation in the X direction is received with respect to the operation member 7, the operation member 7 rotates the shaft portions 55 a and 55 b provided at both end portions of the first interlocking member 5 as pivot fulcrums. As shown in FIG. In this case, the tilting operation with respect to the operating member 7 is converted into a rotating operation in the X direction in the first interlocking member 5. As the first interlocking member 5 rotates in the X direction, the magnet 8a (not shown in FIG. 15) connected to the first interlocking member 5 also rotates in the same direction. A signal corresponding to the rotation of the magnet 8a is detected by the first detection means 8. Specifically, the direction of the external magnetic field by the magnet 8a is changed by the rotation of the magnet 8a, and the electric resistance value of the GMR element 8b is changed. The rotation angle of the magnet 8a is detected based on the relative rotation amount (rotation angle) between the GMR element 8b and the magnet 8a detected from the output signal of the GMR element 8b.

また、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作が行われると、第1連動部材5の回動に伴って、ばね受け部材4の基部41と面接触していた連結部52の下面の一部(角部)がばね受け部材4の基部41を押圧し、ばね受け部材4を下方側に押し下げる力が働く。この力により、コイルばね3が弾性圧縮され、ばね受け部材4が下方側に押し下げられる。このとき、ばね受け部材4全体が均一に下方側へ移動するのではなく、第1連動部材5の連結部52により押圧力を受けた一方側(図15の左側)に位置するばね受け部材4の方が、他方側(図15の右側)に位置するばね受け部材4よりも大きく下方側へ押し下げられる。なお、図15においては、便宜上、ばね受け部材4は均一に押し下げられた状態で描かれている。また、ばね受け部材4が押し下げられたとき、第2連動部材6の軸部63a,63bは、中間ケース23の上面によって支持されるため、第2連動部材6がばね受け部材4とともに下方側へ移動することはない。なお、第1連動部材5の軸部55a,55bも中間ケース23の上面で支持されている。   When the tilting operation is performed on the operation member 7, a part (corner portion) of the lower surface of the connecting portion 52 that is in surface contact with the base portion 41 of the spring receiving member 4 as the first interlocking member 5 rotates. Presses the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4, and a force that pushes the spring receiving member 4 downward acts. By this force, the coil spring 3 is elastically compressed, and the spring receiving member 4 is pushed downward. At this time, the entire spring receiving member 4 does not move uniformly downward, but the spring receiving member 4 located on one side (left side in FIG. 15) that receives the pressing force by the connecting portion 52 of the first interlocking member 5. This is pushed down more downward than the spring receiving member 4 located on the other side (the right side in FIG. 15). In FIG. 15, for the sake of convenience, the spring receiving member 4 is depicted in a state of being pressed down uniformly. Further, when the spring receiving member 4 is pushed down, the shaft portions 63 a and 63 b of the second interlocking member 6 are supported by the upper surface of the intermediate case 23, so that the second interlocking member 6 moves downward together with the spring receiving member 4. Never move. The shaft portions 55 a and 55 b of the first interlocking member 5 are also supported on the upper surface of the intermediate case 23.

一方、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作が解除された場合には、コイルばね3の付勢力によりばね受け部材4が押し上げられて第1連動部材5が初期状態に復帰し、この第1連動部材5を介して、操作部材7が初期位置に復帰される。これに伴って第1連動部材5に連結された磁石8aが操作前の初期位置に復帰することで、初期位置に応じた信号がコネクタ13を介して外部出力される。   On the other hand, when the tilting operation with respect to the operation member 7 is released, the spring receiving member 4 is pushed up by the biasing force of the coil spring 3, and the first interlocking member 5 returns to the initial state. Thus, the operation member 7 is returned to the initial position. Along with this, the magnet 8a connected to the first interlocking member 5 returns to the initial position before the operation, so that a signal corresponding to the initial position is output to the outside via the connector 13.

また、図16に示すように、操作部材7に対してY方向への傾倒操作を受け付けた場合、操作部材7は、第2連動部材6の両端部に設けられた軸部63a,63bを回動支点として、同図に示すQ方向に回動する。この場合、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作は、第2連動部材6におけるY方向の回動動作に変換される。第2連動部材6のY方向の回動動作に伴って、第2連動部材6に連結された磁石9a(図16において不図示)も同一方向に回転する。そして、この磁石9aの回転に応じた信号が、第2検出手段9によって検出される。具体的には、磁石9aの回転によって、磁石9aによる外部磁場の向きが変化し、GMR素子9bの電気抵抗値が変化する。このGMR素子9bの出力信号から検出される、GMR素子9bと磁石9aとの相対回転量(回転角度)に基づいて、磁石9aの回転角度が検出される。   Further, as shown in FIG. 16, when the tilting operation in the Y direction is received with respect to the operation member 7, the operation member 7 rotates the shaft portions 63 a and 63 b provided at both ends of the second interlocking member 6. As a moving fulcrum, it rotates in the Q direction shown in FIG. In this case, the tilting operation with respect to the operation member 7 is converted into a rotation operation in the Y direction in the second interlocking member 6. As the second interlocking member 6 rotates in the Y direction, the magnet 9a (not shown in FIG. 16) connected to the second interlocking member 6 also rotates in the same direction. A signal corresponding to the rotation of the magnet 9a is detected by the second detection means 9. Specifically, the direction of the external magnetic field by the magnet 9a is changed by the rotation of the magnet 9a, and the electric resistance value of the GMR element 9b is changed. The rotation angle of the magnet 9a is detected based on the relative rotation amount (rotation angle) between the GMR element 9b and the magnet 9a detected from the output signal of the GMR element 9b.

