JPH10199383A - Switch and display with switch - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To detect the pressing input accurately, in a transparent switch utilizing the light transmission by an optical contact. SOLUTION: At the crossing point of a linear light leading layer 211 directing in the X direction, and a linear light leading layer 231 directing in the Y direction square to the X direction, an L shaped light leading member 221 extending in the (-X) direction and the (-Y) direction is provided. When a pressing input P is received in this case, the light leading layer 211 and the light leading member 221 are bent, and the light leading layer 211, the light leading member 221, and the light leading layer 231 are contacted in this order. When a light L transmitting in the X direction is led in to the light leading layer 211 in such a condition, a part of the light L is transmitted to the light leading member 211, and its transmitting direction is converted to a light La transmitting in the (-Y) direction, and furthermore it is transmitted to the light leading layer 231. Consequently, the light is led to the light leading layer 231 efficiently, and the detection of the pressing input P by detecting the light transmitting inside the light leading layer 231 can be carried out accurately.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a switch for optically detecting an input by pressing and a display with a switch using the switch, and the display content of the display is transmitted by being superimposed along a display surface of the display. In addition, the present invention relates to a switch suitable for use such as performing a switching operation according to the display and a display with a switch using the switch.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A transparent switch (a so-called touch switch) which is arranged so as to overlap on a display and detects an input position such as pressing with a finger or a pen while watching the display on the display.
Conventionally, a resistive type, a photoelectric type, an ultrasonic type and the like are known.

[0003] These switches have various inherent challenges arising from their operating principles. For example, a resistive switch has a problem in its durability. That is, since the electrical connection is detected through the contact of the transparent electrode due to the pressing, there is a problem that the malfunction is likely to occur due to the deterioration of the contact.

On the other hand, in a photoelectric switch or an ultrasonic switch,
Since the pressed position is detected by blocking the propagation of light and ultrasonic waves, it can be operated with just a slight touch of a finger etc. You cannot perform operations such as inputting. Furthermore, since the principle of operation is to block the propagation of light or ultrasonic waves, there is a problem that if two or more places are pressed and input at the same time, the input positions cannot be specified.

More specifically, the photoelectric switch 100 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the case of the switch 100 in which the light emitting elements 110 are arranged along the side and the light receiving elements 120 are arranged on the opposite side, when the area 210A and the area 210B of the display screen 200 are simultaneously input, the light emitting element 110a, 110b, 110
c, 110d, the light emitted from the light receiving element 12 is blocked.
Light does not enter 0a, 120b, 120c, and 120d. However, display area 210C and area 2C
Even when 10D is input at the same time, a similar light receiving element does not receive light, and as a result, it is not possible to specify in which area the input has been made.

Further, in a photoelectric switch or an ultrasonic switch, as shown in FIG.
Since 0s are arranged on all sides of the display screen, this is an undesirable switch from the viewpoint of miniaturization of the display.

On the other hand, a switch for detecting a pressed position usually uses a large number of elements (in the case of a photoelectric switch, a light emitting element, a light receiving element, and the like). There is also a problem that it is not easy.

As described above, each of these switches has various problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an excellent switch as a transparent switch used on a display.

