JPH0854975A - Key input device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To provide a key input device where a button assembling part can be easily exchanged for the button assembling part having an operation part for operation input which is most suitable according to the taste and use of an operator of preliminarily prepared button assembling parts and the operability of a device main body is improved. CONSTITUTION:A membrane switch 2 has a basic button display 8 displaying operation contents for basic operation. Button assemblings 1 and 14 are provided with plural buttons, a pressurizing part for depressing the operation part corresponding to the membrane switch 2 according to the depression of the button and a button assembling classification discrimination seal 12. A button assembling mounting part 15 overlaps the button assemblings 1 and 14 on the membrane switch 2 in freely attachably and detachably. A button assembling classification detection part 5 detects the button assembling classification discrimination seal 12 of the mounted button assembling and button assembling classification discrimination information is obtained. A main body control part 4 and a button input control part 7 generates operation button positional information from the operation button positional information and the button assembling classification discrimination information corresponding to the structural location of the operation part where the membrane switch 2 is depressed and transmits the positional information.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a key input device, and more particularly to a key input device in which only a button assembly portion, which is an operation portion of equipment such as office automation equipment, information terminals, and communication terminals, which uses a keyboard for input, can be replaced. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIG. 10 shows a schematic structure of each example of a conventional key input device. FIG. 1A shows a conventional key input device, which includes a membrane switch 2, a button 11 fixed to a button fixing plate 100 placed on the membrane switch 2, a spring 101 for giving a feeling of operation and a stroke to the button. And a switch plate frame 103 for holding The membrane switch 2 has a structure in which the upper electrode plate 104 is arranged to face the lower electrode plate 106 via the spacer 105, and the upper electrode plate 104 is pressed by the pressing portion 26 at the lower end of the button 11. Has been done.

FIG. 10B is a sectional view showing another example of the conventional key input device. In the figure, the same components as those in FIG. 10A are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 1B, this key input device has a membrane display plate 10 instead of the button 11 on the membrane switch 2 which is entirely held by the switch plate frame 103.
This is a structure in which two are arranged.

FIG. 10C is a sectional view of another example of the conventional key input device. In the figure, the same components as those in FIG. 10A are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. In FIG. 10 (C), this conventional key input device has a replaceable exchangeable or page-turning exchange membrane display plate 107a on the membrane switch 2 which is entirely held by the switch plate frame 103.
Alternatively, the structure is provided with 107b.

Further, FIG. 10D shows a general OA device,
A method for exchanging a key input device in a device that uses a keyboard for input, such as an information terminal and a communication terminal, will be described. As shown in FIG. 3D, in a system in which a cathode ray tube (CRT) display 111 is connected to a personal computer 110, an exchange keyboard 10 connected to the personal computer 110 via a connection cable 109.
8, the A-type keyboard 108a or the B-type keyboard 108b is replaced by the connection cable 109.

FIG. 10 (E) is a sectional view showing still another example of the conventional key input device. In FIG. 1E, a glass lower electrode plate 115, a spacer 114, an upper electrode plate 113, and a transparent resistive film type analog touch panel 112 are sequentially laminated on a liquid crystal display (LCD display) 116. .

The conventional membrane switch 2 is shown in FIG.
As shown in (B) or (C), the membrane display plate 102 or 107 (107a, 107) that displays the operation content.
b) the upper electrode plate 104 on which the layers are stacked, the spacer 105 and the lower electrode plate 106 that keep the contacts open when not operated.
When the upper electrode plate 104 is pressed down and pressed, each electrode comes into contact with each other to have an operation input, or has a plurality of contact points continuously. The input is electrically read, and the operation button position information corresponding to the structural position of the read button is replaced with preset software-like button information corresponding to the membrane display, in response to a request from the device main unit or the host controller. A central processing unit (CP) having a software program for transmitting operation button position information and button information
U), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM) and an input / output terminal, or an appropriate button input control section having a logical circuit configuration that replaces this function. is there.

[0008]

However, among the above-mentioned conventional key input devices, the key input device shown in FIG. 10 (A) has the same function as the key input device shown in FIG. As shown in FIG.
As it becomes expensive,
Even in maintenance, it is not possible to replace only the most fragile button part,
Since the whole including the membrane switch 2 is replaced, it becomes expensive.

