TW201413200A - Operation device and refrigerator/freezer - Google Patents

Abstract

In this operation device at least some of multiple display elements (9) are formed in a row of at least three sections (10, 11, 12), and light sources (15), which are provided in correspondence with at least one of the display elements (9) forming the section (11) located in the center of the three sections (10, 11, 12), are arranged such that the light axis of the light source is approximately perpendicular to the direction in which the row is aligned. Thus, when the direction of the user's line of sight changes, the frequency with which the light-emitting element of the light sources (15) enters the user's field of vision is reduced, thereby making the display element (9) easier to read.

Description

Operating device and refrigerated freezer

The present invention relates to an operating device and a refrigerated freezer in which the operating device is mounted.

In the past, in order to cope with the diversification of eating and drinking life, the refrigerators and freezers have become a mainstream in a number of rooms with different temperature zones.

Further, in such a refrigerated freezer, the user can freely set functions such as changing the temperature or performance of each chamber. For example, the user can set a function of lowering or raising the temperature of each chamber only, or setting a function of changing the performance to a rapid cooling mode in which the cooling performance is temporarily improved, or a function of changing the performance to a power saving mode for suppressing power consumption. . Further, for example, in a refrigerating and freezing compartment having a temperature switching chamber, the user can freely set a function of changing the performance to a refrigerating mode in which the temperature of the chamber becomes a freezing point or more, or changing the performance to a freezing mode in which the temperature of the chamber becomes a freezing point. The function.

Moreover, in the refrigerated freezer, the operating device is disposed on the surface of the door, and the user can select and set the function by operating the operating device, or set the selected function in more detail.

The operation device includes a surface element, and is provided with a layer having a description unit such as a display element such as a pattern or a character expression by printing, and the display means is disposed on the back side of the surface element and causes the light emitting diode (LED). )Wait The light source lighting, the display component is displayed on the surface component; and the input means of the button, etc., is a function for the user to select or set the function, the setting of the selected function, and the temperature to be changed. The setting or the like (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

[Prior patent documents] [Patent Literature]

[Patent Document 1] JP-A-2011-47550 (paragraphs [0021] to [0023], FIG. 3)

In the conventional refrigerator-freezer, since the light source is disposed such that the optical axis faces the line of sight of the user, the light-emitting portion of the light source enters the field of view of the user, and has a problem that the user has difficulty in reading a display element such as a pattern or a character expression.

Moreover, even if the light source is arranged such that the optical axis does not face the line of sight of the user, that is, the optical axis is parallel to the surface of the surface element, since the light emitted from the light source has a diffusion angle centered on the optical axis, the light source is illuminated. The part still enters the user's field of view, and has a problem that the user has difficulty reading the display elements such as patterns or text expressions.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the problems as described above, and an object thereof is to provide an operation device for improving the readability of a display element and a refrigerating freezer in which the operation device is mounted.

The operating device of the present invention includes at least a layer having a plurality of shapes described in accordance with a shape of at least one of the transmitting portion and the non-transmitting portion. a description unit for information; the light-emitting element is provided on the back side of the layer, and has a surface facing the description unit, and the incident light is emitted from the surface; and the plurality of light sources are described for each of the light sources. Providing at least one portion, wherein the optical axis is substantially parallel to the layer, and light is incident on the light-emitting element; at least a portion of the plurality of description portions form at least three regions; the three regions form a column; the three regions are formed A pattern including the three divisions, and in the case of drawing a pattern having the smallest total circumference, the pattern is formed into a width dimension in a direction perpendicular to the column direction direction and a width dimension in a direction parallel to the column direction. The light source is disposed so as to correspond to at least one of the description portions forming the central portion of the three regions, such that the optical axis is substantially perpendicular to the column direction.

In the operation device of the present invention, at least a part of the plurality of description sections is formed by forming at least three divisions into a row, and the light source system provided so as to correspond to at least one of the description sections forming the central division of the three divisions is configured as an optical axis. The direction perpendicular to the column is substantially perpendicular, whereby when the direction of the line of sight of the user changes, the frequency of the light-emitting portion of the light source entering the field of view of the user is lowered, thereby improving the readability of the display element.

1‧‧‧Refrigerated freezer

2‧‧‧Refrigerator

2a, 2b‧‧‧

3‧‧‧ ice making room

4‧‧‧Temperature switching room

5‧‧‧Freezer

6‧‧ ‧ vegetable room

7‧‧‧Operating device

8‧‧‧ Surface components

8a‧‧‧1st floor

8b‧‧‧2nd floor

8c‧‧‧Transmissive components

9‧‧‧Display components

10‧‧‧Function selection zoning

10a‧‧‧ icon

10b‧‧‧ icon

11‧‧‧Function description zoning

11a‧‧‧ text expression

11b‧‧‧ pattern

12‧‧‧ Function setting zoning

12a‧‧‧ icon

12b‧‧‧ text expression

12c‧‧‧ icon

13‧‧‧ Display means

14‧‧‧Printed substrate

15‧‧‧1st light source

16‧‧‧Light guide

17‧‧‧ Shielded wall

18‧‧‧ Input means

19‧‧‧2nd light source

20‧‧ ‧ mark

A‧‧‧ area

B‧‧‧Slot or hole

C‧‧‧ convex

D‧‧‧ astigmatism pattern

Fig. 1 is a front elevational view showing a refrigerated freezer in which an operation device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is mounted.

Fig. 2 is a view showing a state of all display elements of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a view showing the surface of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A diagram of a cross-sectional structure of an element and a display means of a display element that does not have a function as an input means.

Fig. 4 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a surface element of the operation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention and a display means for a display element having a function as an input means.

Fig. 5 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure of a display means for displaying a function for selecting and setting a function contacted by a user in the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a front elevational view showing a state in which the display means for selecting the function touched and set by the user of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is removed from the first layer.

Fig. 7 is a front elevational view showing the state in which the display means for selecting the function touched and set by the user of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention has the first layer.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are shown.

Fig. 9 is a view showing an example of a change in the display state of the display element when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is selected and set.

Fig. 10 is a view showing an example of a change in the display state of the display element when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is selected and the setting is released.

Fig. 11 is a view showing an example of a change in the display state of the display element when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is set or released in the middle.

Fig. 12 is a view showing a state in which a user of the operation device of the first comparative example visually recognizes a display element from the front.

Fig. 13 is a view showing a display state of a display element when the first light source of the operating device of the first comparative example is turned on.

Fig. 14 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operation device of the second comparative example visually recognizes the display element displayed on the upper side.

Fig. 15 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operating device of the second comparative example visually recognizes the display element displayed below.

