JPH097460A - 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 which applies restoring force to the push button 32 by using attraction force between a movable side magnet 52 and a magnetic plate 58 and produces a click feeling.

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. 25 is of a resistive film type, and, in short, one or more switches which are turned on by being lightly (ie, stroke is 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. 6, a display panel with a switch can be constructed by stacking it on the 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. 28 has been proposed as a solution to such a problem of lack of stroke feeling of a 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 around the fulcrum with a constant stroke in the pressing direction about the fulcrum, and a permanent magnet and a magnetic field. A means for utilizing the attractive force between the bodies or at least the attractive force between the permanent magnets, and providing a return force to the push button and a return means for giving a click feeling when the push button is pressed. Characterize.

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. A transparent or semi-transparent push button that is rotated by to operate the corresponding switch portion of the touch panel, and that uses at least the attractive force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic body or at least the attractive force between the permanent magnets, The push button is provided with a restoring force and a restoring means for giving a click feeling when the push button is pressed.

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.

Moreover, since the resetting means for giving a click feeling is provided and the click feeling can be obtained in addition to the stroke feeling, the switch operation feeling is further improved and the switch operation becomes more reliable. .

The switch-equipped display panel substantially has a structure in which the above-mentioned 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 it is not necessary to provide a switch mechanism, the push button and the display panel can be brought close to each other, which causes the display content of the display panel to be displayed in the immediate vicinity of the back of the push button. It becomes unnecessary. Moreover, it is possible to obtain a click feeling in addition to a stroke feeling when the push button is operated.

[0020]

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 superposed on a display panel 2 having an information display function. It differs for each embodiment.

The display panel 2 is typically a liquid crystal display, but in addition to this, an EL (electroluminescent) display, a plasma display, a thin CR.
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.

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 return means 50 which is provided near the end of the push button 32 away from the fulcrum projection 45 and gives a return force to the push button 32 and gives a click feeling. 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.

The planar shape of the display area 2a of the display panel 2 and the push button 32 is arbitrary, but 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 correspondingly. 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 portion 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 such an operation protrusion 47 or below the above-mentioned 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 attractive force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic body, and the magnetic plate 58 provided on the upper portion of the support column 36 and the fulcrum projection 4 of the push button 32.
5 and a movable magnet 52 that is provided at a portion located on the lower side of the magnetic plate 58 on the opposite side to the magnetic plate 58 and that attracts the magnetic plate 58. The magnetic plate 58 is made of a ferromagnetic material and is, for example, an iron plate.

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

FIG. 2 shows an example of the plane arrangement of the movable magnet 52. 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 to be selected may be determined according to the attraction force required between the movable magnet 52 and the magnetic plate 58. However, in either case, the opposing magnetic plate 58 is provided above 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 support column 36 are engaged with each other to prevent the push button 32 from coming off. However, the magnetic plate 58 is directly provided on the upper end portion of the column 36 without providing the overhanging portion 38, and the magnetic plate 58 and the push button 3 are provided.
The engaging portion 40 may be configured with the two end portions 34.

The support column 36 supports the magnetic plate 58 or a fixed magnet 54, which will be described later, and forms the engaging portion 40. The support column 36 may be provided so as to surround the periphery of the push button 32. It may be provided only on two opposite sides of the push button 32, more specifically, on the outside of the side on the fulcrum projection 45 side and the side on the opposite side.

The operation of the embodiment of FIG. 1 will be described. Since the movable side magnet 52 strongly attracts the magnetic plate 58 at all times, the force of the movable side magnet 52 raises the operating portion 46 side of the push button 32. . However, since there is the engaging portion 40, the push button 32 does not come out (jump out).

When the push button 32 is pushed against the attractive force of the movable magnet 52, the push button 32 is pushed by the fulcrum projection 4
5 as a fulcrum and rotates in the direction of arrow B (more specifically, counterclockwise) with a constant stroke, and the operation protrusion 47
The switch unit 4a of the touch panel 4 can be pressed to turn it on.

In this case, since the movable side magnet 52 strongly attracts the magnetic plate 58, the push button 32 does not rotate unless the push button 32 is strongly pressed at first, but the push button 32 does not rotate at all. Then, the movable magnet 52 and the magnetic plate 5
As the distance between the movable magnets 52 is increased,
Since the force to suck in suddenly weakens, the pushing down suddenly becomes lighter.

The operation or sensation in which the push-down of the push button 32 suddenly becomes lighter in the middle is called a snap action or a click feeling, and if there is this, the operator feels that the switch has been operated. Since this can be transmitted, the switch operation feeling is further improved. Further, when the push button 32 is suddenly lightened, the switch portion 4a of the touch panel 4 can be surely operated to the end by the push button 32 (in other words, the push button 32 is not pushed halfway. Since it cannot be stopped at a position), the operation on the touch panel 4 becomes more reliable.