[0009]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a switch for obtaining an output in accordance with the position of a pressing from the outside, wherein (a) a light guide capable of propagating in a layer while totally reflecting light. A light-guiding structure having three to three light-guiding layer groups each having a plurality of layers, and a light-guiding structure having a stack of first to third light-guiding layers; Light introducing means for introducing light into the
(c) light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating in each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group, and the first light guide means is provided at the position of the press only while receiving the press. And the second light guide layer group is locally optically connected via the third light guide layer group, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is The light is guided to the light guide layer of the third light guide layer group to change the propagation direction, and further from the light guide layer of the third light guide layer group to the light guide layer of the second light guide layer group. And the detection state of the light detection means changes, and the change is obtained as an output corresponding to the pressed position.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the switch according to the first aspect, the first group of light guide layers includes a plurality of light guide layers for introduction, each of which is a linear light guide layer oriented in a predetermined direction. The second light guide layer group has a plurality of light guide layers for detection that are linear light guide layers oriented in a direction different from the predetermined direction, and the second light guide layer group has a plurality of light guide layers for detection. The third light guide layer group has a light guide member that is a light guide layer at each intersection of each of the introduction light guide layers and each of the detection light guide layers, and only while receiving the pressing. The light guide layer for introduction and the light guide layer for detection existing at the position of the pressing are locally optically connected via the light guide member.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the switch according to the second aspect, wherein the light guide member is directed toward the light propagating through the introduction light guide layer and the light propagating through the detection light guide layer. It has a substantially L-shape having two sides extending in the direction of travel.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a switch for obtaining an output in accordance with the position of a pressing from the outside, wherein (a) two light guide layers each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of totally reflecting light and propagating in the layer. (B) light for individually introducing light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group, the light guide structure having a stack of first and second light guide layer groups as the light guide layer group; Introducing means, and (c) light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside each light guiding layer of the second light guiding layer group, wherein the first light guiding layer group is arranged in a predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers for introduction, which are straight light guide layers facing each other, are arranged in parallel, and the second light guide layer group is a straight light guide layer facing a direction different from the predetermined direction. A plurality of detection light guide layers arranged in parallel, and each of the introduction light guide layers extends along the detection light guide layer at an intersection with each of the detection light guide layers. A projection protruding toward the light detection means, and the projection comes into optical contact with the light guide layer for detection only at the position of the pressing while receiving the pressing, and A part of the light propagating through the light guide layer for use is guided to the light guide layer for detection to change the detection state of the light detecting means, and the change is obtained as an output corresponding to the position of the pressing.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a switch for obtaining an output in accordance with the position of a pressing from the outside, wherein (a) two switches having a plurality of light guide layers capable of totally reflecting light and propagating in the layer. (B) light for individually introducing light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group, the light guide structure having a stack of first and second light guide layer groups as the light guide layer group; Introducing means, and (c) light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside each light guiding layer of the second light guiding layer group, wherein the first light guiding layer group is arranged in a predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers for introduction, which are straight light guide layers facing each other, are arranged in parallel, and the second light guide layer group is a straight light guide layer facing a direction different from the predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers for detection are arranged in parallel, and each of the light guide layers for detection is arranged along the light guide layer for introduction at an intersection position with each of the light guide layers for introduction. A projection protruding toward the light introducing means, and the projection is in optical contact with the light-introducing layer at the position of the pressure only while the pressure is being received; A part of the light propagating through the light guide layer for use is guided to the light guide layer for detection to change the detection state of the light detecting means, and the change is obtained as an output corresponding to the position of the pressing.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the switch according to the fourth or fifth aspect, in the light guide layer group in which the protrusions exist, each of the protrusions extends and connects to an adjacent light guide layer. This is a member in which the light guide layer group having the protrusions is integrated.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, (a) the first and second light guide layer groups are stacked as two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of propagating within the layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guiding layer of the first light guiding layer group; and (c) light introducing means of the second light guiding layer group. Light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside the light guide layer, and the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group and the second light guide layer at the position of the press only while receiving a press from the outside. 2
And the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is locally in an optically connected state, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is in the second light guide layer group. The detection state of the light detection means is changed by being guided to the light guide layer, and the switch for detecting the position of the pressing in accordance with the change includes: (d) controlling the light introduction means; Light introduction control means for sequentially introducing light temporarily into each light guide layer of the light layer group; and (e) introduction of light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group by the light introduction means. And pressing position specifying means for specifying the position of the pressing from the detection state of the light detecting means according to the above.

The invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that (a) the first and second light guide layer groups are stacked as two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of transmitting light within the layer while being totally reflected. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guiding layer of the first light guiding layer group; and (c) light introducing means of the second light guiding layer group. Light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside the light guide layer, and the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group and the second light guide layer at the position of the press only while receiving a press from the outside. 2
And the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is locally in an optically connected state, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is in the second light guide layer group. (D) all the light guides of the first light guide layer group are provided in a switch that is guided to the light guide layer, changes the detection state of the light detection means, and obtains the change as an output corresponding to the pressed position. A first additional light-guiding layer optically coupled to the light layer to guide light propagating inside all of the light-guiding layers; and (e) detecting light propagating inside the first additional light-guiding layer. Means for performing the operation.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, (a) the first and second light guide layer groups are stacked as two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of propagating in the layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guiding layer of the first light guiding layer group; and (c) light introducing means of the second light guiding layer group. Light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside the light guide layer, and the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group and the second light guide layer at the position of the press only while receiving a press from the outside. 2
And the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is locally in an optically connected state, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is in the second light guide layer group. In a switch which is guided to the light guide layer and changes the detection state of the light detection means and obtains the change as an output corresponding to the pressed position, (d) all the light guides of the second light guide layer group A second additional light guide layer that is optically coupled to the light layer and guides light propagating therein to all the light guide layers; and (e) means for introducing light into the second additional light guide layer. Is further provided.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display with a switch, wherein the switch according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is arranged along a display screen of the display.

[0019]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

<1. Basic Configuration of Switch> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a basic configuration of a switch 1 according to the present invention. FIG. 2 shows FIG.
3 is a plan view of the switch 1 shown in FIG. In FIG. 1, the components are shown separated in the Z direction so that the configuration of the switch 1 can be easily grasped, and the shapes of the components are only schematically shown.

The switch 1 includes three light guide layer groups 21 and 2
2 and 23 have a light guide structure 2 which is arranged so as to sequentially overlap in the Z direction (separated for the sake of convenience), and light is disposed on the side of the light guide layer group 21 in the (−X) direction. The light introducing means 31 for emitting light is arranged, and the light detecting means 41 for receiving and detecting light is arranged on the side of the light guide layer group 23 in the (-Y) direction. The state in which the light guide layer groups 21, 22, and 23 overlap will be described later.

The light introducing means 31 has a plurality of light projecting elements 311 arranged in the Y direction.
Numeral 1 can independently control the light emission.

The light guide layer group 21 has a strip-shaped (straight) transparent light guide layer 211 extending in the X direction and arranged in the Y direction corresponding to each light projecting element 311. Light emitted from the element 311 propagates in the corresponding light guide layer 211 in the X direction. That is, the light guide layer 211 has a relatively high refractive index with respect to the outside, and light emitted from the light projecting element 311 propagates while totally reflecting inside the light guide layer 211. ing.