Fig. 16 is a view showing a visual order of a user of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 17 is a view showing a modification of the display state of the function selection section of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a view showing a modification of the display state of the function selection section of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 19 is a view showing a modification of the display state of the function selection section of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 20 is a view showing a modification of the illustration for setting or canceling the function of the operation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 21 is a view showing an example of a case where the light guide plates of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention are integrated.

Fig. 22 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device according to the second embodiment of the present invention are shown.

Fig. 23 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operating device according to the second embodiment of the present invention visually recognizes the display element displayed on the upper side.

Fig. 24 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operating device according to the second embodiment of the present invention visually recognizes the display element displayed below.

Fig. 25 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device according to the third embodiment of the present invention are shown.

Fig. 26 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device according to the third embodiment of the present invention are shown.

Fig. 27 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a display element of a surface element of the operation device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention and a display element having no function as an input means.

Fig. 28 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a surface element of the operation device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention and a display means for a display element having a function as an input means.

Fig. 29 is a view showing an example of a surface element of the operating device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the operation device of the present invention will be described using the drawings.

Further, in the description of the embodiment, an example in which the operation device is mounted on the refrigerating refrigerator is described. However, the operation device of the present invention includes an operation device mounted on a refrigerating refrigerator having a different configuration or another device. Further, in the description of the embodiments, the term indicating the direction (for example, "front" or "back" or "upper" or "lower" or "left" or "right" or the like is used as appropriate, but these terms are not limiting the present invention. By. In the respective drawings, the same members or the same portions are denoted by the same reference numerals. Further, the structure of the detail is appropriately simplified or omitted, and the description of the repetition is appropriately simplified or omitted.

First embodiment

Hereinafter, the operation device of the first embodiment will be described.

(Composition of refrigerated freezer)

First, the configuration of the refrigerator-freezer in which the operation device of the first embodiment is mounted will be described.

Fig. 1 is a front view of a refrigerated freezer in which the operation device of the first embodiment is mounted. As shown in Fig. 1, the refrigerated freezer 1 has a refrigerating compartment 2, an ice making compartment 3, a temperature switching compartment 4, a freezing compartment 5, and a vegetable compartment 6. The doors 2a, 2b are provided in the refrigerating compartment 2. The doors 2a and 2b are openable and closable by rotating around the hinge. The ice making compartment 3 has an ice storage box inside, and automatically supplies ice to the water provided in the tank provided in the refrigerating compartment 2 and stores it. The temperature switching chamber 4 can be switched to the refrigerating mode and the freezing mode, and can be set to any temperature. The operation device 7 is provided on the surface of the door 2a provided in the refrigerating compartment 2. In addition, in the description of the embodiment, the front direction of the refrigerated freezer 1 is described as "surface side", and the back side direction is referred to as "back side".

(Configuration of operating device)

Next, the configuration of the operating device of the first embodiment will be described.

Fig. 2 is a view showing a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device of the first embodiment are displayed. As shown in Fig. 2, the surface element 8 is provided on the surface of the operating device 7. At the surface element 8, a plurality of display elements 9 are displayed. The display element 9 is displayed by a light source of a display means provided on the back side of the surface element 8 by means of a control means (not shown). Information required for the operation is described in each display element 9. Display means are provided on each display element 9.

At least a portion of display element 9 is associated with each of the described information In addition, the function selection section 10 corresponds to the "zoning" formed by the "description unit" of the present invention including at least the "description unit describing the information for selecting a function". And the function description section 11 (the function description section 11 is equivalent to the "zoning" formed by the "description unit" which contains at least the "description part which describes the information for explaining a function".) The setting section 12 (the function setting section 12 is equivalent to the "zoning" formed by the "description unit" which contains at least "the description part which describes the information for setting a function".). The function selection zone 10, the function description zone 11 and the function setting zone 12 are arranged in a row. Further, in this example, the case where the respective divisions are arranged in the longitudinal direction is shown, but it may be set to one column in the lateral direction, or may be arranged in one column in the other direction.

In the function selection area 10, for example, the display 10a is used to start the action of the user to contact and set the function; and the figure 10b is set in each of the set functions, and is used to select the user to touch and set. The function.

In the function description section 11, for example, the text expression 11a is used to indicate whether the function is set according to the function of the icon 10b selected by the user; and the pattern 11b is used to indicate that the user selects the user. The room to which the function of Figure 10b acts.

In the function setting area 12, for example, the display 12a is used to set or cancel the function that the user touches and selects; and the text expression 12b is used to notify the user that the function has been set or released.

Alternatively, each display element 9 can be displayed at a different location within the zone. For example, in FIG. 2, in the function description section 11, the character expression 11a is displayed on the upper side of the pattern 11b, but is not limited to this case, and the pattern 11b may also be displayed. Shown on the upper side of the text expression 11a. In the case where the character expression 11a is displayed on the upper side of the pattern 11b, the correlation between the illustration 10b and the character expression 11a is emphasized. Moreover, when the pattern 11b is displayed on the upper side of the character expression 11a, the correlation between the illustration 10b and the pattern 11b is emphasized.

In the surface element 8, display elements 9 other than the display elements 9 forming the function selection area 10, the function description area 11 and the function setting area 12 may or may not be displayed. In this example, on the lower side of the function setting section 12, a display means or an input means for setting a function corresponding to the function corresponding to the function of the drawing 10b or setting the selected function in detail is provided. These display means or input means may be disposed on the upper side of the function selection section 10 or between the divisions, or may be disposed at a position deviating from the division.

The illustration 10a is placed in the center of the function selection zone 10 and is always displayed and always visible. The illustration 10a has a function as an input means for initial contact when the user sets a function.

The illustration 10b also has the function as an input means. The user selects the set function by touching the icon 10b. In the figure 10b, a pattern that is associated with the function itself set when the illustration 10b is selected or the scene in which the function is used is described.

The character expression 11a is prepared one by one for each illustration 10b. When the user selects the icon 10b, the character expression corresponding to the selected icon 10b is displayed.

The pattern 11b displays a room to which the function corresponding to the icon 10b selected by the user acts, and makes the user aware.

In this way, because the text expression 11a or the pattern 11b is described and selected Since the function corresponding to the figure 10b is displayed, the user can recognize the function when setting the function without reading the instruction manual or the like. Further, the character expression 11a and the pattern 11b may have a function as an input means as needed.

In Fig. 12a, a symbol (text) such as "Yes" or "No" is described. The figure 12a has a function as an input means, and the user selects and touches a symbol (character) such as "Yes" or "No" in response to the character expression 11a, and sets or cancels the corresponding icon 10b. The function.

