JPH03276323A - Key input device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To obtain a thin input device excellent in the operating sense by separating the switching elements from a keying actiator part in terms of space. CONSTITUTION:In a switching board part 1, the membrane type switch element parts 10 constituted by arranging the switching elements 11 in a matrix on a supporting panel 4 are superposed and arranged. These elements 11 having the contact functions are separated from a keying actuator part 2 in terms of space and the part 1 can keep an extremely thin shape. In addition, a satisfactory stroke is secured at the part 2 so that the pleasant touch feeling is ensured. Simultaneously, a key input device is operated with the touch feeling according to each individual preference by using several different types of parts 2 provided with the spring means 20 having different levels of strength.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] [Table of Contents] Overview Industrial Application Fields Prior Art (Figs. 15 to 17) Problems to be Solved by the Invention Examples of Means and Actions for Solving the Problems (Figs. 1 to 17) (Fig. 14) Effects of the Invention 1 [Summary] Regarding a key input device, the present invention aims to realize a thin key input device with an excellent operating feel, and has a plurality of switch elements that discriminate input by means such as contacts. A key input device comprising at least an arranged switchboard section and a keystroke actuator section for driving the switch elements, wherein the switch element and the keystroke actuator section are spatially separated, and the keystroke actuator section is The key input device is arranged at the fingertip of an operator, and the key input actuator section drives the switch element.

[Industrial application field]

The present invention relates to a key input device, and particularly to an improvement in the structure of a key input device that is thin and has an excellent operating feel.

In recent years, with the development of information equipment, the importance of key input devices, so-called keyboards, as standard input devices has been increasing. In addition, just as with the trend toward miniaturization, key input devices are also required to be smaller, lighter, and thinner, and are also required to have ergonomic considerations such as a good touch feel and operability. In particular, recently, as applications for portable office automation equipment have increased, the demand for thinner products has become even stronger, and there is a strong need to respond to this demand.

[Prior Art] A key input device, for example, a keyboard generally includes: (1) a switch board section that includes a plurality of switch elements including contact means for determining input, and (2) specifying the position of each of the switch elements and identifying each switch element. A key top section that drives the switch elements, and a processor (CPU) in the main body of the device that converts the signal coming from the drive inputted switch elements.
It consists of electronic circuits that transmit information to the

The switch elements include reed switches, mechanical switches, membrane switches, conductive rubber switches, and the like, each of which is used depending on its purpose.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing device using key input. In the figure, 400 is the main body of the device, and 500 is a key input device (keyboard). Inside the cover, switch elements 11° are arranged in a matrix, and key tops 2' are arranged in correspondence with each switch element 11'. The attached push button switch is integrated. The device main body 400 and the key input device 500 are connected by a connection cord 3, for example.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a switch element used in a thin key input device, and is an example of the structure of a membrane switch that is currently widely used. Figure (b) shows a cross-sectional view. Figure (a) shows the overall configuration, in which wiring patterns 113a, t13b and contact portions 110a, 11ob are printed on a flexible film such as polyester film with ink such as Ag, C (i element), etc. Upper sheet 11
It has a structure in which two sheets, 1a and lower sheet 111b, are overlapped with a spacer 112 having a hole in the contact portion interposed therebetween (hereinafter referred to as a membrane sheet type switch element portion). FIG. 6B shows both states when the switch is open and when the push button switch is pressed down and the contact portions 110a and 11ob come into contact and the switch is turned on.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a conventional key press actuator section (push button switch), including a cross section of the switch element section 10. As shown in FIG. For example, a housing 250 provided on the upper surface of the membrane sheet type switch element section 10 placed on a support panel 4' made of an iron plate or the like.
゛ and slider 2 inserted into the housing 250゛
60, a key top 2'' that drives the slider 260, and two spring means disposed on the outside and inside of the housing 250'', such as springs 20'a and 20''b, and the tip of the subring 20'b. is fixed to the
It is constituted by a key bottom 22°, etc., which is actuated by directly contacting the corresponding switch element 11. 2 springs
The purpose of using books is to obtain a comfortable touch sensation such as a click sensation. When you press key top 2 with your fingertip, the above 2
The switch element 11 is actuated via the book springs 20'a, 20'b and the key bottom 22'.

The electronic circuit not shown here consists of an encoder circuit that converts the signal from the switch element 11 into a predetermined digital code, and an interface circuit that exchanges data with the CPU. Since it is not directly related to the present invention, detailed explanation will be omitted.