また、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作が行われると、第2連動部材6の回転に伴って、ばね受け部材4の基部41と面接触していた側壁部62の下面の一部(角部)がばね受け部材4の基部41を押圧し、ばね受け部材4を下方側に押し下げる力が働く。この力により、コイルばね3が弾性圧縮され、ばね受け部材4が下方側に押し下げられる。このとき、ばね受け部材4全体が均一に下方側へ移動するのではなく、第2連動部材6の側壁部62により押圧力を受けた一方側(図16の右側)に位置するばね受け部材4の方が、他方側(図16の左側)よりも大きく下方側へ押し下げられる。なお、図16においては、便宜上、ばね受け部材4が均一に押し下げられた状態で描かれている。また、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6は、それぞれ軸部55a,55b,63a,63bが中間ケース23の上面により支持されているため、ばね受け部材4とともに下方側へ移動することはない。   Further, when the tilting operation with respect to the operation member 7 is performed, a part (corner portion) of the lower surface of the side wall portion 62 that is in surface contact with the base portion 41 of the spring receiving member 4 is accompanied with rotation of the second interlocking member 6. A force that presses the base 41 of the spring receiving member 4 and pushes the spring receiving member 4 downward acts. By this force, the coil spring 3 is elastically compressed, and the spring receiving member 4 is pushed downward. At this time, the entire spring receiving member 4 does not move uniformly downward, but the spring receiving member 4 located on one side (right side in FIG. 16) that receives the pressing force by the side wall portion 62 of the second interlocking member 6. This is pushed downward more largely than the other side (left side in FIG. 16). In FIG. 16, for the sake of convenience, the spring receiving member 4 is depicted in a state of being pressed down uniformly. Further, the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 are not supported to move downward together with the spring receiving member 4 since the shaft portions 55a, 55b, 63a, 63b are supported by the upper surface of the intermediate case 23, respectively. Absent.

一方、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作が解除された場合には、コイルばね3の付勢力によりばね受け部材4が押し上げられて第2連動部材6が初期状態に復帰し、この第2連動部材6を介して、操作部材7が初期位置に復帰される。これに伴って第2連動部材6に連結された磁石9aが操作前の初期位置に復帰することで、初期位置に応じた信号がコネクタ13を介して外部出力される。   On the other hand, when the tilting operation with respect to the operation member 7 is released, the spring receiving member 4 is pushed up by the biasing force of the coil spring 3 and the second interlocking member 6 returns to the initial state. Thus, the operation member 7 is returned to the initial position. Along with this, the magnet 9a coupled to the second interlocking member 6 returns to the initial position before the operation, so that a signal corresponding to the initial position is output to the outside via the connector 13.

また、操作部材7がX方向とY方向との中間方向に傾倒操作された場合には、図15と図16の組み合わせの動作となり、第1連動部材5と第2連動部材6の両方が回動する。そして、操作部材7に対する傾倒操作が解除されると、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6を介して、操作部材7が初期状態に復帰する。   Further, when the operation member 7 is tilted in the intermediate direction between the X direction and the Y direction, the operation is a combination of FIGS. 15 and 16, and both the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 are rotated. Move. When the tilting operation on the operating member 7 is released, the operating member 7 returns to the initial state via the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6.

以上説明したように、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1においては、第1連動部材5を第2連動部材6の下方側に配置し、凹溝部72aを第1連動部材5の軸部54に係合させることで第1連動部材5に対して操作部材7を回転可能に支持する一方、第2連動部材6により操作部材7の上方側への移動を規制している。これにより、第1連動部材5に対する操作部材7の係合が外れるのを防止でき、信頼性の高い多方向入力装置1を提供することが可能となる。   As described above, in the multidirectional input device 1 according to the present embodiment, the first interlocking member 5 is disposed on the lower side of the second interlocking member 6, and the concave groove 72 a is a shaft portion of the first interlocking member 5. The operation member 7 is rotatably supported by the first interlocking member 5 by being engaged with the second interlocking member 54, while the upward movement of the operation member 7 is restricted by the second interlocking member 6. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the operation member 7 from being disengaged from the first interlocking member 5 and to provide the highly reliable multidirectional input device 1.

