JPH097459A - Thin type switch and display panel having switch - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a thin type switch by which a stroke feeling can be obtained while making the most of a characteristic that a touch panel can be extremely thinned, and a display panel having a switch which can dispense with an image guide and by which a stroke feeling can be obtained. SOLUTION: This display panel having a switch is formed as a structure by superposing a thin type switch 80 on a display panel 2 having an information display function. The thin type switch 80 is superposed on the display panel 2, and is provided with switch parts 4a not less than one, and is provided with a transparent or translucent touch panel 4 which can operate these in a pushing-in stroke of almost 0 and one or more operation mechanism parts 30 arranged on this touch panel 4. The respective operation mechanism parts 30 are respectively provided with a transparent or translucent push button 32 to operate the corresponding switch parts 4a of the touch panel 4 by rotating in a constant stroke in the pressing direction with a fulcrum as the center and a restoring means 50 to apply restoring force to the push button 32 by using resiliencey between magnets 52 and 54.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention uses a thin switch used in, for example, FA (factory automation) equipment, vending machines, vending machines, information equipment, household electric appliances, medical operation equipment, and the like. Regarding display panel with switch.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A touch panel is a typical thin switch. In summary, a touch panel has one or more switch parts that can be operated with a stroke of almost 0 by pushing it in, or one or more switch parts that can be operated by touching or lightly pressing. It can be said to have a panel-shaped switch.

The touch panel has a resistance film type in which upper and lower transparent electrodes are opposed to each other with a slight space between transparent thin plates (this is also called a transparent electrode type; hereinafter the same), and light emitted from a light emitting element is a light receiving element. There are a photoelectric type in which the entry or the like is blocked or attenuated with a finger or the like, an ultrasonic type in which the ultrasound emitted from the ultrasonic wave oscillating element is blocked or attenuated by the finger or the like, and the like.

The touch panel 4 shown in FIG. 26 is of a resistive film type, and, in short, one or more switches which are turned on by being lightly (ie, having a stroke of almost 0) pressed from the outside between the transparent thin plates. Parts. More specifically, the touch panel 4 has a transparent thin plate 1 having a plurality of openings 12 on a transparent thin plate 6 having a transparent electrode 8 formed on the upper surface thereof.
0 is stacked, and the transparent thin plate 16 having the transparent electrode 18 formed on the lower surface is further stacked thereon. Transparent electrodes 8 and 18
May be a plurality of stripe-shaped electrodes orthogonal to each other, or one electrode, for example, the transparent electrode 18 may be a plurality of electrodes, and the other electrode, for example, a transparent electrode 8 may be a common electrode. Since both transparent thin plates 6 and 16 are thin plates, they are flexible. However, the lower transparent thin plate 6 may not be flexible.

A switch portion 4a is formed in each opening portion 12. In this example, when the desired opening portion 12 is lightly pressed from the transparent thin plate 16 side, the transparent thin plate 16 and the transparent electrode of the pressed portion are pressed. As the transparent electrode 18 bends, the transparent electrode 18 comes into contact with the underlying transparent electrode 8 through the opening 12 and is electrically turned on. However, the size, shape, number, etc. of each switch portion 4a are arbitrary, and there are also cases where a plurality of small switch portions 4a are combined (that is, electrically connected in parallel) and used as one switch portion. .

Such a touch panel 4 is shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, a display panel with a switch can be constructed by stacking it on a display panel 2 having an information display function (see, for example, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 61-723). The display panel 2 is typically a liquid crystal display.

The display panel 2 usually has, for example, FIG.
As shown in, a display area 2a is formed near the lower part of the switch section 4a of the touch panel 4 for displaying the contents selected by the operation of the switch section 4a, such as the control contents of the FA and the destination of the automatic ticket vending machine. There is. This makes it easy to select and operate the desired switch section 4a.

[0008]

The touch panel 4 described above is to be solved.
Has an advantage that the whole is at most about 1 mm thick and is extremely thin, while the switch portion 4a
Since the pushing stroke of is almost 0, specifically, it is extremely small, about 0.1 to 0.2 mm, so that the displacement cannot be perceived by a human finger, and therefore the switch unit 4
There is a problem that it is not possible to obtain a stroke feeling (this is also called an operation feeling) that a is operated. If the stroke feeling cannot be obtained, the operated person becomes uneasy because he / she does not feel that the switch section 4a has been operated. There are times when you need to press strongly. In particular, when a user wears gloves and pushes, a stroke feeling cannot be obtained at all.

Since the photoelectric and ultrasonic touch panels described above are operated by merely touching the surface of the touch panel with a finger (that is, pressing stroke 0), it is not possible to obtain a stroke feeling.

A display panel with a switch as shown in FIG. 29 has been proposed as a solution to the problem of lack of stroke on the touch panel (see, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-44857).

This display panel with a switch is provided on the display panel 2 as described above, more specifically, in each display area 2 thereof.
A switch unit 20 is provided on each a.

Each switch unit 20 includes a housing 2
2, a transparent push button 24, a switch mechanism 26 operated by the push button 24, and an image guide 28.
And The switch mechanism 26 has an electric contact and a return spring for returning the electric contact and the push button 24 (both not shown). The image guide 28 is formed by bundling a plurality of optical fibers and integrating them, whereby the display content of the display panel 2 can be floated to the upper surface of the image guide 28. Providing such an image guide 28 inevitably increases the distance between the surface of the display panel 2 and the push button 24 by providing the switch mechanism 26.
This is to prevent the display content of the display panel 2 from being displayed far behind the push button 24 and being difficult to see as it is.

In this switch-equipped display panel, the push stroke of the push button 24 can be secured to some extent, so that a stroke feeling can be obtained, but because of the use of the mechanical switch mechanism 26, the switch unit 20 is provided. Has a large thickness, and therefore the image guide 28 is necessary for the above reason, and there are the following problems. That is, the image guide 28 is a bundle of a plurality of optical fibers as described above,
Since there is a limit to increasing the number of optical fibers, the image quality is rough and it is difficult to display finely. Moreover, the light from the upper end surface of the optical fiber forming the image guide 28 is
Since it is emitted only within a range of about 70 degrees from directly above, it is difficult to see the display content of the display panel 2 from an oblique direction. Further, since such an image guide 28 is expensive, the entire display panel with switch is also expensive.

Therefore, the present invention makes it possible to obtain a stroke feeling while taking advantage of the feature that the touch panel can be made extremely thin, and by using it, an image guide is unnecessary and a stroke feeling is obtained. The main object of the present invention is to provide a display panel with a switch that can be used.

[0015]

A thin switch according to the present invention has a touch panel which has one or more switch parts and which can be operated with a stroke of almost zero, and one or more switch parts arranged on the touch panel. A push button for operating the corresponding switch section of the touch panel by rotating the operation mechanism section with a constant stroke in the pressing direction around the fulcrum as a center, and the push button It is characterized in that it is provided with a returning means for giving a returning force.