Further, in the conventional key input device shown in FIG. 10B, the same problem as described above and the problem that a sufficient operation feeling cannot be obtained because there is no button and no stroke is given. There is. In addition, in the conventional membrane-type key input device of the membrane switch shown in FIG. 10C, it is easy to exchange the display of the functional arrangement of the buttons, but since a stroke is not given, the operation feeling is sufficient. I can't get it.

Further, in the touch panel type key input device shown in FIG. 10 (E), it is easy to exchange the function arrangement display of the buttons only by displaying the software on the LCD display 116, but a stroke is given. Therefore, there is a problem that a sufficient operation feeling cannot be obtained.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a key input device that is inexpensive and can be easily replaced in a button assembly section prepared in advance.

Another object of the present invention is to make it thin and lightweight,
Another object of the present invention is to provide a key input device in which the operability of the device body is improved by fully utilizing the characteristic of the membrane switch, which is low cost.

Further, another object of the present invention is to mount a button assembly section having an operation section for the most suitable operation input such as a functional arrangement of buttons and a feeling of button operation depending on software or operator's preference and application. Key input device is provided.

[0014]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention provides a pressure-type switch having a basic button display displaying operation contents for basic operation, a plurality of buttons, and any one of a plurality of buttons. A pressure assembly for pressing a corresponding operation portion of the pressure switch in response to the pressing of the button, and a button assembly provided with a button assembly type identification means for identifying the type of the pressure switch, and the button assembly is a pressure switch. Button assembly attachment part that is detachably stacked on top of the button assembly, and when the button assembly is attached to the pressure type switch, the button assembly type identification means of the attached button assembly is detected to obtain button assembly type identification information. When the button assembly is mounted, the operation button position information corresponding to the type of button assembly is obtained from the operation button position information and the button assembly type identification information corresponding to the structural position of the operation unit where the pressure type switch is pressed. When the button assembly is not installed, the basic button display is operated. Is obtained by a configuration in which a control means for sending with the button assembly type identification information to generate an operation button position information corresponding to the position.

Further, in the button assembly according to the present invention, the plurality of buttons are arranged in a functional arrangement according to the type, and when the buttons are pressed, an operation load and a stroke are generated, and a position corresponding to the operation portion of the pressure switch is provided. Alternatively, when the pressure switch has a structure in which contacts are continuously provided without specifying the operation portion, the pressure switch is attached to a button base in which button attachment holes are formed at arbitrary positions within the range, and the pressure portion has a plurality of buttons. Each tip or button base is formed with roundness and a certain area, and button assembly type identification means is formed on the button base,
It is desirable for the button base to have a structure provided on the upper part of an elastic cushioning plate for absorbing impact and reducing operation noise when the button is pressed, in order to protect the pressure switch and the operator.

In the button assembly of the present invention, the entire surface or a part of the upper contacting surface of the pressure switch is formed of a magnetized member, and the button assembly attachment portion is attached to the magnetized member of the button assembly. Or a groove is provided between the arrangements of a plurality of buttons in the button assembly, and the button assembly mounting portion has a wire whose one end is fixed to the main body of the device and a groove which is inserted into the groove when mounting the button assembly. It is preferable that the other end of the wire is fixed to the wire in order to easily attach and detach the button assembly above the pressure switch.

Further, the basic button display according to the present invention includes a button display section in which a plurality of buttons are displayed, a button display section in which a plurality of buttons including a pressure-sensitive pen input area are displayed, and a pressure-sensitive pen. It is composed of an input area, and the button assembly has a pen input area opening portion that exposes the pen input area, so that it is possible to use both the button display input and the pen input when the button assembly is mounted,
desirable.

[0018]

In the present invention, since the button assembly can be mounted or unmounted by the button assembly mounting portion on the pressure type switch having the basic button display, it is added when the button assembly is not mounted. The pressure switch can be operated by the button displayed by the basic button display.