The light guide layer group 23 has a plurality of transparent light guide layers 231 having the same shape as the light guide layer group 21.
Reference numeral 31 denotes a belt-like (linear) extending in the Y direction, which is the same as the light guide layer group 21 except that it is arranged in the X direction.

The light detecting means 41 has a plurality of light receiving elements 411 arranged in the X direction corresponding to each light guide layer 231, and the light propagating in the (−Y) direction inside each light guide layer 231. Is received by each light receiving element 411, and the detection result can be obtained independently.

The light guide layer group 22 disposed between the light guide layer group 21 and the light guide layer group 23 has a plurality of light guide members 221 which are substantially L-shaped light guide layers. These light guide members 221 are arranged corresponding to the respective intersections of the light guide layer 211 and the light guide layer 231 when viewed from the Z direction (see FIG. 2). The two directions in which the substantially L-shaped light guide member 221 projects are the (−X) direction toward the light projecting element 311 and the (−Y) direction toward the light receiving element 411.

The configuration of the switch 1 has been described above. Next, the function and basic operation of the switch 1 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 2, the light guide layer 2 of the switch 1
11 and the light guide layer 231 are arranged so as to cross each other, and each crossing position is one switch (hereinafter, referred to as a switch).
It is called “unit switch 11” to distinguish it from the switch 1. ). That is, the switch 1 has a plurality of unit switches 11 arranged two-dimensionally in the X and Y directions.
When the pressing in the Z) direction is input, the position of the unit switch 11 to which the pressing is input is detected (described later). As described above, the switch 1 is an array of the plurality of unit switches 11, and the detection of the pressed position is a function of the switch 1.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the unit switch 11, and FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view at a position indicated by an arrow AA (bent at a right angle on the way) in FIG.

Light L emitted from the light projecting element 311 propagates in the X direction to the light guide layer 211 of the unit switch 11 as indicated by an arrow L. As shown in FIG. 4A, when the unit switch 11 is not pressed, the light guide layer 21 is not pressed.
1 is not in contact with the light guide member 221 or the light guide layer 231,
The light L propagates as it is inside the light guide layer 211 and passes through the unit switch 11.

Here, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the unit switch 11 receives a pressure P in the (-Z) direction, the light guide layer 211 is pressed.
Are bent in the (−Z) direction and optically contact (closely contact) the light guide member 221. Further, the light guide member 221 also bends by receiving a force from the light guide layer 211 and optically contacts (closely contacts) the light guide layer 231. As a result, a part of the light L propagating inside the light guide layer 211 moves to the light guide member 221 as shown by an arrow with a reference sign La, and a part of the light L moves to an arrow with a reference sign Lb. Move into the light guide layer 231 as shown in FIG. As a result, part of the light L that has propagated inside the light guide layer 211 becomes light that propagates inside the light guide layer 231, and is detected by the light receiving element 411.

The reason that light is guided from one light guide layer to the other light guide layer due to the contact between the transparent light guide layers (including the light guide member) as described above is that the inside of the light guide layer is changed. This is due to the phenomenon that when another light guide layer comes into contact with the boundary (surface of the light guide layer) at which light propagating while being totally reflected enters the inside of the other light guide layer. And switch 1
Is a switch utilizing this phenomenon.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing how light moves between the light guide layers. As shown in FIG.
Inside the light 11, part of the light L propagating in the X direction is light propagating in the (−Y) direction inside the light guide layer 231 via the light guide member 221. That is, the light guide member 221 serves as an auxiliary light guide layer for changing the propagation direction of a part of the light L propagating inside the light guide layer 211 and efficiently guiding the light L to the light guide layer 231. As a result, detection of a pressed position described later is accurately realized.

When the pressing P of the unit switch 11 is removed, the unit switch 11 returns to the state shown in FIG. 4A, the light guide layer 211, the light guide member 221, and the light guide layer 231 are separated from each other, Light L propagating inside the layer 211 is transmitted through the light guide layer 231.
Will not be led to. FIG. 4 shows a state where the state shown in FIG. 4B is restored to the state shown in FIG. 4A by using the restoring force of the light guide layer 211 and the light guide member 221 via the spacer SP. Any form may be used as long as these light guide layers and the like are separated.

For example, instead of the spacer SP, the light guide layer 21
A member for fixing the light guide layer 211 is provided on the upper surface or the lower surface of the light guide layer 211 (the same applies to the light guide member 221), and the light guide layer 211 bent by receiving the pressure is removed to restore the light guide layer itself. The force may return to the original separated state by force, or another member that returns the light guide layer to the original state without the restoring force of the light guide layer itself may be connected to the light guide layer. Good.

FIG. 4A shows a state in which the light guide layer 211, the light guide member 221, and the light guide layer 231 are separated from each other.
If one of the light guide member 221 and the light guide layer 231 is separated, part of the light L does not move to the light guide layer 231, so that the function as the unit switch 11 is secured. That is, one of the two spacers SP shown in FIG. 4A can be omitted, and the light guide layer 211 and the light guide layer 231 are optically connected only while the pressure P is being applied. What is necessary is just to have the effect that a part of the light inside the light layer 211 moves to the light guide layer 231 via the light guide member 221.