Generally, to obtain a comfortable touch sensation, 3 to 4 au+
The length of the slider 260 is 3 times the stroke length in order to eliminate wobbling and snagging of the key top 2 and obtain smooth operation.
At least 12 questions, which is 4 times as many, are required. That is, in order to maintain a comfortable touch sensation, the support panel 4', the switch element part 10. The thickness of the entire keyboard including pushbutton switches, key tops, etc. is at least 1.
Approximately 0 mm is necessary.

In contrast, some examples have recently begun to be put into practical use in which keyboards are made thinner by reducing the stroke length to, for example, about 1 mm by sacrificing the touch sensation.

(Problems to be Solved by the Invention) However, sacrificing the touch sensation as the keyboard becomes thinner, as in the conventional keyboard described above, cannot be said to be suitable for a frequently used input device.

Furthermore, there are individual differences in the comfort of touch, with some people preferring a harder touch and others preferring a softer touch.

In conventional keyboards, the touch sensation is already determined at the time of assembly depending on the strength of the two springs, and it is practically impossible to make it harder or softer according to your preference. In other words, the user has no choice but to get used to the touch of the keyboard that comes with the purchased device and master its use.

Furthermore, in the conventional keyboard 500, the switch element ll'' and the pushbutton switch including the key top 2' are integrated, so the keyboard can be folded or divided when carried or stored. There are many problems in terms of thinness and operability, such as the inability to assemble the device during use, and solutions are needed.

[Means for Solving the Problems] Therefore, the present invention provides a method that allows the user to freely select the strength of the touch according to his or her personal preference, while maintaining a comfortable touch sensation by having a sufficient stroke. Moreover, it is an attempt to realize an ultra-thin key input device whose overall thickness is less than that of a flat panel.

Furthermore, the present invention aims to realize an easy-to-use and convenient key input device that has a foldable structure and a function that allows character display to be changed.

That is, the above-mentioned problem is solved by a key input device that includes at least a switch board section I in which a plurality of switch elements 11 for determining input by means such as contacts are arranged, and a keystroke actuator section 2 for driving the switch elements 11. In this method, the switch element 11 and the keystroke actuator section 2 are spatially separated, the keystroke actuator section 2 is placed at the fingertip of the operator, and the keystroke actuator section 2 drives the switch element 1. This problem can be solved by a key input device and its extended variations.

[Function] According to the present invention, the switch element 11 having a contact function and the keystroke actuator section 2 that determines the touch sensation are spatially separated, so that the switch board section 1, which is the main body of the key input device, is ultra-thin. The mold shape can be maintained. Moreover, since a sufficient stroke can be taken in the keystroke actuator section 2, it is possible to provide a comfortable evening and seven-key feeling. Furthermore, explosive means 2 with different strengths
0. For example, by preparing several types of keystroke actuator units 2 equipped with springs, it becomes possible to perform operations with a touch sensation that suits individual preferences. Furthermore, by taking advantage of the ultra-thin shape of the switchboard section 1, it is possible to realize folding and other various functions that were previously difficult.

E Example] Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained based on the drawings.

Dormitory upper support group FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the basic configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention.
The same figure (a) is a perspective view of the switch board part 1, the same figure (b)
2 shows the external appearance of the keystroke actuator section 2 and the state in which it is attached to the fingers, and FIG.

The switch board part I is constructed by arranging switch elements 11 in a matrix on a membrane sheet, for example, on a support panel 4 made of, for example, an iron plate, an aluminum plate, or the like. So-called membrane sheet type switch element sections 10 are arranged one on top of the other. At the position of each switch element 11 on the upper sheet 111a of the switch element 11, a display 5 consisting of alphabetical letters, numbers, symbols, etc. indicating the respective functions is provided. In addition, 3 is ＼
This is a connection cord that connects to the main body of the device (not shown).

Since the support panel 4 and the switch element section 1O each have a thickness of only about 2 mm, it is easy to reduce the thickness of the entire switch board section 1 to several pieces or less. It goes without saying that the shape of the switchboard portion l does not necessarily have to be limited to the plane shown in the figure, but may be a curved surface in a shape suitable for operation.

The keystroke actuator section 2 includes a key top 21. 20. Springing means that connects the key bottom 222 and provides a comfortable touch sensation. It consists of key top fixing means 23 for attaching the key top 21 to an operator's finger.