特に、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1においては、操作部材7の肩部73を第2連動部材6の長孔61に挿通した状態から、操作部材7を所定角度(例えば、90°)回転することにより、第2連動部材6の一部によって操作部材7の上方側への移動を規制しているので、第1連動部材5に対する操作部材7の係合が外れるのを簡単な構成で確実に防止することが可能となる。   In particular, in the multidirectional input device 1 according to the present embodiment, the operation member 7 is moved at a predetermined angle (for example, 90 °) from the state in which the shoulder 73 of the operation member 7 is inserted into the long hole 61 of the second interlocking member 6. ) Since the rotation of the operation member 7 is restricted by a part of the second interlocking member 6 by rotating, it is easy to disengage the operation member 7 from the first interlocking member 5. Thus, it can be surely prevented.

(第2の実施の形態)
第2の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置30は、操作部材の構成、上ケースの構成、ばね受け部材の構成が異なる点で、第1の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1と相違する。以下、第2の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置30の構成について、第1の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1との相違点を中心に説明する。なお、第2の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置30において、第1の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1と同一の構成については、同一の符号を付してその説明を省略する。
(Second Embodiment)
The multidirectional input device 30 according to the second embodiment is different from the multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment in that the configuration of the operation member, the configuration of the upper case, and the configuration of the spring receiving member are different. To do. Hereinafter, the configuration of the multidirectional input device 30 according to the second embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment. In the multidirectional input device 30 according to the second embodiment, the same components as those of the multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

図17は、本発明の一実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置30の分解斜視図である。図18は、多方向入力装置30を後部斜め下方から見た分解斜視図である。図17および図18に示すように、この多方向入力装置30は、上ケース32、中間ケース23および蓋部材22から構成される概して箱状のハウジング2内に、弾性部材を構成するコイルばね3と、コイルばね3の上端部を受けるばね受け部材33と、互いに直交した状態でハウジング2に回動可能に保持された第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6と、多方向入力装置30の上下方向に延在し、その傾倒動作に応じて第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6を回動させる操作部材31と、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の回動動作をそれぞれ検出する第1検出手段8および第2検出手段9と、を含んで構成される。   FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the multidirectional input device 30 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the multidirectional input device 30 as viewed from the rear and obliquely below. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the multidirectional input device 30 includes a coil spring 3 that constitutes an elastic member in a generally box-shaped housing 2 constituted by an upper case 32, an intermediate case 23, and a lid member 22. A spring receiving member 33 that receives the upper end of the coil spring 3, the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 that are rotatably held in the housing 2 in a state of being orthogonal to each other, and the multidirectional input device 30. The operation member 31 that extends in the vertical direction and rotates the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 according to the tilting operation, and the rotational operation of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 respectively. The first detection means 8 and the second detection means 9 for detection are included.

操作部材31は、第1の実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置1における操作部材7に、さらにフランジ部311を設けた構成である。図19Aは、操作部材31の側面図であり、図19Bは、操作部材31の下面図である。図19Aに示すように、操作部材31は、頭部71と肩部73との間にフランジ部311が設けられている。フランジ部311は、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の上方側に配設される。フランジ部311は、下面視にて概して円形状を有し(図19B参照)、フランジ部311の径は頭部71の径よりも小径に設定されている。フランジ部311の下面部には、平面状の平面部311aが設けられている。   The operation member 31 has a configuration in which a flange portion 311 is further provided on the operation member 7 in the multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 19A is a side view of the operation member 31, and FIG. 19B is a bottom view of the operation member 31. As shown in FIG. 19A, the operation member 31 is provided with a flange portion 311 between a head portion 71 and a shoulder portion 73. The flange portion 311 is disposed above the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6. The flange portion 311 has a generally circular shape when viewed from below (see FIG. 19B), and the diameter of the flange portion 311 is set smaller than the diameter of the head 71. A flat planar portion 311 a is provided on the lower surface portion of the flange portion 311.

上ケース32は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成され、概して下方側に開口した箱状に設けられている。上ケース32の中央部には、円形状の開口部211が設けられている。開口部211の周囲には、上方側にドーム状に突出した壁部212が設けられている。上ケース32の外周壁部には、蓋部材22の保持脚片222と係合する複数本(本実施の形態において8本)の係合溝213aが設けられている。係合溝213aの略中央部には、保持脚片222に設けられたスナップ孔222aとスナップ係合する、外側に突出する爪部213bが設けられている。上ケース32の外周壁部のうち、特定の隣接する2辺には、第1検出手段8および第2検出手段9を配置するための下方側に開口した断面U字状(円弧状)の切り欠き部213cが設けられている(図18参照)。切り欠き部213cの周囲には、外側に突出する複数のボス213dが設けられている。これらのボス213dは、第1検出手段8を構成するGMR素子8bまたは第2検出手段9を構成するGMR素子9bが取り付けられた部分のフレキシブル基板11および補強板11a,11bを上ケース32に取り付けるために利用されるものであり、フレキシブル基板11および補強板11a,11bの貫通孔111に挿通されるとともに、この貫通孔111から突出する先端部がつぶされてかしめられる。なお、図18において、ボス213dは、かしめ後の形状で示されている。   The upper case 32 is formed, for example, by molding an insulating resin material, and is generally provided in a box shape opened to the lower side. A circular opening 211 is provided at the center of the upper case 32. Around the opening 211, a wall 212 protruding in a dome shape is provided on the upper side. A plurality of (eight in the present embodiment) engagement grooves 213 a that engage with the holding leg pieces 222 of the lid member 22 are provided on the outer peripheral wall portion of the upper case 32. A claw portion 213b that protrudes outward and snaps into a snap hole 222a provided in the holding leg piece 222 is provided at a substantially central portion of the engagement groove 213a. Of the outer peripheral wall portion of the upper case 32, a cut in a U-shaped (arc-shaped) cross section opened on the lower side for arranging the first detection means 8 and the second detection means 9 on two specific adjacent sides. A notch 213c is provided (see FIG. 18). A plurality of bosses 213d projecting outward are provided around the notch 213c. These bosses 213d attach the flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plates 11a and 11b to the upper case 32 where the GMR element 8b constituting the first detection means 8 or the GMR element 9b constituting the second detection means 9 is attached. For this purpose, it is inserted into the through hole 111 of the flexible substrate 11 and the reinforcing plates 11a and 11b, and the tip portion protruding from the through hole 111 is crushed and caulked. In FIG. 18, the boss 213d is shown in a shape after caulking.