On the other hand, when the button assembly is attached, the button assembly type identifying means of the button assembly attached by the button assembly type detecting portion is detected to obtain the button assembly type identifying information, and further the control means depresses the pressurizing type switch. From the operation button position information and the button assembly type identification information corresponding to the structural position of the operated portion,
Since the operation button position information according to the type of button assembly is generated and sent together with the button assembly type identification information, the optimum button assembly such as the button functional arrangement and the button operation feeling can be achieved according to the operator's preference and application. You can select and easily replace it,
Further, the operating portion of the pressure switch can be operated by button assembly.

Further, according to the present invention, the button assembly includes a plurality of buttons.
These are installed as a functional arrangement according to the type,
Also, a button base that causes an operating load and a stroke when the button is pressed down, a pressurizing portion formed with a rounded and constant area on each tip or button base of the plurality of buttons, and a button formed on the button base. Since the assembly type identification means and the elastic shock absorbing plate for absorbing the impact and reducing the operation noise when the button is pressed, the pressurizing type switch is not included.

[0021]

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 shows a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the key input device of the present embodiment is roughly composed of a button assembly 1 and a device body 3 having a membrane switch 2 and the like. The assembly 14 is configured to be replaceable. Further, in this embodiment, the button assembly 1 or the exchange button assembly 14 may not be incorporated, and the apparatus main body 3 alone may be used.

The device body 3 includes a membrane switch 2,
A main body control unit 4, a button assembly type detection unit 5, a magnet 6, a button input control unit 7, a button assembly mounting unit 15, and the like are provided.
The membrane switch 2 is a switch which is an example of the above-mentioned pressurizing type switch, and an upper electrode film having a basic button display 8 displaying the operation content for basic operation formed on the surface faces the lower electrode film through a spacer. The arrangement is the same as that of the conventional device shown in FIG. 10A, and the upper electrode film is pressed with a force of about 10 g to 20 g, so that the upper electrode film and the lower electrode film come into contact with each other, and the operation input is performed. Having multiple or continuous contacts made.

The main body control section 4 is composed of a personal computer or the like. The button assembly type detection unit 5 combines the button assembly type identification mark 12 which is set for each type of the button assembly 1 or the exchange button assembly 14, as described later, with an optical or electrical or mechanical / electrical or electromagnetic element. It is detected by the method. The magnet 6 constitutes a part of the button assembly mounting portion 15, and attracts the button base 13 of the button assembly 1 or the exchange button assembly 14 by its magnetic force. Thereby, the button assembly 1 or the exchange button assembly 14 is configured to be detachable on the membrane switch 2.

The button input control unit 7 performs button assembly based on the input and reading of the membrane switch 2 and the operation button position information corresponding to the structural position of the read button and the button assembly type information read from the button assembly type detection unit 5. It has a software program that replaces the operation button position information with software-like button information according to the type, and sends out button assembly type information, operation button position information, and button information in response to a request from the apparatus body side or body control unit 4. It is composed of a microcomputer.

This microcomputer has a known structure having a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM) and an input / output terminal. The button input control section 7 can also be configured by a logical circuit configuration that substitutes the function of the microcomputer. The button input control section 7 constitutes the control means together with the main body control section 4.

On the other hand, the button assembly 1 and the exchange button assembly 14 are composed of a button 11, a button assembly type identification mark 12, a button base 13, a buffer plate 31, etc., respectively. different. The button base 13 has an operating load of about 10 to 20 g when the button 11 is pressed,
It is made of a sheet metal such as a steel plate having a thickness of about 0.1 mm, which is elastic and electrically conductive, which produces a stroke of about 2 mm to 2 mm.

The button assembly type identification mark 12 is provided on the button base 1 for each type of the button assembly 1 or the exchange button assembly 14 as described later.
3 is uniquely formed and can be detected by the button assembly type detection unit 5, and realizes the button assembly type identification means.

The buffer plate 31 is a member having a thickness of about 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm for protecting the operator and the membrane switch 2 by absorbing a shock when the button 11 is pressed to reduce the operation noise and has a low elasticity. It is made of polymer material or rubber.

With the above configuration, in this embodiment, when the button assembly 1 and the exchange button assembly 14 are not mounted on the apparatus body 3, key input can be performed based on the basic button display 8 of the apparatus body 3, so that a lightweight structure is provided. You can Further, when the most suitable operation input operation unit such as the functional arrangement of the button 11 and the operation feeling of the button 11 is required by the software or the operator's preference or application, the button assembly 1 or the exchange button having the operation unit is required. A desired operation can be easily performed only by selecting the assembly 14 and mounting it on the apparatus main body 3.