In the above description, the display 5 is stamped directly on the position of each switch element 11 on the upper sheet 111a of the membrane sheet type switch element portion 1O, but this is not limited to this, and each switch element 11 is stamped on a separate sheet. A display 5 consisting of alphabetical letters, numbers, symbols, etc. indicating the respective functions may be provided in the same arrangement as the above arrangement, and may be placed on the switch element section 10 for use.

In this case, when the display 5 becomes worn or contaminated, or when you want to use the key input device with a completely different display arrangement, there is an advantage that a new display sheet or a different display sheet can be used instead. .

FIG. 2 is a diagram (part 1) showing an embodiment of the keystroke actuator section of the present invention, and schematically shows the cross-sectional structure.

The basic structure is similar to a conventional push button switch, and a spring cover 25 houses an elastic means 20a, for example, a first spring. On the other hand, the bottom of the spring cover 25 constitutes a key bottom 22, and a springing means 20b, for example, a second spring, is housed in the center of the key bottom 22. The bottom of the slider extending below the key top 21 is It has a structure in which it comes into contact with the top of the second spring.

Further, the key top 21 is provided with a key top fixing means 23.

Various methods can be used for the key top fixing means 23.

For example, a belt-like material made of leather, cloth, rubber, etc. may be worn on the fingertips.

The top surface of the key top is curved to match the shape of your fingertips, and if necessary, it is curved to fit your fingers perfectly.
For example, a rubber or cloth cushion 24 may be provided to provide a comfortable fit.

FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 2) showing an embodiment of the key actuator section of the present invention. In this embodiment, the key top section 211, the triggering means 20c, and the key bottom 22 are made of, for example, an inverted dome shape made of hard rubber. It is integrally molded,
The key top part 21 is provided with the same key top fixing means 23 (for example, a belt). In this embodiment, the structure is extremely simple and easy to manufacture, and the size and weight can be reduced. Since it is possible, it is extremely practical.

It should be noted that the structure of the keystroke actuator section 2 is not limited to the embodiment described below, and it goes without saying that other structures may be used as long as they have an appropriate stroke and provide a comfortable touch sensation. When operating the key input device, the keystroke actuator section 2 placed at each fingertip is used to operate the switchboard on which letters, numbers, symbols, etc. are displayed on the surface.
The switch element is actuated by pressing down the contact portion of the switch element. At this time, if ten fingers are not used, the keying actuator section 2 may be attached only to the necessary fingertips.

According to the present invention, the number of keystroke actuator sections 2 required is ten at most, so if the springing means 20, for example, various keystroke actuator sections 2 with different spring strengths, are available, It is also easy to accommodate individual preferences. In this case, in order to be able to see the strength of the spring at a glance, each of the keystroke actuator sections 2 is marked with a strong spring, for example.

It is convenient to use if it is displayed as a middle 8 or lower, or 1, 2, 3.4, etc.

Further, a springing means 20 of the keying actuator section 2 disposed at each fingertip. For example, the strength of the springs does not necessarily have to be the same; for weaker fingers such as the little finger, one with a weaker spring may be placed. It is possible to achieve a detailed touch sensation by selecting the desired height.

mth shark enclosure FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure (a) is a side view, and figure (b) is a perspective view.

In this embodiment, the support panel 4 and the switch element part 10
The switch board section 1 is divided into at least two parts, and the divided switch element parts 10a and 10 are divided into at least two parts.
This structure is provided with a switch element connection means 40 for connecting the support panels 4a and 4b, and a support panel connection means 41 for connecting the divided support panels 4a and 4b.

The switch element connecting means 40 shown in the figure is an example using, for example, a braided wire, a flexible printed sheet, etc., and the support panel connecting means 41 is an example using.

For example, it is possible to attach a hinge and fold it at that point. It goes without saying that the switch element connecting means 40 needs to have a length that can withstand folding.

In the figure, a hinge is attached to the bottom of the support panel 4 for convenience.
Although a structure in which the support panel 4 is folded downward is shown, it is of course possible to have a structure in which the hinge is attached to the upper side of the support panel 4 and the support panel 4 is folded upward.

Star engineering back construction team FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the present invention.

This embodiment is an example in which connectors are used as the switch element connection means 40 and the support panel connection means 41. In this case, since the switchboard section 1 can be completely separated at this point, a more flexible storage method can be chosen. Furthermore, since the switch element connection means 40 does not protrude from the top surface when operating the key input device, the structure can be made easier to use.