In the character expression 12b, the character expression indicating that the function has been set or released is notified to the user when the icon 12a has been selected. By displaying the text expression 12b, the user can recognize the end of the operation. In addition, in the second drawing, the case where the character expression of the set function is notified is described. It is also possible to describe the textual expression of the notification canceled function, and also to describe both the textual expression of the notified function and the textual expression of the notification canceled function. Further, the character expression 12b may be displayed as needed, and the operation device of the present invention also includes an operation device that does not display the character expression 12b. Further, the character expression 12b can also function as an input means in response to the need.

(Structure of surface elements and display means)

Next, the structure of the surface element and the display means of the operating device according to the first embodiment will be described.

First, the structure of the display means for displaying the surface element and the display element having no function as an input means will be described using FIG.

Fig. 3 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a display element of a surface element of the operation device according to the first embodiment and a display element having no function as an input means. As shown in FIG. 3, the display means 13 is disposed on the surface element 8 and printed Between the substrates 14 are brushed.

In the surface element 8, a first layer 8a is provided to describe the basic color or pattern of the operation device 7, and a second layer 8b is a display element 9. The first layer 8a is provided on the outermost surface side of the surface element 8, and the second layer 8b is provided on the back side of the first layer 8a. In the second layer 8b, a transmissive portion is formed, and each display element 9 is described in accordance with the shape of the transmissive portion (the second layer 8b corresponds to the "layer" of the present invention. Further, the display element 9 of the second layer 8b is described. Each area corresponds to the "description unit" of the present invention.). The first layer 8a and the second layer 8b are integrally molded with an element 8c having a transmissive portion such as a resin. Further, the transmissive element 8c may have permeability, and may be, for example, glass. Further, the surface element 8 may be provided only for the entire display element 9, and may be provided, for example, for each of the divisions or the display elements 9. Further, in the second layer 8b, each display element 9 may be described in accordance with the shape of the non-transmissive portion, and the display element 9 may be described so as to appropriately distinguish the shapes of the transmissive portion and the non-transmissive portion. In addition, a transmissive portion having high permeability and a transmissive portion having low permeability can be formed, and each display element 9 can be described in terms of a transmissive portion having high permeability or a transmissive portion having low permeability.

The display means 13 includes the first light source 15, the light guide plate 16, and the shielding wall 17 (the light guide plate 16 corresponds to the "light emitting element" of the present invention). The display means 13 is provided for each of the display elements 9 of the second layer 8b of the surface element 8. The first light source 15 is provided one or more for each display means 13, and is disposed such that the optical axis is parallel to the surface of the surface element 8. Further, the light guide plate 16 bends the light from the first light source 15 provided on the side by 90°, and emits the planar light to the surface element 8 side. The surface element 8 has a certain thickness of, for example, 2 mm or more due to limitations in molding. Surface element 8 It can be integrated with the light guide plate 16 provided on the back side. The surface element 8 acts as a light guiding layer together with the light guide plate 16. Further, the first light source 15 can change the brightness and light up.

When the first light source 15 is turned off, the display element 9 described in the second layer 8b is hidden by the first layer 8a, and the display element 9 cannot be visually recognized by the user. On the other hand, when the first light source 15 is turned on, the display element 9 described in the second layer 8b floats on the surface of the first layer 8a by the light transmitted through the transmission portion of the second layer 8b. Further, a shielding wall 17 is provided between the display means 13, and the display element 9 can be individually displayed. Further, the light passing through a portion of the transmissive element 8c also reaches the region between the display elements 9 of the second layer 8b. However, when the display elements 9 are described in accordance with the shape of the transmissive portion, the non-transmissive portion is formed in the non-transmissive portion. Since the area between the display elements 9 of the second layer 8b is displayed, the display element 9 of the first light source 15 on which the lighting is set can be displayed more clearly.

Next, a configuration for displaying a display means of the display element 9 having a function as an input means will be described using FIG. Further, the configuration of the display means 10b, that is, the display means for selecting the function that the user touches and sets, will be described later.

Fig. 4 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a surface element of the operation device according to the first embodiment and a display means for a display element having a function as an input means. As shown in FIG. 4, the display means 13 includes a first light source 15, a light guide plate 16, a shielding wall 17, and an input means 18.

The input means 18 is an electrode of the capacitive touch sensor. The input means 18 is attached to the surface of the printed circuit board 14. The input means 18 is provided on the back side of the light guide plate 16 provided on each display element 9. Input means 18 When the user touches the area of the display element 9 on which the surface element 8 has been displayed, the change in the electrostatic capacitance value is detected via the surface element 8 and the light guide plate 16, and the signal is transmitted to a control means (not shown).

Next, the configuration of the display means for selecting the function of the function touched and set by the user will be described using FIG. 5 to FIG.

Fig. 5 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure of a display means for displaying a function for selecting and setting a function contacted by a user in the operating device of the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is a front elevational view showing the state in which the first layer is removed by the display means for selecting the function that the user touches and sets in the operating device of the first embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the display means 13 of the display 10b has the second light source 19 in addition to the first light source 15, the light guide plate 16, the shielding wall 17, and the input means 18. The second light source 19 is turned on when the function corresponding to the illustration 10b in which the second light source 19 is provided is in the set state. The second light source 19 emits light having a color different from that of the first light source 15. The second light source 19 is disposed on the upper left side of the light guide plate 16 such that the optical axis is perpendicular to the surface of the surface element 8.

Fig. 7 is a front elevational view showing the state in which the display means for selecting the function touched and set by the user of the operating device of the first embodiment has the first layer. As shown in Fig. 7, the light emitted from the light source of the second light source 19 passes through the transmission portion of the second layer 8b, and the symbol 20 floats on the first layer 8a. When the first light source 15 is turned on and the illustration 10b is displayed, the control means (not shown) turns on the second light source 19 when the function corresponding to the figure 10b is set. Further, the control means (not shown) is for the case where the setting of the function is released, and the second light source 19 is not turned on.

(Configuration of the first light source)

Next, the arrangement of the first light source of the operating device of the first embodiment will be described.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device according to the first embodiment are displayed. As shown in Fig. 8, in the surface element 8, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a vertical row, and the first light source 15 is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the column direction, in this example Light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 in the left and right direction. Further, when each of the divisions is arranged in a horizontal direction, the first light source 15 emits light from the vertical direction to the light guide plate 16.

(Operation of operating device)

Hereinafter, the operation of the operating device of the first embodiment will be described.

First, the operation at the time of selecting the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment and setting it will be described. Fig. 9 is a view showing an example of a change in the display state of the display element when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment is selected and set.