Further, the light guide member 221, the light guide layer 211,
The light guide layer 231 may be arranged in the overlapping order, and the light guide member 221 may be in contact with the light guide layer 211 and the light guide layer 231 by pressing. That is, the arrangement order of the light guide layer groups may be any order as long as the optical connection state is realized.

Next, the operation of detecting the pressed position of the switch 1, which is a set of the unit switches 11, will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 5 shows the drive control of the light emitting element 311 of the switch 1 (indicated by reference numerals 311a, 311b, 311c in the Y direction) and the light receiving element 411 (reference numeral 411 in the X direction).
a, 411b, and 411c) is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control detection unit 51 that receives a signal from the control unit 51 and detects a pressed position. FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the operation timing of each light emitting element 311 and each light receiving element 411.

The control detection unit 51 includes a light introduction control unit 511 for controlling turning on and off of the light projecting element 311, and a pressed position specifying unit 512 for receiving a signal from the light receiving element 411 and specifying the position of the unit switch 11 pressed. And

The light introduction control unit 511 temporarily turns on each of the light projecting elements 311 (the ON state in FIG. 6). That is, first, as shown in FIG. 6, after temporarily turning on the light emitting element 311a, the light emitting element 311b is temporarily turned on.
Thereafter, the light emitting element 311c is temporarily turned on.

Here, assuming that the three unit switches 11A, 11B and 11C are pressed as shown in FIG. 5, while the light emitting element 311a is lit, the light emitting element as described with reference to FIG. Part of the light emitted from 311a moves into the light guide layer 231 by the unit switch 11C, and is received by the light receiving element 411c. Therefore,
As shown in FIG. 6, the output from the light receiving element 411c is ON only while the light emitting element 311a is on.

When the light projecting element 311b is turned on, none of the unit switches 11 on the light guide layer 211 corresponding to the light projecting element 311b is pressed, so that any of the light receiving elements 411 receives light. There is no.

When the light emitting element 311c is turned on, light is guided to the light guide layer 231 by the pressed unit switch 11A, and the light receiving element 411a is in a state of receiving light. The light guided to the light guide layer 231 by the unit switch 11A is a part of the light emitted from the light projecting element 311c, and the remaining light propagates through the light guide layer 211 as it is. A part of the remaining light is guided to the light guide layer 231 by the unit switch 11B. As a result, light is also received by the light receiving element 411c.
Therefore, while the light emitting element 311c is lit, the output signals from the two light receiving elements 411a and 411c become O
N.

In the pressing position specifying section 512, each light receiving element 41
1 is input, and a signal indicating which of the light emitting elements 311 is being lit is input from the light introduction control unit 511, and the light emitting element 311 being turned on is input.
Then, the position of the unit switch 11 that is being pressed by the light receiving element 411 that is receiving light at that time is specified. That is,
Since the position in the Y direction of the unit switch 11 pressed by the light emitting element 311 during lighting is specified, and the position in the X direction of the unit switch 11 pressed by the light receiving element 411 during light reception is specified. These results are obtained as the position of the unit switch 11 being pressed.

As described above, the switch 1 guides a part of the light propagating inside the light guide layer 211 to the light guide layer 231 by pressing, so that the switch 1 is simultaneously pressed at a plurality of positions (where unit switches exist). Thus, the pressed position can be specified. Note that the method and configuration for detecting the plurality of presses are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, and a part of the light propagating inside the light guide layer may be guided to another light guide layer by pressing. Any type of switch that detects the position can be used.

The basic configuration of the switch according to the present invention has been described above.
The number of the light guide layers 11 and the light guide layers corresponding thereto are not limited to the number shown in FIG. 1 and may be an arbitrary number, and more light guide layers 211 and light guide layers 231 may be arranged. Many unit switches 11 may be configured. This also applies to the switches described below.

As described above, the order in which the light guide layer groups are superposed is arbitrary. For example, in FIG.
The positions of the light receiving element 411 and the light receiving element 411 may be interchanged (that is, the vertical relationship is reversed).

Further, the shape of the light guide member 221 may be substantially L-shaped. For example, the light guide member 221 may have a smoothly curved shape as shown in FIG. 7 (a) or a shape as shown in FIG. 7 (b). A chamfered portion 221c may be provided, or the shape may be bent twice as shown in FIG.

<2. Another Example of Basic Configuration of Switch> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another basic configuration of the switch according to the present invention, which is shown in a separated state as in FIG.

This switch 1a has a plurality of light emitting elements 311
, A light guide layer group 21 a having a plurality of transparent light guide layers 212, a light guide layer group 23 having a plurality of transparent light guide layers 231, and a photodetector having a plurality of light receiving elements 411. The light guide layer group 21a and the light guide layer group 23 are arranged so as to overlap each other to form a light guide structure 2a (separated and shown in FIG. 8).