Star [Ura Iwaaki] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, instead of directly stamping the display 5 at the position of each switch element 11 on the upper sheet 111a of the membrane sheet type switch element part 10, another long continuous tongue-toro is provided, and the switch element part 10 is A display 5 consisting of letters, numbers, symbols, etc. indicating each function is provided in the same arrangement as the arrangement of each switch element ll, and by moving the continuous touch sheet 6, a display 5 of letters, numbers, symbols, etc.
It is possible to change the type or arrangement of.

Figure (a) is a cross-sectional view of an example of changing the display of an endless continuous touch sheet 6 using a roller-like touch sheet moving means 7, and Figure (b) is a sectional view of an example in which a long paper-like continuous touch sheet 6 is wound and rolled. A sectional view of an example in which the display is changed by the return type touch sheet moving means 7 is shown. The same figure (c
) is a character.

An example of the display on the continuous touch sheet 6 when changing the type or arrangement of the display 5 such as numbers and symbols is shown.

The roller-shaped sheet moving means 7 has a structure capable of rotating around its central axis, and a driving means such as a motor (not shown) is connected to the central axis. The driving means rotates and moves the continuous touch sheet 6 by a control signal from a control device such as a CPO.

Next, the features of this embodiment will be briefly explained.

Recently, there has been a demand for a key input device in which one key has several functions. For this reason, there are 3 to 3 on the key top.
In many cases, five types of displays are arranged.

The most common purpose of such a key input device is a word processor for creating sentences.
It is a purpose. Input methods for word processors include a Roman alphabet input method and a kana input method (such as the Oasis method and the new JIS method), each of which uses a keyboard with a different character arrangement.

When inputting into a word processor, it is common for people to use only the input method with which they are most familiar, for example, some people type in Roman characters. In this case, the ``Hiragana J'' and ``Katakana 2'' that are displayed at the same time are very distracting.In conventional keyboards, the characters on the keypad are displayed using a processing method such as double molding, so it is easy to change this. That was practically impossible.

In this embodiment, the switch element 11 and the keystroke actuator part 2 are spatially separated, and the upper surface of the switch element part 10 can be made flat, so that by moving the continuous touch sheet 6 on which characters etc. are displayed, , display 5. That is, the type of characters or their arrangement can be easily changed.

To change the display, for example, press the group selection display 51 for ``hiragana'', ``katakana'', ``alphabet j, etc.'' shown in the large frame in FIG. This allows the display set 50 to be changed with one touch.

Note that the surface of the continuous touch sheet 6 is frequently contacted with the lower surface of the key bottom 22 of the key actuator section 2 disposed at each fingertip, which may cause wear, so the display 5 of letters, numbers, symbols, etc. To do this, first, the continuous touch sheet 6 is formed of a translucent material, and the characters, symbols, etc. are printed on the back side of the continuous touch sheet 6 as backing characters, or the continuous touch sheet 6 is printed on the back side of the continuous touch sheet 6. The continuous touch sheet 6 may be constructed by performing normal printing and taking measures such as placing another sheet cover made of a translucent material thereon.

Further, the continuous touch sheet 6 is connected to the swing element portion 1.
Since it is independent from 0, it can be replaced with a simple operation. For example, it is easy to change the display to Russian characters, Hangul characters, etc., and has a great effect on improving the functionality of key input devices. .

Figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention, where (a) shows the display surface and (b) shows the cross section.

The feature of this embodiment is that the display 5 of each character, symbol, etc. is placed on the switch element 11 so that the contact part 110 of the switch element 11 can be pressed down correctly with the keystroke actuator part 2 attached to the fingertip. This is because a partition 9 is provided between the displays.

In the embodiments described above, the display 5 of each character, number, symbol, etc. is simply separated by a printed line, and no physical partition is provided. For this reason,
When operating the keyboard, it was necessary to pay attention to correctly pressing down the contact portion 110 with the key bottom 22 of the key actuator portion 2.

However, in this embodiment, a partition 9 between the displays as shown in FIG. There is a clear separation between numbers, symbols, etc.

As shown in the figure, the shape of the partition 9 between the displays is preferably a chevron-shaped partition with a concave upper surface. As a result, even if the keystroke actuator unit 2 presses the desired display 5 at a position slightly off center,
The lower surface of the key bottom 22 can slide on a chevron-shaped slope to press down the central contact portion. In this case, in order to obtain a smooth slide, the friction coefficient between the chevron-shaped partition and the lower surface of the key bottom 22 is reduced so that the key bottom 22 can easily slide, thereby further achieving the objective.