Step 901 is the state before the operation. The control means (not shown) causes the first light source 15 provided in the drawing 10a to always be lit, and the illustration 10a is always visible. The control means (not shown) turns off the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 other than the drawing 10a, and makes it impossible to visually recognize. By operating in this manner, power consumption during standby can be suppressed. When the user touches the illustration 10a, the process proceeds to step 902.

In step 902, the control means (not shown) causes all of the first light sources 15 provided in the figure 10b other than the illustration 10a of the function selection section 10 to be turned on, and the figure 10b of all is visible. When the user touches the icon 10b, the process proceeds to step 903.

In step 903, the control means (not shown) are set to and selected The first light source 15 of the character expression 11a corresponding to the figure 10b is turned on to display the visible text 11a. At the same time, when it is necessary to display a room in which the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b is displayed, the first light source 15 provided in all of the patterns 11b is turned on. At this time, the control means (not shown) controls the brightness of the first light source 15 to be brighter than the area corresponding to the pattern 11b corresponding to the room in which the function of the selected figure 10b acts. The area of the pattern 11b corresponding to the room other than the room is displayed as dark. At the same time, the first light source 15 provided in the drawing 12a is turned on to make the illustration 12a visible. When the user touches the icon 12a indicating "Yes", the process proceeds to step 904. In this manner, by setting the step of confirming whether or not to set after selecting the icon 10b, the user can determine whether or not to perform the function setting while operating.

In addition, in the ninth diagram, the control means (not shown) causes all of the first light sources 15 provided in the figure 10b other than the selected figure 10b to be turned off. However, the present invention is not limited to this case. The first light source 15 provided in the illustration 10b other than the selected icon 10b can be turned on. Further, the control means (not shown) controls the brightness of the first light source 15 to be dark, but the area of the pattern 11b corresponding to the chamber corresponding to the room in which the function of the selected figure 10b acts is displayed. In this case, for example, the first light source 15 may be controlled so as not to display a region of the pattern 11b corresponding to a chamber other than the chamber to which the function of the selected graphic 10b functions.

In step 904, the control means (not shown) lights up the first light source 15 provided in the character expression 12b, and displays the visible character 12b. The control means (not shown) maintains the state for only a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and moves to step 905. Further, in FIG. 9, the control means (not shown) is the first light source 15 The brightness is controlled to display the entire area of the pattern 11b brightly, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the brightness of the first light source 15 may be controlled so that the pattern 11b maintains the state of step 903. Further, the brightness of the first light source 15 can be controlled so as not to display the pattern 11b.

In step 905, the control means (not shown) lights up the first light source 15 and the second light source 19 provided in the figure 10b corresponding to the set function, and visually recognizes the icon 10b and the symbol 20. In the case where the user does not touch any of the display elements 9 at a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) thereafter, the process returns to step 901. In addition, in the ninth diagram, the control means (not shown) is used to turn on the first light source 15 provided in all of the figures 10b. However, the present invention is not limited to this case. For example, it may be set to be set. The first light source 15 of the figure 10b other than the function 10b is turned off.

Further, the order in which the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 can be arranged is appropriately changed. Further, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 may not be continuously arranged. In this manner, in the case of continuously arranging in the order of the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12, the division is arranged in the order in which the user operates, and the user can follow the natural procedure. Confirm the contents of the function and operate it. Moreover, the user does not hesitate to contact which display element 9 can be accessed without feeling stressed.

Next, an operation when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment is selected and the setting is released will be described. Fig. 10 is a view showing an example of a change in the display state of the display element when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is selected and the setting is released. In addition, regarding the action when selecting and setting the function Repeated descriptions are simplified or omitted as appropriate.

In step 1001, when the user touches the illustration 10a, the process moves to step 1002.

In step 1002, the control means (not shown) lights up the second light source 19 provided in the icon 10b of the set function, in addition to the first light source 15 provided in all of the figures 10b. When the user touches the icon 10b of the set function, the process proceeds to step 1003.

In step 1003, the control means (not shown) turns on the first light source 15 provided in the character expression 11a corresponding to the selected figure 10b, and displays the visible character 11a in the same manner as step 903. At the same time, when it is necessary to display a room in which the function corresponding to the selected icon 10b is displayed, the first light source 15 provided in all of the patterns 11b is turned on. At the same time, the first light source 15 provided in the drawing 12a is turned on, and the icon 12a is visually recognized. When the user touches the icon 12a in which "NO" is described, the process proceeds to step 1004. When the user touches the icon 12a that says "Yes", the process proceeds to step 904.

In step 1004, the control means (not shown) turns off the second light source 19 provided in the diagram 10b of the released function. The control means (not shown) maintains the state for only a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and moves to step 1005. Further, in the tenth diagram, the control means (not shown) causes the first light source 15 provided in the character expression 12b not to be lit. However, the present invention is not limited to this case. For example, the character expression 12b may be described as " In the case where the text of the setting has been canceled, the first light source 15 provided in the character expression 12b is turned on, and the character "visitized" is visually recognized.

In step 1005, the control means (not shown) lights up the first light source 15 provided in all of the figures 10b, and visualizes all of the illustrations 10b. in The user returns to step 1001 without contacting any of the display elements 9 for a predetermined period of time (for example, 30 seconds).

Next, the operation at the time of setting or releasing the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 11 is a view showing an example of a change in the display state of the display element when the function of the operating device according to the first embodiment is stopped or canceled in the middle. In addition, the explanation about the repetition of the operation when the function is selected and the function is selected or the function is selected and the setting is canceled is appropriately simplified or omitted.

In step 1101, when the user touches the illustration 10a, the process moves to step 1102.

In step 1102, when the user touches the icon 10b for setting or releasing the function, the process proceeds to step 1103. Further, Fig. 11 shows a case where the user touches the icon 10b for which the function is to be released.

In step 1103, the control means (not shown) controls the first light source 15 and the second light source 19 in the same manner as step 903 or step 1003. The user touches the illustration 10a in the case where the user recognizes that the function is to be set or unlocked by visually recognizing the character expression 11a or the pattern 11b. When the control means (not shown) recognizes the contact with the figure 10a, it moves to step image 1104. By preparing the icon for suspending the setting or releasing in this manner, the user can determine whether or not to perform the setting or release of the function while operating.

At step 1104, control means (not shown) returns the display state of display element 9 to the display state of step 1102. In the case where the user does not touch any of the display elements 9 at a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) thereafter, the process returns to step 1101.

(function of operating device)

First, as a conventional operation device, the first comparative example and the second comparative example are shown, and the effects in the respective comparative examples will be described.