The light introducing means 31 has a plurality of light projecting elements 311 arranged in the Y direction, and each light projecting element 311 can be individually controlled to emit light (light). Light guide layer group 21a
Has a plurality of light guide layers 212 corresponding to the respective light projecting elements 311, and each light guide layer 212 has a linear portion 21 extending in the X direction.
2s and a plurality of protrusions 212p extending in the (−Y) direction (see FIG. 11A).

The light guide layer group 23 has a band shape (linear shape) extending in the Y direction corresponding to the plurality of protrusions 212p of the light guide layer 212.
The light guide layers 231 are arranged in the X direction, and have the same configuration as that shown in FIG. The light detection means 41 can individually receive and detect light propagating in the (−Y) direction inside each light guide layer 231.

If this basic configuration is simply expressed in comparison with the basic configuration of the switch 1 shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 1a shows an integrated structure of the light guide layer group 21 and the light guide layer group 22 having the basic configuration in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the unit switch 11a of the switch 1a having the basic configuration shown in FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 shows a cross section at a position indicated by an arrow BB.

The unit switch 11a is formed at each intersection of the light guide layer 212 and the light guide layer 231 when viewed from the Z direction, similarly to the unit switch 11 shown in FIG. In the unit switch 11a, as shown in FIG.
The light guide layer 212 is supported by the support portion SU.
And the light guide layer 231 are arranged so as to overlap at a predetermined interval. Then, when pressing in the (−Z) direction is applied to the protrusion 212 p of the light guide layer 212, the protrusion 212
p bends and comes into contact with the light guide layer 231. When the pressure P is removed, the state returns to the state shown in FIG. The method of restoring the state of the unit switch 11a from the state of FIG. 10B to the state of FIG. 10A may be in another form as in the description of the unit switch 11 in FIG.

Light from the corresponding light projecting element 311 propagates inside the linear portion 212s of the light guide layer 212, and a part of the light L propagating through the linear portion 212s propagates to the protrusion 212p. It is supposed to. Therefore, when the protrusion 212p and the light guide layer 231 come into contact with each other, the protrusion 2p
Part of the light propagating inside the 12p is indicated by a symbol L in FIG.
The light is guided to the light guide layer 231 as indicated by the arrow with b. Then, the light propagating in the (−Y) direction inside the light guide layer 231 is received and detected by the corresponding light receiving element 411. This is shown in plan view in FIG.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, the protrusion 212 p transfers a part of the light L propagating inside the linear portion 212 s of the light guide layer 212 to the light guide layer 231.
It plays the role of turning inside and leading.

As described above, when the unit switches 11a formed at the intersections of the plurality of light guide layers 212 and the plurality of light guide layers 231 are pressed, one of the light propagating inside the light guide layer 212 is pressed. The portion is efficiently guided to the light guide layer 231 and detected by the light receiving element 411, so that the position of the unit switch 11a pressed by the same method as the pressed position detection method shown in FIGS. Accurate detection is possible.

The other example of the basic configuration of the switch according to the present invention has been described above. However, the following modifications are possible to make the switching operation more reliable.

FIG. 11A shows the light guide layer 212 shown in FIG.
However, as shown in FIGS. 11 (b) and (c),
A chamfered portion 212c and cuts 212d and 212e are formed at a connection position between the projecting portion 212p and the linear portion 212s, and light is projected on a new surface formed by these.
When the light L is reflected toward 2p, a part of the light L propagating inside the linear portion 212s is efficiently guided to the protrusion 212p. As a result, the amount of light guided to the light guide layer 231 by pressing can be increased, and more reliable switching operation is realized.

FIG. 12A shows another notch 212f.
The light guide layer 21 is formed as shown in FIG. 12B, which is a cross-section at a position indicated by an arrow CC.
A similar effect can be obtained by forming a cut 212f of about half in the thickness direction of No. 2.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13A, the projection 212p is formed so as to be curved so as to gradually deviate from the traveling direction of the light L, so that a part of the light L can be effectively removed. It is possible to lead to. FIG. 13 (b)
By providing the constricted portion N in the straight portion 212s at the branch position with the protruding portion 212p, the same effect can be obtained.

FIG. 14 shows still another basic configuration of the switch according to the present invention. Like FIG. 8, each component is shown separately.

In the switch 1b shown in FIG. 14, the protrusions 21 of the light guide layer group 21a in the switch 1a shown in FIG.
2p is further extended and connected to the adjacent light guide layer 212,
The entire light guide layer group 21a is integrated, and corresponds to the light guide layer group 21b (which constitutes the light guide structure 2b together with the light guide layer group 23) in FIG. Other configurations, operation principles, and pressed position detection operations are the same as those of the switch 1a.

As described above, by integrally forming the light guide layer group 21b, manufacture and handling become easy, and manufacture of the switch itself becomes economical.

Although various other basic configurations of the switch according to the present invention have been described above, the numbers of the light projecting elements 311 and the light receiving elements 411 are arbitrary, and Even if the arrangement position with the element 411 is exchanged, it can be used as a switch. That is, the light projecting element may be arranged at the position indicated by reference numeral 411 and the light receiving element may be arranged at the position indicated by reference numeral 311 in FIG.