上ケース32の下面には、開口部211を囲むように、複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の壁部214a〜214dが設けられている。壁部214a〜214dには、それぞれ下方側に開口した断面U字状(円弧状)の軸受け部215が設けられている。壁部214aと上ケース32の外周壁部との間には、磁石9aを収納するための収納部216aが設けられている。壁部214bと上ケース32の外周壁部との間には、磁石8aを収納するための収納部216bが設けられている。また、上ケース32の下面には、開口部211を囲み、かつ、壁部214a〜214dそれぞれを間に挟むように、複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の溝部321が設けられている。溝部321には、後述するばね受け部材33の延出部332および受け部333が収納される。溝部321には、それぞれ下方側に突出する突起217が設けられている。上ケース32の下面には、中間ケース23のクラッシュリブを備える突部233が圧入される、複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の孔部218が設けられている。また、上ケース32の下面には、多方向入力装置30を組み立てた際にIC12と対向する位置に、凹部322が設けられている。   A plurality of (four in the present embodiment) wall portions 214 a to 214 d are provided on the lower surface of the upper case 32 so as to surround the opening 211. Each of the wall portions 214a to 214d is provided with a bearing portion 215 having a U-shaped cross section (arc shape) that opens downward. A storage part 216a for storing the magnet 9a is provided between the wall part 214a and the outer peripheral wall part of the upper case 32. A storage part 216b for storing the magnet 8a is provided between the wall part 214b and the outer peripheral wall part of the upper case 32. Further, a plurality of (four in the present embodiment) groove portions 321 are provided on the lower surface of the upper case 32 so as to surround the opening portion 211 and sandwich the wall portions 214a to 214d therebetween. The groove portion 321 accommodates an extension portion 332 and a receiving portion 333 of a spring receiving member 33 described later. The groove portion 321 is provided with a protrusion 217 that protrudes downward. On the lower surface of the upper case 32, a plurality of (four in the present embodiment) hole portions 218 into which the protrusions 233 having the crash ribs of the intermediate case 23 are press-fitted are provided. In addition, a recess 322 is provided on the lower surface of the upper case 32 at a position facing the IC 12 when the multidirectional input device 30 is assembled.

ばね受け部材33は、例えば、絶縁性の樹脂材料を成形して構成され、概して円筒状に設けられた基部331と、基部331から下方側に向けて斜め外側に延出する複数(本実施の形態において4つ)の延出部332と、延出部332の下端部から基部331の径方向外側に向けて延出する受け部333と、を有している。基部311は、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の上方側であって、操作部材31のフランジ部311の下面側に配設される。基部331の中央部には、円形状の開口部331aが設けられている。開口部331aの径は、上ケース32の開口部211の径と略同径か、わずかに小径に設定されている。受け部333は、平板状に設けられ、その中央部には貫通孔333aがそれぞれ設けられている。また、受け部333の下面には、貫通孔333aを中心として、貫通孔333aの径よりも大径の凹部333bがそれぞれ設けられている。凹部333bには、それぞれコイルばね3の上端部が収容される。すなわち、ばね受け部材33の受け部333で、コイルばね3の上端部を受ける状態となる。また、貫通孔333aには、それぞれ上ケース32の突起217が挿通される。このように、貫通孔333aに挿通された突起217は、ばね受け部材33を上下動可能に案内する案内部として機能する。これにより、コイルばね3それぞれの付勢力が異なっても、ばね受け部材33を円滑に上下移動させることができ、良好な操作が可能となる。   The spring receiving member 33 is formed by molding, for example, an insulating resin material, and has a base portion 331 that is generally formed in a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of (this embodiment) extending obliquely outward from the base portion 331 toward the lower side. 4) extending portions 332 and receiving portions 333 extending from the lower end portion of the extending portion 332 toward the radially outer side of the base portion 331. The base 311 is disposed above the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 and on the lower surface side of the flange portion 311 of the operation member 31. A circular opening 331 a is provided at the center of the base 331. The diameter of the opening 331a is set to be substantially the same as or slightly smaller than the diameter of the opening 211 of the upper case 32. The receiving part 333 is provided in a flat plate shape, and a through hole 333a is provided in the center part thereof. In addition, on the lower surface of the receiving portion 333, a concave portion 333b having a diameter larger than the diameter of the through hole 333a is provided around the through hole 333a. The recesses 333b accommodate the upper ends of the coil springs 3, respectively. That is, the receiving portion 333 of the spring receiving member 33 is in a state of receiving the upper end portion of the coil spring 3. The protrusions 217 of the upper case 32 are inserted through the through holes 333a. Thus, the projection 217 inserted through the through-hole 333a functions as a guide portion that guides the spring receiving member 33 so as to be movable up and down. Thereby, even if the urging forces of the coil springs 3 are different, the spring receiving member 33 can be smoothly moved up and down, and a favorable operation can be performed.