When the membrane switch 2 of the apparatus main body 3 is operated by the button assembly 1 or the exchange button assembly 14, 20 g
To 40 g and a sufficient operation feeling of a stroke of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Depending on the software, the button assembly type detection unit 5 and the button assembly type identification mark 1 can be obtained.
2, the dedicated software can be automatically started, so that the operability can be further improved.
Further, since the button assembly 1 and the replacement button assembly 14 to be replaced do not have an expensive membrane switch, they can be inexpensively constructed.

The membrane switch 2 is attached to the apparatus main body 3.
It is necessary to secure the structural strength corresponding to the key operation load when the is attached, and it is supported by the bottom plate of the membrane switch 2 or is reinforced by the rib structure in the device main body 3. Since it is not the gist of the above, its explanation is omitted.

Next, each part of this embodiment will be described in more detail. FIG. 2 shows a detailed explanatory view of an example of the button assembly of the embodiment of FIG. As shown in the plan view of FIG. 2A, each of the plurality of buttons 11 has a button display 24 such as letters or the like stamped on the top surface thereof.
It is integrally molded into 3.

As shown in the side view of FIG. 2 (B), each of the buttons 11 has a proper roundness and area for pressing the corresponding operating portion of the membrane switch 2 at the tip of the button mounting protrusion 25 at the bottom of the button 11. The pressurizing part 26 is formed.

The button base 13 is a plate-shaped member such as a metal plate or a plastic plate, and is a plan view of FIG.
As shown in the side view of FIG.
Operating load of 0g to 20g and 0.5mm to 2mm
A plurality of springs 21 that generate a certain stroke are formed in an arrangement or structure as required, and a button mounting hole 22 is formed at the center of each spring 21 as shown in FIG. A button assembly type identification mark 12, which will be described later, is formed on one side edge of the button base 13.

In the button 11 having the structure shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the position of the button mounting hole 22 corresponding to the operation portion of the membrane switch 2 shown in FIG. When the membrane switch 2 has a structure having continuous contacts that do not specify the operating portion, the button mounting holes 22 are freely attached within the range as shown in the side view of FIG. 2 (E). The button assembly frame 29 into which the protrusions 25 are inserted and fixed and structurally supports them as necessary.
Is provided.

Further, as shown in the enlarged views of FIGS. 2 (E) and 2 (F), the lower part of the button base 13 absorbs the impact when the button 11 is pressed to reduce the operation noise, and Also, a buffer plate 31 made of a polymer material having a low elasticity for protecting the membrane switch 2 and the device body 3 may be attached.

In the above description, the pressing unit 26 is the button 11
Although it has been described that it is provided at the tip of the button mounting protrusion 25 at the bottom of the button base 1, as shown by 26 'in FIG.
The pressing portion may be formed at the tip of the spring 21 'formed in the arrangement or structure according to need. In this case, the spring 21 '
A mounting protrusion 28 is formed in the vicinity of the pressurizing portion 26 ', and the mounting protrusion 28 is fitted and fixed in a mounting hole 27 formed in the lower center of the button 11'.

Next, details of another example of the button assembly of the embodiment of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in the plan view of FIG. 3 (A), each of the plurality of buttons 11 has a button display 24 such as characters stamped on the top surface thereof, and these are integrally molded in a button assembly temporary frame 23 made of plastic or the like. ing. As shown in the side view of FIG. 2B, each of the buttons 11 is formed with a pressing portion 34 having an appropriate roundness and area for pressing the corresponding operation portion of the membrane switch 2 at the bottom of the button 11.

On the other hand, as shown in the side view of FIG.
The button base 30 is a cushion 33 made of a molded product such as a sponge, and a low-elasticity polymer material that absorbs an impact when the button 11 is pressed to reduce operation noise and protects the operator, the membrane switch 2 and the apparatus body 3. Alternatively, the cushioning plate 31 made of rubber is laminated. Further, the button base 30 is provided with a button 11 as shown in the plan view of FIG.
The button mounting holes 32 through which the buttons are inserted are formed in an arrangement or structure as required, and when the button 11 is pressed, an appropriate operation load and stroke are generated, and the adjacent buttons 11 do not move. An appropriate operation feeling adjusting hole 35 for doing so is provided between the button mounting holes 32.