<3. Example of application to display> FIG.
Is a transparent switch 1 shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display with switch SD as an application example in which the display is attached and used (the shape is only schematically shown). In this example, a transparent push button panel 8 is further superimposed on the switch 1. In FIG. 15, the push button panel 8, the switch 1, and the liquid crystal display 9 are shown in a separated state.

The push button panel 8 has rectangular transparent push buttons 81 arranged in a grid and a grid-shaped transparent frame 82 surrounding each push button 81.
When 1 is pressed, switch 1 side (−Z) with respect to frame portion 82
Only the push button 81 moves in the direction.

FIG. 16 shows a cross section near the unit switch 11, and shows only a cross section corresponding to FIG. Note that FIG. 16 shows the unit switch 11 in a form in which the spacer SP does not exist between the light guide member 221 and the light guide layer 231 in FIG.

When a press P is given to the push button 81,
The light guide layer 211 descends together with the push button 81 and comes into contact with the light guide member 221 to be in the state shown in FIG. Thereby, the light L propagating inside the light guide layer 211 is transmitted to the light guide member 2.
The light is guided to the light guide layer 231 via the switching device 21 and a switching operation is performed. When the pressure P is removed, the light guide layer 211 is removed.
The push button 81 is pushed up by the restoring force of FIG.
Return to the state of (a).

There are various methods for realizing the restoring operation. For example, the light guide layer 211 may be adhered only to the frame portion 82 so that the spacer SP is not used, or the push button 81 may be used. A mechanism for bonding the light guide layer 211 and the push button 81 forcibly may be further provided.

As described above, on the liquid crystal display 9,
By superimposing the transparent switch 1 and the push button panel 8, a display SD with a switch in a comfortable operating environment in which the push button 81 can be pressed and input while viewing the display screen of the liquid crystal display 9 is configured. The display with the switch can input a plurality of push buttons 81 at the same time, and can set a push button to perform a special input by being pressed simultaneously with other push buttons.

Further, as shown in FIG.
1 and the arrangement position of the light receiving element 411 and the liquid crystal display 9
By overlapping the position of the driving printed circuit board PS mounted on the display, the space on the display can be used without waste, and the display with switches can be reduced in size.

Further, since the switch 1 operates by detecting contact between the light guide layers due to pressing, the input operation can be performed by tracing which is impossible with a photoelectric type or ultrasonic type switch. Further, since there is no electrical contact point, a long service life of the switch is realized.

In the above-described display with switch SD, the liquid crystal display 9 has been described.
Other displays such as RT may be used.

Further, in the display with switch,
Although the push button panel 8 is provided on the switch 1, it can be used without any need.

<4. Switch with self-diagnosis function>
FIG. 17 shows the basic configuration of the switch shown in FIG.
11 illustrates a configuration in which a configuration for realizing self-diagnosis of the light-receiving element 11 and the light-receiving element 411 is added. Note that the self-diagnosis refers to checking whether the switches (here, the light projecting element 311 and the light receiving element 411) function normally before using the switch.

In the switch 1c, the light guide layer 211e of the light guide layer 211 is coupled on the opposite side to the light projecting element 311 with a light receiving element 412 for receiving light propagating inside the light guide layer 212e. Is provided. Each light emitting element 311 and light receiving element 412 are connected to the self-diagnosis circuit 6. With this configuration, a part of the light emitted from the light projecting element 311 is guided to the light receiving element 412 via the light guide layer 212e, regardless of which of the light projecting elements 311 of the light introducing unit 31 is turned on. , The self-diagnosis circuit 6
It is possible to determine from the signal from the light receiving element 412 whether or not all the light projecting elements 311 operate normally only by turning on the light emitting elements sequentially. Then, when the failed light emitting element 311 is detected, the self-diagnosis circuit 6 generates a failure signal T.

The opposite side of each light guide layer 231 to the light receiving element 411 is connected by a light guide layer 231e, and a light projecting element 312 for emitting light is provided inside the light guide layer 231e. . The self-diagnosis circuit 6 includes the light emitting element 312
And each light receiving element 411. With this configuration, part of the light emitted from the light projecting element 312 is guided to each light guiding layer 231 via the light guiding layer 231e, and is received by each light receiving element 411. Therefore, when the self-diagnosis circuit 6 turns on the light emitting element 312, the output signals from all the light receiving elements 411 should be turned on.
If any of the signals is OFF, the self-diagnosis circuit 6 can determine that the light receiving element has failed. Also,
When the failed light receiving element 411 is detected, the self-diagnosis circuit 6 generates a failure signal T.

Note that these self-diagnosis are usually performed in a state where no pressing input is performed before using the switch, but in the case of the switch 1c using the light guide layer, there is a state where some pressing exists. Even though the above operation is not affected, self-diagnosis is possible.

As described above, the plurality of light guide layers 212 and 231
Is optically coupled to one light guide layer, self-diagnosis of all light projecting elements 311 and all light receiving elements 411 can be realized very easily.

Although FIG. 17 shows the application example shown in FIG. 8, it is needless to say that the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 14 can be applied. 1
What is the form of coupling one light guide layer to each light guide layer, as long as it guides light to one light guide layer or light that propagates through one light guide layer to each light guide layer? Is also good. Furthermore, the same self-diagnosis function can be added to a switch using a light guide layer even if the switch has another form.