11 balls ■ FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, a magnet 12 is provided at the bottom of each of the switch elements 11 so as to have a predetermined polar arrangement, and on the other hand, a magnet 12 is provided inside the keystroke actuator section 2 so that the same predetermined polar arrangement is provided. A magnet 26 is provided so that the switch element 11 is driven by pressing the display 5 specifying the switch element i1 using the keystroke actuator section 2.

Taking an example of an alphabetic key input device (for example, a Roman alphabet keyboard), its character arrangement is generally as shown in FIG. 3(a). To input alphahet, hold the right hand on the right side of the keyboard, and the left hand on the left side, with the center of the keyboard as the border. In general, the right index finger should be J, the right middle finger should be K, and the right ring finger should be L.
Place your right little finger on ;, left index finger on F, left middle finger on D,
Place the left ring finger on S and the left little finger on A. This position of each finger is called a home position. Each of the five fingers has a letter above and below the home position. In other words, the right middle finger is IK,
Right ring finger is OL, right little finger is P; /, left middle finger is EDC
1 The left ring finger has WSX and the left little finger has QAZ. In addition, the left and right index fingers each hold two rows, and the left one holds RF.
VTGB is on the right, and UJMYHN is on the right. In addition, 5P
The left and right thumbs hold the AGE key.

As mentioned above, this embodiment was developed by paying attention to the fact that each finger has a predetermined character. That is,
As shown in Figures (a) and (b), a magnet 12 made of a permanent magnet or the like is installed at the position of the switch element 11 of each display held by each finger so as to have a predetermined polar arrangement. On the other hand, a magnet 26 made of a permanent magnet or the like is also installed in the keystroke actuator section 2 so as to have a predetermined polar arrangement as shown in FIG. 2(c). FIG. 2B shows a cross-sectional view of the magnet 12 disposed below each switch element 11. FIG.

As the magnet I2, for example, a flat Sr ferrite permanent magnet or a Sm-Co permanent magnet can be used.

For example, if the polarity of the magnet 12 is determined as shown in FIG. The arrangement is S, N, S, N, and for the left hand, the arrangement is S, N, S, N, S in order from the thumb.

Since the polarities of the magnets are arranged alternately, the key actuator section 2 placed on each fingertip attracts the part of the display 5 held by each finger, and the part of the display 5 held by the adjacent finger is attracted. There will be repulsion from some parts. That is, when the key actuator section 2 approaches an area of the display 5 other than the area where each finger is assigned, it receives a force that attempts to pull it back to the area where each finger is assigned. Therefore, it is possible to accurately input the display 5, which is held by the middle finger, ring finger, and little finger, and which is often incorrectly input by unskilled users. On the other hand, since the index finger generally has fewer erroneous inputs than other fingers, there is no problem even if the index finger has the same polarity over a wider area than other fingers.

Furthermore, if the magnets 12 are arranged so that the center of each display 5 is strongest, when the keystroke actuator section 2 tries to press a place that is off the center position, the attractive force between both magnets It is possible to correct the position of the switch element H so that the center position of the switch element H is pressed down correctly.

Note that the magnets 12 do not necessarily need to be placed on all of the switch elements 11, and may of course be used for the purpose of correctly determining the home position by placing them only on the home position, for example.

Furthermore, it goes without saying that the magnet 12 may generate magnetic poles using electromagnetic means such as a coil instead of a permanent magnet.

Further, in this embodiment, an English key input device is shown as an example for convenience, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to key input devices having other displays 5.

Planning Implementation Team FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of a seventh embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, auxiliary actuators 11 each having a short stroke are placed on the switch elements 11 of the switch board 1.
00, and the switch element 11 is driven by pressing down the auxiliary key top 210 of the auxiliary actuator section 200 with the keystroke actuator section 2 attached to the fingertip of the operator.

That is, this embodiment is designed to minimize the sense of discomfort when operating the key input device of the present invention when operating the key input device of the present invention, such as a conventional key input device, such as a general keyboard. The auxiliary key top 210 has letters and numbers in the same way as the key top 2 of a conventional keyboard.

Symbols, etc. are displayed directly. However, in this case, it is only necessary to simply press down the switch element 11 to close the contact, and there is no need to consider touch sensation such as stroke, so a thin and simple structure may be sufficient.