The switch-equipped display panel of the present invention has a display panel having an information display function, and is superposed on the display panel and has one or more switch portions, and the stroke for pushing the switch portion is substantially zero. A transparent or semi-transparent touch panel that can be operated with a touch panel, and one or more operation mechanism sections arranged on the touch panel, and each operation mechanism section has a constant stroke in the pressing direction around the fulcrum. And a transparent or semi-transparent push button for rotating the corresponding switch portion of the touch panel and a returning means for giving a restoring force to the push button.

According to the thin switch, when the push button of the operation mechanism section is pushed, the push button rotates with a fixed stroke around the fulcrum, thereby operating the corresponding switch section of the touch panel ( For example, it can be turned on). As described above, in this thin switch, since the stroke for pushing the push button can be secured, it is possible to obtain a clear stroke feeling while taking advantage of the feature that the touch panel can be made extremely thin.

The switch-equipped display panel has a structure in which the above-described thin switch using a touch panel is superposed on the display panel, and a mechanical switch is provided between the push button and the display panel. Since there is no need to provide a switch mechanism, the distance between the push button and the display panel can be reduced, and the display content of the display panel is displayed immediately near the back of the push button. It becomes unnecessary. Moreover, a stroke feeling can be obtained when the push button is operated.

[0019]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 is a sectional view partially showing an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch 80 having a resistive touch panel. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the push button in FIG.

The switch-equipped display panels of this embodiment and the embodiments described below have a structure in which a thin switch 80 is superimposed on a display panel 2 having an information display function. Each embodiment is different.

The display panel 2 is typically a liquid crystal display, but may also be an EL (electroluminescent) display, a plasma display, a thin CR display, or the like.
T, LED array, a combination of a nameplate or a liquid crystal shutter for displaying information, and a light-emitting body or a reflecting plate for illuminating it may be used, and the point is to have an information display function. In this case, when a magnet is used for the return unit 50 described later, a device that is not affected by the magnetic field, such as a liquid crystal display, an EL display, and a plasma display, is preferable. No special consideration is required, and there is no problem with a thin CRT.

The thin switch 80 is stacked on the display panel 2 and is provided with one or more transparent switch portions 4a which are turned on by being lightly pressed from the outside between the transparent thin plates. Of the touch panel 4 and one or more operation mechanism sections 30 provided on the switch section 4a of the touch panel 4.

Each operation mechanism section 30 has a fulcrum projection 45 on the lower surface, and is rotatable with a constant stroke in the pressing direction as indicated by arrow B with the tip of the fulcrum projection 45 as a fulcrum. The transparent push button 32 that pushes the corresponding switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 to turn it on by the operation portion 46 located on the lower surface portion apart from the fulcrum protrusion 45.
And a restoring means 50 provided near the end of the push button 32 away from the fulcrum projection 45 and applying a restoring force to the push button 32. Further, in each of the operation mechanism portions 30, in this embodiment, the support column 36 provided near the outside of the end portion of the push button 32, the support column 36 or a member connected to the support column 36 and the end portion of the push button 32 or a member connected to the support column 36 are mutually connected. And an engaging portion 40 that engages with each other to prevent the push button 32 from coming off.

In this embodiment, the display panel 2 has a display area 2a near the lower portion of the push button 32 for displaying the contents selected by operating the push button 32. Therefore, the desired push button 32 can be easily selected and operated.

Although the planar shapes of the display area 2a of the display panel 2 and the push button 32 are arbitrary, in this embodiment, as an example, the display area 2a of the display panel 2 is a quadrangle, and the push button 32 is pressed accordingly. The button 32 is also a quadrangle having substantially the same size as the display area 2a (see FIG. 2).

The fulcrum protrusion 45 is shown in FIG.
See also, near the one end of the push button 32, more specifically, on the lower surface of one side of the push button 32, the strip is provided in the shape of an elongated line along the side, and on the opposite side thereof. The operation portion 46 is provided near the end portion, more specifically, on the lower surface portion of the side opposite to the fulcrum projection 45. That is, the push button 32
The lower surface portion of the side opposite to the fulcrum projection 45 pushes the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 to turn it on.
It becomes 6.

Further, in this embodiment, the operation unit 46 is
An operation protrusion 47 for pressing the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 is provided so as to protrude downward. In this embodiment, one operation protrusion 47 has a hemispherical shape, but the shape, number, etc. of the operation protrusion 47 are not limited to this. For example, a plurality of operation protrusions 47 may be provided on the push button 32.
May be arranged in a straight line along the above-mentioned side, or plural pieces may be gathered in a triangular shape, a quadrangular shape, a circular shape, or the like. Further, the shape of the operation protrusion 47 may be a columnar shape, or a streak shape wider than the columnar shape.

The switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 may be provided at least below the operation protrusion 47 or below the operation portion 46 when the operation protrusion 47 is not provided. This also applies to the other embodiments described below.

Although the fulcrum projection 45 of the push button 32 is normally located on the non-switch part of the touch panel 4, it may be located on the switch part without using the switch part. The unused switch portion and the switch portion 4a to be operated by the push button 32 are, of course, different from each other.

It is not essential to provide the above-mentioned operation protrusion 47 on the operation portion 46 of the push button 32. However, if such operation protrusion 47 is provided, the target switch portion of the touch panel 4 is provided by the operation protrusion 47. Since it is possible to surely press the 4a with a small force, the reliability of the switch operation is improved.

On the upper surface of the push button 32, the operating portion 46
In the present embodiment, a line 48 of a mark for marking, which serves as a mark for the pressing operation, is provided near the upper part of the mark. The mark protrusion 48 is not essential, but if it is provided, the operable portion of the push button 32 can be easily found, so that the push operation of the push button 32 is facilitated.

It is needless to say that the operation protrusion 47 and the mark protrusion 48 as described above may be provided in an embodiment other than FIG. Also, in all examples,
For convenience of illustration, the operation portion 46 of the push button 32 is shown on the left side, but in actual use, the operation portion 4 is shown.
Thin switch 80 so that 6 comes to the lower side or the operator side
The operability is improved by arranging.

In this embodiment, the returning means 50 is provided near the end of the push button 32 opposite to the fulcrum projection 45, that is, near the side on the same side as the operating portion 46.
In this embodiment, the return means 50 utilizes the repulsive force between the permanent magnets, and the magnetic poles are positioned vertically at the end of the push button 32 opposite to the fulcrum projection 45. The movable-side magnet 52 provided and a fixed-side magnet 54 that is provided on the back surface of the display panel 2 and that opposes each other with the same polarity as the movable-side magnet 52 when the push button 32 is pushed down. I have it.

Both magnets 52, 54 are, for example, permanent magnets. Unlike the example shown in FIG. 1, the movable magnet 52 may have a part thereof exposed from the push button 32. A part of the fixed-side magnet 54 of the embodiment described later may be exposed from the column 36. These are the same in the other embodiments.

An example of the plane arrangement of the movable magnet 52 is shown in FIG. The movable-side magnet 52 may be provided on the entire side opposite to the fulcrum projection 45, or may be provided on a part near the center of the side as in this example, or on the side. It may be provided near both ends. Which one is selected may be determined according to the repulsive force required between the movable magnet 52 and the fixed magnet 54. However, in either case, the opposing fixed magnet 54 is provided in the portion facing the movable magnet 52.