When the pushing of the push button 32 is stopped, the movable side magnet 52 attracts the magnetic plate 58 and the push button 3 is pressed.
2 returns. In addition, the switch unit 4a of the touch panel 4
Returns by himself 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.

Moreover, as described above, since the click feeling can be obtained in addition to the stroke feeling, the switch operation feeling is further improved and the switch operation becomes more reliable.

The switch-equipped display panel is constructed 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 required 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, it is possible to obtain a click feeling in addition to a stroke feeling when the push button 32 is operated.

Further, in this embodiment, only the movable side magnet 52 is required as the magnet, and the fixed side may be the magnetic plate 58 which is cheaper than the magnet. Therefore, another embodiment in which the fixed side is also provided with the magnet. The cost can be reduced compared to.
Furthermore, since the magnetic plate 58 forms a closed magnetic path, there is an advantage that the leakage magnetic field from the movable-side magnet 52 to the outside is weakened.

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.

The thin switch 80 may be used without being stacked on the display panel 2. For example, the thin switch 80 may be 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 protrusion 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.

Further, 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. 25 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, a push button 32 made of a transparent resin having a relatively small refractive index and a 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 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, at least the upper surface portion of the push button 32 and the gap 72 existing around the push button 32 is more easily arranged in parallel with the operation mechanism portions 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 a combination of the repulsive force and the attractive force between the permanent magnets, and is provided in the end portion of the push button 32 opposite to the fulcrum projection 45. , The movable-side magnet 52 provided so that its magnetic poles are located above and below, and inside the root of the column 36, facing the movable-side magnet 52 inside and outside when the push button 32 is pushed down, And a fixed magnet 54 provided so that its magnetic poles are vertically arranged with a polarity opposite to that of the movable magnet 52. The fixed magnet 54 is, for example, a permanent magnet. Further, the polarities of the movable-side magnet 52 and the fixed-side magnet 54 may be all opposite to those in the illustrated example. These things are the same in other embodiments.

In this embodiment, since the magnets 52 and 54 are always opposite to each other in polarity, the push button 32 is pushed up by the repulsive force between the magnets 52 and 54. When the push button 32 is pushed down, the distance between the magnets 52 and 54 becomes small at first, so the repulsive force becomes larger. Since the magnetic poles approach each other and the attractive force begins to work, the repulsive force between both magnets 52, 54 suddenly becomes smaller, and the pushing down is suddenly lighter (easier).
Become. Therefore, a click feeling can be obtained in addition to a stroke feeling.

However, even if the push button 32 is pushed all the way down, since the operating projection 47 exists, the magnets 52 and 54 do not completely face each other, and the repulsive force remains between the magnets 52 and 54. . This repulsive force is at least the push button 32.
All you have to do is to restore. This repulsive force can be easily adjusted, for example, by adjusting the height of the operation protrusion 47 or providing a spacer. Therefore, when the push button 32 is stopped from being pushed down, the push button 32 is pressed by both magnets 52, 5.
It returns by the repulsive force between four.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the return means 50 utilizes the attractive force between the permanent magnets, and the magnetic poles are provided in the upper part of the column 36, more specifically in the overhanging part 38 thereof. A fixed magnet 54 provided so as to be positioned above and below,
Movable in the end of the push button 32 opposite to the fulcrum projection 45 and below the fixed magnet 54. And a side magnet 52. However, both magnets 52, 5
4 may be provided such that its magnetic poles are located on the left and right instead of the top and bottom.

In this embodiment, the movable-side magnet 52 and the fixed-side magnet 54 are always strongly attracted to each other, and when the push button 32 is pushed down, the push button 32 cannot be lowered unless it is pushed down to some extent at first. However, if it is lowered a little, the distance between both magnets 52, 54 becomes large and the force of attracting each other suddenly weakens, so that the pushing down becomes suddenly lighter. That is, a click feeling can be obtained in addition to a stroke feeling. If you stop pushing, both magnets 52, 54
The push buttons 32 are returned by the force of mutual attraction.

Moreover, in this embodiment, since magnets are used on both the fixed side and the movable side, a larger click feeling and a larger restoring force can be obtained than in the case of the embodiment of FIG.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 to 11, the column 36 is located below the peripheral portion 34 of the push button 32 (in other words, at the back).
It is an example of being located (in other words, hidden).