In the button 11 having the structure shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the position of the button mounting hole 32 corresponding to the operation portion of the membrane switch 2 shown in FIG. When the membrane switch 2 has a structure having continuous contacts that do not specify the operating portion, the side view of FIG. 3 (E) and the same figure (F) are shown at the positions of the free button mounting holes 32 within the range. As shown in the enlarged view of FIG.
Are fitted, and the front surface of the cushion 33 and the lower surface of the button 11 are adhered to each other with the double-sided tape 36. Further, as shown in FIG. 3F, a mask 37 such as paper or polyester film is provided on the surface of the cushion 33 where the button 11 is not located to prevent unnecessary adhesion.

In the above description, the pressing portion 34 having an appropriate roundness and area is provided below the button 11, but as shown by 38 in FIG. The pressing surface may be formed below the button 11.
In this case, the button base 30 is not provided with the button mounting hole 32 but only the operation feeling adjusting hole 35, and the pressing surface 38 is provided at a position corresponding to the button mounting hole as shown in FIG. , And is adhered to the surface of the cushion 33 with the double-sided tape 36.

The button base may be formed of a rubber molded product or the like as shown by 40 in the side view of FIG. As shown in the figure, the button base 40 has a slender and narrow elastic portion 41, a central top bonding surface 42, a pressing portion 43 formed below the bonding surface 42, and an end portion. And a lightened divot 44 that has been made. A part of the inside of the button 11 is hollowed out as a weight-reducing portion 45, and the lower surface of the button 11 is bonded and fixed to the bonding surface 42 of the button base 40.

The button assemblies of FIGS. 2 to 4 described above are
Both have a simple structure, are lightweight, and can be manufactured at low cost. In addition, the button assembly can be made into a curved surface by taking advantage of the features of the membrane switch. The arrangement of the buttons shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is the position corresponding to the operating portion of the membrane switch 2 or, if the membrane switch 2 has a structure having continuous contacts that do not specify the operating portion, the freedom within that range is provided. Although the button 11 is attached by connecting it at various positions, the button display temporary frame 23 is connected and handled in consideration of the assembling process to print the button display 24, etc.
It is possible to improve productivity and further reduce prices.

Next, the button assembly type detecting section 5 of the embodiment shown in FIG.
Each example of the button assembly type identification mark 12 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 (A1) shows a button assembly 1 having a button assembly type identification mark 12a depending on the presence or absence of a plurality of protrusions on one side edge. The presence or absence of the button assembly type identification mark 12a of the button assembly 1 is detected by the button detection switch array 50 that constitutes the button assembly type detection unit 5.

That is, as shown by the solid line in FIG. 5 (A2), the portion of the button assembly type identification mark 12a having the projection is turned on when the actuator of the corresponding button detection switch in the button detection switch row 50 moves. In the portion having no protrusion, the actuator of the corresponding button detection switch does not move and is off as indicated by the broken line in FIG. Therefore, FIG.
As shown in (A3), the button assembly type information is determined by the combination of the presence or absence of the protrusion of the button assembly type identification mark 12a, so that the button detection switch array 50 can obtain the button assembly information detection signal.

In addition, FIG. 5B1 shows a portion of the surface of the button assembly 1 in contact with the apparatus main body 3 of FIG. 1, which has an optically high reflectance portion (white portion in the figure) and a low reflectance portion. Part (in the figure,
An example in which a button assembly type identification mark 12b is provided in combination with a black portion) is shown. The button assembly type detection unit 5 of the apparatus body 3 to which the button assembly 1 having the button assembly type identification mark 12b is mounted
As shown in FIG. 5B2, the button detection photosensor 51
It is composed of

The button detection photosensor 51 is composed of a light emitting element and a light receiving element provided in pairs corresponding to each of a plurality of portions of the button assembly type identification mark 12b in which the reflectance is set. As shown in 5 (B2), it is possible to obtain a button assembly type detection signal having a level depending on whether the reflectance of the phototransistor, which is a light receiving element, is higher than the threshold value.

