JP6341942B2 - Capacitive input device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a capacitance-type input device used for music players, home appliances, portable devices, computer devices, information communication devices, automobile-mounted devices, and the like.

  Although the conventional capacitive input device is not shown in the figure, (1) a detection electrode sheet, a surface tape, and a reinforcing member are sequentially laminated, and an elastic surface that is pressed by a finger or the like on the uppermost reinforcing member. The panel is arranged, the type that detects the change in the capacitance of the switch part of the detection electrode sheet due to the pressing operation of this front panel, compares the detected value with the threshold value, and demonstrates the switching function (See Patent Document 1).

  Further, (2) a circuit board and an elastic body that is attached to the electrode of the circuit board and is operated by a finger or the like, and the electrode of the circuit board is formed separately from the first and second electrodes, An elastic body is opposed to the first electrode through a gap so as to be able to contact and separate, and a leg portion having a substantially L-shaped cross section extends from the elastic body toward the second electrode, and the leg portion is attached to the second electrode. A type in which a key top made of resin or the like operated by the operating body is mounted on the surface of the elastic body (see Patent Document 2), (3) Dielectric that is pressed by a finger or the like on the conductive pattern of the circuit board An operating body is provided, and the operated portion below the dielectric operating body faces the conductive pattern of the circuit board so as to be able to contact with a gap, and the operated section contacts the conductive pattern of the circuit board to contact the conductive pattern. By expanding the contact area, the type that changes the capacitance Is lower (see Patent Document 3).

JP 2008-300247 A JP 2011-243399 A JP 2011-175839 A

  However, in the case of the types (1) to (3), for example, when the apparatus is turned upside down or vibrations or the like act on the apparatus, the positions of the surface panel, the elastic body, and the dielectric operation body may change. . At this time, if the position is changed, there is a variation in the capacitance change, which may cause a problem in detecting the capacitance change. In the case of the type (1), the surface panel is simply disposed on the uppermost reinforcing member. Therefore, when the surface panel is pressed, the surface panel is displaced in the plane direction, and the capacitance is reduced. Variations are likely to occur. This makes it difficult to set a threshold value used for comparison with the detected value.

  In the case of the types (2) and (3), an excellent effect can be expected, but when the elastic body or the dielectric operation body is pressed, the leg portion is bent and lifted so that the elastic body and the dielectric operation body face each other. There is a possibility that the area is reduced and a stable change in capacitance cannot be obtained. Furthermore, since the stroke from the first electrode to the elastic body or the dielectric operation body is ensured to be wide and long, an excellent effect can be expected with a click feeling, etc., but due to restrictions on deformation of the elastic body and dielectric operation body, Applications may be limited to thin panels and the like.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above, eliminates the possibility of causing variations in the capacitance change, can obtain a stable capacitance change, and has a limited number of applications. The object is to provide a device.

In the present invention, in order to solve the above-described problems, a capacitance sensor base material, an elastic click body provided on the capacitance sensor base material and operated by an operating body, and a capacitance sensor base material are covered. An apparatus comprising: a casing that covers the elastic click body ; and a detection determination unit that detects a change in capacitance formed between the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate and the operation body,
A capacitance sensor base material is formed by laminating a polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate insulating sheet, an electrode formed on the surface of the insulating sheet, and a reinforcing member provided on the back surface of the insulating sheet,
The elastic click body is formed into a columnar shape that can be deformed by an elastic material, and the back surface of the elastic click body is opposed to the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material with a gap of 0.1 to 2.0 mm so that the elastic click body can be contacted and separated. Extend the skirt-shaped leg that can be bent from the lower peripheral edge of the electrode while gradually expanding in the direction of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate, and connect the flange at the lower end of the inclined leg to the periphery of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate. The position of the elastic click body with respect to the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material is regulated by fixing to the portion, and the size of the surface portion of the elastic click body is set to φ10 mm or more in plan view. On the surface part, a decorative key top member operated by the operating body is crimped in a preloaded state,
The casing is provided with an operation port that exposes the decorative key top member of the elastic click body so that it can be operated, and the decorative key top member of the elastic click body and the peripheral portion of the operation port are brought into close contact with each other,
The detection determination means converts the capacitance change into a detection value and compares it with a first threshold value, and when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the first threshold value, the operation body and the elastic click body A function for determining that the operating body and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state when the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than the first threshold value, and a detection value of the electrode And a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in contact with each other by pressing the operating body when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the second threshold value. In the case where the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than the second threshold value, a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state is realized.

Note that in at least one of the peripheral edge portion of the decorative key top member and the housing of the operation hole of the elastic clicking member, to reduce the contact area of the peripheral portion of the operation hole of the decorative key top member and the housing of the elastic clicking member Reduction protrusions can be formed.

  Moreover, the elastic click body and the decorative key top member include at least a light source that illuminates the elastic click body, and at least the elastic click body of the capacitance sensor base material, the elastic click body, and the decorative key top member. Light transmittance can be imparted.

In the present invention, in order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a capacitance sensor base material, an elastic click body provided on the capacitance sensor base material and operated by an operating body, and a capacitance sensor base material An apparatus comprising: a casing provided to protect the elastic click body; and a detection determination means for detecting a change in capacitance formed between the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material and the operation body. ,
A capacitance sensor base material is formed by laminating a polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate insulating sheet, an electrode formed on the surface of the insulating sheet, and a reinforcing member provided on the back surface of the insulating sheet,
The elastic click body is formed into a columnar shape that can be deformed by an elastic material, and the back surface of the elastic click body is opposed to the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material with a gap of 0.1 to 2.0 mm so that the elastic click body can be contacted and separated. Extend the skirt-shaped leg that can be bent from the lower peripheral edge of the electrode while gradually expanding in the direction of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate, and connect the flange at the lower end of the inclined leg to the periphery of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate. By fixing to the part, the positional deviation of the elastic click body with respect to the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate is regulated, and the size of the surface part of the elastic click body is 10 mm or more in plan view,
The casing is provided with an operation port that fits into the elastic click body, and a flexible decorative key top layer that covers the elastic click body is stretched around the peripheral step portion in the peripheral portion of the operation port. The key top operated by the operating body on the surface of the key top layer is opposed to the surface portion of the elastic click body,
The detection determination means converts the capacitance change into a detection value and compares it with a first threshold value, and when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the first threshold value, the operation body and the elastic click body A function for determining that the operating body and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state when the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than the first threshold value, and a detection value of the electrode And a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in contact with each other by pressing the operating body when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the second threshold value. In the case where the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than the second threshold value, a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state is realized.

Further, the capacitance sensor base material is provided with a support member that partitions the plurality of elastic click bodies, and the support member supports a decoration key top layer that covers the plurality of elastic click bodies. A plurality of key tops on the surface of the layer can be made to face a plurality of elastic click bodies, respectively.

  The elastic click body and the decorative key top layer include at least a light source that illuminates the elastic click body, and at least the elastic click body of the capacitance sensor base material, the elastic click body, and the decorative key top layer. It is possible to impart light transparency.

Moreover, you may arrange | position the light source which illuminates an elastic click body in the back surface side of the reinforcement member of an electrostatic capacitance sensor base material.
Further, at least one of the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material and the flange at the lower end of the leg portion of the elastic click body is subjected to surface modification treatment, and the lower end of the leg portion of the electrode of the capacitance sensor base body and the elastic click body The flange may be fixed without a gap.

Alternatively, the electrode of the capacitance sensor base and the leg of the elastic click body may be adhesively fixed with a double-sided adhesive tape.
Moreover, you may fix the electrode of an electrostatic capacitance sensor base material, and the leg part of an elastic click body with an adhesive agent or a fastener.