In this way, as shown in the front view of FIG. 9, the pillar 36 does not appear on the surface, so that 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 column 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 shown in FIG. 8 has a restoring means 50 of the same concept as the embodiment shown in 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.
The magnetic plate 58 is provided in the lower part of the column 7, and the magnetic plate 58 is provided in the upper part of the column 36 located in the back of the push button 32. 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. 10, the hook portion 44 protruding downward from the peripheral portion of the push button 32 and the overhanging 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. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 8, the operating projection 47 of the push button 32 and the magnetic plate 58 are
Since it is possible to serve also as an engaging portion for preventing the push button 32 from coming off, it is not necessary to intentionally provide the engaging portion 40 as described above. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the engaging portion 40 as described above is provided. The hook portion 44 and the operating projection 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. 11 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. 6, duplicated description will be omitted here.

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

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, 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 is the same as that of the embodiment of FIG. 1, duplicate description will be omitted here.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, 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. 13, the push button 32 has a hinge portion 3 which is thinner than other portions and has flexibility.
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
Are of the same idea as the embodiment of FIG. However, in this embodiment, since the surface of the push button 32 and the upper surface of the support column 36 are flush with each other, the magnetic plate 58 is provided in the side surface portion of the support column 36.
It is provided upright so as to face the movable magnet 52.

When the push button 32 is pushed, the hinge portion 33b is bent, and the push button 32 is rotated about the fulcrum in the pushing direction by 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. At that time, the movable magnet 52 and the magnetic plate 58
As in the case of the embodiment of FIG. 1, it is possible to obtain a click feeling in addition to a stroke feeling due to the attraction force between them.
When the pushing of the push button 32 is stopped, the push button 32 returns to its original state due to the attractive force between the movable-side magnet 52 and the magnetic plate 58 and the restoring force of the hinge portion 33b.

In the embodiment of FIG. 13, 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 and the assembling can be performed. Will also be easier.

The touch panel may be, in addition to the resistive film type touch panel 4 as described above, a photoelectric type touch panel that interrupts or attenuates the light emitted from the light emitting element from 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. 14 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. 15 is a plan view of the push button portion in FIG.

The thin switch 80 in the embodiment of FIG. 14 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 to FIG. 16 as well, 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.

Roots of each column 36 and fulcrum projections 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. 15) 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. 16, in each of the vertical and horizontal light receiving elements 90, the position (coordinates) of the intersection of the optical 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, the operation of blocking the light 86 is performed by touching the surface of the touch panel 114 with a finger or the like, and as it is, since there is no moving part and the pushing stroke is 0, a stroke feeling is obtained. 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 case of the conventional photoelectric touch panel alone. In addition, with the operation mechanism section 30, it is possible to obtain a click feeling as described above.

Further, in the case of the conventional photoelectric touch panel alone, there is a problem that if foreign matter (for example, insects, 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 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 matrix arrangement
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. 17 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. 18 is a plan view of the push button portion in FIG.

The thin switch 80 in the embodiment of FIG. 17 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 US Pat. No. 5,177,327, for example.

That is, referring to FIG. 19 as well, this 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. 18) 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. 19, in each of the horizontal and vertical vibration receiving elements 106, the position (coordinates) of the intersection point of the ultrasonic wave path 102 in which the ultrasonic wave 100 is attenuated in response to the signal from each of the vibration receiving elements 106. ) 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, the operation of absorbing the ultrasonic wave 100 and attenuating it by touching the surface of the substrate 94 which constitutes 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 for pushing the push button 32 can be secured, a clear stroke feeling can be obtained unlike the case of the conventional ultrasonic touch panel alone. .
In addition, with the operation mechanism section 30, it is possible to obtain a click feeling as described above.

In the case of the conventional ultrasonic touch panel using surface acoustic waves alone, if a foreign matter (for example, insect, dust, water drop, oil film, etc.) adheres to the surface, the ultrasonic wave is absorbed by the foreign matter. 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.

Further, 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 arranged in a matrix.
The number of 0s and ultrasonic paths 102 is not limited to 3 × 3 as in the example shown in FIG. 19, but may be any of m × n (m, n is an integer of 1 or more), and specifically, It may be decided according to the application.

Further, as the ultrasonic wave 100, a torsion 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 unit 30 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 8 and a photoelectric touch panel 114 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 14, 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 operation mechanism section 30 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 8 and an ultrasonic touch panel 124 similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 17, 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 operation 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.

[0124] The photoelectric touch panel 114 as described above.
Also when using the ultrasonic touch panel 124,
Of course, the resetting means 50 is not shown in FIG. 6, FIG. 7 or FIG.
The restoring means 50 having the same concept as shown in FIG. Further, the push button 32 as shown in FIG. 12 or 13 can be used. In that case, if the fixed magnet 54 interferes with the transmission of the light 86 and the ultrasonic wave 100, the fixed side magnet 54 is provided with an optical path 88 as shown in FIG.
Alternatively, it may be arranged so as to be deviated from the ultrasonic path 102.