FIG. 5C1 shows an example in which a resistance sheet 52 having a different resistance value for each button assembly type is provided on a part of the surface of the button assembly 1 that contacts the apparatus body 3 of FIG. This resistance sheet 5
As shown in FIG. 5 (C2), the button assembly type detection unit 5 of the device main body 3 to which the button assembly 1 having 2 is mounted has a resistance detection contact 53, a pull-up resistor 54, an A / D converter 55, and It is composed of

The assembling type detecting section 5 of this configuration uses the A / D converter 55 based on the voltage division ratio between the pull-up resistor 54 and the resistance value of the resistance sheet 52 detected by the resistance detecting contact 53.
Since the input voltage level of 1 changes, a digital button assembly type detection signal having a value corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance sheet 52 can be obtained from the A / D converter 55.

Next, the button assembly mounting portion 1 of the embodiment shown in FIG.
5 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6A shows a recess 6 provided on the side of the apparatus main body 3 where the button assembly type detection unit 5 is located.
0 and the magnet 6 constitute the button assembly mounting portion 15. That is, the tip of the button assembly 1 is fitted into the recess 60 as shown at first, and then the other end of the button assembly 1 is placed on the magnet 6 as shown at.

Since the entire button assembly 1 is made of a magnetizable member, the button assembly 1 is attracted and fixed by the magnet 6. The entire button assembly 1 does not have to be formed of a magnetized member, and at least the portion in contact with the magnet 6 may be formed of a magnetized sheet metal or rubber.

FIG. 6B is a schematic plan view showing another example of the button assembly mounting portion 15. That is, the device main body 3 to which the button assembly 1 having a plurality of buttons 11 (not shown) on its surface is mounted has a fixing wire 61 whose one end is fixed to one end and an opposite end. Provided wire stopping portion 62
It has a button assembly attachment part 15 consisting of.

After the button assembly 1 is mounted on the apparatus main body 3, the fixing wire 61 is passed through a groove (not shown) provided in the gap of the button arrangement of the button assembly 1 to fix the fixing wire 61. By locking the other end to the wire stopper 62, the button assembly 1 is fixed to the apparatus main body 3 so as not to have a space and to prevent malfunction.

Next, the configuration and operation of the main body control section 4 and the button input control section 7 in the apparatus main body 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 shows a configuration diagram of an example of the main body control unit 4 and the button input control unit 7. In the figure, the same components as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted. In FIG.
The button input control unit 7 includes an input / output (I / O) port 71, a CPU
72, a RAM 73 and a ROM 74, for example, a one-chip microcomputer, and the main body control unit 4 includes an I / O port 75, a ROM 76, a RAM 77, and a CPU.
It is composed of a personal computer having 78. The I / O ports 71 and 75 are connected to each other.
Further, the membrane switch 2 and the button assembly type detection unit 5 are connected to the I / O port 71.

Next, the operation of the main body control section 4 and the button input control section 7 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, the button input control unit 7 determines whether the button assembly type identification mark 12 (12a, 12b) or the button assembly type detection information obtained by detecting the resistance sheet 55 is input from the button assembly type detection unit 5. If the button assembly type detection information is input (step 81), the button assembly type detection information is recognized (step 82), and the corresponding data table is prepared (step 83).

On the other hand, when it is determined in step 81 that the button assembly type detection information is not input, the button input control section 7 determines that the button assembly 1 or the replacement button assembly 14 is not mounted on the apparatus main body 3. , A basic operation data table corresponding to the basic button display 8 is prepared (step 84).

When the data table is prepared in the above step 83 or 84, the button input control section 7 reads out the data input from the operated button through the membrane switch 2 (step 85) and prepares the prepared data table. The coordinates corresponding to the operated button are detected using (step 86).

When the membrane switch 2 has a structure having continuous contacts that do not specify the operation section, the input position is read out as continuous coordinates (step 861) and prepared in advance by the button input control section 7. The button position reference coordinates are compared (step 862), the coordinates are replaced with the closest coordinates (step 863), and the operation button position information is determined (step 864). Control such as replacement of operation button position information and button information corresponding to the button assembly type may be performed by the main body control unit 4 or its upper controller.