First, the first comparative example will be described using FIG. 12 and FIG. Fig. 12 is a view showing a state in which a user of the operation device of the first comparative example visually recognizes a display element from the front. Fig. 13 is a view showing a display state of a display element when the first light source of the operating device of the first comparative example is turned on. As shown in Fig. 12, in the operating device of the first comparative example, the first light source 15 is disposed such that the optical axis is perpendicular to the surface of the surface member 8. Therefore, when the user visually recognizes the display element 9 from the front, the user's line of sight becomes opposite to the optical axis of the first light source 15, and the visible sphere of the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 as shown in FIG. 13 is generated. It is difficult to read the problem of the display element 9.

Next, a second comparative example will be described using Figs. 14 and 15. Fig. 14 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operation device of the second comparative example visually recognizes the display element displayed on the upper side. Fig. 15 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operating device of the second comparative example visually recognizes the display element displayed below. The operation device of the second comparative example is different from the operation device of the first comparative example, and the first light source 15 is disposed such that the optical axis is parallel to the surface of the surface element 8. Therefore, when the user visually recognizes the display element 9 from the front, the user's line of sight does not face the optical axis of the first light source 15, and the visible sphere phenomenon as shown in Fig. 13 does not occur. However, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first light source 15 provided on the upper display element 9 is provided on the upper side of the light guide plate 16, or the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 below. In the case where it is provided on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, since the light emitted from the first light source 15 has an enlarged angle around the optical axis, the line of sight of the user is opposed to one of the enlarged lights. In this case, although the visible sphere phenomenon as shown in Fig. 13 is alleviated, the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 still enters the field of view of the user, and has a problem that the user has difficulty in reading the display element 9.

Hereinafter, the operation of the operating device of the first embodiment will be described.

Fig. 16 is a view showing a viewing order of a user of the operating device according to the first embodiment. In addition, Fig. 16 shows both the case where the character expression 11a is displayed on the upper side of the pattern 11b and the case where the pattern 11b is displayed on the upper side of the character expression 11a. As shown in Fig. 16, in the operation device of the first embodiment, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a line in accordance with the user's viewing order. That is, when the user sets the function, the line of sight is moved in the order of the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12.

The function description section 11 is set at a height substantially coincident with the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and looks in front. Therefore, the user's line of sight is upward when the visual function selection zone 10 is set, and the user's line of sight is downward when the visual function setting zone 12 is set. According to this configuration, the user can visually recognize the character expression 11a or the pattern 11b displayed on the function description section 11 from the front side, and can confirm the function description in an easy posture. Further, the approximate center of the height direction of the three divisions substantially coincides with the height of the line of sight when the user stands and faces in front, and the lower movement of the line of sight is substantially equal to the upper and lower sides. In addition, the standard height referred to herein means the average height of women (the average of 5% of the heights of women in the 20-60 age group), for example, in Japan, about 160 cm. Therefore, the height of the setting surface from the function description section 11 is, for example, in Japan, in order to stand with the user of the standard height and to look at the front view. The height is approximately the same and can be set to about 130~150cm.

Further, unlike the operation device of the first comparative example and the operation device of the second comparative example, in the operation device according to the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, the first light source 15 is disposed as the optical axis and the surface element 8 The surfaces are parallel and perpendicular to the direction of the row, in this case the left and right direction.

According to this configuration, the line of sight of the user does not face the optical axis of the first light source 15, and since the visible spherical phenomenon as shown in Figs. 12 and 13 can be prevented, the refractory property of the display element 9 is improved.

Further, the three divisions include the patterns of the three divisions, and in the case of drawing the pattern having the smallest total circumference, the pattern is formed such that the width dimension in the left-right direction is smaller than the width dimension in the up-and-down direction, that is, in this example, it is longitudinally long. . The user's line of sight moves more in the up and down direction than in the left and right direction. In other words, when the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 moves in the vertical direction, it is easier to enter the line of sight of the user than when moving in the left-right direction. Therefore, by providing the optical axis of the first light source 15 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction, the movement of the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 into the lower direction of the user's line of sight can be prevented as shown in FIG. As a result of the visible spherical phenomenon shown in Fig. 15, as a result, the frequency at which the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 enters the field of view of the user is reduced, and the refractory property of the display element 9 is improved.

Further, the operation device of the first embodiment is mounted on, for example, a machine having a low height or a portable device, and the user can freely change the relative relationship between the position of the function description section 11 and the position of the line of sight of the user in front view. In the case of the user, the user selects the partition 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12, and changes the standing position or posture to be arranged in the front view in the center, that is, in the function description section 11 of this example. So even The function description section 11 is not set at a height substantially coincident with the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and faces in front, and the user also changes the direction of the line of sight to the visual function selection section 10 when the system is facing up, the visual function is recognized. When the division 12 is set downward, the optical axis of the first light source 15 is provided in a direction substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the movement in the vertical direction can be prevented from being visible as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 as described above. Sphere phenomenon.

Further, in the case where the respective divisions are arranged in a horizontal row, the user changes the standing position or posture so as to be arranged in the center in the front view. Therefore, the user changes the direction of the line of sight to the right when viewing the right side of the division, and to the left when viewing the left side of the division, and sets the optical axis of the first light source 15 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the left and right direction. As described above, the movement in the left-right direction can prevent the visible sphere phenomenon as shown in Figs. 14 and 15. Further, in the case where each division is provided at a height substantially coincident with the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and faces in front, the user can visually recognize each division in a relaxed posture.

Further, in the operation device according to the first embodiment, the first light source 15 of all the display elements 9 is disposed in the left-right direction, but the first light source 15 of the display element 9 may be disposed only in the left-right direction. When the first light source 15 of all the display elements 9 is disposed in the left-right direction, the frequency of the visible spherical phenomenon can be further reduced.

(Modification)

In the operation device according to the first embodiment, in step 902 of FIG. 9 or step 1002 of FIG. 10 or step 1102 of FIG. 11, the control means (not shown) is an icon provided in the function selection section 10. The first light of 10b The source 15 lights, but is not limited to this case.

Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 are views showing a modification of the display state of the function selection section of the operating device according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 17, in the case where there is a function that cannot be set according to the operation state of the refrigerating refrigerator, the first light source 15 provided in the figure 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set may be turned off. By configuring in this way, the user can know which one is a function that cannot be set.

Further, as shown in Fig. 17, when the first light source 15 provided in the figure 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set is turned off, some users may mistakenly believe that the first light source 15 is malfunctioning, so as shown in Fig. 18. Alternatively, the first light source 15 provided in the figure 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set may be darkly lit. According to this configuration, the user can distinguish and visually recognize the icon 10b corresponding to the settable function and the icon 10b corresponding to the function that cannot be set.