In this embodiment, the engaging portion 40 has a structure in which the end portion 34 of the push button 32 and the projecting portion 38 of the column 36 are engaged with each other to prevent the push button 32 from coming off.

The support column 36 forms the engaging portion 40 and supports the fixed magnet 54 in the embodiment described later, and may be provided so as to surround the periphery of the push button 32 or the push button 32. It may be provided only on two opposite sides of 32, more specifically, on the outside of the side on the fulcrum projection 45 side and the side on the opposite side (see, for example, FIGS. 17 and 20).

The operation of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 will be described. Normally, the operation portion 46 side of the push button 32 is lifted by the repulsive force between the movable side magnet 52 and the fixed side magnet 54. However, since there is the engaging portion 40, the push button 32 does not come out (jump out). Since the thickness of the display panel 2 is usually thin, for example, in the case of a liquid crystal display, it is about 3 mm. Therefore, even if both the magnets 52 and 54 are opposed to each other with the display panel 2 interposed therebetween, a sufficient repulsive force can be obtained. You can

When the push button 32 is pressed against the repulsive force between the magnets 52 and 54, the push button 32 moves in the direction of arrow B (more specifically, counterclockwise) with the fulcrum projection 45 as a fulcrum. It can be turned on by pressing the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 with its operating protrusion 47 by rotating the switch portion 4a with a constant stroke. At that time, the more the push button 32 is pushed down, the stronger the repulsive force between the magnets 52 and 54 becomes. Therefore, in addition to the stroke feeling, a great response can be obtained.

When the pushing of the push button 32 is stopped, the push button 32 returns due to the repulsive force between the magnets 52 and 54. Further, the switch section 4a of the touch panel 4 returns by itself and turns off.

As described above, in the thin switch 80, since the stroke for pushing the push button 32 can be secured, a clear stroke feeling can be obtained while taking advantage of the feature that the touch panel can be made extremely thin. it can. As a result, it is possible to give a feeling of security to the manipulating person by giving a clear response that the switch portion is pressed. The stroke of this push button 32 is
In the case of this embodiment, it is defined by the distance between the lower end of the operation projection 47 and the upper surface of the touch panel 4, and, for example, 0. Even if it is about several mm to 2 mm, a sufficient stroke feeling can be obtained.

The switch-equipped display panel is formed by stacking the above-mentioned thin switch 80 using the touch panel 4 on the display panel 2, and between the push button 32 and the display panel 2 shown in FIG. Since it is not necessary to provide a mechanical switch mechanism unlike the case of the conventional example, the push button 32
And the display panel 2 can be brought close to each other. For example, the stroke of the push button 32 is about 0.5 mm,
Even if the height of the operation protrusion 47 is set to about 0.2 mm, the thickness of the touch panel 4 is as small as about 1 mm. Therefore, the distance between the lower surface of the push button 32 and the upper surface of the display panel 2 is set to the value of the push button 32. 1.7 if not pushed down
It can be made very small, such as about mm.
Therefore, since the display content of the display panel 2 is displayed in the immediate vicinity of the back of the push button 32, the image guide is not needed unlike the case of the conventional example of FIG. As a result, the display content of the display panel 2 can be viewed with a good image quality of the display panel 2 itself without roughening. Moreover, since the image guide for limiting the viewing angle is not used, the display content of the display panel 2 can be viewed well even in an oblique direction. Further, since an expensive image guide is not required and a complicated switch mechanism is not required, the structure is simple, so that the cost of the switch-equipped display panel can be reduced. Moreover, a stroke feeling can be obtained when the push button 32 is operated.

Further, in this embodiment, since the fixed side magnet 54 may be attached to the back surface of the display panel 2, it is arranged between the push button 32 and the touch panel 4 or in the support column 36 as compared with the later-described embodiment. , Simple structure and assembly.

Further, since it is possible to reduce the width of the support column 36 without providing the fixed-side magnet 54 in the support column 36, the operation mechanism section 30 can be arranged at a high density.

Incidentally, the touch panel 4 and the push button 32
In this embodiment, the display panel 2 is made transparent as described above in order to be combined with the display panel 2.
Depending on the display contents and the like, it is not always necessary to be transparent, and it may be semi-transparent as long as light from the display panel 2 below can be transmitted. The same applies to the other embodiments combined with the display panel 2.

Further, the thin switch 80 can be used without being superposed on the display panel 2. For example, the thin switch 80 is used separately from the display panel 2 or in combination with other devices. In that case, since it is not necessary to transmit the light from the display panel 2 below, the touch panel 4 and the push button 32 need not be transparent or translucent, and may be opaque. In that case,
To identify the push button 32, characters, symbols, or the like may be written, marked, or attached on the surface of the push button 32. The same applies to the other examples.

The fulcrum projection 45 may have a shape other than the single streak shape as shown in FIG. For example, a plurality of dot-shaped or short streak-shaped fulcrum projections 45 may be arranged as an example.

As in the example shown in FIG. 3, the push button 3
Two short streak-like fulcrum projections 45, 45 are provided in a row in the vicinity of one end of the two, more specifically, in the vicinity of both sides of the one end, and in the vicinity of the opposite end. The operation protrusion 47 may be provided at a position located between the two fulcrum protrusions 45, 45, that is, in the vicinity of the center of the opposite end.

The switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 is usually located at the intersection of the transparent electrodes 8 and 18 (for these, see also FIG. 26 and its description) which are orthogonal to each other, as shown by hatching in FIG. If the structure and arrangement of the fulcrum protrusion 45 and the operation protrusion 47 are formed as described above, even if a plurality of operation mechanism units 30 having the same structure are arranged in parallel, the fulcrum protrusion of one push button 32 is formed. Since the distance between 45 and the switch portion 4a operated by the push button 32 adjacent thereto can be made larger than that in the case of the single fulcrum protrusion 45, even if the integration density of the operation mechanism portion 30 is increased, The possibility of an erroneous operation in which the adjacent switch unit 4a is accidentally turned on can be further reduced.

Further, the fulcrum projection 45 as described above is
The push button 32 does not necessarily have to be provided at the end portion thereof, but may be provided at both side portions near the central portion of the push button 32. The both side portions are provided to prevent the fulcrum projection 45 from obscuring the display on the display panel 2 by avoiding the central portion. In this case also, in the vicinity of the end of the push button 32 away from the fulcrum projection 45, there is the above-described operation unit 46 that presses the switch unit 4a of the touch panel 4 to turn it on. The restoring means 50 is generally provided near the end on the same side as the operating portion 46, but may be provided near the end on the opposite side to the operating portion 46.

When combined with the display panel 2, a convex lens portion 70 may be provided inside or under the push button 32, as in the example shown in FIG. In that case, the display area 2a of the display panel 2 is usually positioned within the focal length of the convex lens portion 70. If such a convex lens section 70 is provided, the display content of the display panel 2 therebelow can be enlarged by the convex lens section 70, in other words, the display content can be displayed in a raised state, and thus the display content of the display panel 2 can be further enhanced. You can make it easier to see.