<5. Other Modifications> The switch and the switch-equipped display according to the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

For example, in the switch 1 shown in FIG. 1, light from the light projecting element 311 is linearly propagated in the light guide layer 211 in the X direction and propagates in the light guide layer 231 in the (−Y) direction. Although the received light is received by the light receiving element 411, it is not always necessary to propagate the light linearly.
Alternatively, the propagation direction may be changed by, for example, 60 ° without changing the propagation direction at a right angle at the position of the unit switch 11. That is, if the light guide layer 211 and the light guide layer 231 face different directions, the unit switch 11 can be configured at the intersection position. By performing such a modification, the unit switch 11 can be created at an arbitrary position, not at equal intervals.

In the above-described embodiments of the switches, the light guide layers 211 and 212 having a band shape or a substantially band shape are taken as examples. However, any transparent member capable of transmitting light along a predetermined path is used. Anything may be used. For example, a sheet ST having regions having a high refractive index and regions having a low refractive index alternately in a band shape as shown by a symbol T1 in FIG. 18 may be used as the light guide layer. Further, a member whose refractive index changes gradually as shown by a symbol T2 may be used.

[0085]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the first to third light guide layer groups are stacked, and the light guide layers of the first light guide layer group are pressed by pressing. The propagating light is efficiently guided to the second light guide layer while the propagation direction is changed through the third light guide layer, thereby changing the detection state of the light detection means. The output can be obtained accurately. In addition, since optical contact is used, input operation can be performed while tracing on the switch, and a transparent switch having a long life is realized.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, since the plurality of linear light-guide layers for introduction and the plurality of linear light-guide layers for detection are arranged so as to face in different directions, light is propagated. By specifying the light guide layer for introduction and the light guide layer for detection, the position of the pressing can be easily specified.

In the third aspect of the present invention, the light guide member is substantially L
Because of the letter shape, light can be easily guided from the light guide layer for introduction to the light guide layer for detection.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the light guide layer for introduction has a protrusion projecting along the light guide layer for detection, the contact between the protrusion and the light guide layer for detection by pressing is more efficient. Light can be guided from the light guide layer for introduction to the light guide layer for detection. Thus, an output corresponding to the pressed position can be accurately obtained.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the light guide layer for detection has a protrusion projecting along the light guide layer for introduction, the contact between the protrusion and the light guide layer for introduction by pressing is more efficient. Light can be guided from the light guide layer for introduction to the light guide layer for detection. Thus, an output corresponding to the pressed position can be accurately obtained.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, since the light guide layer group having the projections is integrated, the manufacture and handling are easy, and the manufacture of the switch itself is economical.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, light is sequentially introduced into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group. Can be detected.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, light is propagated to the first additional light guide layer even if light is introduced into any of the light guide layers of the first light guide layer group. The failure of the light introducing means can be easily diagnosed only by sequentially introducing the light.

According to the ninth aspect of the invention, when light is introduced into the second additional light guide layer, the light is introduced into all the light guide layers of the second light guide layer group. Failures can be diagnosed.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, since the switch according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is provided, it is possible to accurately perform an operation input while looking at the display screen of the display. The input operation can be performed while tracing.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a switch according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the switch shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a unit switch.

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of a unit switch.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a control detection unit.

FIG. 6 is a timing chart showing the operation of the light emitting element and the light receiving element.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a shape of a light guide member.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing another configuration of the switch according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a unit switch.

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of a unit switch.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a shape of a light guide layer.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a shape of a light guide layer.

FIG. 13 is a view showing a shape of a light guide layer.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing another configuration of the switch according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a display with a switch according to the present invention.

16 is a cross-sectional view of the display with switch shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a switch having a self-diagnosis function.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a light guide layer.

FIG. 19 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of a photoelectric switch.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 1a, 1b Switch 2, 2a, 2b Light guide structure 6 Self-diagnosis circuit 9 Liquid crystal display 11, 11a Unit switch 21, 21a, 21b, 22, 23 Light guide layer group 31 Light introduction means 41 Light detection means 211, 212 , 231 Light guide layer 212e, 231e Light guide layer 212p Projection part 221 Light guide member 311, 312 Light projection element 411, 412 Light reception element 511 Light introduction control unit 512 Pressed position detection unit L Light SD Display with switch

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Toshihiro Fujita 1-31-31 Nishinohara, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka-shi Izumi Electric Co., Ltd.