In the operation device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, in the function setting section 12, the illustration 12a is displayed on the lower side of the character expression 12b, but this is not limited thereto.

Fig. 19 is a view showing a modification of the display state of the function selection section of the operating device according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 19, the illustration 12a may be displayed on the upper side of the character expression 12b. Further, in this case, the character expression 12b is displayed when the user touches the icon 12a, and the character expression 12b is also blocked by the hand touching the icon 12a, and the user cannot recognize the set function. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 2, when the illustration 12a is displayed on the lower side of the character expression 12b, the character expression 12b is not blocked by the hand, and the user can recognize the set function more surely.

In the operation device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the illustration 10a is used as an illustration for setting or releasing the suspension function, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

Fig. 20 is a view showing a modification of the illustration for setting or canceling the function of the operation device of the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 20, the illustration 12c may be added for the purpose of exclusive use. In Fig. 12c, a display means 13 having an input means 18 is provided. In Fig. 12c, a symbol (text) such as "go back" or "cancel" is described. According to this configuration, the user can easily recognize the icon for suspending the setting or releasing of the function, and the operational performance of the operating device 7 is further improved. Further, as an illustration for setting or canceling the suspension function, an illustration other than the illustration 10a may be used.

In the operation device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the first layer 8a and the second layer 8b are provided on the surface of the transmissive element 8c, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the layer may be disposed outside the surface of the transmissive element 8c. Further, other layers or other elements may be provided on the surface side of the first layer 8a. Further, the first layer 8a and the second layer 8b may be provided on an element different from the transmissive element 8c, and the different elements may be provided on the front side or the back side of the surface element 8. In this case, the surface element 8 can also be integrated with the different element.

In the operation device of the first embodiment, the light guide plate 16 is provided for each display element 9, but the light guide plate 16 may be integrated. With this configuration, it is not necessary to separately mount the light guide plate 16, and the assembly work becomes simple. For example, all of the light guide plates 16 may be integrated into one element, and the respective forms of the respective regions or display elements 9 may be integrated. Figure 21 is a view showing the operation of the first embodiment. A diagram showing an example of the case where the light guide plate is integrated. For example, when the light guide plate 16 provided in the character expression 11a is integrated, the shape shown in Fig. 21 may be formed. Further, the first light source 15 is disposed in the region A provided on the outer side in the left-right direction of the light guide plate 16 in this example. Moreover, the shielding wall 17 is disposed in the groove portion or the hole portion B which is provided in parallel with the left-right direction of the light guide plate 16 in this example.

In the operation device according to the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the input means 18 is constituted by an electrode of the capacitive touch sensor incorporated in the display means 13, but is not limited to this. In other words, for example, the input means 18 may be constituted by a switch such as a button provided in the vicinity of the upper and lower directions of the display means 13 or another housing that can communicate with the operating device 7. As shown in the operation device of the first embodiment, when the input means 18 is constituted by the electrodes of the capacitive touch sensor incorporated in the display means 13, the switch is different from the switch, and since there is no movable portion, Therefore, durability can be improved. Further, unlike the switch, since there is no groove in which moisture or the like intrudes, water resistance can be improved. Moreover, static electricity is not stored in the groove in which moisture or the like intrudes, so that no pressure is felt when the user operates.

Second embodiment

The operation device of the second embodiment differs from the operation device of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the first light source.

Hereinafter, an operation device according to the second embodiment will be described.

First, the configuration of the operating device of the second embodiment will be described. Further, the description overlapping with the operation device of the first embodiment is simplified or omitted as appropriate.

Fig. 22 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device of the second embodiment are displayed. As shown in Figure 22 As shown, in the surface element 8, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a vertical row, and the first light source 15 is in a direction perpendicular to the column direction, and in this example, the light is moved from the up and down direction. It is emitted to the light guide plate 16.

The display element 9 disposed above the center in the height direction of the function description section 11 is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16 in the first light source 15 of the example diagram 10a, the diagram 10b, and the character expression 11a. Further, the display element 9 is disposed on the lower side of the center in the height direction of the function description section 11, and the first light source 15 of the example pattern 11b, the figure 12a, and the character expression 12b is disposed on the upper side of the light guide plate 16. . Further, in the case where each of the divisions is arranged in a horizontal row, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 which is located to the right of the center in the lateral direction of the function description section 11 is disposed on the left side of the light guide plate 16. Further, the first light source 15 of the display element 9 disposed on the left side of the center of the function description section 11 is disposed on the right side of the light guide plate 16.

Next, the operation of the operating device of the second embodiment will be described.

The function description section 11 is set such that the height of the center of the height direction substantially coincides with the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and faces in front. Therefore, in this example, the user's line of sight is upward when the drawing 10a, the figure 10b, and the character expression 11a are viewed, and the user's line of sight is downward when the pattern 11b, the figure 12a, and the character expression 12b are viewed.

Fig. 23 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operating device according to the second embodiment visually recognizes the display element displayed on the upper side. Fig. 24 is a view showing a state in which the user of the operating device according to the second embodiment visually recognizes the display element displayed below. Different from the operation device of the first comparative example and the operation device of the second comparative example, the operation device of the second embodiment is as shown in FIG. Therefore, the display element 9 displayed on the upper side of the first light source 15 is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, and the display element 9 displayed on the lower side is disposed on the upper side of the light guide plate 16, so as shown in FIG. As shown in Fig. 24, even if the user's line of sight moves between the divisions, that is, in this example, the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 enters the user's field of view and appears as shown in Figs. 14 and 15 in this example. The visible spherical phenomenon shown does not exist, and the readability of the display element 9 is improved.

Further, in the operation device according to the second embodiment, the function description section 11 is set to the approximate center of the height direction, that is, the height of the area between the area where the character expression 11a and the area of the display pattern 11b are displayed and the user at the standard height. The height of the line of sight when standing and looking in front is roughly the same. However, the height of the user is uneven, and the height of the line of sight when the user is not standing and looking in front is the same as the height of the portion other than the area between the area where the character expression 11a is displayed and the area where the display pattern 11b is displayed. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a measure for absorbing an uneven space of the user's height between the area where the character expression 11a is displayed and the area of the display pattern 11b.

In the case where the operation device of the second embodiment is mounted on, for example, a device having a low height or a portable device, the user can arbitrarily change the relationship between the position of the function description section 11 and the position of the line of sight of the user in front view. It is not necessary to consider the unevenness of the user's height.

Further, even if the height unevenness of the user is not taken into consideration, the height of the center of the function description section 11 is substantially the same as the height of the line of sight of the user of the standard height and the line of sight of the standard height. The display element 9 other than the display element 9 displayed between them prevents the visible spherical phenomenon as shown in Figs. 14 and 15, so that the refractory property of the display element 9 is improved.