Moreover, the convex lens portion 70 is attached to the push button 32.
Not the space between the display panel 2 and the push button 32
If the convex lens portion 70 is provided, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the entire display panel with a switch from being increased because the extra space is not provided if it is provided inside or on the lower surface portion.

The lower surface of the convex lens portion 70 may be slightly recessed as in the example shown in FIG. 4, may be a flat surface, or may be projected downward from the lower surface of the push button 32.

The push button 32 having the convex lens portion 70 as described above has, for example, the push button 32 made of a transparent resin having a relatively small refractive index and the convex lens portion 70 made of a transparent resin having a relatively large refractive index. It can be formed by double molding or fitting.

The convex lens portion 70 as described above can of course be applied to the other embodiments described below,
The same effects as those described above can be obtained. The convex lens section 70 may be a Fresnel lens that functions as a convex lens.

The surface of the push button 32 may be provided with antireflection processing or antibacterial coating. This also applies to the following examples.

Further, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the upper surface of at least the push button 32 and the gap 72 existing around the push button 32 can be more easily arranged in parallel with the operation mechanism sections 30. The entire upper surface may be covered with a thin transparent sheet 74 having flexibility. The same applies to the other examples.

By doing so, water droplets or dust enter the inside of the gap 72 and adhere to the surface of the touch panel 4, or water droplets spread between the touch panel 4 and the display panel 2 to display the display on the display panel 2. Can be prevented from becoming difficult to see. However, since the resistance film type touch panel 4 usually has a waterproof function, a functional failure due to water droplets does not usually occur. Further, when used in a dusty environment such as a factory, the surface of the push button 32 can be easily cleaned. Thus, by providing the sheet 74, a drip-proof and dust-proof structure can be easily realized.

The material of the sheet 74 is, for example, transparent silicone rubber or transparent PET (polyethylene terephthalate). In the former case, since the sheet 74 has a very large flexibility, the sheet 74 may have a simple flat plate shape. Since the latter is a little less flexible, the part on the push button 32 is
It is preferable that the push button 32 is easily pushed by applying so-called embossing, which is raised according to the stroke of 2.

Next, another embodiment will be described. However, the description similar to that of the previous embodiment will be omitted, and the differences from the previous embodiment will be mainly described.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the return means 50 utilizes the repulsive force between the permanent magnets, and the push button 3
The movable-side magnet 52 is provided in the end portion on the side opposite to the fulcrum protrusion 45 so that the magnetic poles are located on the left and right, and the magnetic poles are provided on the left and right inside the base of the support column 36. In addition, when the push button 32 is pushed down, the fixed magnet 54 having the same polarity as the movable magnet 52 and opposing each other inside and outside is provided.

Also in the case of this embodiment, since the repulsive force between the magnets 52 and 54 becomes stronger as the push button 32 is pushed down, a great feeling can be obtained in addition to the stroke feeling.

Further, since the magnetic poles of both magnets 52 and 54 are positioned in the lateral direction, the thickness of the magnet portion can be reduced, and as a result, the thin switch 80 and thus the switch-equipped display panel as a whole can be made even thinner. Becomes possible.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the return means 50 utilizes the repulsive force between the permanent magnets, and the push button 3
The movable magnet 52 is provided in the end portion of the second side opposite to the fulcrum protrusion 45 so that the magnetic poles are located vertically, and the magnetic poles are provided in the root portion of the column 36 so that the magnetic poles are located vertically. In addition, when the push button 32 is pushed down, the stationary magnet 54 has the same polarity as the movable magnet 52 and vertically opposes and repels each other. Push button 32
A columnar operation protrusion 47 for pressing the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 is protruded from the operation portion 46 on the opposite side of the fulcrum protrusion 45.

Also in this embodiment, since the repulsive force between the magnets 52 and 54 becomes stronger as the push button 32 is pushed down, a great feeling can be obtained in addition to the stroke feeling.

Further, since it is not necessary to provide the movable-side magnet 52 in the support column 36, the width of the support column 36 can be reduced,
As a result, a high-density arrangement of the operation mechanism unit 30 becomes possible.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the return means 50 utilizes the elasticity (repulsive force) of the spring, and the push button 32 is used.
Of one or more compression coil springs 60 provided between the touch panel 4 and the end opposite to the fulcrum projection 45. The compression coil spring 60 may be one piece or a plurality of pieces may be arranged.

In the case of this embodiment, the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 may be pushed below the compression coil spring 60, or by other means, for example, the above-mentioned operation protrusion 47.
Alternatively, the switch portion 4a may be pressed with the provision of the above.

Also in this embodiment, since the push button 32 can be pushed down, a stroke feeling can be obtained.

Further, in this embodiment, since no magnet is used, there is no possibility that the influence of the magnetic field will be exerted on others.

Instead of the compression coil spring 60, a chevron-shaped leaf spring is provided along the fulcrum projection 45 (that is, FIG. 8).
In (in the front-back direction of the paper surface). By doing so, only one leaf spring is required.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, the column 36 is located below the peripheral portion 34 of the push button 32 (in other words, in the back).
It is an example of being located (in other words, hidden).

By doing so, as shown in the front view of FIG. 10, the columns 36 do not appear on the surface, so the surface is very clean and the appearance is good.

Moreover, since the push button 32 can be made large, it is easy to push the target push button 32 without fail, and the operability is improved.

Alternatively, since the support 36 does not interfere,
Since the operating mechanism units 30 can be arranged close to each other, high density arrangement is possible.

The individual embodiments will be described below, focusing on the differences from the previous embodiments.

The embodiment of FIG. 9 has a restoring means 50 of the same idea as the embodiment of FIG. However, this return means 50
The movable-side magnet 52 that constitutes the operating projection 4 that protrudes downward from the end of the push button 32 opposite to the fulcrum projection 45.
It is provided in the lower part of 7. The corresponding switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 can be pushed by the operation protrusion 47 to turn it on. Since the operation and effect of this returning means 50 is the same as that of the embodiment of FIG. 1, duplicate description will be omitted here.

Further, in this embodiment, as in the example shown in FIG. 11, the hook portion 44 protruding downward from the peripheral portion of the push button 32 and the projecting portion 38 provided on the upper portion of the column 36 are engaged with each other. The engaging portion 40 is configured so as to prevent the push button 32 from coming off. The same applies to the embodiment of FIG. The hook 44 and the operation protrusion 47.
That is, the engaging portion 40 and the returning means 50 are provided at positions where they do not interfere with each other.

The embodiment of FIG. 12 has a restoring means 50 of the same idea as the embodiment of FIG. However, this returning means 5
The movable-side magnet 52 forming 0 is provided at the base of the operation protrusion 47. The corresponding switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 can be pushed by the operation protrusion 47 to turn it on.
Since the operation and effect of this returning means 50 is the same as that of the embodiment of FIG. 7, duplicate description will be omitted here.