The key input device is operated by the auxiliary actuator section 200 by the keystroke actuator section 2 disposed at the fingertip.
This can be done by pressing the auxiliary key top 210, and since the touch sensation is provided by the keystroke actuator section 2, it is possible to create a thin key input device while maintaining a comfortable touch sensation, as in the previous embodiments. can be realized. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the sense of incompatibility with conventional key input devices.

As shown in the figure, if the upper surface of the auxiliary key top 210 is curved to match the shape of the lower surface of the key actuator section 2, it is highly effective to reduce input errors and perform accurate input.

FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of the auxiliary key top of the present invention. The auxiliary key top 210 is provided with a display 5 of letters, numbers, symbols, etc., but since this upper surface frequently comes into contact with the lower surface of the key bottom 22 of the key actuator section 2, there is a risk of wear.

In the figures (a) to (c), in order to prevent the display 5 from becoming difficult to see due to such wear, the auxiliary key top 210 is made of a translucent material, and letters are printed on the back of the key top 210. This is an example of displaying characters, numbers, symbols, etc. by printing or other methods. Note that FIG. 3(d) is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3(c).

FIG. 11 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the auxiliary key top of the present invention. In the case of Honjitsu 1m14+, the key bottom 22 of the key actuator section 2 and the auxiliary key top 2 are used for operation.
10, and impact noise may be generated. Therefore, if the auxiliary key top 210 is made of a flexible material such as vinyl chloride, noise can be prevented. The above object can also be achieved by covering the surface of the auxiliary key top 210 with a flexible material. For example, as shown in Figure (a), the auxiliary key top 21 may be made of a heat-shrinkable resin film such as vinyl chloride in the form of a bag.
This can be easily done by covering the auxiliary key top 210 with the auxiliary key top 210 as shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a diagram (part 3) showing an example of the auxiliary key top of the present invention. In this example, flat magnets 120 are provided on the back surface of the auxiliary key top 210 in a predetermined polar arrangement, and the key actuator section ( 2) It is clear that the same effect as in the sixth embodiment can be obtained, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. Fig. 13 shows an embodiment of the keystroke actuator section of the present invention. In the case of the structure of the five-piece seventh embodiment shown in Figure (Part 3), it is desirable for actual operation that there is no slippage between the key bottom 22 of the key actuator section 2 and the auxiliary key top 210. Therefore, each contact surface between the two may be suitably roughened, or a slip prevention means 27 covered with a material having high friction, such as rubber, may be provided. In this case, the elasticity of rubber or the like has the effect of providing a more comfortable touch sensation.

Planner's team FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the keystroke actuator section 2 is shown in FIG.
), it is placed at the tip of a glove 300 that is large enough to cover at least the fingertips. Furthermore, the keystroke actuator section 2 is fixed to the tip of the glove 300 by detachable key top fixing means (23a, 23b), such as a one-touch fastener.

FIG. 5(b) shows the case of a push-button switch type, and FIG. 2(c) shows the case of a key-pressing actuator part integrally molded into an inverted dome shape made of hard rubber. By making it detachable in this way, it becomes easy to selectively place the keystroke actuator sections 2 having different elastic strengths on each finger according to each individual's preference, as described above.

Furthermore, if you operate the key input device for a long time and your fingers get tired, you can easily replace it with a key actuator section 2 with a weaker elastic strength, so it can be tailored to each individual's preferences. can do.

When operating the key input device, wear gloves 300,
The switch element 11 is driven by pressing down the contact part of the switch element 11 with the key actuator part 2 attached to the fingertip. The material of the glove 300 may be one that is flexible, fits snugly to the hand, and is sufficiently breathable, such as sheepskin. Furthermore, if various sizes are available to suit the size of each person's hands, it can be used for shared equipment.

In addition, although only the right-handed glove 300 is shown in the figure, it goes without saying that the left-handed glove 300 is exactly the same.

Furthermore, it is needless to say that the glove does not necessarily have to cover the entire hand; for example, it may be a finger-sock type glove that covers only the fingertips.

Although a membrane sheet type switch element section 10 is used in the explanation of each of the above embodiments, the present invention is not limited to this, and may also be an arrangement of other switch elements 11 such as mechanical switches. can also be applied. Furthermore, it goes without saying that the switch element 11 is not limited to a mechanical contact type switch, but may also be a non-contact type switch such as a Hall element.

〔Effect of the invention〕

According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an ultra-thin key input device that maintains a comfortable touch sensation. Also,
Since the strength of the triggering means 20 of the keystroke actuator section 2 can be easily changed or the strength can be changed for each finger, it is possible to respond more precisely to the preferences of each individual.