Further, in the operation device according to the second embodiment, the height of the center of the height of the function description section 11 is substantially the same as the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and faces in front, but the surface member 8 can be made. The height of the other parts is substantially the same as the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and looks in front. In other words, the first light source 15 is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16 and is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16 that is disposed above the portion of the height that substantially coincides with the height of the line of sight of the user standing at the standard height and facing the front view. The first light source 15 of the display element 9 located below the portion of the height that substantially coincides with the height of the line of sight when standing by the user of the standard height and facing in front may be disposed on the upper side of the light guide plate 16. As shown in the operation device of the second embodiment, the height of the center of the height of the function description section 11 is substantially the same as the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and faces in front. The up and down movements are roughly equal in height.

Further, in the operation device according to the second embodiment, the first light source 15 of all the display elements 9 displayed above is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, and the first light source 15 of all the lower display elements 9 is disposed. The upper side of the light guide plate 16 may be disposed as in the first light source 15 of only a part of the display element 9. In the case where all of the display elements 9 are arranged like the first light source 15, the frequency of the visible spherical phenomenon can be further reduced.

Third embodiment

The operation device of the third embodiment differs from the operation device of the first embodiment and the second embodiment in the arrangement of the first light source.

Hereinafter, an operation device according to the third embodiment will be described.

First, the configuration of the operating device of the third embodiment will be described. In addition, with the first The description of the operation of the first embodiment and the second embodiment is repeated or omitted as appropriate.

Fig. 25 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device of the third embodiment are displayed. As shown in Fig. 25, in the surface element 8, the function selection section 10, the function description section 11 and the function setting section 12 are arranged in a vertical column.

The display element 9 is provided on the display unit 11 of the function description section 11. In this example, the first light source 15 of the character expression 11a and the pattern 11b emits light to the light guide plate 16 in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the division, that is, in the left-right direction. Further, in the case where each of the divisions is arranged in a horizontal direction, light is emitted from the vertical direction to the light guide plate 16. Further, the display elements 9 are displayed on the function selection area 10 and the function setting area 12, and the first light source 15 of the example diagram 10a, the diagram 10b, the diagram 12a, and the character expression 12b is arranged and divided. Light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 in a direction parallel to the direction, that is, in the up and down direction. Further, in the case where each of the divisions is arranged in a horizontal direction, light is emitted to the light guide plate 16 from the left and right directions.

The display element 9 is provided on the function selection section 10, and the first light source 15 of the example diagram 10a and the diagram 10b is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16. Further, the display element 9 is provided on the display unit 12 of the function setting section 12, and the first light source 15 of the example diagram 12a and the character expression 12b is disposed on the upper side of the light guide plate 16. Further, when each of the divisions is arranged in a horizontal row, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed on the right side of the function description section 11 is disposed on the left side of the light guide plate 16. Further, the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed on the left side of the function description section 11 is disposed on the right side of the light guide plate 16.

Next, the operation of the operating device of the third embodiment will be described.

The function description section 11 is set at a height substantially coincident with the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and faces in front, and the user's line of sight is upward when the visual function selection section 10 is displayed, and the visual function setting section is 12 The user's line of sight is facing down.

Similarly to the operation device of the first embodiment and the operation device of the second embodiment, in the operation device according to the third embodiment, the optical axis of the first light source 15 is opposite to the line of sight of the user, as shown in Figs. 12 and 13 The visible spherical phenomenon shown in the figure does not exist, so that the readability of the display element 9 is improved.

Similarly to the operation device according to the first embodiment and the operation device according to the second embodiment, in the operation device according to the third embodiment, when the light-emitting portion of the first light source 15 enters the field of view of the user when the user's line of sight moves, The frequency of the visible sphere phenomenon shown in Figs. 14 and 15 is lowered, so that the readability of the display element 9 is improved.

Further, in the operation device of the third embodiment, since the first light source 15 provided on the display elements 9 of the function selection section 10 and the function setting section 12 emits light from the vertical direction to the light guide plate 16, the first embodiment is implemented. The frequency of the visible sphere phenomenon when the display element 9 of the function selection section 10 and the function setting section 12 is visually recognized can be further reduced as compared with the mode operation device.

Further, in the operation device according to the third embodiment, since the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed in the function description section 11 emits light from the left-right direction to the light guide plate 16, the operation device of the second embodiment is not required. In general, the space is placed between the area where the character expression 11a is displayed and the area where the display pattern 11b is displayed, and the user's height is not uniform.

Further, in the operation device according to the third embodiment, since the first light source 15 provided on the display element 9 displayed in the function description section 11 emits light from the left-right direction to the light guide plate 16, the operation device of the second embodiment is not required. In general, since the first light source 15 is provided between the display elements 9 displayed on the character expression 11a or the pattern 11b of the function description section 11, the display elements 9 of the character expression 11a or the pattern 11b can be arranged at a narrower interval. The operation device 7 can be miniaturized.

Fig. 26 is a view showing a first light source in a superimposed manner in a state in which all of the display elements of the operating device according to the third embodiment of the present invention are shown. Further, in the operation device according to the third embodiment, the first light source 15 provided in the character expression 12b of the function setting section 12 emits light to the light guide plate 16 from the direction parallel to the direction of the division, that is, the vertical direction. As shown in Fig. 26, light may be emitted to the light guide plate 16 from a direction perpendicular to the direction of the division, that is, in the left-right direction. According to this configuration, the optical axis direction of the first light source 15 provided on the horizontally long display element 9 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the display element 9, and the display element 9 can be displayed more uniformly with the relatively small first light source 15. .

Further, in the operation device according to the third embodiment, the first light source 15 of the display element 9 displayed on all of the function description sections 11 is disposed in the left-right direction of the light guide plate 16, and is displayed on all of the display elements of the function selection section 10. The first light source 15 of the first light source 15 is disposed on the lower side of the light guide plate 16, and the first light source 15 of the display element 9 displayed on all of the function setting sections 12 is disposed on the upper side of the light guide plate 16, but only a part of the display element 9 may be provided. The first light source 15 is arranged in the same manner. In the case where all of the display elements 9 are arranged like the first light source 15, the frequency of the visible spherical phenomenon can be further reduced.

Fourth embodiment

The operation device of the fourth embodiment differs from the operation devices of the first to third embodiments in the structure of the surface element and the display means.

Hereinafter, the structure of the surface element and the display means of the operating device of the fourth embodiment will be described. In addition, the description overlapping with the operation apparatus of the first embodiment to the third embodiment is simplified or omitted as appropriate.