Next, another example of the fulcrum of the rotation of the push button 32 will be described.

In the embodiment of FIG. 13, instead of providing the fulcrum projection 45 on the lower surface of the push button 32 as in the above-described embodiments, a fulcrum projection 45 is provided on one end surface of the push button 32 and The protrusion 45 is rotatably fitted in a recess 37 provided in the strut 36 facing the protrusion 45. The fulcrum projections 45 and the recesses 37 may be semi-cylindrical or plural hemispherical. Return means 50
Is of the same idea as the embodiment of FIG. Also in the case of this embodiment, with the center of the fulcrum projection 45 as the fulcrum, the push button 32 is rotated in the pressing direction by a constant stroke as shown by arrow B to press the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4. You can Since the operation and effect of the returning means 50 are the same as those of the embodiment of FIG. 6, duplicated description will be omitted here.

In the embodiment of FIG. 13, the fulcrum projection 45
Since the button is not on the lower surface of the push button 32, the thickness of the thin switch 80, and thus the thickness of the switch-equipped display panel can be reduced.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the push button 32 has a hinge portion 3 which is thinner and more flexible than the other portions.
The entire cross-sectional shape is almost L on the support portion 33a via 3b.
It is integrated into a letter shape. Support part 33a
Are fixed to the columns 36 by means such as sticking.
Therefore, in this embodiment, the engaging portion 40 for preventing the push button 32 from coming off is unnecessary. Return means 50
Is of the same idea as the embodiment of FIG. However, since the hinge portion 33b has a restoring force due to its elasticity and can return the push button 32 to its original state (that is, to the horizontal state), both magnets 52,
54 may not be provided. In that case, the hinge portion 33b
Serves as both the fulcrum of rotation and the returning means.

When the push button 32 is pressed, the hinge portion 33b bends, and the push button 32 rotates about the fulcrum in the pressing direction with a constant stroke as shown by an arrow B, and the touch panel 4 is moved by the operation protrusion 47. The switch portion 4a of can be pressed. When the pushing of the push button 32 is stopped, the push button 32 returns to the original state by the repulsive force between the movable side magnet 52 and the fixed side magnet 54 and the restoring force of the hinge portion 33b.

In the embodiment of FIG. 14, since the fulcrum projection 45 and the engaging portion 40 as described above are not necessary, the structure of the operating mechanism portion 30 can be further simplified by that much and the assembling can be performed. Will also be easier.

The touch panel is, in addition to the resistive film type touch panel 4 as described above, a photoelectric type touch panel which interrupts or attenuates the light emitted from the light emitting element entering the light receiving element as described above, or a super touch panel. An ultrasonic touch panel that intermittently or attenuates the ultrasonic waves emitted from the sound wave oscillation element from entering the vibration receiving element may be used. Therefore, next, an embodiment using the photoelectric touch panel 114 or the ultrasonic touch panel 124 will be described. However, the description similar to that of the previous embodiment will be omitted, and the differences from the previous embodiment will be mainly described.

FIG. 15 is a sectional view partially showing an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch 80 having a photoelectric touch panel. FIG. 16 is a plan view of the push button portion in FIG.

The thin switch 80 in the embodiment of FIG. 15 is provided with an operation mechanism section 30 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and a photoelectric touch panel 114. Therefore, the duplicate description of the operation mechanism section 30 is omitted here.

Referring also to FIG. 17, touch panel 114 has a plurality of light emitting elements 84 for outputting light 86 and a plurality of light receiving elements 90 for receiving the light 86 and converting the light 86 into electric signals on the peripheral portion of substrate 82. And the matrix-shaped optical paths 88 are formed in the space between the surface of the substrate 82 and the push button 32. Near the intersection of the two optical paths 88, the switch section 114
It is a.

The root of each pillar 36 and the fulcrum projection 45
Holes or notches 39 and 49 through which the light 86 passes are provided at the tip end of each. However, that portion may be formed of a transparent resin or the like. Also, holes or notches 49
Instead of providing the fulcrum, the fulcrum projection 45 may be divided.

The optical path 88 in the vertical direction (vertical direction in FIG. 16) is located below the operating portion 46 of the push button 32. In this example, the operation portion 46 is cut diagonally,
The area of the operating portion 46 entering the optical path 88 in the vertical direction is increased so that the optical path 88 in the vertical direction can be blocked more reliably by the portion of the operating portion 46. If necessary, an opaque sponge rubber or the like may be attached to the operation portion 46, and in this case, the optical path 8 in the vertical direction is formed.
The area for blocking 8 can be further increased.

The substrate 82 is, for example, a transparent or semitransparent glass substrate. However, by substituting the substrate 82 or the like for the substrate constituting the display panel 2, the substrate 82
May be omitted.

Each light emitting element 84 is, for example, an LED, a semiconductor laser, or the like. Each light receiving element 90 is, for example, a photodiode, a phototransistor, or the like.

The light 86 output from each light emitting element 84 is preferable because infrared light is invisible to the human eye, but of course visible light may be used. In addition, the method of causing each light emitting element 84 to emit light is
A method of constantly emitting light may be used, or a method of sequentially emitting light using a microcomputer or the like (this is also called a sequential light emitting method or a scanning method) may be used. This microcomputer or the like may also be used as, for example, a component of the detection circuit 92 described below.

In this example, as shown in FIG. 17, in each of the vertical and horizontal light receiving elements 90, the position (coordinates) of the intersection of the light path 88 where the light amount is reduced is detected in response to the signal from each light receiving element 90. That is, the detection circuit 92 for specifying the operated switch section 114a is connected. However, such a detection circuit 92 may not be attached to the touch panel 114 but may be a circuit or a microcomputer provided in a device to which the touch panel 114 is connected.

Conventionally, an operation of blocking the light 86 is performed by touching the surface of the touch panel 114 with a finger or the like, and if the state is left as it is, there is no movable part and the pushing stroke is 0. Can't get

On the other hand, in this embodiment, the push button 3
The light 86 is configured to be blocked or attenuated by pushing down 2. That is, when the push button 32 is pushed down, the push button 32, more specifically, the operating portion 46 thereof, is inserted into the optical path 88. If the push button 32 is opaque,
Thereby, the light 86 is completely blocked. Push button 32
Is transparent or semi-transparent, light cannot be completely shielded, but the amount of light is reduced due to refraction, attenuation, etc. in the operation portion 46 of the push button 32, and the output signal level from the corresponding light receiving element 90 is reduced. Thereby, it is possible to detect that the push button 32 is inserted in the optical path 88. Push button 32
Pushbutton 32 located in the light path 88 to more strongly block or attenuate the light 86 when is transparent or translucent.
The end surface of the above may be made opaque by painting it black or the like, and the end surface may be subjected to a satin finish for diffusing the light 86 or a mirror finish for reflecting the light 86. Alternatively, since the movable magnet 52 is opaque, it may be arranged so that it is located on the optical path 88. Further, as described above, an opaque sponge rubber or the like may be attached to the operation portion 46.