Further, the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate is divided into a first electrode and a second electrode, and a second electrode is formed around the first electrode so that the elastic click body is spaced from the first electrode. Thus, the leg can be extended while extending from the peripheral edge of the elastic click body toward the second electrode, and the flange at the lower end of the leg can be fixed to the second electrode.
Also, an air exhaust groove can be formed in the flange at the lower end of the leg portion of the elastic click body, and this air exhaust groove can be opposed to at least one of the first and second electrodes of the electrode with a gap. .

  In addition, the first electrode of the electrode is a ground electrode connected to the ground of the detection determination unit that detects the capacitance via a wiring, and the second electrode of the electrode is connected to the input terminal of the detection determination unit via the wiring And extending a part of the second electrode in the direction of the first electrode to be adjacent to each other at a predetermined interval, and forming the elastic click body with an insulating material. It is possible to provide a conductive contact that makes opposite contact with the first electrode and a part of the second electrode to make them conductive.

  Here, the capacitance sensor base material in the claims includes a thin high-density flexible substrate having at least one or more electrodes, a capacitance sensor sheet, and the like. The capacitance sensor substrate may be a self-capacitance type or a mutual capacitance type, and may be transparent, opaque, or translucent as necessary. The operating body includes at least a finger and a conductive writing instrument.

  The elastic click body can be formed of a conductive material or an insulating material. When the leg portion of the elastic click body is supported on the peripheral portion of the electrode, it may be supported directly on the peripheral portion of the electrode, or indirectly supported on the peripheral portion of the electrode via a cover or the like. Further, a contact avoiding portion that is non-contact can be formed on the wiring connected to the electrode at the facing portion facing the capacitance sensor substrate of the housing. Further, the decorative key top layer is provided on the insulating sheet having flexibility, a plurality of key tops made of a photo-curing resin provided on the insulating sheet and corresponding to the plurality of elastic click bodies, and the insulating sheet. And a decorative sheet displaying a key top.

According to the present invention, the legs of the elastic click body are not simply placed on the peripheral edge of the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material, but are fixed, so that the electrodes of the capacitive sensor base material and the elastic click body are substantially the same. It can be located at a location, and the change in the position of the elastic click body can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which variations in capacitance and the change thereof occur or adversely affect detection of a change in capacitance.

In addition, since the change in capacitance is stable, the threshold used for comparison with the detected capacitance value can be set with high accuracy and precision. Further, by fixing the leg flange of the elastic click body, even if the elastic click body is pressed , the leg portion of the elastic click body is bent and lifted, and the posture of the elastic click body is rarely deteriorated.

According to the present invention, the flange of the elastic click body is not simply disposed on the electrode of the capacitance sensor sheet, but is firmly fixed, and the electrode and the elastic click body are always located at the same location. Even if vibration is applied to the mounted device or the like, it is possible to effectively prevent the displacement of the elastic click body in the XY direction. Therefore, since the facing area between the electrode and the elastic click body does not vary, it is possible to eliminate a situation in which variations in capacitance change or troubles in detection of capacitance change occur. In addition, since variations in the capacitance hardly occur, the threshold value of the detection determination means used for comparison with the detection value can be set with high accuracy and precision. In addition, the rigid fixing between the electrode and the flange of the elastic click body restricts the free movement of the leg portion of the elastic click body, so that even if the elastic click body is pressed, the leg portion is less likely to bend and lift. . Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the possibility that the area of the elastic click body facing the electrode is reduced and the change in capacitance becomes unstable.

In addition, since the change in the electrostatic capacitance is stabilized as the elastic click body is fixed, the gap between the electrode and the elastic click body can be reduced. Thereby, since it is not necessary to ensure a wide and long stroke from the electrode to the elastic click body, the use of the capacitive input device is not limited to a thin panel or the like, and an improvement in versatility can be expected. Also, rather than simply sticking the decorative key top member to the upper surface of the elastic click body, pressure is applied in a preloaded state so that air does not enter between the elastic click body and the decorative key top member. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the positional deviation of the decorative key top member and to reduce the clearance. In addition, since the insulating sheet of the capacitance sensor substrate is a polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate sheet, it can be expected to obtain excellent dimensional stability and insulating properties. In addition, since the reinforcing member is provided on the back surface of the insulating sheet, the strength of the capacitance sensor substrate can be improved and deformation can be prevented. Furthermore, since the size of the surface portion of the elastic click body is set to φ10 mm or more in a plan view, it is possible to easily secure the capacitance and to facilitate the operability during the pressing operation.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, since the reduction protrusion that reduces the contact range between the decorative key top member of the elastic click body and the peripheral portion of the operation port is formed, a large change in capacitance is suppressed in the reduction protrusion. The contact of the operating body with the housing can be prevented from reacting with the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate through the housing. Further, it is possible to prevent vibration from propagating from the housing to the elastic click body, and to suppress vibration from propagating from the elastic click body to the housing.

According to the invention described in claim 3, since the light source can be blinked or turned on according to the detection of the change in the capacitance, the operation state of the device or device in which the capacitance type input device is mounted can be changed. It becomes possible to grasp visually clearly. Further, when a graphic is formed on the decorative key top member, the graphic can be emitted.

According to the invention of claim 4, since the leg flange of the elastic click body is fixed to the peripheral portion of the electrode, the possibility of causing variation in the change in capacitance is eliminated, and a stable change in capacitance is obtained. There is an effect that can be. In addition, the application of the capacitive input device is rarely limited and can be widely used. Moreover, since it can prevent that a dust, a liquid, etc. penetrate | invade into a housing | casing body from the clearance gap between the operation port peripheral part of a housing body and a decoration key top layer, improvement of waterproofness and dustproofness can be anticipated. In addition, since a thin decorative key top layer can be used instead of the conventional decorative key top, a reduction in thickness can be expected.
According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the decorative key top layer is supported not only by the peripheral portion of the operation opening of the housing but also by the support member, the positional deviation and variations in the thickness direction of the decorative key top layer are prevented. It becomes possible to prevent. Furthermore, expansion of product specifications can be expected.

According to the invention described in claim 6, since the light source can be blinked or turned on according to the detection of the change in the capacitance, the operating state of the device or device in which the capacitance type input device is mounted can be changed. It becomes possible to grasp visually clearly. In addition, when a graphic is formed on the decorative key top layer, the graphic can be emitted.

According to the seventh aspect of the invention, the electrode of the capacitance sensor base and the leg flange of the elastic click body are directly fixed without interposing a double-sided adhesive tape that affects the dielectric constant. It is possible to prevent a gap containing air from being generated between the leg flange of the elastic click body. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively eliminate the possibility of variations in detection of changes in capacitance. Further, even when the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape cannot be used, a strong support structure can be obtained.

According to the invention of claim 8, the leg flange of the elastic click body is fixed on the second electrode of the electrode, and the first and second electrodes and the elastic click body are positioned at substantially the same location. Even if the vibration acts, it is possible to effectively prevent the displacement of the elastic click body in the XY direction. Accordingly, since the variation in the facing area between the first and second electrodes and the elastic click body is small, it is possible to eliminate a situation in which variations in capacitance change or detection of capacitance change is hindered. be able to. In addition, since the free movement of the leg portion of the elastic click body is limited, even if the elastic click body is operated, the leg portion is hardly bent and lifted. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the possibility that the area of the elastic click body facing the first electrode is reduced and the change in capacitance becomes unstable.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, since the air exhaust groove exhausts the air inside the elastic click body during the stroke, the elastic click body can be easily deformed and returned. Furthermore, since the air exhaust groove is opposed to the wiring extending from the electrode with a gap, the parasitic capacitance between the wiring of the electrode and the elastic click body can be reduced, and a reduction in noise can be expected.