続いて、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置30を組み立てた状態について説明する。図20は、多方向入力装置30を組み立てた状態から上ケース32を取り外した場合の斜視図である。図21は、多方向入力装置30に上ケース32を取り付けた状態における、図20のD−D線矢視断面図である。図22は、多方向入力装置30を組み立てた状態から上ケース32を取り外した場合の断面図であり、図20のE−E線矢視断面図である。   Subsequently, the assembled state of the multidirectional input device 30 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 20 is a perspective view when the upper case 32 is removed from the assembled state of the multidirectional input device 30. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 20 in a state where the upper case 32 is attached to the multidirectional input device 30. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view when the upper case 32 is removed from the assembled state of the multidirectional input device 30, and is a cross-sectional view taken along the line E-E in FIG.

図20に示すように、上ケース32の内部においては、第2連動部材6の下方に第1連動部材5が直交して配置されている。第2連動部材6および第1連動部材5の上方に、ばね受け部材33の基部331が配置されている。コイルばね3(3a〜3d)は、それぞれ中間ケース23の貫通孔232に収容されている。コイルばね3の下端部は、蓋部材22の底面部221により受け止められている。コイルばね3の上端部は、それぞればね受け部材33の受け部333の下面に設けられた凹部333b(図20において不図示)に収容されている。このように、コイルばね3の一部を、蓋部材22およびばね受け部材33の間に位置する貫通孔232内に弾性変形可能に設けることにより、多方向入力装置30の上下方向(操作部材31の突出方向)において、コイルばね3の少なくとも一部を、第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6とオーバーラップさせることができる。この構成により、高さ方向の寸法を小さくすることができるので、コイルばね3が収容されるハウジング2を薄型化することができ、ひいては多方向入力装置30全体の薄型化が可能となる。   As shown in FIG. 20, in the upper case 32, the first interlocking member 5 is disposed orthogonally below the second interlocking member 6. A base 331 of the spring receiving member 33 is disposed above the second interlocking member 6 and the first interlocking member 5. The coil springs 3 (3a to 3d) are accommodated in the through holes 232 of the intermediate case 23, respectively. The lower end portion of the coil spring 3 is received by the bottom surface portion 221 of the lid member 22. The upper end of the coil spring 3 is accommodated in a recess 333b (not shown in FIG. 20) provided on the lower surface of the receiving portion 333 of the spring receiving member 33, respectively. In this way, a part of the coil spring 3 is provided in the through hole 232 positioned between the lid member 22 and the spring receiving member 33 so as to be elastically deformable, so that the vertical direction of the multidirectional input device 30 (the operation member 31). In the protruding direction), at least a part of the coil spring 3 can be overlapped with the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6. With this configuration, the dimension in the height direction can be reduced, so that the housing 2 in which the coil spring 3 is accommodated can be reduced in thickness, and as a result, the entire multidirectional input device 30 can be reduced in thickness.

また、コイルばね3a〜3dは、ハウジング2内において平面視にて直交して配置される第1連動部材5および第2連動部材6の延設方向の間の方向に配置されている。すなわち、図20において、操作部材31の突出方向側(上方側)から見た場合に、磁石8aの位置を0°、磁石9aの位置を90°、第1連動部材5の軸部55bの位置を180°、第2連動部材6の軸部63bの位置を270°と表わすと、コイルばね3a〜3dの位置は、それぞれ45°、135°、225°、315°と表わすことができる(ただし、図20においてコイルばね3b(135°)は不図示)。このような構成とすることで、デッドスペースとなり易いハウジング2内の四隅部近傍のスペースを有効に利用することができるため、ハウジング2の小型化が可能となる。   In addition, the coil springs 3 a to 3 d are arranged in a direction between the extending directions of the first interlocking member 5 and the second interlocking member 6 that are disposed orthogonally in a plan view in the housing 2. That is, in FIG. 20, when viewed from the protruding direction side (upper side) of the operation member 31, the position of the magnet 8 a is 0 °, the position of the magnet 9 a is 90 °, and the position of the shaft portion 55 b of the first interlocking member 5. Is 180 ° and the position of the shaft portion 63b of the second interlocking member 6 is 270 °, the positions of the coil springs 3a to 3d can be expressed as 45 °, 135 °, 225 °, and 315 °, respectively (however, In FIG. 20, the coil spring 3b (135 °) is not shown). By adopting such a configuration, the space near the four corners in the housing 2 that is likely to become a dead space can be used effectively, so that the housing 2 can be downsized.