It should be noted that the push button 32 does not need 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 pushed down, the push button 32 is not provided on the touch panel 4. 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, when the switch portion 4a is so large, when a plurality of operating mechanism portions 30 are arranged side by side, the interval between the adjacent switch portions 4a becomes small, 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 the display panel with a switch is manufactured, the step of disposing the lower touch panel 4 and the step of disposing 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.

Further, looking closely at the situation where the push button 32 is tilted and pushed down, first, the magnetic coupling between the movable side magnet 52 near the pushed portion (for example, the left side in FIG. 29) and the magnetic plate 58 is disconnected. There is an operation of pushing down the push button 32, such that the side is lowered, and then the magnetic coupling between the movable side magnet 52 on the opposite side (for example, the right side in FIG. 29) and the magnetic plate 58 is released and this side is lowered. It becomes a two-step operation.

When the push button 32 is thus operated in two stages, the operator is given a sense of distrust as to whether or not this switch is normal. In addition, the feel (operation feeling) when operated is poor.

On the other hand, in the operation mechanism section 30 of each of the above-described embodiments, since the push button 32 is rotated around the fulcrum projection 45 and 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, the rotating operation is a one-step operation. Therefore, the operation feeling is good, and the operator does not feel distrust unlike the case of the two-step operation.

Further, in the case of the direct-acting type shown in FIG. 29, 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, should be movable. 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 0's 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 cost of the thin switch 80 and the display panel with a switch can be further reduced. 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 rotational 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).
6 and FIG. 19), it is possible to arrange the operating mechanism section 30 at a higher density.

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 of a direct-acting type, it can be pushed down by inclining as described above. Moreover, how to incline depends on the part to be pushed, so it is not 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 cope 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 portions 114a and 124a of the touch panels 114 and 124 need only be at least under the operation portion 46 or the operation protrusion 47, and it is not necessary to unnecessarily increase the area.

In addition, according to the switch-equipped display panel of each of the above 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, for example, FIG. 24A or B, 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 operation mechanism sections 30 adjacent to each other and the switch section 4a corresponding thereto, and 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.

[0138]

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 operating mechanism section having a rotary push button and a restoring means for giving a restoring force to the push button, 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.

Moreover, since the resetting means for providing the click feeling is provided and the click feeling can be obtained in addition to the stroke feeling, the switch operation feeling is further improved and the switch operation becomes more reliable. .

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 a very 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, the rotation operation is a one-step operation. Therefore,
The operation feeling is good, and the person who operates it does not feel distrust.

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.

Furthermore, since the thin switch as described above is used, it is possible to obtain a click feeling in addition to a clear stroke feeling when the push button is operated, and as described above, the display information on the display panel is indicated. There is almost no possibility of erroneous operation of the touch panel due to chasing with, and the man-machine interface is very good.

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 the operation of is a one-step operation, the feeling of operation 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.

9 is a plan view of the display panel with a switch shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the engaging portion.

FIG. 11 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. 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 an embodiment of a switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is photoelectric.

15 is a plan view of the push button portion in FIG. 14. FIG.

16 is a plan view showing the display panel with switch of FIG. 14 together with a detection circuit.

FIG. 17 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. 18 is a plan view of a push button portion in FIG.

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

FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a substrate portion of an inner waveguide type ultrasonic touch panel.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view partially showing another embodiment of the switch-equipped display panel using a thin switch whose touch panel is photoelectric.

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 an ultrasonic type.

FIG. 23 is a plan view showing an example of means for preventing the fixed-side magnet from obstructing the optical path or the ultrasonic path.

FIG. 24 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. 25 is an exploded cross-sectional view showing an example of a resistive film type touch panel.

FIG. 26 is a sectional view partially showing an example of a conventional display panel with a switch using the touch panel of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 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. 28 is a cross-sectional view partially showing another example of the conventional display panel with a switch using the switch unit.

FIG. 29 is a 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 unit rotates a fixed stroke in the pressing direction around the fulcrum to operate the corresponding switch unit of the touch panel, and the attraction force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic body or between the permanent magnets. A thin switch which utilizes at least a suction force and which includes a returning means for giving a restoring force to the push button and giving a click feeling when the push button is pressed. 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. And a transparent or semi-transparent push button for operating the switch part, and an attractive force between the permanent magnet and the magnetic body or at least an attractive force between the permanent magnets are used to provide a restoring force to the push button. , A display panel with a switch, each of which is provided with a returning means that gives a click feeling when the push button is pressed.