As described above, in the thin switch 80, since the stroke for pushing the push button 32 can be secured, a clear stroke feeling can be obtained, unlike the conventional photoelectric touch panel alone.

Further, in the case of the conventional photoelectric touch panel alone, there is a problem that if a foreign matter (for example, insect, dust, etc.) adheres to the surface of the touch panel, the optical path is blocked by the foreign matter, resulting in malfunction. In 80, even if foreign matter such as insects and dust adheres to the push button 32, malfunction does not occur due to it. Therefore, the reliability is high.

In the switch-equipped display panel of this embodiment, the distance between the push button 32 and the display panel 2 is made small (for example, 1 to 2 m), as in the case of the previous embodiment.
Since the display contents of the display panel 2 are displayed in the immediate vicinity of the back of the push button 32, the display panel 2 can be displayed without using an image guide or the like for raising the display. The displayed contents can be clearly seen.

Incidentally, the operation mechanism section 3 for arranging in a matrix.
0 and the number of optical paths 88 are 3 × as in the example shown in FIG.
The number is not limited to 3, and may be any value of m × n (m and n are integers of 1 or more), and may be specifically determined according to the application.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view partially showing an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch 80 having a touch panel of ultrasonic type. FIG. 19 is a plan view of the push button portion in FIG.

The thin switch 80 in the embodiment of FIG. 18 is provided with an operating mechanism section 30 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and an ultrasonic touch panel 124. Therefore, the duplicate description of the operation mechanism section 30 is omitted here.

The touch panel 124 is based on the same technical idea as the touch panel described in, for example, US Pat. No. 5,177,327.

That is, referring to FIG. 20, the touch panel 124 has a plurality of oscillating elements 96 for outputting the ultrasonic waves 100.
A plurality of vibration receiving elements 106 that receive the ultrasonic wave 100 and convert it into an electric signal are arranged on the surface of the peripheral portion of the substrate 94 so as to face each other in the vertical and horizontal directions. The structure 102 is formed. The vicinity of the intersection of the two ultrasonic paths 102 is a switch section 124a. In this case, the ultrasonic wave 10
Since 0 has extremely high directivity, one ultrasonic path 102
There is usually no risk that the ultrasonic wave 100 propagating in the (1) will enter the adjacent ultrasonic wave path 102 and interfere with it.

The ultrasonic path 102 in the vertical direction (vertical direction in FIG. 19) is located below the operating portion 46 of the push button 32. An ultrasonic absorber 110, which will be described later, is attached to the operation portion 46, but in order to increase the attachment area and the absorption area of the ultrasonic waves 100, the operation portion 46 is cut diagonally. Ultrasonic absorber 1
10 is attached.

The substrate 94 is, for example, a transparent or semitransparent glass substrate.

The ultrasonic wave 100 is a surface acoustic wave in this example, and the ultrasonic wave 100 from the oscillating element 96 is guided to the surface of the substrate 94 via the waveguide 98 and the ultrasonic wave 100 on the surface of the substrate 94. Is the vibration receiving element 10 via the waveguide 104.
Guided to 6.

Each oscillating element 96 and each vibrating element 106
Is a piezoelectric vibrator, for example.

In this example, as shown in FIG. 20, in each of the vertical and horizontal vibration receiving elements 106, the position (coordinates) of the intersection point of the ultrasonic path 102 in which the ultrasonic waves 100 are attenuated in response to the signal from each vibration receiving element 106 is displayed. ) Is detected, that is, the switch circuit 124a that has been operated is specified, and the detection circuit 108 is connected. However, such a detection circuit 108 may not be attached to the touch panel 124 but may utilize a circuit or a microcomputer provided in the device to which the touch panel 124 is connected.

Conventionally, an operation of absorbing the ultrasonic wave 100 and attenuating the ultrasonic wave 100 by touching the surface of the substrate 94 constituting the touch panel 124 with a finger or the like has been performed. Since the pushing stroke is 0, a stroke feeling cannot be obtained.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, the push button 3
The ultrasonic wave 100 is attenuated by pushing down 2. Therefore, the ultrasonic absorber 110 is provided on the operation portion 46 of the push button 32. The ultrasonic absorber 110 is appropriately soft and absorbs the ultrasonic wave 100 well, and is, for example, rubber such as silicone rubber or urethane rubber. The ultrasonic absorber 110 may be provided at least in a portion located in the ultrasonic path 102.
However, the push button 32 may be formed of an elastic resin or the like. In that case, since the push button 32 itself can absorb and attenuate the ultrasonic wave 100, the ultrasonic absorber 11 can be used.
It is not necessary to set 0.

Since the column 36 is usually made of a hard resin or the like and hardly absorbs the ultrasonic wave 100, there is no inconvenience even if it exists on the ultrasonic path 102. If there is any inconvenience, the pillar 36 located on the ultrasonic path 102
A notch may be provided at the root of the.

When the push button 32 is pushed down, the ultrasonic absorber 110 comes into contact with the ultrasonic path 102 on the surface of the substrate 94, the ultrasonic wave 100 is absorbed by the ultrasonic absorber 110, and it is attenuated. Since the output signal level from the vibration receiving element 106 is lowered, the switch unit 1 operated
24a can be detected.

As described above, in the thin switch 80, since the stroke of pushing the push button 32 can be secured, a clear stroke feeling can be obtained, unlike the conventional ultrasonic touch panel alone. .

Further, in the case of the conventional ultrasonic touch panel using surface acoustic waves alone, when a foreign matter (for example, insects, dust, water drops, oil film, etc.) adheres to the surface, the ultrasonic waves are absorbed thereby. Therefore, there is a problem that malfunction may occur, but in this thin switch 80, the push button 3
Even if foreign matter such as insects, dust, water droplets, oil film, etc. adheres to 2, the malfunction does not occur. Therefore, the reliability is high.

In the switch-equipped display panel of this embodiment, the distance between the push button 32 and the display panel 2 is small (for example, 1 to 2 m) as in the case of the previous embodiment.
Since the display contents of the display panel 2 are displayed in the immediate vicinity of the back of the push button 32, the display panel 2 can be displayed without using an image guide or the like for raising the display. The displayed contents can be clearly seen.

The operation mechanism section 3 for arranging in a matrix is used.
The number of 0s and ultrasonic paths 102 is not limited to 3 × 3 as in the example shown in FIG. 20, but may be arbitrary as m × n (m and n are integers of 1 or more), and specifically, It may be decided according to the application.

Further, as the ultrasonic wave 100, a torsional wave propagating inside the substrate 94 may be used instead of the surface acoustic wave as described above, as in the example shown in FIG. In that case, the oscillation element 96 and the vibration receiving element 106 are attached to the end faces of the substrate 94 which face each other. This method is also called an inner surface waveguide type.

Also in this case, if the push button 32 is pushed down and the ultrasonic absorber 110 is pressed against the substrate surface on the path of the ultrasonic waves 100, more specifically, it is pushed somewhat more strongly than in the case of using surface acoustic waves. When applied, ultrasonic waves 10 propagate inside
Since 0 (torsional wave) is attenuated, it is possible to detect that the push button 32 is pushed down.