また、コイルばね3の付勢力を受けたばね受け部材33の基部331上面は、操作部材31のフランジ部311下面の平面部311aと弾接する(図21,22参照)。この構成により、フランジ部311とばね受け部材33の基部331とを直接接触させることができるため、操作者に違和感のない操作感触を与えることが可能となる。また、操作部材31に対する傾倒操作が解除された場合に、コイルばね3の付勢力を受けたばね受け部材33の基部331上面と操作部材31のフランジ部311下面とが面接触して操作部材31を精度良く直立状態に復帰させることが可能となる。   Further, the upper surface of the base portion 331 of the spring receiving member 33 that has received the urging force of the coil spring 3 is in elastic contact with the flat surface portion 311a of the lower surface of the flange portion 311 of the operation member 31 (see FIGS. 21 and 22). With this configuration, since the flange portion 311 and the base portion 331 of the spring receiving member 33 can be brought into direct contact with each other, it is possible to give the operator an uncomfortable operation feeling. Further, when the tilting operation with respect to the operation member 31 is released, the upper surface of the base portion 331 of the spring receiving member 33 that receives the biasing force of the coil spring 3 and the lower surface of the flange portion 311 of the operation member 31 come into surface contact with each other. It becomes possible to return to the upright state with high accuracy.

なお、フランジ部311は、ばね受け部材33を介してコイルばね3の付勢力を受けるため、フランジ部311には上方側(上ケース32側)に向かう力が作用している。ここで、フランジ部311が設けられた操作部材31は、第1連動部材5の軸部54とスナップ係合している。このため、軸部54が規制部となって、操作部材31の上方側への移動が規制されており、フランジ部311が上ケース32の天井面(壁部212の下面)と当接するのを避けることができる。したがって、操作部材31が傾倒操作されても、フランジ部311と上ケース32との摺接を防止することができ、操作部材31や上ケース32の磨耗の発生を抑制することが可能となる。   Since the flange portion 311 receives the biasing force of the coil spring 3 via the spring receiving member 33, a force directed upward (on the upper case 32 side) acts on the flange portion 311. Here, the operation member 31 provided with the flange portion 311 is snap-engaged with the shaft portion 54 of the first interlocking member 5. Therefore, the shaft portion 54 serves as a restriction portion, and the upward movement of the operation member 31 is restricted, and the flange portion 311 is in contact with the ceiling surface of the upper case 32 (the lower surface of the wall portion 212). Can be avoided. Therefore, even if the operation member 31 is tilted, sliding contact between the flange portion 311 and the upper case 32 can be prevented, and occurrence of wear of the operation member 31 and the upper case 32 can be suppressed.

以上説明したように、本実施の形態に係る多方向入力装置30においても、第1連動部材5を第2連動部材6の下方側に配置し、凹溝部72aを第1連動部材5の軸部54に係合させることで第1連動部材5に対して操作部材31を回転可能に支持する一方、第2連動部材6により操作部材31の上方側への移動を規制している。これにより、第1連動部材5に対する操作部材31の係合が外れるのを防止でき、信頼性の高い多方向入力装置1を提供することが可能となる。   As described above, also in the multidirectional input device 30 according to the present embodiment, the first interlocking member 5 is disposed on the lower side of the second interlocking member 6, and the concave groove portion 72 a is the shaft portion of the first interlocking member 5. The operation member 31 is rotatably supported with respect to the first interlocking member 5 by being engaged with the first interlocking member 5, while the upward movement of the operation member 31 is restricted by the second interlocking member 6. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the operation member 31 from being disengaged from the first interlocking member 5 and to provide the highly reliable multidirectional input device 1.

なお、本発明は上記実施の形態に限定されず、さまざまに変更して実施可能である。上記実施の形態において、添付図面に図示されている大きさや形状などについては、これに限定されず、本発明の効果を発揮する範囲内で適宜変更が可能である。その他、本発明の目的の範囲を逸脱しない限りにおいて適宜変更して実施可能である。   In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, It can implement variously. In the above-described embodiment, the size, shape, and the like illustrated in the accompanying drawings are not limited thereto, and can be appropriately changed within a range in which the effect of the present invention is exhibited. In addition, various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the object of the present invention.