1 is a partial cross-sectional explanatory view schematically showing an embodiment of a capacitive input device according to the present invention. It is a plane explanatory view showing typically an electrode and its wiring in an embodiment of a capacitance type input device concerning the present invention. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional explanatory view schematically showing a second embodiment of the capacitive input device according to the invention. It is a plane explanatory view showing typically an electrode and its wiring in a 2nd embodiment of a capacitance type input device concerning the present invention. It is a section explanatory view showing typically a 3rd embodiment of a capacitance type input device concerning the present invention. It is a section explanatory view showing typically the 4th embodiment of the capacity type input device concerning the present invention. It is a perspective explanatory view showing typically the 5th embodiment of the capacitive type input device concerning the present invention. FIG. 10 is an explanatory plan view schematically showing a fifth embodiment of the capacitive input device according to the invention. It is IX-IX line sectional explanatory drawing of FIG. It is a section explanatory view showing typically a 6th embodiment of a capacitance type input device concerning the present invention. It is a section explanatory view showing typically a 7th embodiment of a capacitance type input device concerning the present invention. It is a section explanatory view showing typically an 8th embodiment of a capacity type input device concerning the present invention. It is sectional explanatory drawing which shows typically 9th Embodiment of the electrostatic capacitance type input device which concerns on this invention. It is a plane explanatory view showing typically the 10th embodiment of the capacitive type input device concerning the present invention. It is the XV-XV sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is an exploded section explanatory view showing typically the 10th embodiment of the capacitive input device concerning the present invention. It is a plane explanatory view showing typically the 11th embodiment of the capacitive input device concerning the present invention. It is the XVIII-XVIII sectional view taken on the line of FIG. It is an exploded section explanatory view showing typically the 11th embodiment of the capacity type input device concerning the present invention.

  Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. A capacitive input device according to the present embodiment is a capacitive sensor for detecting a capacitance as shown in FIGS. Sheet 1, elastic click body 20 that is supported by electrode 3 of capacitance sensor sheet 1 and is operated by conductive operation body 7 such as a finger, and elastic click body 20 that is provided on capacitance sensor sheet 1 A hollow housing 30 that covers and protects the body 20, and a detection determination unit that detects a change in capacitance formed between the electrode 3 and the operation body 7 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1 and has a switching function. This is a device to be demonstrated, and is provided in a washing machine, a vehicle-mounted device or the like.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the capacitance sensor sheet 1 includes a thin insulating sheet 2 having, for example, a flat rectangular shape or a convex shape, and a necessary number of electrodes 3 are formed on the surface of the insulating sheet 2 by printing. A transparent reinforcing plate 5 that increases the strength is attached to the back surface of the insulating sheet 2 with a double-sided adhesive tape 6 or the like from the viewpoint of preventing deformation.

  The insulating sheet 2 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyamide, polyimide, phenol resin, glass fiber impregnated epoxy resin, acrylic film, and the like. It is done. Among these, a flexible thin transparent polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate film which is excellent in dimensional stability and insulation is suitable. From the viewpoint of suppressing and protecting the electrode 3 from damage, a cover made of a light transmissive film or the like is laminated or adhered to the surface of the insulating sheet 2 or a light transmissive insulating resist layer is formed as necessary. Printed and laminated.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the electrode 3 is formed, for example, in a flat circular shape of a thin thin film, and a band-shaped or linear wiring 4 is extended from the peripheral portion, and an elastic click body 20 is provided between the electrode 3 and the operation body 7. It functions to form a capacitance across the surface. The electrode 3 is formed using gold, silver, copper, nickel, chromium, aluminum, brass, laminated members or alloys thereof, conductive paste, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, conductive polymers, or the like. The wiring 4 of the electrode 3 is generally made of the same material as that of the electrode 3, extends from the peripheral edge of the electrode 3 to the peripheral edge of the insulating sheet 2, and the terminal portion is illustrated via the peripheral edge of the insulating sheet 2. It is electrically connected to the input terminal of the detection determination means.

  Note that the electrostatic capacity is inversely proportional to the distance between the two conductors. Therefore, when the distance between the electrode 3 and the operating body 7 is large and long, the capacitance is small. On the other hand, when the distance between the electrode 3 and the operating body 7 is small and short, the value is larger than the above value.

  The reinforcing plate 5 is made of, for example, polycarbonate, polybutylene terephthalate, urethane, acrylic, rectangular flat plate, etc., and is thicker than the insulating sheet 2 and is laminated and adhered to the back surface of the insulating sheet 2 without any gaps. The The double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape 6 that adheres the reinforcing plate 5 is not particularly limited, but an acrylic and transparent pressure-sensitive adhesive tape or the like is used.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the elastic click body 20 is formed into a short cylindrical shape that can be deformed by a predetermined elastic material having dielectric properties, for example, and is opposed to the central portion of the electrode 3 through an air layer so as to be able to contact and separate. In addition, the leg portion 22 is fixed to the peripheral edge portion excluding the central portion of the electrode 3 and functions as a multistage switch that is touched or pressed with a finger or the like. This elastic click body 20 is molded from a molding material containing insulating silicone rubber, fluorine rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, etc. from the viewpoint of obtaining a good click feeling, and has a Shore A hardness of A20 to A80. The hardness is preferably about A30 to A75, more preferably about A40 to A70.

  The material of the elastic click body 20 is not particularly limited, but silicone rubber is optimally used when durability, compression characteristics, and transparency are required. From the viewpoint of improving detection accuracy, it is preferable that the height of the elastic click body 20 is low, but when it is high, the selection of a high dielectric constant type silicone rubber is optimal. In addition, the size of the upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20 is at least φ10 mm or more, preferably more than φ10 mm in plan view, from the viewpoint of easily securing the capacitance or facilitating operability during the pressing operation. Good size.

  The center portion 21 of the back surface of the elastic click body 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape and protrudes in the direction of the electrode 3, and is opposed to the center portion of the surface of the electrode 3 from above so as to be able to contact and separate through an air layer. When the operating body 7 is pressed, the capacitance is increased by pressing against the center of the surface of the electrode 3. The gap between the electrode 3 and the back surface central portion 21 of the elastic click body 20 is not particularly limited, but is 0.1 to 2.0 mm, preferably 0.3 to 1.8 mm, more preferably 0. It is set to about 5 to 1.5 mm.

  A skirt-shaped leg portion 22 that can be bent and deformed is extended from the lower periphery of the elastic click body 20 while gradually expanding in the direction of the electrode 3, and the lower end of the inclined leg portion 22 is formed on a flat flange 23. . The flange 23 is firmly supported and fixed to the peripheral edge of the surface of the electrode 3 via an adhesive, an adhesive, an adhesive tape, or the like.

  A decorative key top member 25 operated by the operating body 7 is in close contact with the flat upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20, and an engagement for the housing 30 is provided on the lower peripheral surface of the decorative key top member 25. A flange 26 is provided around. The decorative key top member 25 is formed to a thickness of about 0.5 to 3.0 mm using, for example, a metal such as polycarbonate, acrylic, aluminum, chromium, nickel, and the like from the upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20. Is formed in a large plate shape, and the surface is curved and recessed so as to contribute to the operation of the operation body 7, and is pressed and brought into close contact with the upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20 in a preloaded state.

  Such a decoration key top member 25 is formed in, for example, a plane rectangle, a polygon, a circle, or the like, and preferably the front or back surface is decorated with an arbitrary pattern, color, character, figure, symbol, or the like. This facilitates the operation of the operating body 7.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the housing 30 is three-dimensionally formed into a three-dimensional box shape by an insulating molding material made of, for example, polycarbonate, polyether ether ketone, polyether sulfone, acrylic, etc. An operation port 31 that exposes the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 so as to be operable is perforated, and the opened lower portion is covered with the surface of the capacitance sensor sheet 1.

  The operation port 31 of the housing 30 is formed in, for example, a flat circular shape, a rectangular shape, or the like, and a taper reduction protrusion 32 that protrudes from above and contacts the engagement flange 26 of the decorative key top member 25 is formed below the peripheral edge. . In such an operation port 31 of the housing 30, due to the repulsive force of the elastic click body 20, the engagement flange 26 of the decorative key top member 25 is in close contact with the reduction protrusion 32 from below, and the reduction protrusion 32 is the decoration key top member. It functions to suppress the contact range with 25.

  Although not shown in the figure, the detection determination means is composed of, for example, a microcontroller or the like, and a predetermined history or the like is stored in the RAM, and a predetermined program is stored in the ROM. Rewritten. The microcontroller is not particularly limited, but for example, a CPU, RAM, ROM, I / O block, and the like are built in, and a digital circuit and an analog circuit can be separately designed in the IC. (A registered trademark of Cypress Semiconductor Corporation) and the like are used. This PSoC includes CY8C21645 type, CY8C22345 type, CY8C24994 type and the like.

  Such a detection determination means realizes a predetermined function as a computer by reading a predetermined program stored in the ROM using the RAM area as a work area, and controls the control means such as a washing machine or a vehicle-mounted device. It works to contribute. That is, the detection determination means has a function of detecting a change in capacitance into a detection value, a function of comparing the detected value of the detected electrode 3 with the first threshold value, and a detected value of the compared electrode 3. When the operating body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other, and the detected value of the compared electrode 3 is less than or equal to the first threshold value. In this case, the operation body 7 and the function of determining that the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 is in a non-contact state are compared with the function of comparing the detection value of the electrode 3 with the second threshold value. When the detection value of the electrode 3 exceeds the second threshold, the function of determining that the electrode 3 and the deformed elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other by the pressing operation of the operation body 7 and the detection of the compared electrode 3 When the value is less than or equal to the second threshold value, the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 0 and to realize a function to determine to be in non-contact state.

  The first threshold value is set in consideration of a capacitance value, an experimental result, and the like when the operating body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other. The second threshold value is set in consideration of the capacitance value, the experimental result, and the like when the operating body 7 presses the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20.

  Next, the operation of the capacitive input device will be described. First, the case where the operation body 7 is slightly separated from the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 and the operation body 7 and the elastic click body 20 are in a non-contact state will be described. Although formed between the operating body 7 and the electrode 3, the distance between the operating body 7 and the electrode 3 is long and long, and the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 20 are not in contact with each other and have a dielectric constant therebetween. Since a low air layer is interposed, the value becomes very small and the detection value becomes very small.

  When the operating body 7 comes close to the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 in a non-contact manner, the detection determining means detects a change in capacitance converted into a detected value, and the detected value of the detected electrode 3 is detected. Is compared to a first threshold. As a result of the comparison, the detected value of the electrode 3 is a very small value that is equal to or less than the first threshold value, and therefore, it is determined that the operation body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in a non-contact state. The Rukoto.

  Next, the case where the operation body 7 does not press the decoration key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 but touches the decoration key top member 25 or makes a sliding contact will be described. In this case, the capacitance is formed between the operating body 7 and the electrode 3, but the distance between the operating body 7 and the electrode 3 is small and short. The value also increases.

  When the operating body 7 comes into contact with the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20, the detection determining means detects the change in capacitance by converting it into a detected value, and the detected value of the detected electrode 3 is first detected. Compare with the threshold value. As a result of the comparison, since the detection value of the electrode 3 exceeds the first threshold value, it is determined that the operating body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other, and a washing machine, a vehicle-mounted device, etc. The predetermined function is exhibited.

  Next, a case where the operating body 7 touches the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 and performs a pressing operation, and the electrode 3 and the deformed elastic click body 20 on the back surface central portion 21 come into contact with each other will be described. In this case, the electrostatic capacitance is formed between the operating body 7 and the electrode 3, but the distance between them is the shortest and the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other. Since the area expands, the maximum value is obtained, and the detected value is also the largest.

  When the operation body 7 presses the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20, the detection determination means detects the change in capacitance by converting it into a detection value, and sets the detection value of the electrode 3 to the second threshold value. Compare with As a result, since the detected value of the compared electrode 3 exceeds the second threshold value, it is determined that the electrode 3 and the deformed elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other by the pressing operation of the operating body 7, and the washing machine or automobile Another predetermined function of the mounted device or the like is exhibited.

  When the detected value of the compared electrode 3 is equal to or less than the second threshold value, the operating body 7 stops touching the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20, and the operating body 7 and the elastic click body 20 are It is still determined that the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 20 are in a non-contact state in a simple contact state.

  According to the above configuration, the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 is not simply disposed on the electrode 3 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1, but is firmly supported so that the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 20 are always in the same place. Since they are positioned, even if vibrations act on automobile-mounted equipment or the like, it is possible to effectively prevent displacement of the elastic click body 20 in the XY directions. Therefore, since the facing area between the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 20 does not vary, it is possible to eliminate a situation in which variations in capacitance change or troubles in detection of capacitance change occur. .

  In addition, since variations in the capacitance hardly occur, the threshold value of the detection determination means used for comparison with the detection value can be set with high accuracy and precision. Further, since the electrode 3 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are firmly fixed and the free movement of the leg portion 22 of the elastic click body 20 is restricted, even if the elastic click body 20 is pressed, the leg portion 22 Seldom bends and lifts. Therefore, it is possible to effectively eliminate the possibility that the area of the elastic click body 20 facing the electrode 3 is reduced and the change in capacitance becomes unstable.

  In addition, since the change in the capacitance is stabilized by fixing the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20, the gap between the electrode 3 and the back surface central portion 21 from which the elastic click body 20 protrudes can be reduced. Thereby, since it is not necessary to ensure a wide and long stroke from the electrode 3 to the elastic click body 20, the use of the capacitance type input device is not limited to a thin panel or the like, and the improvement of versatility is greatly expected. it can.

  In addition, the decorative key top member 25 is not simply attached to the flat upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20, but is crimped in a preloaded state so that the elastic click body 20 and the decorative key top member 25 are bonded. Since air does not enter between them, it is possible to prevent the positional deviation of the decorative key top member 25 and to reduce the clearance. In addition, since the reduction protrusion 32 that minimizes the contact area with the elastic click body 20 is formed to protrude at the operation port 31 of the housing 30, the reduction protrusion 32 can suppress a large change in capacitance. It is possible to prevent the contact of the operating body 7 with the housing 30 from reacting with the electrode 3 through the housing 30.

  It is also possible to prevent vibration from propagating from the housing 30 to the elastic click body 20 and to suppress propagation of vibration from the elastic click body 20 to the housing 30. Furthermore, since the engagement flange 26 of the decoration key top member 25 can be set to the reduction protrusion 32 of the operation port 31 of the housing 30 in a slightly pressurized state, the decoration key top member 25 is not pressed. The possibility of rattling can be effectively eliminated.

  Next, FIGS. 3 and 4 show a second embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the electrodes 3 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1 are first and second electrodes 8 and 9, and elastic The click body 20 is opposed to the first electrode 8, and the leg portion 22 is extended from the elastic click body 20 while spreading in the direction of the second electrode 9, and the leg portion 22 is firmly adhered and supported to the second electrode 9. I try to let them.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the electrode 3 is divided into, for example, flat first and second electrodes 8 and 9, and the first electrode 8 is formed in a planar circular shape. 8 is surrounded by a gap so as not to contact the second electrode 9 such as a plane C-shape, and functions to form an electrostatic capacity with the elastic click body 20 interposed between the operation body 7 and the electrode 8. These first and second electrodes 8 and 9 use gold, silver, copper, nickel, chromium, aluminum, brass, laminated members and alloys thereof, conductive paste, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, conductive polymers, etc. Thus, they are formed in different sizes and areas.

  The first electrode 8 has an elongated wire 10 extending from the peripheral edge thereof, and the wiring 10 passes through a cut between both ends of the second electrode 9 and extends to the peripheral edge of the insulating sheet 2. A terminal portion is electrically connected to an input terminal of a detection determination unit (not shown) via a peripheral edge portion of the insulating sheet 2. The wiring 10 is formed of the same material as the first and second electrodes 8 and 9. Such a first electrode 8 forms a capacitance with the operating body 7 that is pressed by being in contact with the elastic click body 20.

  The second electrode 9 has an elongated wire 11 electrically connected to the outer peripheral edge thereof, and the wire 11 passes through the peripheral edge of the insulating sheet 2 and the end thereof is electrically connected to the input terminal of the detection determination means. Connected. The wiring 11 is also formed of the same material as the first and second electrodes 8 and 9. Such a second electrode 9 forms a peripheral portion of the electrode 3, and has a capacitance between the operation body 7 that is away from the elastic click body 20 and between the operation body 7 that is in contact with the elastic click body 20. Form.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the elastic click body 20 is opposed to the surface of the first electrode 8 through an air layer so as to be able to contact and separate, and the leg portion 22 is adhesively fixed to the surface of the second electrode 9, It functions as a multi-stage switch that is touched or pressed by, for example.

  The center portion 21 of the back surface of the elastic click body 20 is formed in a columnar shape and protrudes in the direction of the first electrode 8. The upper surface of the elastic click body 20 can be separated from the surface of the first electrode 8. And presses against the surface of the first electrode 8 when the operating body 7 is pressed to increase the capacitance. The gap between the first electrode 8 and the central portion 21 on the back surface of the elastic click body 20 is not particularly limited, but is 0.1 to 1.3 mm, preferably 0.5 to 1.2 mm. Preferably, it is set to about 0.6 to 1.2 mm.

  A skirt-shaped leg portion 22 that can be bent and deformed is extended from the lower periphery of the elastic click body 20 while gradually expanding in the direction of the second electrode 9, and the lower end of the inclined leg portion 22 forms a flat flange 23. The flange 23 is adhesively fixed to the surface of the second electrode 9 via the double-sided adhesive tape 12. On the rear surface of the flange 23 of the leg 22, an elongated air exhaust groove 13 that is opposed to the wirings 10 and 11 of the first and second electrodes 8 and 9 through a gap is cut out in the radial direction of the elastic click body 20. The air exhaust groove 13 exhausts the internal air (refer to the arrow in FIG. 3) to the outside during the stroke of the elastic click body 20 to facilitate the deformation and return operation of the elastic click body 20.

  The double-sided adhesive tape 12 is made of, for example, a well-known tape whose both surfaces are an acrylic base material, and is interposed between the surface of the second electrode 9 and the back surface of the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 to adhere them. To do. The double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape 12 may be an insulating type, but is preferably a conductive type from the viewpoint of ensuring a wide change in capacitance. As the conductive double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape 12, for example, (1) a tape in which a conductive pressure-sensitive adhesive is applied on both sides of a conductive fiber, and (2) a conductive pressure-sensitive adhesive material is applied on both sides of an aluminum foil. Tape.

  The detection determination means has a function of detecting a change in electrostatic capacitance by converting it into a detection value, a function of comparing the detected value of the detected second electrode 9 with the first threshold value, and the second electrode 9 compared. The detected value of the second electrode 9 compared with the function of determining that the operating body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other when the detected value exceeds the first threshold value. Is equal to or less than the first threshold value, the function of determining that the operating body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in a non-contact state and the detection value of the first electrode 8 are When the detected value of the first electrode 8 compared with the threshold value exceeds the second threshold value, the first electrode 8 and the deformed elastic click body 20 come into contact with each other by the pressing operation of the operating body 7. The function of determining that the state is in the state and the detected value of the first electrode 8 compared to the second threshold value or less. To a first electrode 8 and the elastic click member 20 and a function determining that there is no contact state.

  Next, the operation of the capacitive input device will be described. First, the case where the operation body 7 is slightly separated from the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 and the operation body 7 and the elastic click body 20 are in a non-contact state will be described. Although formed between the operating body 7 and the second electrode 9, the distance between the operating body 7 and the second electrode 9 is large and long, and the first electrode 8 and the elastic click body 20 are not connected. Since an air layer having a low dielectric constant is interposed between them in contact, the value is very small and the detection value is also very small.

  When the operating body 7 comes close to the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 in a non-contact manner, the detection determination means detects a change in capacitance converted into a detection value, and detects the detected second electrode 9. Is compared with a first threshold value. As a result of the comparison, the detection value of the second electrode 9 is a very small value and is equal to or less than the first threshold value, so that the operation body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in a non-contact state. It will be determined.

  Next, the case where the operation body 7 does not press the decoration key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 but touches the decoration key top member 25 or makes a sliding contact will be described. In this case, the electrostatic capacitance is formed between the operation body 7 and the second electrode 9, but the first electrode 8 and the elastic click body 20 are not in contact with each other, but the operation body 7 and the second electrode 9 are not in contact with each other. Since the distance to the electrode 9 is small and short, the value is larger than the above value, and the detection value is also large.

  When the operating body 7 comes into contact with the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20, the detection determining means detects the change in capacitance by converting it into a detected value, and the detected value of the detected second electrode 9 is detected. Is compared to a first threshold. As a result of comparison, since the detection value of the second electrode 9 exceeds the first threshold value, it is determined that the operation body 7 and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other. Predetermined functions such as onboard equipment are exhibited.

  Next, a case will be described in which the operating body 7 touches the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 and performs a pressing operation so that the first electrode 8 and the deformed elastic click body 20 are in contact with the rear surface central portion 21. In this case, the electrostatic capacitance is formed between the operating body 7 and the electrode 3, but the distance between them is the shortest and the first electrode 8 and the elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other. Since the contact area between the electrode 3 and the elastic click body 20 is expanded, the maximum value is obtained, and the detected value is also the largest.

  When the operation body 7 presses the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20, the detection determination means detects the change in electrostatic capacitance by converting it into a detection value, and the detection value of the first electrode 8 is changed to the first value. Compare with the second threshold. As a result, since the detected value of the first electrode 8 compared exceeds the second threshold value, it is determined that the first electrode 8 and the deformed elastic click body 20 are in contact with each other by the pressing operation of the operating body 7. In addition, predetermined other functions such as a washing machine and a vehicle-mounted device are exhibited. Other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the same effect as the above embodiment can be expected, and the flange 23 of the leg portion 22 of the elastic click body 20 is firmly fixed on the second electrode 9 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1. Since the first and second electrodes 8 and 9 and the elastic click body 20 are always located at the same location, even if vibration is applied to an on-vehicle device or the like, the positional displacement of the elastic click body 20 in the XY direction is prevented. It can be effectively prevented. Therefore, since the opposing areas of the first and second electrodes 8 and 9 and the elastic click body 20 do not fluctuate, variations in the capacitance change occur, or the detection of the change in capacitance is hindered. Obviously, it can be eliminated.

  Further, since the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are fixed and the free movement of the leg portion 22 of the elastic click body 20 is restricted, the leg portion even if the elastic click body 20 is pressed. 22 hardly bends and lifts. Therefore, it is possible to effectively eliminate the possibility that the area of the elastic click body 20 facing the first electrode 8 is reduced and the change in capacitance becomes unstable.

  In addition, since the change in capacitance is stabilized by the fixing of the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20, the gap between the second electrode 9 and the protruding rear surface central portion 21 of the elastic click body 20 can be reduced. Thereby, since it is not necessary to ensure a wide and long stroke from the first electrode 8 to the elastic click body 20, the use of the capacitive input device is not limited to a thin panel or the like, and the versatility is improved. Can be greatly expected. Furthermore, since the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are adhesively fixed with a wide variety of easy-to-use double-sided adhesive tapes 12, workability improvement and cost reduction can be expected.

  Next, FIG. 5 shows a third embodiment of the present invention. In this case, a light source 14 that illuminates at least the elastic click body 20 between the capacitance sensor sheet 1 and the elastic click body 20. Between the elastic click body 20 and the decorative key top member 25, at least the elastic click body 20 is provided with light transmissivity.

  Although it does not specifically limit as the light source 14, For example, a lightweight small LED is mention | raise | lifted, This LED interposes between the 1st, 2nd electrodes 8 and 9, and is located near the 1st electrode 8. . The light source 14 is interposed between the first and second electrodes 8 and 9, but is disposed on the back surface side of the reinforcing plate 5 having light transmittance as necessary. In addition, the elastic click body 20 is covered and protected by the housing 30, but the housing 30 according to the present embodiment is electrostatically bonded by pressing the flat lower lower surface to the surface of the reinforcing plate 5 in a preloaded state. The sensor sheet 1 is fitted and covered. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the same effect as the above embodiment can be expected, and the light source 14 can be blinked or turned on according to the detection of the change in the capacitance. Obviously, it is possible to visually and clearly grasp the operating state of a washing machine or a vehicle-mounted device. Further, when a graphic is formed on the decorative key top member 25, this graphic can be emitted. Further, since the housing 30 is covered with the capacitance sensor sheet 1, it is possible to effectively protect the first and second electrodes 8 and 9, the wirings 10 and 11, the elastic click body 20, and the like.

  Next, FIG. 6 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the gap between the first electrode 8 and the back central portion 21 of the elastic click body 20 in the third embodiment is formed. It is set to 0.1 to 0.7 mm, preferably about 0.1 to 0.6 mm, more preferably about 0.1 to 0.5 mm, and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 is, for example, 2 mm. It is designed to be thick.

  The elastic click body 20 is formed thinner than the above-described embodiment, and the back surface central portion 21 is formed to protrude longer than the above-described embodiment. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the same effect as that of the above embodiment can be expected. Moreover, the first electrode 8 and the elastic click body can be used because the change in capacitance can be stabilized and the threshold value can be set with high accuracy. Even if the gap between the back surface central portion 21 of the 20 and the back surface central portion 21 is reduced to about 0.1 to 0.5 mm, the decorative key top member 25 in the elastic click body 20 is difficult to be bent with a thickness of 2 mm or more, which was difficult in the past. Can be formed. In addition, even a slight deformation of the elastic click body 20 can reliably detect a change in capacitance in multiple stages.

  Next, FIGS. 7 to 9 show a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In this case, a plurality of electrodes 3 and elastic click bodies 20 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1 are provided, and the capacitance is shown. The casing 30 is crimped to the surface of the reinforcing plate 5 protruding from the peripheral edge of the insulating sheet 2 of the sensor sheet 1, and the decorative key top member 25 of the elastic click body 20 is exposed to be operable from the plurality of operation ports 31. I try to let them.

  The plurality of electrodes 3 are printed and arranged at predetermined intervals in the surface XY direction of the insulating sheet 2, and each electrode 3 is divided into first and second electrodes 8 and 9 as necessary. Further, the reduction protrusion 32 of the operation port 31 of the housing 30 is formed so as to be protruded or omitted as necessary. On the end face of the facing portion 33 facing the surface of the capacitance sensor sheet 1 of the housing 30, a contact avoiding portion 34 that is not in contact with the wires 4, 10, and 11 connected to the electrodes 3 is selectively selected as necessary. It is formed. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the same effect as that of the above embodiment can be expected. Moreover, if the contact avoidance portion 34 is formed in the housing 30, the contact avoidance portion 34 does not directly contact the wiring 4, 10, 11 of the electrode 3. The parasitic capacitance between the wirings 4, 10, 11 and the housing 30 can be reduced, and noise can be reduced.

  Next, FIG. 10 shows a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In this case, surface modification is performed on at least one of the surface of the second electrode 9 of the electrode 3 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20. Processing is performed so that the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are directly tightly bonded and fixed without a gap.

  The elastic click body 20 is molded from a molding material containing insulating silicone rubber, fluorine rubber, urethane rubber, EPDM, thermoplastic elastomer, etc. from the viewpoint of obtaining an excellent click feeling as in the above embodiment. A flat plate-shaped decorative key top member 25 operated by the operating body 7 is in close contact with the upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20, and the engagement flange 26 of the decorative key top member 25 is omitted. .

  Examples of the surface modification treatment method include ultraviolet irradiation with less heat damage, corona discharge that can be processed in a short time, plasma discharge that can be processed in a short time and contributes to strengthening adhesive force, flame treatment, and the like. . In the case of employing ultraviolet irradiation, it is preferable to irradiate light having a wavelength of near ultraviolet (wavelength 380 to 200 nm) or less, preferably far ultraviolet or vacuum ultraviolet (wavelength 200 to 10 nm). At this time, for example, ultraviolet rays can be irradiated using an excimer lamp that emits vacuum ultraviolet rays (VUV) including a wavelength of 172 nm using xenon as a discharge gas. Further, when plasma discharge is employed, vacuum plasma discharge or atmospheric pressure plasma discharge may be used.

  The surface modification process may be performed on at least one of the surface of the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20. However, from the viewpoint of obtaining strong bonding and fixing, it is optimal to apply to the surface of the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20.

  In this embodiment, for example, a silane coupling agent is applied to the surface of the second electrode 9, the elastic click body 20 is made of silicone rubber, and ultraviolet light is applied to the surface of the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20. A joining mechanism in the case of irradiating and fixing them without gaps will be described.

  For example, when an ultraviolet ray having a wavelength of 172 nm is irradiated, the ultraviolet ray directly acts on the surrounding oxygen (O2) to generate active oxygen (O (1D)). Further, the ultraviolet rays change oxygen (O2) into ozone (O3), and this ozone (O3) is changed into oxygen (O2) and active oxygen (O (1D)). Further, CH3 groups are present on the surface of the elastic click body 20 made of a silane coupling agent layer or silicone rubber in the initial state before bonding.

  When the surface of such a silane coupling agent layer or elastic click body 20 is irradiated with ultraviolet rays having a wavelength of 172 nm, silane coupling is caused by the ultraviolet rays and active oxygen generated by irradiating the surrounding oxygen with ultraviolet rays. The agent layer and the surface of the elastic click body 20 are oxidized. By this oxidation, the CH3 group on the surface of the silane coupling agent layer or the elastic click body 20 is oxidized to become an OH group.

  Next, when the silane coupling agent layer and the surface of the elastic click body 20 are superposed, a load is applied in the direction of the superposition and the pressure bonding is performed, and the silane coupling agent layer and the elastic click body are held at room temperature for a predetermined time. The OH groups on the surface 20 are bonded to generate water, and silicon (Si) in the silane coupling agent layer and silicon (Si) in the elastic click body 20 are bonded through oxygen (O). Such a connection is called integral bonding. Since the silane coupling agent layer and the elastic click body 20 are integrally joined in this manner, they can be appropriately prevented from being separated easily, and the reliability can be remarkably improved. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the same effect as the above embodiment can be expected, and the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are not interposed with the double-sided adhesive tape 12 affecting the dielectric constant. Since it is directly fixed, there is no gap including air between the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively eliminate the possibility of variations in detection of changes in capacitance. Further, even when the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape 12 cannot be used, strong fixation can be expected.

  Next, FIG. 11 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the surface of the second electrode 9 of the electrode 3 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are fixed by the adhesive 15. I have to.

  The adhesive 15 is not particularly limited, but is a silicone-based adhesive, a conductive adhesive that can ensure a wide change in capacitance, an ultraviolet curable resin that can be cured at low temperature and has a high curing speed, and an adhesive. 15 and the like, and hot melt that contributes to the reduction of the number of parts. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  Also in this embodiment, the same effect as that of the above embodiment can be expected, and furthermore, since surface bonding is performed using the adhesive 15, various materials can be bonded, and stress concentration can hardly occur. Moreover, since an ultraviolet irradiation device, a discharge device, etc. can be omitted, a reduction in equipment can be expected.

  Next, FIG. 12 shows an eighth embodiment of the present invention. In this case, screw holes 16 are drilled and communicated with the insulating sheet 2, the reinforcing plate 5, and the second electrode 9, respectively. A screw tool 17 such as a male screw is screwed into the screw hole 16 so that the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are closely fixed without any gap. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the same effect as the above embodiment can be expected, and the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are provided with a double-sided adhesive tape 12 or the like that affects the dielectric constant. However, since it is directly fixed, it is possible to more effectively eliminate the possibility of variations in detection of changes in capacitance. In addition, since the adhesive 15 is not used, it is possible to effectively prevent contamination by adhesive components and to reduce costs.

  Next, FIG. 13 shows a ninth embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the mounting holes 18 are drilled and communicated with the insulating sheet 2, the reinforcing plate 5, and the second electrode 9, respectively. The deformable boss 19 is closely fitted in the mounting hole 18 so that the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are closely fixed without any gap. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  Also in this embodiment, the same effect as the above embodiment can be expected, and the second electrode 9 and the flange 23 of the elastic click body 20 are directly fixed, so that the change in capacitance can be detected stably. be able to. In addition, since the boss 19 is used, diversification of the fixing method can be expected.

  Next, FIGS. 14 to 16 show a tenth embodiment of the present invention. In this case, a housing 40 provided on the capacitance sensor sheet 1 and protecting the plurality of elastic click bodies 20 is provided. An operation port 41 that fits into the plurality of elastic click bodies 20 is provided, and a flexible decorative key top layer 50 that covers the plurality of elastic click bodies 20 is stretched around the peripheral step portion 42 of the operation port 41. At the same time, the plurality of key tops 52 on the surface of the decorative key top layer 50 are made to face the plurality of elastic click bodies 20, respectively.

  The casing 40 is three-dimensionally formed into a planar frame shape by an insulating molding material made of, for example, polycarbonate, polyether ether ketone, polyether sulfone, polybutylene terephthalate, acrylic, and the like. A flat rectangular operation port 41 that is loosely fitted through is perforated, and an upper edge of the peripheral portion of the operation port 41 is cut away to form a peripheral step portion 42 that horizontally supports the decorative key top layer 50. The

  The decorative key top layer 50 includes a flexible planar rectangular insulating sheet 51, a plurality of key tops 52 disposed on the surface of the insulating sheet 51 and corresponding to the plurality of elastic click bodies 20, and an insulating sheet. A decorative sheet 53 that is laminated and bonded to the back surface of 51 to indicate the display of the key top 52, the background, and the like is laminated. Examples of the insulating sheet 51 include a thin film made of polyethylene terephthalate, urethane, or polycarbonate having a thickness of about 0.075 to 0.15 mm. In these, the film made from a polyethylene terephthalate which is excellent in dimensional stability and insulation is optimal.

  The plurality of key tops 52 are respectively opposed to the surface portions of the plurality of elastic click bodies 20, but are respectively fixed to the surface portions of the plurality of elastic click bodies 20 via insulating sheets 51 and decorative sheets 53. The Each key top 52 is formed by coating a flat circular button structure having a thickness of about 0.05 to 0.3 mm with, for example, a photocurable resin, and is pressed by the operation body 7 from above. As the photo-curable resin, an acrylic or acrylic urethane-based ultraviolet curable resin is optimal from the viewpoint of facilitating production and thinning. The shape of each key top 52 may be a substantially concave shape, a substantially convex shape, a semicircular shape, a cylindrical shape, a truncated cone shape, or the like, as necessary.

  For example, the decorative sheet 53 is formed by laminating a resin such as polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate on the back surface of the insulating sheet 51 to have a thickness of about 0.005 to 0.015 mm. The click body 20 is bonded to the surface portion via a double-sided adhesive tape 54, an adhesive, or the like. The peripheral portion of the decorative sheet 53 is firmly fixed to the peripheral step portion 42 of the operation port 41 with a double-sided adhesive tape 54, an adhesive, or the like.

  The decorative sheet 53 may be formed by screen printing, but if necessary, a thin film made of polyethylene terephthalate, urethane, or polycarbonate having a thickness of about 0.005 to 0.015 mm may be adopted. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the same effect as that of the above embodiment can be expected, and dust, liquid, and the like enter the housing 40 from the gap between the peripheral edge of the operation port 41 and the decorative key top layer 50. It is clear that the waterproof and dustproof properties can be improved. Further, since the thin decorative key top layer 50 is used instead of the conventional PC-type decorative key top member, a reduction in thickness can be greatly expected.

  Next, FIG. 17 to FIG. 19 show an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. In this case, a plurality of elastic click bodies 20 are partitioned by the capacitive sensor sheet 1 surrounded by the casing 40. A plurality of support walls 60 are provided, and the flexible decorative key top layer 50 that covers the plurality of elastic click bodies 20 is horizontally supported by the peripheral step portion 42 of the operation port 41 and the plurality of support walls 60. The plurality of key tops 52 on the surface of the decorative key top layer 50 are respectively opposed to the plurality of elastic click bodies 20.

  The plurality of support walls 60 are formed, for example, in combination in a planar lattice shape so that the decorative key top layer 50 is not partially bent, and each support wall 60 is formed in a plate shape. The upper end is bonded to the decorating sheet 53 of the decorating key top layer 50 with a double-sided adhesive tape 54 or an adhesive. From the viewpoint of preventing the click sensitivity of the pressing operation from deteriorating, it is preferable that the plurality of support walls 60 be partially interposed between adjacent elastic click bodies 20 among the plurality of elastic click bodies 20. .

  Such a plurality of support walls 60 are integrally formed on the reinforcing plate 5 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1 or are erected with the insulating sheet 2 as a separate member. Further, it is erected on a cover or an insulating resist layer on the surface of the insulating sheet 2 of the capacitance sensor sheet 1 as necessary. Alternatively, the capacitance sensor sheet 1 may be cut out to avoid the support wall 60, and the support wall 60 and the capacitance sensor sheet 1 may be combined. The other parts are the same as those in the above embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In this embodiment, the same effect as that of the above embodiment can be expected, and the decorative key top layer 50 is supported not only on the peripheral step portion 42 of the operation port 41 but also on the plurality of support walls 60. It is possible to prevent the positional deviation and variation in the thickness direction of the decoration key top layer 50.

The decorative key top member 25 may be fixed to the upper surface 24 of the elastic click body 20, but may be detachably attached so that the decorative key top member 25 can be replaced as necessary. In the above embodiment, the decorative key top member 25 is formed in a flat plate shape. However, the decorative key top member 25 may be curved in a semicircular cross section. Similar to the capacitance sensor sheet 1, the reinforcing plate 5, and the elastic click body 20, the decorative key top member 25 can be provided with light transmittance.

  In addition, when PSoC is used as a microcontroller for detection determination means, a CY8C24994 type can be adopted. Moreover, although the reduction | decrease protrusion 32 which contacts the engagement flange 26 of the decorating keytop member 25 protruded and formed in the peripheral part lower part of the operation port 31 of the housing 30, it is not limited to this at all. For example, the taper reduction protrusion 32 which contacts the lower part of the peripheral part of the operation port 31 of the housing 30 can be projectingly formed on the engagement flange 26 of the decorative key top member 25.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the 1st electrode 8 was formed in planar circle shape and the 2nd electrode 9 was formed in planar C shape, it is not limited to this at all. For example, the first electrode 8 can be formed in a plane rectangle, a polygon, or the like, and the second electrode 9 can be formed in a plane U shape, a frame shape, or the like. Further, the wirings 10 and 11 of the first and second electrodes 8 and 9 are adjacent to each other, but the wiring 10 of the first electrode 8 and the wiring 11 of the second electrode 9 are at an angle of 90 ° or 180 °. It is possible to form by shifting. The air exhaust groove 13 is opposed to the wirings 10 and 11 of the first and second electrodes 8 and 9 via a gap, but may be opposed to the wiring 10 of the first electrode 8 via a gap. However, it is possible to face the wiring 11 of the second electrode 9 through a gap.

  Further, the first electrode 8 of the electrode 3 is a ground electrode connected to the ground of the detection determination means for detecting the capacitance via the wiring 10, and the second electrode 9 of the electrode 3 is an input of the detection determination means. Connected to the terminal via the wiring 11, a part of the second electrode 9 extends in the direction of the first electrode 8 and is arranged adjacent to each other at a predetermined interval, and the elastic click body 20 is formed of an insulating material. A conductive contact can be provided in the vicinity of the back surface center portion 21 of the click body 20 so as to face and contact the first electrode 8 and a part of the second electrode 9.

  The capacitance-type input device according to the present invention is used in the manufacturing field of music players, home appliances, portable devices, computer devices, information communication devices, automobile mounted devices, and the like.

1 Capacitance sensor sheet (Capacitance sensor substrate)
2 Insulating sheet 3 Electrode 4 Wiring 5 Reinforcing plate 7 Operating body 8 First electrode 9 Second electrode 10 Wiring 11 Wiring 12 Double-sided adhesive tape 13 Air exhaust groove 14 Light source 15 Adhesive 20 Elastic click body 21 Back surface central portion 22 Leg Part 23 Flange (lower leg)
24 Upper surface (surface)
25 Decorating Key Top Member 26 Engaging Flange 30 Housing 31 Operation Port 32 Reduction Projection 34 Contact Avoidance Portion 40 Housing 41 Operation Port 42 Peripheral Stepped Portion 50 Decorating Key Top Layer 51 Insulating Sheet 52 Key Top 53 Decorating Sheet 60 Support Wall (Support member)

Claims (9)

A capacitance sensor substrate, an elastic click body that is provided on the capacitance sensor substrate and is operated by the operating body, and a housing that is covered by the capacitance sensor substrate and covers the elastic click body, A capacitance type input device comprising: a detection determination means for detecting a change in capacitance formed between the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate and the operating body;
A capacitance sensor base material is formed by laminating a polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate insulating sheet, an electrode formed on the surface of the insulating sheet, and a reinforcing member provided on the back surface of the insulating sheet,
The elastic click body is formed into a columnar shape that can be deformed by an elastic material, and the back surface of the elastic click body is opposed to the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material with a gap of 0.1 to 2.0 mm so that the elastic click body can be contacted and separated. Extend the skirt-shaped leg that can be bent from the lower peripheral edge of the electrode while gradually expanding in the direction of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate, and connect the flange at the lower end of the inclined leg to the periphery of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate. The position of the elastic click body with respect to the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material is regulated by fixing to the portion, and the size of the surface portion of the elastic click body is set to φ10 mm or more in plan view. On the surface part, a decorative key top member operated by the operating body is crimped in a preloaded state,
The casing is provided with an operation port that exposes the decorative key top member of the elastic click body so that it can be operated, and the decorative key top member of the elastic click body and the peripheral portion of the operation port are brought into close contact with each other,
The detection determination means converts the capacitance change into a detection value and compares it with a first threshold value, and when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the first threshold value, the operation body and the elastic click body A function for determining that the operating body and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state when the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than the first threshold value, and a detection value of the electrode And a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in contact with each other by pressing the operating body when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the second threshold value. A capacitance-type input device that realizes a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state when the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than a second threshold value. Reduction protrusion for reducing the contact range between the decorative key top member of the elastic click body and the peripheral portion of the operation port of the housing on at least one of the decorative key top member of the elastic click body and the peripheral portion of the operation port of the housing The capacitance-type input device according to claim 1, wherein: A light source that illuminates at least the elastic click body among the elastic click body and the decorative key top member, and transmits light to at least the elastic click body of the capacitance sensor base material, the elastic click body, and the decorative key top member. The capacitance-type input device according to claim 1, wherein the property is imparted. A capacitance sensor base, an elastic click body provided on the capacitance sensor base and operated by an operating body, a housing provided on the capacitance sensor base and protecting the elastic click body, A capacitance type input device comprising a detection determination means for detecting a change in capacitance formed between the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate and the operating body,
A capacitance sensor base material is formed by laminating a polyethylene terephthalate or polycarbonate insulating sheet, an electrode formed on the surface of the insulating sheet, and a reinforcing member provided on the back surface of the insulating sheet,
The elastic click body is formed into a columnar shape that can be deformed by an elastic material, and the back surface of the elastic click body is opposed to the electrode of the capacitance sensor base material with a gap of 0.1 to 2.0 mm so that the elastic click body can be contacted and separated. Extend the skirt-shaped leg that can be bent from the lower peripheral edge of the electrode while gradually expanding in the direction of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate, and connect the flange at the lower end of the inclined leg to the periphery of the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate. By fixing to the part, the positional deviation of the elastic click body with respect to the electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate is regulated, and the size of the surface part of the elastic click body is 10 mm or more in plan view,
The casing is provided with an operation port that fits into the elastic click body, and a flexible decorative key top layer that covers the elastic click body is stretched around the peripheral step portion in the peripheral portion of the operation port. The key top operated by the operating body on the surface of the key top layer is opposed to the surface portion of the elastic click body,
The detection determination means converts the capacitance change into a detection value and compares it with a first threshold value, and when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the first threshold value, the operation body and the elastic click body A function for determining that the operating body and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state when the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than the first threshold value, and a detection value of the electrode And a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in contact with each other by pressing the operating body when the detected value of the compared electrode exceeds the second threshold value. A capacitance-type input device that realizes a function of determining that the electrode and the elastic click body are in a non-contact state when the detected value of the compared electrode is equal to or less than a second threshold value. The capacitance sensor base material is provided with a support member that partitions a plurality of elastic click bodies, and this support member supports a decorative key top layer that covers the plurality of elastic click bodies. The capacitive input device according to claim 4 , wherein a plurality of key tops are provided so as to face a plurality of elastic click bodies, respectively. A light source that illuminates at least the elastic click body among the elastic click body and the decorative key top layer, and transmits light to at least the elastic click body among the capacitance sensor base material, the elastic click body, and the decorative key top layer. 6. The capacitance-type input device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the property is imparted. At least one of the electrode of the capacitance sensor base and the flange at the lower end of the leg of the elastic click body is subjected to surface modification treatment, and the flange of the electrode of the capacitance sensor base and the lower end of the leg of the elastic click body The capacitance-type input device according to claim 1, which is fixed without gaps. The electrode of the capacitance sensor substrate is divided into first and second electrodes, the second electrode is formed around the first electrode, and the elastic click body is in contact with the first electrode with a gap. away capable to face, with stretch with an increasing legs second electrode direction from the periphery of the elastic clicking member, a flange of the leg bottom claims 1 to be fixed to the second electrode 7 The capacitive input device according to any one of the above . The air exhaust groove is formed in the flange of the leg lower ends of the elastic clicking member, first the air exhaust groove electrode, according to claim which is adapted to face with a gap in at least one of the wiring of the second electrode 8 capacitive input device according.

Images