Thin switch 80 in the embodiment of FIG.
Is a combination of an operation mechanism section 30 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 9 and a photoelectric touch panel 114 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 15, and is the same as that described above for each embodiment. Since the function and effect are produced, the duplicated description will be omitted here.

However, the column 36 and the fulcrum projection 45 are provided with holes or notches 39 and 49, respectively, through which the light 86 passes. However, that portion may be formed of a transparent resin or the like. Further, the fulcrum projection 45 may be divided instead of providing the hole or the notch 49.

Further, the optical path 88 in the vertical direction is formed by the pushbutton 32.
It is located below the operating protrusion 47. In this example, the lower surface portion 47a of the operation protrusion 47 is cut obliquely,
By increasing the area of the operation projection 47 that enters the vertical optical path 88, the vertical optical path 88 can be operated more reliably.
It is possible to cut off at 7. If necessary, an opaque sponge rubber or the like may be attached to the lower surface portion 47a, which makes it possible to further increase the area for blocking the optical path 88 in the vertical direction.

Thin switch 80 in the embodiment of FIG.
Is a combination of an operating mechanism section 30 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 9 and an ultrasonic touch panel 124 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 18, and is the same as that described above for each embodiment. Therefore, the redundant description will be omitted here.

However, the ultrasonic path 102 in the vertical direction is located below the operating projection 47 of the push button 32. Although the ultrasonic absorber 110 as described above is attached to the lower surface portion 47a of the operation protrusion 47, in order to increase the attachment area to increase the absorption area of the ultrasonic waves 100,
The lower surface portion 47a of the operation protrusion 47 is cut obliquely and the ultrasonic absorber 110 is attached thereto.

[0126] The photoelectric touch panel 114 as described above.
Also when using the ultrasonic touch panel 124,
As the returning means 50, of course, the returning means 50 having the same concept as shown in FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 or FIG. 12 can be used. Further, the push button 32 as shown in FIG. 13 or 14 can be used. In that case, if the stationary magnet 54 or the like interferes with the transmission of the light 86 or the ultrasonic wave 100, they may be arranged so as to be deviated from the optical path 88 or the ultrasonic path 102, for example, as shown in FIG. good.

It should be noted that the push button 32 does not have to be rotatable as in the above-described embodiments, but as a comparative example shown in FIG. There is also the idea of making a so-called direct-acting type that recedes linearly. However, the direct-acting type has the following problems.

That is, since the push button 32 has a certain size, it is not realistic to push down the center of the push button 32 straightly, and normally the push button 32 is inclined and pushed down. Even if the pillar 36 is provided, it and the push button 3
Since the contact area with 2 is small, the push button 32 is normally tilted and pushed down. Moreover, how to tilt and push down depends on the portion to be pushed, so it is not fixed.

In order to ensure that the switch portion 4a corresponding to the push button 32 of the touch panel 4 is turned on no matter how much the push button 32 is tilted and pushed down, the touch button 4 is provided with the push button 32. The switch portion 4a must be provided on the entire lower side. That is, the switch portion 4a having an area equal to or larger than that of the push button 32 is required.

However, if the switch portion 4a is so enlarged, when a plurality of operation mechanism portions 30 are arranged side by side, the distance between the adjacent switch portions 4a becomes smaller, so that one push button 32 is pushed. As a result, there is a possibility that the adjacent switch unit 4a will be turned on by mistake. The possibility of this malfunction is due to the operation mechanism section 30 and the switch section 4a.
The higher the density, the higher the density.

Further, when manufacturing the display panel with a switch, the step of arranging the lower touch panel 4 and the step of arranging the operation mechanism section 30 thereon are naturally different steps, so that the push button 32 and There is a possibility that the switch section 4a corresponding to the switch section 4a and the corresponding switch section 4a are displaced from each other, and for this reason as well, malfunction may occur if the distance between the adjacent switch sections 4a is small.

If the push button 32 is pushed down in a different direction each time the push button 32 is pushed, the feel (operation feeling) at the time of operation is also bad.

On the other hand, in the operation mechanism section 30 of each of the above-described embodiments, since the push button 32 is structured to rotate about the fulcrum projection 45 or the like as a fulcrum, the operation of pressing the switch section 4a of the touch panel 4 is performed. The part 46 or the operation projection 4 there
When 7 is provided, the position of the operation protrusion 47 is specified. Therefore, the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 needs to be at least under the operation portion 46 or the operation protrusion 47, and it is not necessary to unnecessarily increase the area. That is, it is not necessary to provide the switch portion 4a on the entire lower side of the push button 32 as in the case of the direct drive type. Therefore, even when a plurality of operation mechanism sections 30 are installed side by side, the distance between the adjacent switch sections 4a can be made large, so that there is no fear that the adjacent switch section 4a is accidentally turned on, and an accurate switch operation is possible. Is possible.

Further, the push button 32 has the fulcrum projection 4
Since it rotates about 5 or the like as a fulcrum, a certain portion always moves in a certain direction, so that the operation feeling is improved.

Further, in the case of the direct-acting type shown in FIG. 30, in order to slide the push button 32 up and down in a well-balanced manner, at least two sides of the push button 32 facing each other, preferably four sides, the movable side. Returning means 50 including a magnet 52 and the like
On the other hand, in each of the above-described embodiments, the push button 32 rotates about the fulcrum projection 45 or the like as a fulcrum. It may be provided at least at one place near the part. Therefore, the returning means 5 in one operation mechanism unit 30
Since the number of zeros is small, the structure can be further simplified, and the number of parts such as the movable magnet 52 and the number of assembling steps are reduced, so that the thin switch 80 and the display panel with a switch can be further reduced in cost. be able to.

Further, unlike the case of the direct-acting type, it is not necessary to provide the restoring means 50 or the like on the side along the rotation direction of each push button 32 (for example, the upper and lower sides in FIG. 2) for the same reason. Therefore, when a plurality of operation mechanism units 30 are installed side by side, it is not necessary to provide the support column 36 on the side along the rotation direction of each push button 32 and adjacent to the adjacent push button 32 (for example, FIG. 1).
7 and FIG. 20), so that a higher density arrangement of the operating mechanism section 30 is possible.

A photoelectric touch panel 11 is used as the touch panel.
4 or when using the ultrasonic touch panel 124, if the push button 32 is a direct-acting type, it can be pushed down by inclining as described above. Moreover, how to incline depends on the portion to be pushed, so it is constant. Since it is not determined, it is necessary to devise the positions of the switch parts 114a and 124a of the touch panels 114 and 124 or to increase the area of the switch parts so as to deal with it. On the other hand, in each of the above embodiments, since the push button 32 is of the pivotal type,
The position of the operation unit 46 that operates the switch unit of the touch panel is specified. Therefore, the positions of the switch parts 114a and 124a provided on the touch panels 114 and 124 are also specified. That is, the switch parts 114a and 124a of the touch panels 114 and 124 need only be at least under the operation part 46 or the operation protrusion 47, and it is not necessary to unnecessarily increase the area.

Besides, according to the switch-equipped display panel of each of the above-described embodiments, the following effects can be obtained as compared with the conventional switch-equipped display panel in which the switch unit is provided on the display panel. That is, as illustrated in FIG. 25A or B, for example, a plurality of operation mechanism units 30 and corresponding switch units 4a are collectively arranged on one large display area 2a of the display panel 2, in other words, they are mutually arranged. It is also possible to provide one (common) display area 2a for displaying the contents selected by the plurality of adjacent operation mechanism sections 30 and the switch section 4a corresponding thereto, by doing so. The operation mechanism section for selecting the display area of the display panel 2 and its display contents can be substantially enlarged in size easily. As a result, for example, continuous characters, large figures, bar graphs, etc. can be displayed. Further, the operation mechanism section 30 and the switch section 4a corresponding thereto,
Furthermore, by changing the shape, size, etc. of the display area 2a corresponding to them, it is possible to freely arrange the operation mechanism section and the display area in one display panel with a switch.

[0139]

Since the present invention is configured as described above, it has the following effects.

In the thin switch according to the first aspect of the present invention, a touch panel is combined with an operation mechanism section having a rotary push button and a restoring means for giving a restoring force thereto, and a stroke for pushing the push button is ensured. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a clear stroke feeling while taking advantage of the feature that the touch panel can be made extremely thin. As a result, it is possible to give a feeling of security to the manipulating person by giving a clear response that the switch portion is pressed.

In addition, when the operator recognizes the display information on the display panel, it is often the case that the display information on the display panel is tracked with a finger. Since the stroke is almost 0, when the touch panel is arranged on the display panel, the above-mentioned actions are likely to lead to an erroneous operation of the touch panel.
Since the pushing stroke of the push button can be secured, even if the push button is arranged on the display panel, the possibility of erroneous operation as described above is almost eliminated.

Therefore, it is possible to realize a switch which is thin and has excellent man-machine interface.

Furthermore, since the push button is of the rotary type, the following effects are obtained as compared with the case of the direct drive type. That is, since the push button has a structure that rotates about its fulcrum, the position of the operation unit that operates the switch unit of the touch panel is specified, and therefore it is sufficient if the switch unit of the touch panel is at least below the operation unit. , There is no need to unnecessarily increase the area. Therefore, even when a plurality of operating mechanism units are installed side by side, the distance between the adjacent switch units can be increased, so that there is no possibility that the adjacent switch units will be turned on by mistake, and accurate switch operation is possible. is there.

Moreover, since the push button rotates about its fulcrum, a certain portion always moves in a certain direction, and therefore, the feeling of operation is improved.

Since the number of returning means is small,
The structure can be simplified, the number of parts can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced. Further, since it is not necessary to provide a support column beside the side along the rotation direction of the push button, when a plurality of operating mechanism parts are arranged side by side, higher density arrangement is possible.

The display panel with a switch according to claim 2 is
The thin switch as claimed in claim 1 using a touch panel is laminated on the display panel, and there is no need to provide a mechanical switch mechanism between the push button and the display panel. Since it is possible to bring the display panel closer to the display panel, and thereby the display content of the display panel is displayed in the immediate vicinity of the back of the push button, the image guide is not necessary. As a result, the display contents on the display panel can be viewed with good image quality. Moreover, since the image guide for limiting the viewing angle is not used, the display content of the display panel can be seen well even in the oblique direction.
Further, since an expensive image guide is not required and a complicated switch mechanism is not required, the structure can be simplified, so that the cost of the switch-equipped display panel can be reduced.

Further, since the thin switch as described above is used, a clear stroke feeling can be obtained when the push button is operated, and as described above, the touch panel of the touch panel can be obtained by following the display information of the display panel with the finger. There is almost no possibility of erroneous operation, and man-machine interface is excellent.

Further, since the push button is of the rotary type, the position of the operating portion for operating the switch of the touch panel is specified and the switch can be operated accurately as compared with the case of the direct acting type push button. Since a certain part always moves in a certain direction, the operation feeling is improved. Further, it is possible to reduce the number of returning means and to arrange the operation mechanism parts at high density.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view partially showing an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a push button in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing another example of arrangement of fulcrum projections of a push button.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a push button having a convex lens.

5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which the upper surface portion of the display panel with switch of FIG. 1 is covered with a transparent sheet.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a display panel with a switch using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of the display panel with a switch using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a display panel with a switch using a thin switch having a resistive touch panel.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of the display panel with switch of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the engaging portion.

FIG. 12 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a display panel with a switch using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view partially showing another embodiment of the switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 14 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a display panel with a switch using a thin switch whose touch panel is a resistive film type.

FIG. 15 is a sectional view partially showing an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is photoelectric.

16 is a plan view of a push button portion in FIG.

17 is a plan view showing the display panel with switch of FIG. 15 together with a detection circuit.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view partially showing an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is an ultrasonic type.

FIG. 19 is a plan view of the push button portion in FIG.

20 is a plan view showing the display panel with switch of FIG. 18 together with a detection circuit.

FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a substrate portion of an internal waveguide type ultrasonic touch panel.

FIG. 22 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a display panel with a switch using a thin switch whose touch panel is a photoelectric type.

FIG. 23 is a sectional view partially showing another embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is an ultrasonic type.

FIG. 24 is a plan view showing an example of means for avoiding that the stationary magnet or the like interferes with the optical path or the ultrasonic path.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example in which a plurality of operation mechanism units are arranged on one display area of a display panel.

FIG. 26 is an exploded cross-sectional view showing an example of a resistive film type touch panel.

27 is a sectional view partially showing an example of a conventional display panel with a switch using the touch panel of FIG.

FIG. 28 is a plan view showing an example of the relationship between the display area of the display panel and the switch section of the touch panel.

FIG. 29 is a sectional view partially showing another example of a conventional display panel with a switch using a switch unit.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a switch-equipped display panel using a direct-acting thin switch whose push button is a comparative example with respect to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 2 display panel 4 resistive film type touch panel 4a switch section 30 operation mechanism section 32 push button 50 return means 80 thin switch 114 photoelectric touch panel 114a switch section 124 ultrasonic touch panel 124a switch section

Claims (2)

[Claims] 1. A touch panel having one or more switch parts, which can be operated by pushing the switch parts with almost zero stroke, and one or more operation mechanism parts arranged on the touch panel, and The operation mechanism section includes a push button for rotating the corresponding switch section of the touch panel by rotating with a constant stroke in the pressing direction around the fulcrum, and a return means for giving a return force to the push button. Thin switch characterized by. 2. A transparent or semi-transparent display panel having an information display function and one or more switch parts which are stacked on the display panel and which can be operated with a stroke of almost zero by pushing the switch part. Of the touch panel and one or more operation mechanism sections arranged on the touch panel, and each operation mechanism section rotates about a fulcrum in a pressing direction with a constant stroke and corresponds to the touch panel. A switch-equipped display panel, comprising: a transparent or semi-transparent push button for operating the switch section, and return means for giving a return force to the push button.