First, a structure in which the surface elements of the operation device of the fourth embodiment and the display means of the display elements having no function as an input means are displayed will be described using FIG.

Fig. 27 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a display element of a surface element of the operation device according to the fourth embodiment and a display element having no function as an input means. As shown in FIG. 27, the display means 13 is provided between the surface member 8 and the printed substrate 14.

The display means 13 has a first light source 15 and a shielding wall 17. In the element 8c having transparency of the surface element 8, the convex portion C is formed in a region where the display element is described, and the convex portion C is projected between the shielding walls 17. Further, an astigmatism pattern D is formed on a surface of the transmissive element 8c facing the printed circuit board 14. When the surface element 8 receives light from the first light source 15 provided on the side, the surface light is emitted by the diffusion of the astigmatism pattern D (the element 8c having the astigmatism pattern D formed is equivalent to the present invention) "Light-emitting elements".). Further, the astigmatism pattern D may be formed on an element different from the transmissive element 8c, and the dissimilar element is provided on the back side of the surface element 8 (the dissimilar element in which the astigmatism pattern D has been formed is equivalent to the present "Light-emitting element" of the invention.). In this case, the surface element 8 can also be integrated with the different element.

Next, a structure showing the display elements of the surface element of the operation device of the fourth embodiment and the display element having the function as an input means will be described using FIG. Further, the display means 10b, that is, the display means for selecting the function of the function touched and set by the user, has the second light source 19 as in the operation device of the first embodiment.

Fig. 28 is a view showing a cross-sectional structure showing a surface element of the operation device according to the fourth embodiment and a display means for a display element having a function as an input means. As shown in FIG. 28, the display means 13 includes a first light source 15, a shielding wall 17, and an input means 18.

The input means 18 is an electrode of the capacitive touch sensor. The input means 18 is attached to the surface of the printed circuit board 14. The input means 18 is provided on the back side of the astigmatism pattern D. The input means 18 detects a change in the electrostatic capacitance value via the surface element 8 when the user touches the area of the display element 9 on which the surface element 8 has been displayed, and transmits a signal to a control means (not shown).

Fig. 29 is a view showing an example of a surface element of the operating device of the fourth embodiment. For example, in the case where the character expression 11a is displayed on one surface element 8, the surface element 8 may be formed into a shape as shown in Fig. 29. In the present example, the first light source 15 is disposed in a region A provided on the outer side in the left-right direction of the surface element 8. The first light source 15 is provided between the convex portions C. The astigmatism pattern D is formed on the back surface of the surface element 8. The astigmatism pattern D is formed such that the density of the pattern increases as it moves away from the first light source 15. By configuring in this manner, the display state of the display element 9 can be made more uniform.

Further, in the operation device of the fourth embodiment, the astigmatism pattern D is formed on the surface element 8, but it may be the same as the operation device of the first embodiment. The light guide plate 16 is disposed on the back side of the surface member 8, and the astigmatism pattern D is formed on the light guide plate 16.

Although the first embodiment to the fourth embodiment have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the respective embodiments. For example, each embodiment or each modification may be combined.

8‧‧‧ Surface components

9‧‧‧Display components

10‧‧‧Function selection zoning

10a‧‧‧ icon

10b‧‧‧ icon

11‧‧‧Function description zoning

11a‧‧‧ text expression

11b‧‧‧ pattern

12‧‧‧ Function setting zoning

12a‧‧‧ icon

12b‧‧‧ text expression

Claims (13)

An operation device includes at least a layer having a plurality of descriptions for describing information used in an operation based on at least one of a transmissive portion and a non-transmissive portion; the light-emitting element is disposed on a back side of the layer and has a layer The surface facing the description unit emits the incident light from the surface; and the plurality of light sources are provided at least one of the description portions, and the optical axis is substantially parallel to the layer, and the light is incident on the light. The component is characterized in that at least a part of the plurality of description sections form at least three divisions; the three divisions form a row; the three divisions include the graphics of the three divisions, and the minimum circumference is depicted In the case of a pattern, the pattern is formed such that a width dimension in a direction perpendicular to a column direction of the column is smaller than a width dimension in a direction parallel to a column direction of the column; and at least one of forming a centrally located region among the three regions The light source provided in the manner corresponding to the description unit is disposed such that the optical axis is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the column. An operation device according to claim 1, wherein the light source is disposed in an optical axis and is disposed in a manner corresponding to at least one of the description portions forming a division located outside the division of the three regions in the three regions. The column direction is substantially parallel, and light is incident on the light-emitting element from a side close to the central portion. An operating device comprising at least: The layer has a plurality of description units for describing information used in the operation based on at least one of the transmissive portion and the non-transmissive portion; the light-emitting element is provided on the back side of the layer and has a surface opposite to the description portion. a surface from which the incident light is emitted; and a plurality of light sources are provided for each of the description portions, and the optical axis is disposed substantially parallel to the layer, and the light is incident on the light-emitting element; At least a portion of the plurality of description portions forms at least three regions; the three regions form a column; the three regions include graphics of the three regions, and the graphic is formed in the case of depicting a pattern having a minimum total circumference The width dimension in a direction perpendicular to the column direction direction is smaller than the width dimension in a direction parallel to the column direction; and at least one of the divisions forming the outer side of the division located in the center of the three divisions The light source provided in a corresponding manner is arranged such that the optical axis is substantially parallel to the direction of the column, and the light is incident on the light-emitting element from a side close to the central portion. The operation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the description unit that forms the division in the center includes at least a description unit that describes information for explaining the function. The operation device of claim 4, wherein the description portion forming one of the divisions located outside the division of the center includes at least a description portion in which information for selecting a function is described; and the formation is located at the center The other side of the division of the division The description unit includes at least a description unit that describes information for setting a function. The operating device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the three zones are continuously formed. The operation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the layer is disposed on a material having transparency; the light-emitting element is a light guide plate; the light guide plate is integrated on a back side of the component having transparency Chemical. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the layer is disposed on a transmissive element; in the transmissive element, an astigmatism pattern is formed; the illuminating element is permeable element. The operating device of claim 8, wherein the astigmatism pattern is formed such that the density of the pattern increases as the distance from the light source becomes longer. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein an input means is provided on a back side of the light-emitting element; the input means is an electrode of the capacitive touch sensor. A refrigerated freezer comprising at least the operating device of any one of claims 1 to 10. For example, in the chilled freezer of claim 11, wherein the three zonings form a vertical column. A chilled freezer according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the central zoning is formed at a height substantially coincident with the height of the line of sight when the user of the standard height stands and looks in front.