例えば、操作部材7(31)を初期状態に復帰させるためのコイルばね3やばね受け部材4は必ずしも必要ではなく、多方向入力装置1(30)の用途によっては、これらの復帰のための部材を省略することも可能である。   For example, the coil spring 3 and the spring receiving member 4 for returning the operation member 7 (31) to the initial state are not necessarily required, and depending on the application of the multidirectional input device 1 (30), these return members Can be omitted.

1 多方向入力装置
2 ハウジング
21 上ケース
211 開口部
212 壁部
213a 係合溝
213b 爪部
213c 切り欠き部
213d ボス
214a〜214d 壁部
215 軸受け部
216a,216b 収納部
217 突起
218 孔部
22 蓋部材
221 底面部
221a 弾性片
222 保持脚片
222a スナップ孔
223 遮蔽片
23 中間ケース
231 開口部
232 貫通孔
233 突部
234a,234b 貫通部
235 規制部
236 開口部
237 ボス
3(3a〜3d) コイルばね
4 ばね受け部材
41 基部
41a 開口部
42 延出部
43 受け部
43a 筒状部
44 側壁部
5 第1連動部材
51 側壁部
52 連結部
53 開口部
54 軸部
55a,55b 軸部
56 磁石受け
57 突出片
58 規制部
6 第2連動部材
61 長孔
61a 凹部
62 側壁部
63a,63b 軸部
64 磁石受け
7 操作部材
71 頭部
72 軸部
72a 凹溝部
73 肩部
74 切り欠き部
8 第1検出手段
8a 磁石
8b GMR素子
9 第2検出手段
9a 磁石
9b GMR素子
10 軸受け部材
10a 壁部
10b 凹部
11 フレキシブル基板
11a,11b,11c 補強板
111 貫通孔
12 IC
13 コネクタ
30 多方向入力装置
31 操作部材
311 フランジ部
311a 平面部
32 上ケース
321 溝部
322 凹部
33 ばね受け部材
331 基部
331a 開口部
332 延出部
333 受け部
333a 貫通孔
333b 凹部
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Multi-directional input device 2 Housing 21 Upper case 211 Opening part 212 Wall part 213a Engaging groove 213b Claw part 213c Notch part 213d Boss 214a-214d Wall part 215 Bearing part 216a, 216b Storage part 217 Protrusion 218 Hole part 22 Lid member 221 Bottom face part 221a Elastic piece 222 Holding leg piece 222a Snap hole 223 Shielding piece 23 Intermediate case 231 Opening part 232 Through hole 233 Projection part 234a, 234b Through part 235 Restriction part 236 Opening part 237 Boss 3 (3a-3d) Coil spring 4 Spring receiving member 41 Base portion 41a Opening portion 42 Extension portion 43 Receiving portion 43a Tubular portion 44 Side wall portion 5 First interlocking member 51 Side wall portion 52 Connecting portion 53 Opening portion 54 Shaft portion 55a, 55b Shaft portion 56 Magnet receiving portion 57 Projecting piece 58 Control part 6 Second interlocking member 6 Long hole 61a Recess 62 Side wall 63a, 63b Shaft 64 Magnet receiver 7 Operation member 71 Head 72 Shaft 72a Concave groove 73 Shoulder 74 Notch 8 First detection means 8a Magnet 8b GMR element 9 Second detection means 9a Magnet 9b GMR element 10 Bearing member 10a Wall portion 10b Recessed portion 11 Flexible substrate 11a, 11b, 11c Reinforcing plate 111 Through hole 12 IC
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 13 Connector 30 Multidirectional input device 31 Operation member 311 Flange part 311a Plane part 32 Upper case 321 Groove part 322 Concave part 33 Spring receiving member 331 Base part 331a Opening part 332 Extension part 333 Receiving part 333a Through-hole 333b Concave part

Claims (7)

開口を有するハウジングと、前記開口から操作部が露出した傾倒操作可能な操作部材と、前記操作部材の傾倒操作に応じて回動するとともに互いに回動軸線が直交するように延在して前記ハウジング内に保持された第1連動部材および第2連動部材と、前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材の回動動作をそれぞれ検出する第1検出手段および第2検出手段と、を備えた多方向入力装置において、
前記操作部材には、前記操作部の下方側に配置される基部の下端部に下方側に開口した凹溝部が設けられるとともに、前記基部の少なくとも一部が側方側に延出した長手形状部が設けられ、前記第1連動部材には、前記操作部材の凹溝部が係合可能な軸部が設けられ、前記第2連動部材には、前記長手形状部を挿通可能な長孔が設けられており、
前記第1連動部材は、前記第2連動部材の下方側に配置されており、前記操作部材は、前記凹溝部および前記長手形状部を前記第2連動部材の長孔の上方側から下方側へ挿通した状態から、前記凹溝部を所定角度回転させて前記第1連動部材の軸部に係合させることで当該第1連動部材に対して回転可能に支持される一方、前記第2連動部材の一部により上方側への移動が規制されることを特徴とする多方向入力装置。
A housing having an opening; an operation member capable of tilting operation with an operating portion exposed from the opening; and the housing rotating in accordance with a tilting operation of the operation member and extending so that the rotation axis is orthogonal to each other A plurality of first interlocking members and second interlocking members held therein, and first detection means and second detection means for detecting rotational movements of the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member, respectively. In the direction input device,
The operation member is provided with a recessed groove portion that opens downward at a lower end portion of a base portion disposed on the lower side of the operation portion, and at least a part of the base portion extends in a lateral direction. The first interlocking member is provided with a shaft portion that can engage with the groove portion of the operation member, and the second interlocking member is provided with a long hole through which the longitudinal shape portion can be inserted. And
The first interlocking member is disposed on the lower side of the second interlocking member, and the operation member moves the concave groove portion and the longitudinal shape portion from the upper side to the lower side of the long hole of the second interlocking member. From the inserted state, the concave groove portion is rotated by a predetermined angle and engaged with the shaft portion of the first interlocking member so as to be rotatably supported by the first interlocking member . A multidirectional input device characterized in that the upward movement is restricted by a part .
前記操作部材を傾倒操作前の初期状態に復帰させる弾性部材を備え、前記弾性部材は、平面視して前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材の間に位置する4箇所にそれぞれ設けたコイルばねで構成されるとともに、前記操作部材の突出方向において前記コイルばねの少なくとも一部が前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材とオーバーラップすることを特徴とする請求項1記載の多方向入力装置。  A coil provided at each of the four positions located between the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member in plan view, provided with an elastic member for returning the operation member to an initial state before the tilting operation; The multi-directional input according to claim 1, wherein the multi-directional input includes a spring and at least a part of the coil spring overlaps the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member in a protruding direction of the operation member. apparatus. 前記コイルばねの下端部は、前記第1連動部材および前記第2連動部材の下方に配置された取付部材に当接し、前記コイルばねの上端部は、前記取付部材より上方に配置されたばね受け部材に当接することを特徴とする請求項2記載の多方向入力装置。  A lower end portion of the coil spring is in contact with an attachment member disposed below the first interlocking member and the second interlocking member, and an upper end portion of the coil spring is a spring receiving member disposed above the attachment member. The multidirectional input device according to claim 2, wherein the multidirectional input device is in contact with the multidirectional input device. 前記操作部材の前記長手形状部よりも上方側に前記操作部としての頭部が設けられており、前記頭部は、前記ハウジングの前記開口よりも大きく、前記操作部材は、前記長手形状部が前記ハウジングの前記開口および前記第2連動部材の前記長孔を上方側から下方側へ通過するとともに、前記第2連動部材によって上方側への移動が規制された状態において、前記頭部が前記開口の上方側に露出することを特徴とする請求項1から請求項3のいずれかに記載の多方向入力装置。 A head portion as the operation portion is provided above the longitudinal shape portion of the operation member, the head portion is larger than the opening of the housing, and the operation member includes the longitudinal shape portion. In the state where the opening of the housing and the long hole of the second interlocking member pass from the upper side to the lower side and the upward movement is restricted by the second interlocking member, the head portion is the opening. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the multidirectional input device is exposed to the upper side. 前記長手形状部の上面は略円弧状に形成されるとともに、前記第2連動部材の長孔の短手方向端部の内面に略円弧状を有する凹部が形成されていることを特徴とする請求項4記載の多方向入力装置。 Wherein said together with the upper surface of the longitudinally extending portion is formed in a substantially arc shape, wherein the recess having a substantially arc shape in the inner surface of the short-side direction end portion of the elongated hole of the second interlocking member is formed Item 5. The multidirectional input device according to Item 4 . 前記ハウジングは、前記開口が形成された上ケースと、前記上ケースに対向配置される前記取付部材と、を備え、
前記上ケースの前記開口の周囲には、上方側にドーム状に突出した壁部が設けられるとともに、前記第2連動部材は、上方側に向かってアーチ状に湾曲形成されており、前記第2連動部材のアーチ状部分が、前記上ケースの前記壁部の内部に収容されることを特徴とする請求項3記載の多方向入力装置。
The housing comprises a casing on which the opening is formed, and a said mounting member disposed opposite to the upper case,
Around the opening of the upper case, a wall portion protruding in a dome shape is provided on the upper side, and the second interlocking member is curved in an arch shape toward the upper side, and the second The multidirectional input device according to claim 3 , wherein an arched portion of the interlocking member is accommodated in the wall portion of the upper case.
前記取付部材の上面には、上方側に球面状に開口した凹部を有する軸受け部材が設けられるとともに、前記操作部材の基部の下端部は、球面状の凸部形状に形成されており、前記操作部材の基部の下端部が前記軸受け部材の前記凹部内に、当該凹部とクリアランスを有して対向配置されることを特徴とする請求項6記載の多方向入力装置。 On the upper surface of the mounting member, a bearing member having a concave portion opened in a spherical shape on the upper side is provided, and a lower end portion of a base portion of the operation member is formed in a spherical convex shape, and the operation member The multidirectional input device according to claim 6, wherein a lower end portion of a base portion of the member is disposed in the concave portion of the bearing member so as to face the concave portion with a clearance.
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