When the coordinates are detected in step 86 or the position information is determined in steps 861 to 864 as described above, the main body control unit 4 subsequently converts the input button information into input button information (step 87). Then, the main body control unit 4 performs the following process (step 88).

Next, another example of the basic button display 8 and the button assembly of the key input device of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. The basic button display 8 in FIG. 9A has a configuration in which the button display 24 is provided on the entire surface of the switch sheet 91. In addition, FIG.
In the basic button display 8 of (B), a plurality of button displays 24 are provided in a half area of the switch sheet 92, and a pressure-sensitive pen input area 93 is provided in the remaining half area. The basic button display 8 shown in FIG. 9 (B) is provided on the membrane switch 2 having continuous contacts for button operation.

FIG. 9C shows a plan view of another example of button assembly. This button assembly 1'is a button assembly that is superimposed on the membrane switch 2 having the pressure-sensitive pen input area 93 shown in FIG. 9B as the basic button display 8, and the button 11 and the pen input area opening portion 94. Consists of. That is, since the pressure-sensitive pen input area 93 is exposed through the pen input area opening portion 94, the operator can input a desired character or the like into the pen input area 93 with a pen or the like.

The present invention is not limited to each of the above embodiments, and for example, the button assembly is a membrane switch 2.
The switch in the apparatus body 3 is not limited to this, but any switch of a pressure type can be applied. As another example of the pressure switch, the resistance value detected by the electrodes on each of the four sides of the resistance film type touch panel and the common electrode, or an electric resistance of an appropriate resistance value is set, and obtained when a voltage is applied. A coordinate reading controller for A / D converting the divided voltage bias to be generated and reading the operation button position information with the position input by numerical calculation as coordinate information, and FIG.
There is an analog type touch panel of (E).

When the coordinate reading controller is used, the position input from the coordinate reading controller may be read as continuous coordinates in step 861 of FIG. When this coordinate reading controller is used, the operation part is not specified, so the buttons can be mounted at any position within that range, so the degree of freedom in the functional arrangement of the buttons can be expanded and the operability can be improved. You can

Further, instead of the double-sided tape 36 shown in FIGS. 3F and 3G, an adhesive or a magic tape may be used to fix the button 11 to the surface of the cushion 33.

[0065]

As described above, according to the present invention,
The button assembly can be mounted or unmounted so that the button assembly can be mounted on the pressure switch such as a membrane switch having a basic button display so that the pressure switch is not mounted when the button assembly is not mounted. Since the button displayed by the basic button display can be operated, a desired button input operation can be performed with a lightweight structure.

Further, according to the present invention, when the button assembly is mounted, the button assembly type identifying means of the button assembly mounted by the button assembly type detecting portion is detected to obtain the button assembly type identifying information, and the control means is further provided. Generates operation button position information corresponding to the type of button assembly from the operation button position information corresponding to the structural position of the pressed operation portion of the pressure switch and the button assembly type identification information. By sending together with it, it is possible to select the optimum button assembly according to the operator's preference and application and easily replace it, so it is possible to always obtain the optimum button functional arrangement and button operation feeling etc. It is possible to operate the operation part of the pressurizing type switch with a sufficient operational feeling, and it is also possible to automatically activate the dedicated software of the control means by the button assembly type detection part and the button assembly type identification means. It can be further improved operability in the case.

Further, according to the present invention, the button assembly has the button base in which a plurality of buttons are attached with the functional arrangement according to the type, and when the button is pressed, an operation load and a stroke are generated. Since the structure is provided on the upper part of the elastic cushioning plate for absorbing the impact and reducing the operation noise when the button is pressed, the pressure switch and the operator can be protected.

Further, according to the present invention, since the button assembly does not include an expensive pressurizing switch, the button assembly can be constructed at low cost, and the buttons can be arranged freely, and maintenance is also possible. It can be constructed at low cost and can be easily replaced, improving maintainability.

Further, according to the present invention, the button assembly is formed by a member having magnetism on the entire surface or a part of the surface which comes in contact with the upper side of the pressure type switch, and the button assembly attaching portion is magnetized by the button assembly. It is composed of a magnet that is attracted to a member, or the button assembly has a groove between the arrangement of a plurality of buttons, and the button assembly attachment part has a wire whose one end is fixed to the device body and a button assembly attachment part. Since the wire stopper is provided to fix the other end of the wire that has passed through the groove, the button assembly can be attached / detached above the pressure type switch extremely easily with an inexpensive structure, and the workability when the button assembly is replaced can be improved.