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A switch for obtaining an output in accordance with the position of a pressing from the outside, comprising: (a) three light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of propagating in a layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guiding layer of the first light guiding layer group, c) light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group, wherein the first position is at the position of the pressing only while receiving the pressing. And the second light guide layer group is locally optically connected via the third light guide layer group, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is The light is guided to the light guide layer of the third light guide layer group to change the propagation direction.
Is guided from the light guide layer of the second light guide layer group to the light guide layer of the second light guide layer group, and the detection state of the light detection means changes,
The switch, wherein the change is obtained as an output corresponding to the position of the pressing. 2. The switch according to claim 1, wherein the first light guide layer group includes a plurality of light guide layers for introduction, which are linear light guide layers directed in a predetermined direction. The second light guide layer group includes a plurality of detection light guide layers, which are linear light guide layers facing in a direction different from the predetermined direction, arranged in parallel with each other; The layer group has a light guide member that is a light guide layer at each intersection position of each light guide layer for introduction and each light guide layer for detection, and the position of the press only while receiving the press The light guide layer for introduction and the light guide layer for detection which exist in (1) are optically locally connected via the light guide member, The switch characterized by the above-mentioned. 3. The switch according to claim 2, wherein the light guide member is arranged in a direction toward light propagating through the introduction light guide layer and a traveling direction of light propagating through the detection light guide layer. A switch characterized by being substantially L-shaped having two extending sides. 4. A switch for obtaining an output in accordance with a position of a pressing from the outside, comprising: (a) two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of totally reflecting light and propagating in the layer. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guiding layer of the first light guiding layer group, c) light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group, wherein the first light guide layer group is linearly oriented in a predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers for introduction, which are light guide layers, are arranged in parallel, and the second light guide layer group is a linear light guide layer directed in a direction different from the predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers are arranged in parallel, and each of the light guide layers for introduction is provided along the light guide layer for detection at an intersection position with each of the light guide layers for detection. A projection protruding toward the means, the projection being in an optical contact state with the light guide layer for detection only at the position of the pressure while receiving the pressure, and the light guide for introduction. A part of the light propagating through the layer is guided to the light guide layer for detection to change the detection state in the light detection means, and the change is obtained as an output corresponding to the position of the pressing. switch. 5. A switch for obtaining an output in accordance with the position of a pressing from the outside, comprising: (a) two light guide layers having a plurality of light guide layers capable of propagating in the layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guiding layer of the first light guiding layer group, c) light detecting means for individually detecting light propagating inside each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group, wherein the first light guide layer group is linearly oriented in a predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers for introduction, which are light guide layers, are arranged in parallel, and the second light guide layer group is a linear light guide layer directed in a direction different from the predetermined direction. A plurality of light guide layers are arranged in parallel, and each of the detection light guide layers is arranged along the introduction light guide layer at an intersection with each of the introduction light guide layers. A projection protruding toward the means, and the projection comes into optical contact with the light guide layer for introduction only at the position of the pressure while receiving the pressure, and the light guide for introduction is provided. A part of the light propagating through the layer is guided to the light guide layer for detection to change the detection state in the light detection means, and the change is obtained as an output corresponding to the position of the pressing. switch. 6. The switch according to claim 4, wherein, in the light guide layer group in which the protrusions exist, each of the protrusions extends to and is connected to an adjacent light guide layer. A switch, wherein the light guide layer group in which the projections exist is an integrated member. 7. A light guide having a first light guide layer group and a second light guide layer group stacked as two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of transmitting light within the layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group, and (c) light introducing means inside each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group. Light detecting means for individually detecting propagating light, and the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group and the second light guide at the position of the pressure only while receiving external pressure. The light guide layer of the layer group is locally in an optically connected state, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is partially connected to the light guide layer of the second light guide layer group. The detection state of the light detecting means is changed by being guided to and the switch detecting the pressing position in accordance with the change, (d) controlling the light introducing means, the first light guide layer group of Light introduction control means for sequentially introducing light temporarily into the light guide layer; and (e) the light according to the introduction of light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group by the light introduction means. And a pressing position specifying means for specifying the position of the pressing from a detection state of the detecting means. 8. A light guide having a first and a second light guide layer group as two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of propagating in the layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group, and (c) light introducing means inside each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group. Light detecting means for individually detecting propagating light, and the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group and the second light guide at the position of the pressure only while receiving external pressure. The light guide layer of the layer group is locally in an optically connected state, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is partially connected to the light guide layer of the second light guide layer group The detection state of the light detection means is changed by being guided to the switch, and the change is obtained as an output according to the position of the pressing, (d) to all the light guide layers of the first light guide layer group Optics And a means for detecting light propagating inside the first additional light guide layer, to which light propagating inside all of the light guide layers is guided. A switch further provided. 9. A light guide having a first light guide layer group and a second light guide layer group stacked as two light guide layer groups each having a plurality of light guide layers capable of propagating in the layer while totally reflecting light. (B) light introducing means for individually introducing light into each light guide layer of the first light guide layer group, and (c) light introducing means inside each light guide layer of the second light guide layer group. Light detecting means for individually detecting propagating light, and the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group and the second light guide at the position of the pressure only while receiving external pressure. The light guide layer of the layer group is locally in an optically connected state, and a part of the light propagating through the light guide layer of the first light guide layer group is partially connected to the light guide layer of the second light guide layer group. The detection state of the light detecting means is changed by being guided to the switch, and the change is obtained as an output in accordance with the position of the pressing, (d) to all the light guide layers of the second light guide layer group Optics Coupled to the second guiding light propagating inside the all of the light guide layer
A light guiding layer, and (e) means for introducing light into the second additional light guiding layer. 10. A display with a switch, wherein the switch according to claim 1 is arranged along a display screen of the display.