In addition, it has a thin shape and greatly contributes to the realization of various other functions that have been difficult in the past, such as separation and folding.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the basic configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the keystroke actuator section of the present invention (Part 1), and Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the keystroke actuator section of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a fifth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a diagram showing an example of the auxiliary key top of the present invention (Part 1); FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the auxiliary key top of the present invention (Part 2); The figure shows an example of the auxiliary key top of the present invention (Part 3), Figure 13 shows an example of the keystroke actuator section of the present invention (Part 3), and Figure 14 shows the eighth embodiment of the present invention. 15 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing device using key input, FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a switch element section used in a thin key input device, and FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a conventional key input actuator section. It is a figure showing an example of a structure of (push button switch). In the figure, 1 is a switch board part, 2 is a keystroke actuator part, 3 is a connection cord, 4 is a support panel, 5 is a display 6 is a continuous touch sheet, 7 is a touch sheet moving means, 9 is a partition between displays, 10 is a sinch element, 11 is a sinch element, 12.26 is a magnet, 20 (20a, 20b, 20c), 22
0 is the firing means, 21 is the key top, 22 is the key bottom,
23 (23a, 23b) are key top fixing means;
24 is a cushion, 27 is a slip prevention means, 40 is a switch element connection means, 41 is a support panel connection means, 200 is an auxiliary actuator section, 210 is an auxiliary key top, and 300 is a glove.

Claims (35)

[Claims] (1) Switch board section (1) in which a plurality of switch elements (11) that determine input by means such as contacts are arranged
and a keystroke actuator section (2) that drives the switch element (11), the switch element (11) and the keystroke actuator section (2) being spatially separated, and , A key input device characterized in that the keystroke actuator section (2) is disposed at the fingertip of an operator, and the switch element (11) is driven by the keystroke actuator section (2). (2) the contact portions (110) of the switch element (11) are arranged in a matrix on two sheets, respectively;
2. The key input device according to claim 1, wherein the contact portions (110) are arranged facing each other with a gap left, thereby forming a membrane sheet type switch element portion (10). (3) The switch board section (1) includes a support panel (4), the switch element section (10) having the plurality of switch elements (11) arranged in a plane, and each switch element (11). ) The key according to claim (1), further comprising at least an indication (5) consisting of letters, numbers, symbols, etc., indicating each switch element (11), provided on the contact portion (110) of the key. Input device. (4) The keystroke actuator section (2) is connected to the key top (
21), the key bottom (22), and the key top (2
1) and a key bottom (22); and a key top fixing means (23) provided on the key top (21). (1) Key input device described. (5) The key input device according to claim 4, wherein the resilient means (20) comprises at least one spring. (6) The key top (21) and the triggering means (20)
5. The key input device according to claim 4, wherein the key input device and the key bottom (22) are integrally molded from a rubber-like elastic body. (7) The key input device according to claim (4), wherein the key top fixing means (23) is in the form of a belt formed so that the key top (21) can be attached to a fingertip. . (8) Claim (8) characterized in that the upper surface of the key top (21) is curved to match the shape of a fingertip.
4) Key input device described. (9) The key input device according to claim (4), characterized in that a cushion (24) is provided on the upper surface of the key top (21) to improve adhesion to fingertips and a pleasant feeling. (10) A plurality of types of keystroke actuator sections (2) having different strengths of the springing means (20) are provided, and the strength of the springing means (20) is displayed on each of them. The key input device according to claim (1). (11) Claim (1) characterized in that the keying actuator portions (2) having different strengths of the springing means (20) are configured to be used by being attached to respective specific fingers.
) Key input device. (12) The switchboard section (1) is divided into two or more, and the divided switchboard section (1)
The connection between two or more switch element parts (10a, 10b) is by the switch element part connection means (40), and the connection between two or more support panels (4a, 4b) is by the support panel connection means (41), respectively. 4. The key input device according to claim 3, wherein the key input device is connected to each other. (13) The switch element part connecting means (40) for connecting two or more switch element parts (10a, 10b) of the divided switch board part (1) to each other is made of a flexible connection wiring tape. claims (12
) Key input device. (14) Claim (12) characterized in that the support panel connecting means (41) for connecting two or more support panels (4a, 4b) of the divided switchboard section (1) to each other is a hinge. Key input device as described. (15) The key input device according to claim 12, wherein the switch element connection means (40) and the support panel connection means (41) are connectors. (16) a continuous touch sheet (6) provided with a plurality of display sets (50) having different types and arrangements of displays (5) specifying each switch element (11) of the switch element section (10); , a touch sheet moving means (7) for moving the continuous touch sheet (6) slidably disposed on the switch board section (1) is attached to the switch board section (1), and the touch sheet moving means (7) is attached to the switch board section (1); Part (2)
According to claim (1), the switch element (11) is driven by pressing down the display (5) of characters, numbers, symbols, etc. provided on the continuous touch sheet (6). key input device. (17) The continuous touch sheet (6) includes a sheet whose surface is marked with letters, numbers, symbols, etc. (5), and a sheet cover made of a translucent material that protects the surface of the sheet. 17. The key input device according to claim 16, characterized in that: (18) Claim (17) characterized in that back characters are displayed on the back side of the sheet made of the translucent material.
Key input device as described. (19) The continuous touch sheet (6) moves by pressing a specific set selection display (51) such as "Alphabet", "Hiragana", "Katakana" etc. displayed on the sheet, and selects the corresponding one. The display set (50) is connected to the switch board (1).
) The claim (
16) The key input device described above. (20) The continuous touch sheet (6) can be replaced with a continuous touch sheet (6) displaying other display sets (50) such as "Russian characters" and "Hangul characters" depending on the purpose of use. The key input device according to claim (16). (21) A partition (9) between displays is provided on the switch board (1) to separate displays (5) specifying the switch elements (11), and the keystroke actuator section (2) is used to display the display. The switch element (
11). The key input device according to claim 1, wherein the key input device drives a key input device. (22) Claim (2) characterized in that the partition (9) between the displays is formed in a chevron shape with a smooth slope.
1) Key input device described. (23) The key input device according to claim 22, wherein the slope of the partition (9) between the displays formed in a chevron shape forms a concave surface. (24) A magnet (12) is provided at the bottom of each of the switch elements (11) so as to have a predetermined polarity arrangement, and on the other hand, a magnet (12) is provided inside the keystroke actuator section (2) so as to have a predetermined polarity arrangement. Magnet (26)
Claim (1) characterized in that the switch element (11) is driven by pressing down the display (5) specifying the switch element (11) using the key press actuator section (2). Key input device as described. (25) Claim (25) characterized in that the polarities of the magnets (12 or 26) are arranged alternately between adjacent switch elements (11) or between adjacent fingers. 24) The key input device described above. (26) Claim (24) characterized in that the magnet (12) disposed below the switch element (11) is disposed only at the switch element at the home position among the switch elements (11). ) Key input device. (27) A switch board section (1
00) and a keystroke actuator section (2) for driving the switch element (11), wherein the switch element (11) and the keystroke actuator section (2) are spatially separated. , and the switch element (
11) on top of the short stroke auxiliary actuator section (
200), the keystroke actuator section (2) is arranged at the fingertip of an operator, and the switch is activated by pressing the auxiliary key top (210) of the auxiliary actuator section (200) with the keystroke actuator section (2). A key input device characterized by driving an element (11). (28) The auxiliary key top (210) is made of a translucent material, and the display (5) of letters, numbers, symbols, etc. is displayed on the back side of the auxiliary key top (210). The key input device according to claim 27, characterized in that: (29) Claim (27) characterized in that the auxiliary key top (210) is made of a flexible material.
, (28). (30) Claims (27)-( 29) Key input device described. (31) The key input device according to any one of claims (27) to (30), wherein the auxiliary key top (210) is covered with a heat-shrinkable resin film (260). (32) A claim characterized in that the auxiliary key top (210) and the keystroke actuator section (2) are provided with a magnet (120) and a magnet (26), respectively, so as to have a predetermined polar arrangement. The key input device according to (27) to (31). (33) A slip prevention means (27) is provided on at least one of the upper surface of the auxiliary key top (210) and the lower surface of the key bottom (22) of the keystroke actuator section (2). (32) The key input device described. (34) Gloves (30
The glove (3) is placed at the tip of the glove (3) and is worn by the operator.
The keystroke actuator section (
34. The key input device according to claim 1, wherein the switch element (11) is driven by the key input device according to claim 2). (35) The keystroke actuator section (2) is connected to the glove (
35. The key input device according to claim 34, wherein the key input device is connected to the tip of the fingertip of the key input device 300) by detachable key top fixing means (23a, 23b).