Further, according to the present invention, the basic button display is composed of a button display section on which a plurality of buttons are displayed and a pressure-sensitive pen input area, and the button assembly is a pen input area for exposing the pen input area. With the configuration having the opening portion for use, since it is possible to use both the input by the button display and the pen input when the button is assembled, the operability of the device can be further improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a detailed explanatory view of an example of the button assembly of the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a detailed explanatory view of another example of the button assembly of the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of another example of the button assembly of the embodiment of FIG.

5 is a detailed explanatory diagram of each example of a button type detection unit and a button assembly type identification unit of the embodiment of FIG.

6 is a structural explanatory view of a button assembly mounting portion of the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of a main part of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining processing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of basic button display and button assembly of the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a schematic structure and the like of each example of a conventional device.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1, 1 ′ Button assembly 2 Membrane switch 3 Device body 4 Body control unit 5 Button assembly type detection unit 6 Magnet 7 Button input control unit 8 Basic button display 11 Buttons 12, 12a, 12b Button assembly type identification mark 13, 30, 40 Button base 14 Replacement button assembly 15 Button assembly mounting part 21, 21 'Spring 22, 32 Button mounting hole 23 Button assembly temporary frame 24 Button display 25 Button mounting protrusion 26, 26', 34, 43 Pressing part 28 Mounting protrusion 29 Button Assembly frame 31 Cushion plate 33 Cushion 35 Operation feeling adjustment hole 36 Double-sided tape 38 Pressing surface 41 Elastic portion 44 Light weight divot 52 Resistance sheet 61 Fixing wire 62 Wire stopping portion 72, 78 Central processing unit (CPU) 91, 92 Switch sheet 93 Pen input area 94 Pen input opening

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. A pressurization type switch having a basic button display for displaying operation contents for a basic operation, a plurality of buttons, and the pressurization type switch corresponding to depression of any one of the plurality of buttons. A button assembly having a pressing portion for pressing the operation portion and a button assembly type identifying means for identifying the type of the button assembly, and a button assembly for removably stacking the button assembly on the pressure switch. An attachment section; and a button assembly type detection section that, when the button assembly is mounted on the pressure switch, detects the button assembly type identification means of the mounted button assembly to obtain button assembly type identification information, From the operation button position information corresponding to the structural position of the pressed operation part of the pressure switch and the button assembly type identification information, the operation button position information corresponding to the type of the button assembly when the button assembly is attached, When the button assembly is not installed, the basic button display is operated. Key input device which generates an operation button position information corresponding to the position, characterized in that a control means for sending with the button assembly type identification information. 2. The button assembly, wherein the plurality of buttons have a functional arrangement according to the type, and when the buttons are pressed, an operation load and a stroke are generated, and the button assembly corresponds to the operation portion of the pressure switch. When the position or the pressurizing switch has a structure in which contacts are continuously provided without specifying the operating portion, the pressurizing switch is attached to a button base in which button attaching holes are formed at arbitrary positions within the range, and the pressurizing portion is The tip end of each of the plurality of buttons or the button base is formed with a rounded shape and a certain area, and the button assembly type identification means is formed on the button base. The button base absorbs a shock when the button is pressed to operate. 2. The key input device according to claim 1, wherein the key input device has a structure provided on an upper portion of an elastic cushioning plate for reducing sound. 3. The button assembly is formed by a member having magnetism on all or a part of a surface contacting above the pressurizing type switch, and the button assembly mounting portion has the magnetizable member of the button assembly. The key input device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the key input device is composed of a magnet attracted to. 4. The button assembly is provided with a groove between an array of a plurality of buttons, and the button assembly mounting portion has a wire whose one end is fixed to the main body of the device and a wire which is passed through the groove when the button assembly is mounted. The key input device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a wire stopper portion for fixing the other end of the wire. 5. The basic button display comprises a button display section on which a plurality of buttons are displayed and a pressure-sensitive pen input area, and the button assembly is a pen input area opening section for exposing the pen input area. The key input device according to claim 1, further comprising: