WO2010064626A1

WO2010064626A1 - Switch mechanism and electronic device

Info

Publication number: WO2010064626A1
Application number: PCT/JP2009/070168
Authority: WO
Inventors: 健史伊藤; 貴明吉廣; 修古瀬
Original assignee: 日本電気株式会社
Priority date: 2008-12-02
Filing date: 2009-12-01
Publication date: 2010-06-10

Abstract

Provided are a switch mechanism having excellent durability and an electronic device provided with the switch mechanism. The switch mechanism is provided with: a wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface; at least one switch button which is provided on the other surface of the wiring board and receives a pressing operation from the outside; a supporting board which is provided on the said surface of the wiring board and has at least one protruding section at a position which corresponds to at least the switch button; at least one conductive body which is arranged between the wiring board and the supporting board and electrically connects the first electrode and the second electrode by pressing of the protruding section performed by the pressing operation of the switch button; and an auxiliary member which is provided between the switch button and the wiring board and suppresses deformation of the switch button when the switch button is pressed.

Description

Switch mechanism and electronic equipment

The present invention is based on the priority claims of Japanese patent applications: Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-307308 (filed on Dec. 2, 2008) and Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-047816 (filed on Mar. 2, 2009). The entire contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention relates to a switch mechanism and an electronic device including the switch mechanism, and more particularly to a push-type switch mechanism and an electronic device including the switch mechanism.

Recently, there is a trend in the development of devices specialized in added value such as thinning and miniaturization from the viewpoint of portability in electronic devices typified by portable terminals. Accordingly, efforts have been made to reduce the thickness of the switch structure that allows the user to operate the device (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

A keypad for a portable electronic device as described in US Pat. No. 6,053,836 includes an outer surface, a number of pressable keys, a pair of spaced apart conductive contact points associated with each key, and a conductive contact A plurality of elastic domes adjacent to the point, and for each pair of conductive contact points, there is an adjacent elastic dome having a concave side and a convex side, and the concave side of the elastic dome is at least partially The conductive dome is directed toward the pair of conductive contact points, and the concave surfaces of the plurality of elastic domes are directed toward the outer surface of the keypad. A light source for illuminating the keypad is disposed between the printed wiring board and the key layer.

JP 2002-23921 A

The entire disclosure of Patent Document 1 is incorporated herein by reference.
The following analysis is given from the perspective of the present invention.

29 and 30, the dish-shaped conductor (metal dome) is convex downward (the convex part faces the opposite side of the switch button), and the protrusion that presses the conductor is below the conductor. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism (with the protrusions of the protrusions facing the switch button). FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism in a state where the switch button 411 is not pressed, and FIG. 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism in a state where the switch button 411 is pressed. In the switch mechanism 401, the conductor 404 is disposed in contact with the second electrode 407 under the wiring substrate 405, and a support plate 402 having a protrusion 402 a is disposed under the conductor 404. .

When the switch button 411 is pressed in the switch mechanism 401, the wiring board 405 moves in the direction of the protrusion 402a together with the conductor 404. Thereby, the center part of the dish-shaped conductor 404 is pressed by the projection part 402a, and the conductor 404 deform | transforms so that a center part may protrude. The raised central portion is in contact with the first electrode 406 of the wiring substrate 405, whereby electrical conduction between the first electrode 406 and the second electrode 407 can be obtained.

FIG. 31 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the conductor 404. FIG. 31A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the conductor 404 when the switch button 411 is not pressed, and FIG. 31B shows an ideal deformation state when the switch button 411 is pressed. FIG. 31C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the conductor 404 showing a deformed state when the switch button 411 is pressed in the switch mechanism shown in FIG. 30.

As shown in FIG. 30, when the switch button 411 is pressed, the pair of the first electrode 406 and the second electrode 407 in the wiring board 405 and the switch button 411 are deformed along the shape of the protrusion 402a. become. When the wiring substrate 405 is curved and deformed, the position (height) of the first electrode 406 is higher than the position (height) of the second electrode 407 in the cross section shown in FIG. In this state, in order for the conductor 404 to electrically connect the first electrode 406 and the second electrode 407, as shown in FIG. 31C, the central portion 404a has a height equal to or higher than the peripheral portion 404b. Must be raised. However, in the state illustrated in FIG. 31C, the conductor 404 is excessively deformed compared to the state illustrated in FIG. 31B, and a large stress is applied to the peripheral portion 404 b of the conductor 404. For this reason, when the key depression of the switch button 411 is repeated, the crack 404c as shown in FIG. 32 tends to occur.

For example, when the support plate 402 (projection 402a) is made of metal and the switch button 411 is made of resin, the switch button 411 has lower rigidity than the protrusion 402a. When the button 411 is pressed, the switch button 411 is also deformed into a mountain shape. As a result, excessive stress is also generated at the center (circle) of the switch button 411. Therefore, when the pressing and release of the switch button 411 are repeated, the chevron deformation and the restoration deformation of the switch button 411 are repeated, and the central portion of the switch button 411 is fatigued. In particular, in the switch button 411 that is thinly formed to reduce the thickness of the switch mechanism 401, the switch button 411 is more easily damaged by fatigue.

An object of the present invention is to provide a switch mechanism having excellent durability and an electronic device including the switch mechanism.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface and the other surface side of the wiring board are subjected to a pressing operation from the outside. At least one switch button, a support plate disposed on one surface side of the wiring board and having at least one protrusion at a position corresponding to the at least one switch button, and disposed between the wiring board and the support plate The switch button pressing operation is arranged between the switch button and the wiring board and at least one conductor that electrically connects the first electrode and the second electrode by pressing the projection by pressing the switch button. A switch mechanism is provided comprising at least one reinforcing member that sometimes suppresses deformation of the switch button.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface and the other surface side of the wiring board are subjected to a pressing operation from the outside. At least one switch button, a support plate disposed on one surface side of the wiring board and having at least one protrusion at a position corresponding to the at least one switch button, and disposed between the wiring board and the support plate The switch button is pressed between the switch button and the wiring board, and is more rigid than the switch button, and is disposed between the switch button and the wiring board. A switch mechanism is provided comprising a high at least one reinforcing member. In the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button, the outer edge of the reinforcing member exists between the outside of the outer edge of the conductor and the inside of the outer edge of the switch button.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, an electronic device including a switch mechanism is provided. The switch mechanism includes a wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface, at least one switch button disposed on the other surface side of the wiring board and receiving a pressing operation from the outside. The switch button is disposed between one side of the wiring board and has at least one protrusion at a position corresponding to at least one switch button, and the switch button is pressed between the wiring board and the support board. The switch button is deformed when the switch button is pressed, and is disposed between the switch button and the wiring board, and at least one conductor that electrically connects the first electrode and the second electrode by pressing the projecting portion. And a reinforcing member to be suppressed.

The present invention has at least one of the following effects.

In the present invention, deformation of the pair of first electrodes and second electrodes on the wiring board when the switch button is pressed can be suppressed by the reinforcing member. Thereby, the excessive deformation | transformation of a conductor can be suppressed and the fatigue failure of a conductor can be suppressed. Further, by prolonging the life of the conductor, a good click feeling felt by the operator can be maintained for a long time. Furthermore, the deformation of the switch button can be suppressed by the reinforcing member. Thereby, fatigue failure of the switch member can also be suppressed. Therefore, according to the present invention, the durability of the switch mechanism can be improved and a good click feeling can be maintained.

1 is a schematic plan view of a switch mechanism according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1. The schematic fragmentary sectional view which shows the state by which the switch button was pressed in the switch mechanism which concerns on 1st Example of this invention. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 2nd Example of this invention. The schematic fragmentary sectional view for demonstrating the electrical connection of a reinforcement member and a wiring board. The schematic fragmentary sectional view for demonstrating the electrical connection of a reinforcement member and a wiring board. The schematic fragmentary sectional view for demonstrating the electrical connection of a reinforcement member and a wiring board. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 3rd Example of this invention. The schematic fragmentary sectional view for demonstrating the electrical connection of a reinforcement member and an illumination sheet. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 4th Example of this invention. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 5th Example of this invention. The schematic plan view and schematic sectional drawing of the reinforcement member in the switch mechanism which concern on 5th Example of this invention. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a switch mechanism according to a first embodiment of the present invention that does not have a deformation assisting portion. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic plan view and sectional drawing which show the example of the reinforcement member which has a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 6th Example of this invention. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 7th Example of this invention. The schematic sectional drawing which shows the state by which the switch button was pressed in the switch mechanism which concerns on 7th Example of this invention. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism which concerns on 8th Example of this invention. FIG. 26 is a schematic partial plan view of a support plate in the switch mechanism according to the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 25. The schematic perspective view of the electronic device which concerns on 9th Example of this invention. FIG. 28 is a schematic partial exploded perspective view of an operation unit of the mobile phone shown in FIG. 27. The schematic fragmentary sectional view of the switch mechanism for demonstrating the subject which this invention tends to solve. The schematic sectional drawing which shows the state by which the switch button was pressed in the switch mechanism shown in FIG. The schematic sectional drawing of the conductor for demonstrating the subject which this invention tends to solve. The schematic plan view of the conductor for demonstrating the subject which this invention tends to solve.

Preferred forms of the switch mechanism and electronic device of the present invention are described below.

According to the preferred embodiment of the first aspect, the reinforcing member has higher rigidity than the switch board.

According to a preferred form of the first aspect, the reinforcing member covers the conductor in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button.

According to the preferred embodiment of the first aspect, the reinforcing member does not protrude from the switch button in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button.

According to a preferred embodiment of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the switch mechanism includes a plurality of reinforcing members. The interval between two adjacent reinforcing members is 1.0 mm or more.

According to the preferable form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, when one switch button is pressed among the adjacent switch buttons, the reinforcing member below the other switch button is on the one switch button side. The end portion is partially bent.

According to a preferred form of the first and second viewpoints, the reinforcing member has at least one deformation assisting portion that at least partially partially bends easily.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the deformation assisting portion is formed as a through hole.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the deformation assisting portion is formed as a thin portion.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the reinforcing member is a metal plate.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the reinforcing member is electrically connected to the ground potential wiring.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the ground potential wiring is formed on the wiring board.

According to a preferred form of the first and second viewpoints, the switch mechanism further includes an illumination sheet for illuminating the switch button. The ground potential wiring is formed on the illumination sheet.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the reinforcing member is disposed between the illumination sheet and the wiring board, or between the illumination sheet and the switch button.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the ground potential wiring is formed between the switch button and the reinforcing member.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the protrusion is displaced in the pressing direction of the switch button with the pressing operation of the switch button.

According to the preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the displacement of the protrusion is restored when the pressing operation of the switch button is released.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the support plate has a thin portion that is thinner than other regions in at least one region around the protrusion.

According to a preferred form of the first and second viewpoints, the support plate has at least one through hole in at least one region around the protrusion.

According to a preferred form of the first and second viewpoints, the conductor is dish-shaped and the concave surface thereof faces the wiring board. In a state in which the switch button is not pressed, the conductor is in contact with the second electrode without being in contact with the first electrode. In a state in which the switch button is pressed, a part of the concave surface of the conductor is raised in the direction of the wiring board by the pressing of the protruding portion, so that the conductor contacts the first electrode.

According to a preferred form of the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint, the switch button is a resin.

According to a preferred form of the third aspect, the support plate is a part of a housing that houses a built-in component of the electronic device.

According to a preferred mode of the third viewpoint, the switch mechanism is a switch mechanism according to the first viewpoint and the second viewpoint.

The switch mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a switch mechanism according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic partial plan view of a mobile phone that is an example of the electronic apparatus of the present invention, and shows an example in which the switch mechanism of the present invention is applied to an operation unit of a mobile phone. Further, in FIG. 1, the see-through portion is shown by a dotted line. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. 1, and is a schematic cross-sectional view of one switch mechanism. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 1, and is a schematic cross-sectional view of two adjacent switch mechanisms.

The switch mechanism 1 includes a support plate 2, an adhesive sheet 3, a wiring board 5 having at least one conductor 4, a first electrode 6 and a second electrode 7, at least one reinforcing member 8, an illumination sheet 9, a base sheet 10, At least one switch button 11 and a cover member 12 are provided.

The switch button 11 is a button for an input operation by the operator, and is joined to a predetermined position on the base sheet 10. The switch button 11 can be formed using, for example, a resin such as an acrylic resin, and the thickness thereof can be set to, for example, about 0.3 mm. The base sheet 10 can be produced using, for example, a resin such as polycarbonate, and the thickness thereof can be, for example, about 0.05 mm. A cover member 12 having a through hole for fitting the switch button 11 is disposed on the base sheet 10. The cover member 12 may not be provided between the adjacent switch buttons 11.

The illumination sheet 9 is for illuminating the switch button 11 and is disposed under the switch button 11 and the base sheet 10. As the illumination sheet 9, for example, an inorganic EL sheet can be used, and the thickness thereof is, for example, about 0.1 mm. Note that the inorganic EL sheet has a characteristic that acoustic noise peculiar to AC driving is generated. However, according to the present invention, the reinforcing member 8 is attached to the inorganic EL sheet, thereby increasing the weight of the inorganic EL sheet and reducing the acoustic noise. Reduction can also be achieved. Further, as the illumination sheet 9, a light guide sheet may be used in which a light emitting source such as an LED is disposed at the end, the light is guided into the illumination sheet 9, and a desired portion is illuminated.

The reinforcing member 8 is disposed on each switch button 11 in order to prevent the wiring board 5 and the switch button 11 from being excessively curved and deformed according to the shape of the protrusion 2a of the support plate 2 when the switch button 11 is pressed. The adhesive sheet 9 is joined via an adhesive layer (not shown) under the illumination sheet 9.

The size (area) and rigidity of the reinforcing member 8 suppress the bending deformation of the pair of first electrode 6 and second electrode 7 in the wiring board 5 when the switch button 11 is pressed, as shown in FIG. In a simple cross section, it is preferable to set so that a difference between the position (height) of the first electrode 6 and the position (height) of the second electrode 7 does not occur. At this time, the rigidity of the reinforcing member 8 is preferably higher than the rigidity of the wiring board 5. Further, in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button 11 as shown in FIG. 1, it is preferable that the size (area) of the reinforcing member 8 covers at least the conductor 4 and the pair of the first electrode 6 and the second electrode. More preferably, the electrode 7 is covered. For example, in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button 11, the outer edge of the reinforcing member 8 is preferably outside the outer edge of the conductor, preferably the first electrode 6 or the second electrode 7. That is, in the cross section as shown in FIG. 2, the cross sectional dimension d1 of the reinforcing member 8 is preferably equal to or larger than the cross sectional dimension d2 of the conductor 4, and more preferably equal to or larger than the cross sectional dimension d3 of the second electrode 7.

Further, it is more preferable that the size (area) and rigidity of the reinforcing member 8 are set so as to suppress bending deformation of the switch button 11 when the switch button 11 is pressed. At this time, the rigidity of the reinforcing member 8 is preferably higher than the rigidity of the switch button 11. For example, when the switch button 11 is made of acrylic resin having a thickness of 0.3 mm, the reinforcing member 8 can be a stainless steel plate having a thickness of 0.1 mm. At this time, the reinforcing member 8 is preferably chamfered at corners and ridges so as not to damage the wiring board 5 and the illumination sheet 9. For example, corners and ridges can be rounded by chemical treatment or the like. Further, in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button 11 as shown in FIG. 1, it is preferable that the reinforcing member 8 does not protrude from the switch button 11, and the size (area) of the reinforcing member 8 is the switch button 11. Is preferably less than or equal to the size (area), and is more preferably covered by the switch button 11 (completely overlaps with the switch button 11). For example, in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button 11, it is preferable that the outer edge of the reinforcing member 8 is inside the outer edge of the switch button 11. That is, in the cross section as shown in FIG. 2, the cross sectional dimension d1 of the reinforcing member 8 is preferably equal to or smaller than the cross sectional dimension d4 of the switch button 11.

When comparing the rigidity of the reinforcing member 8 with the wiring board 5 or the switch button 11, it is preferable to compare with the Young's modulus, for example.

Furthermore, it is more preferable that the size (area) and rigidity of the reinforcing member 8 are set so that the operator can obtain a good pressing feeling. In the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button 11 as shown in FIG. 1, when the size of the reinforcing member 8 is too small with respect to the switch button 11, the operator does not overlap the reinforcing member 8 and the switch button 11. When the area is locally pressed with a nail or the like, the switch button 11 is locally bent and no force is transmitted to the conductor 4, so that the operator cannot obtain a good pressing feeling. Therefore, it is more preferable that the reinforcing member 8 has such a size that the switch button 11 is not locally deformed even when the end of the switch button 11 is locally pressed.

The distance d5 between the two adjacent reinforcing members 8 is preferably 1.0 mm or more. When the distance d5 is less than 1.0 mm, the bending of the illumination sheet 9 and the wiring board 5 between the adjacent switch buttons 11 is hindered, and the click feeling of the operator is impaired. For example, in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button 11 as shown in FIG. 1, when the planar outer shape of the switch button 11 is 10 mm × 6 mm and the interval between two adjacent switch buttons 11 is 0.5 mm, the reinforcing member 8 is preferably 9.5 mm × 5.5 mm or less, and the reinforcing member 8 is preferably arranged so that the outer edge of the switch button 11 and the outer edge of the reinforcing member 8 are at a constant interval.

The reinforcing member 8 may have any shape as long as it can suppress the curved deformation of the switch button 11 and the pair of first electrode 6 and second electrode 7 in the wiring board 5. Can be used. Further, it may be a member having at least one through hole, such as a mesh member or a frame member. Further, the planar outer shape of the reinforcing member 8 is not limited to a quadrangle, and various forms such as a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon can be adopted according to the shape of the switch button 11.

The wiring board 5 is arranged under the illumination sheet 9 and the reinforcing member 8. The wiring board 5 is preferably partially deformable according to the displacement of the switch button 11 when the switch button 11 is pressed. For example, the wiring board 5 is preferably formed as a flexible board (FPC). An annular second electrode 7 is formed on the wiring board 5 so as to surround the first electrode 6 and the first electrode 6 for each switch button 11. The pair of first electrode 6 and second electrode 7 are disposed so as to be positioned below the switch button 11 and the reinforcing member 8.

In the present embodiment, the reinforcing member 8 is disposed between the illumination sheet 9 and the wiring board 5, but when the reinforcing member 8 has at least one through hole, the switch button 11 is inserted through the through hole. Since it can be illuminated, the reinforcing member 8 may be disposed between the switch button 11 and the illumination sheet 9.

The wiring board 5 and the illumination sheet 9 are pressure-bonded so as to close the gap between the adjacent reinforcing members 8. 2 and 3, the illumination sheet 9 is deformed according to the reinforcing member 8. Moreover, the electrode (not shown) of the illumination sheet 9 and the terminal (not shown) of the wiring board 5 are electrically connected through, for example, an anisotropic conductive paste (ACP) (not shown).

The conductor 4 is for electrically connecting the first electrode 6 and the second electrode 7 under the switch button 11 when the switch button 11 is pressed, and under the wiring board 5, Each switch button 11 is arranged. The conductor 4 is preferably a dish-shaped metal plate (a disk spring or a metal dome), and the concave surface faces the wiring board 5. Moreover, it is preferable that the conductor 4 has flexibility or elasticity such that the central portion 4a is raised when the convex surface is pressed and restored when the pressure is released. In the form shown in FIG. 1, the conductor 4 is held by the adhesive sheet 3 so that at least a part of the peripheral edge (or end) 4 b is in electrical contact with the second electrode 7. In a state where the switch button 11 is not pressed, the central portion (preferably the most recessed region) 4 a of the conductor 4 is not in contact with the first electrode 6. Further, the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 is disposed so as to be positioned below the first electrode 6, and is preferably disposed so that the center of the first electrode 6 and the center of the conductor 4 overlap. Thereby, in a state where the switch button 11 is pressed, the conductor 4 comes into contact with the first electrode 6 by supporting the central portion 4a by the protrusion 2a of the support plate 2, and the first electrode 6 and the first electrode 6 The two electrodes 7 are electrically connected. When the switch button 11 is released, the conductor 4 returns to its original shape.

The support plate 2 is arranged under the adhesive sheet 3. The support plate 2 has a protrusion 2 a for each switch button 11. The protrusion 2 a is preferably arranged so as to be positioned below the first electrode 6 and the central portion 4 a of the conductor 4. More preferably, the central portion of the upper surface of the protruding portion 2a, the central portion of the first electrode 6, and the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 are arranged so as to be aligned. Moreover, it is preferable that the upper surface of the protrusion 2a is in contact with the adhesive sheet 3 in a state where the switch button 11 is not pressed. The protrusion 2a has, for example, a truncated cone shape, and the upper surface of the protrusion 2a is preferably a flat or gentle curved surface.

As the support plate 2, for example, a stainless sheet metal having a thickness of 0.3 mm can be used. For example, the protrusion 2a can have a height of 0.2 mm and an upper surface diameter of 1.0 mm (in the case where the upper surface is a curved surface, the width contacting the wiring board 5 is, for example, 1.0 mm). be able to). When the support plate 2 is a stainless steel plate, the protrusion 2a can be formed by, for example, pressing. As the planar shape of the protrusion 2a, various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon can be selected.

The positional relationship between the switch button 11, the first electrode 6, the conductor 4, and the protrusion 2a of the support plate 2 is such that when the switch button 11 is pressed, the protrusion 2a presses and raises the central portion 4a of the conductor 4. Thus, the raised central portion 4a of the conductor 4 and the first electrode 6 are electrically connected.

Next, the operation of the switch mechanism 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view showing a state where the switch button is pressed in the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention. When the switch button 11 is pressed by the operator, the wiring board 5 and the illumination sheet 9 below the switch button 11 are displaced in the direction of the support plate 2 (downward). Accordingly, the peripheral edge 4b of the conductor 4 that is in contact with the second electrode 7 is displaced downward. At this time, since the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 is supported by the protrusion 2a, the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 is pressed by the protrusion 2a due to the displacement of the peripheral edge 4b of the conductor 4. It deform | transforms so that the concave center part 4a may protrude. As a result, the central portion 4a of the raised conductor 4 comes into contact with the first electrode 6 of the wiring board, so that electrical conduction between the first electrode 6 and the second electrode 7 is obtained. The protrusion 2a is for urging deformation of the central portion of the conductor 4 when the switch button 11 is pressed, and makes the operator feel that the operator of the switch button 11 has pressed the switch button 11 by the repulsive force. Has a function to facilitate. When the pressing of the switch button 11 is released, the wiring board 5, the illumination sheet 9 and the like are displaced upward (return to the original position). Thereby, the pressing of the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 by the protruding portion 2a of the support plate 2 is also released, and the conductor 4 returns to its original shape. When the conductor 4 returns to its original shape, the electrical continuity between the first electrode 6 and the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 is released.

In the present invention, when the switch button 11 is pressed, the reinforcing member 8 is excessively curved in accordance with the shape of the protrusion 2a, and the pair of first electrode 6 and second electrode 7 portions on the wiring board 5 and the switch button 11 are excessively curved. Suppresses deformation. That is, in the cross section as shown in FIG. 4, the difference in position (height) between the first electrode 6 and the second electrode 7 is smaller than that of the switch mechanism having no reinforcing member. As a result, the deformation amount of the conductor 4, that is, the displacement amount of the central portion 4a of the conductor 4, is also reduced as compared with the switch mechanism in which the reinforcing member 8 does not exist as shown in FIG. That is, in the cross section as shown in FIG. 4, the difference δ1 in the position (height) between the central portion 4a and the peripheral portion 4b of the conductor 4 in the switch mechanism 1 of the present invention has a reinforcing member as shown in FIG. The difference δ2 between the positions (heights) of the central portion 4a and the peripheral portion 4b of the conductor 4 in the switch mechanism that is not to be reduced can be reduced. Further, the amount of deformation of the switch button 11 is also smaller than that of the switch mechanism having no reinforcing member as shown in FIG. Thereby, the stress applied to the conductor 4 and the switch button 11 when the switch button 11 is pressed can be reduced, and fatigue damage of the conductor 4 and the switch button 11 due to repeated pressing of the switch button 11 can be suppressed. Therefore, according to the switch mechanism 1 of the present invention, the life of the switch mechanism 1 can be extended and the durability reliability can be improved. In FIG. 4, in order to clearly show the difference δ1 between the position (height) of the central portion 4a and the peripheral edge portion 4b of the conductor 4, the switch button 11, the wiring board 5 and the like are slightly curved so that the conductor 4 The height difference δ1 between the central portion 4a and the peripheral edge portion 4b of the conductor 4 is preferably shown, but preferably the height difference δ1 between the central portion 4a and the peripheral edge portion 4b of the conductor 4 is zero. Like that.

A switch mechanism according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a switch mechanism according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 5, the same elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the switch mechanism 41 according to the present embodiment, the reinforcing member 8 is electrically connected to the ground potential wiring of the wiring board 42. Thus, by electrically connecting the reinforcing member 8 in an electrically floating state to the ground, the occurrence of ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) can be prevented, and the reliability of the device can be improved. The configuration of the switch mechanism 41 other than the wiring board 42 and the electrical connection between the wiring board 42 and the reinforcing member 8 is the same as that of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Further, at least one of the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined.

FIG. 6 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view for explaining the electrical connection between the reinforcing member 8 and the wiring board 42. The wiring board 42 includes an insulating sheet such as polyimide, a wiring (not shown) formed on the insulating sheet, and a base 43 having electrodes such as a first electrode 44, a second electrode 45, and a ground electrode 46, and a base 43 And an insulating layer 47 that covers at least a part thereof. Similar to the first embodiment, the first electrode 44 and the second electrode 45 are electrodes that are electrically connected to the conductor 4 when the switch button 11 is pressed. The 1st electrode 44 is electrically connected with the wiring formed in the surface of the other side through the through-hole 43a formed in the insulating sheet.

The insulating layer 47 covers wiring that needs to be insulated, and can be formed of, for example, an epoxy resin or a polyimide resin.

The ground electrode 46 is electrically connected to a ground potential wiring (not shown). In the present embodiment, the reinforcing member 8 is formed of a conductive material, and the ground electrode 46 and the reinforcing member 8 are electrically connected. The ground electrode 46 is preferably formed on the surface facing the reinforcing member 8 so as to face the reinforcing member 8. The ground electrode 46 may be formed at a location that can be electrically connected to the reinforcing member 8. For example, in the form shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the ground electrode 46 is formed on the back side of the second electrode 45.

The form of electrical connection between the ground electrode 46 and the reinforcing member 8 is not limited, and various forms can be applied as appropriate. For example, the ground electrode 46 and the reinforcing member 8 may be in direct contact, or may be electrically connected via a conductive adhesive 48 as shown in FIGS. When the wiring (not shown) is covered with the insulating layer 47, the height of the insulating layer 47 with respect to the insulating sheet is higher than that of the ground electrode 46. At this time, a gap d6 (for example, 0.01 mm to 0.02 mm) is generated between the ground electrode 46 and the reinforcing member 8. In this case, it is preferable to use the conductive adhesive 48.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another form different from the form shown in FIG. In the form shown in FIG. 7, the reinforcing member 58 has a recess 58 a in at least a part facing the ground electrode 46. The recess 58a functions as an adhesive reservoir. For example, when it is difficult to control the application amount of the conductive adhesive 48, the concave portion 58a can prevent the conductive adhesive 48 from protruding to an unnecessary portion.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another form different from the form shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the conductive adhesive 48 is used to fill the gap d6 between the ground electrode 46 and the reinforcing

members

8 and 58. However, in the form shown in FIG. 8, the conductive adhesive is used. Not using. In the form shown in FIG. 8, the reinforcing member 68 has a convex portion 68 a at least partially facing the ground electrode 46. The reinforcing member 68 is in contact with the ground electrode 46 at the convex portion 68a to obtain electrical continuity. The height of the convex portion 68a is preferably the gap d7 between the ground electrode 46 and the reinforcing member 68. By pressing the reinforcing member 68 and the ground electrode 46, the height of the convex portion 68a is adjusted to the gap d7. May be. The convex portion 68a can be formed by etching, pressing, or the like.

According to the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of ESD and improve the reliability of the electronic device using the switch mechanism of the present invention. In particular, in the present embodiment, when the metallic reinforcing member is in an electrically floating state (an independent state that is not electrically connected to anything), charges are accumulated in the reinforcing member, and ESD is caused. It is preferable to apply when there is a risk of malfunction or failure of electronic equipment.

A switch mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 9 is a schematic partial sectional view of a switch mechanism according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 9, the same elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the switch mechanism 51 according to the present embodiment, the reinforcing member 8 is electrically connected to the ground potential wiring 53 of the illumination sheet 52. As a result, by electrically connecting the reinforcing member 8 in an electrically floating state to the ground, ESD can be prevented and the reliability of the electronic device can be improved. The forms other than the illumination sheet 52 of the switch mechanism 51 and the electrical connection between the illumination sheet 52 and the reinforcing member 8 are the same as those of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Further, at least one of the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined.

FIG. 10 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view for explaining the electrical connection between the reinforcing member 8 and the illumination sheet 52. The illumination sheet 52 has a ground potential wiring 53 facing at least a part of the reinforcing member 8 on the surface facing the reinforcing member 8. 9 and 10, the reinforcing member is disposed between the illumination sheet 52 and the wiring board 5. The ground potential wiring 53 can be formed on the non-light emitting surface of the illumination sheet 52 by, for example, pattern printing of Ag paste.

In the present embodiment, the reinforcing member 8 is formed of a conductor and is electrically connected to the ground potential wiring 53. The form of electrical connection between the ground potential wiring 53 and the reinforcing member 8 is not limited, and various forms can be applied as appropriate. For example, the ground potential wiring 53 and the reinforcing member 8 may be in direct contact or may be electrically connected via a conductive adhesive 54 as shown in FIGS.

A switch mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 11 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a switch mechanism according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the same elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The switch mechanism 61 according to the present embodiment does not have an illumination sheet. Further, the switch mechanism 61 has a ground potential wiring 62 under the base sheet 10. The reinforcing member 8 is electrically connected to the ground potential wiring 62. As a result, by electrically connecting the reinforcing member 8 in an electrically floating state to the ground, ESD can be prevented and the reliability of the electronic device can be improved. The point which does not have an illumination sheet, and forms other than the electrical connection between the reinforcing member 8 and the ground potential wiring 62 are the same as those of the switch mechanism according to the first example. Further, at least one of the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined.

The form of electrical connection between the ground potential wiring 62 and the reinforcing member 8 is not limited, and various forms can be applied as appropriate. For example, the ground potential wiring 62 and the reinforcing member 8 may be in direct contact or may be electrically connected via a conductive adhesive 63 as shown in FIG.

A switch mechanism according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 12 shows a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a switch mechanism according to a fifth example of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view between adjacent switch buttons when the switch button is pressed. FIG. 13 shows a schematic plan view and a schematic cross-sectional view of the reinforcing member in the switch mechanism according to the fifth example of the present invention. 13A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the reinforcing member, and FIGS. 13B and 13C are schematic cross-sectional views taken along line AA in FIG. 13A. In FIG. 13A, the planar projection of the conductor 4 is shown by a dotted line. In FIG. 12, the same elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals.

The switch mechanism according to the fifth example of the present invention is the same as the switch mechanism according to the first example except for the form of the reinforcing member 78. Further, at least one of the second to fourth examples may be combined with this embodiment.

The reinforcing member 78 has at least one deformation assisting portion 78a that makes at least a part of the reinforcing member 78 easy to bend or easily reversibly deform. In the form shown in FIG. 13, the deformation assisting portion 78 a is partially formed as a slit-like through hole along the contour of the reinforcing member 78. The deformation assisting portion 78a is formed at a position that does not overlap the conductor 4 in planar projection in order to prevent excessive deformation of the conductor 4.

Next, the operation of the deformation assisting portion 78a will be described. FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention that does not have a deformation assisting portion. FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view between adjacent switch buttons when the switch button is pressed, as in FIG. In the switch mechanism of the fifth embodiment, when the switch button 11 (left switch button in FIG. 12) is pressed, the switch button 11 adjacent to the pressed switch button 11 (right switch button in FIG. 12) 11 is located below. A part or end of the reinforcing member 78 on the pressed switch button side is partially bent by the deformation assisting portion 78a as shown in FIG. Thereby, compared with the form which does not have a deformation | transformation auxiliary | assistant part as shown in FIG. 14, when switch button 11 is pressed, the area | region (area) which bends the wiring board 5, the illumination sheet 9, etc. can be made wider. That is, in the form without the deformation assisting portion as shown in FIG. 14, the region where the wiring board 5 or the like bends when the switch button 11 is pressed is the width W <b> 2 between the adjacent reinforcing members 8. On the other hand, in the form according to the present embodiment as shown in FIG. 12, the area where the wiring board 5 or the like bends when the switch button 11 is pressed is the outer edge of the reinforcing member 78 below the pressed switch button 11. It becomes the width W1 with the deformation assisting portion 78a of the reinforcing member 78 below the switch button adjacent to it. According to the present embodiment, since the area where the wiring board 5 or the like bends is enlarged, the mutual influence between adjacent switch buttons can be reduced and the click feeling can be made clearer.

Since the reinforcing member 78 portion outside the deformation assisting portion 78a supports the switch button 11, the presence of the switch button 11 (feeling as a button when the operator presses the switch button 11) is more clearly felt. It becomes easy. For example, even if the area of the reinforcing member is reduced, the bending area of the wiring board 5 or the like can be expanded. However, in that case, the vicinity of the outer edge of the switch button 11 is not supported by the reinforcing member 78, so that it is difficult for the operator to feel the presence of the switch button 11. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the outer edge of the reinforcing member 78 is brought closer to the outer edge of the switch button 11 so that the operator can easily feel the presence of the switch button 11.

If the deformation assisting part can be easily deformed or bent easily, the form, shape, dimensions, etc. of the reinforcing member can be appropriately set. 15 to 19 are a schematic plan view and a cross-sectional view showing an example of a reinforcing member having a deformation assisting portion. 15A to 19B, FIG. 15A is a schematic plan view, and FIG. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

15 is a slit-shaped through hole formed along the four sides of the reinforcing member 81. The deformation assisting portion 81a of the reinforcing member 81 shown in FIG. The through hole is partially formed double. Thereby, the edge part of each side becomes easy to bend.

16 is at least one groove formed along the side of the reinforcing member 82. The deformation assisting portion 82a of the reinforcing member 82 shown in FIG. In the form shown in FIG. 16, the groove portion is formed on both surfaces, and the thickness of the deformation assisting portion 82a is thinner than the other portions.

The deformation assisting portion 83a of the reinforcing member 83 shown in FIG. 17 is formed as a gap that fragments the reinforcing member 83. In the form shown in FIG. 17, the reinforcing member 83 is divided into three parts by two deformation assisting parts 83a.

The

deformation assisting portions

84a and 85a of the reinforcing

members

84 and 85 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 are at least one cut. In the form shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, cuts are formed on two opposing sides, but they may be formed on four sides.

20 and 21 are arranged below the switch button of the four-direction (up / down / left / right) key found in a mobile phone or the like. The reinforcing

members

86 and 87 are arranged on the four conductors 4 in the vertical and horizontal directions. The

deformation assisting portions

86 a and 87 a are formed between the adjacent conductors 4. In the reinforcing member 86 shown in FIG. 20, the deformation assisting portion 86 a is formed as a radial (cross-shaped) cut (through hole) extending between adjacent conductors 4. In the reinforcing member 87 shown in FIG. 21, the deformation assisting portion 87 a is formed as an arcuate cut (through hole) along the contour of the conductor 4.

A switch mechanism according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 22 shows a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism according to the sixth example of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view between adjacent switch buttons when the switch button is pressed. In the fifth embodiment, the deformation assisting portion is formed only on the reinforcing member. However, in this embodiment, the deformation assisting portion is also formed on other members.

For example, at least one of the adhesive sheet 93, the wiring board 95, and the illumination sheet 99 can be provided with a deformation assisting portion that facilitates deformation or bending. In the form shown in FIG. 22, through-hole type

deformation assisting portions

93a, 95a, and 99a are formed in the adhesive sheet 93, the wiring board 95, and the illumination sheet 99, respectively. The

deformation assisting portions

93a, 95a, and 99a may be thin-walled. Further, it is preferable that the deformation assisting portions of the respective members are arranged so that at least a part thereof overlaps. For example, in the form shown in FIG. 22, the deformation assisting portion 99a of the illumination sheet 99, the deformation assisting portion 78a of the reinforcing member 78, the deformation assisting portion 95a of the wiring board 95, and the deformation assisting portion 93a of the adhesive sheet 93 seem to overlap. That is, it arrange | positions so that a through-hole may communicate. As a result, the wiring board 95 and the like can be more easily bent when the switch button 11 is pressed.

The switch mechanism according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is the same as the switch mechanism according to the fifth embodiment except for the wiring board and the like. Further, at least one of the second to fourth examples may be combined with this embodiment.

A switch mechanism according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 23 is a schematic partial sectional view of a switch mechanism according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 24 is a schematic sectional view showing a state where the switch button is pressed in the switch mechanism according to the seventh example of the present invention. In FIGS. 23 and 24, the same reference numerals are given to the same elements as those in the first embodiment.

In the switch mechanism 21 according to the present embodiment, the protrusion 22a of the support plate 22 is formed to be displaced in the displacement direction of the switch button 11 when the switch button 11 is pressed. Thereby, the curved deformation of the switch button 11 and the wiring board 5 can be further suppressed. The configuration of the switch mechanism 21 other than the support plate 22 is the same as that of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Further, at least one of the second to sixth examples may be combined with this embodiment.

The support plate 22 has a thin-walled portion 22b formed thinner than other portions (thick-walled portion 22c) on at least a part of the periphery of the protruding portion 22a. The thin portion 22b is formed such that when the switch button 11 is pressed, the thin portion 22b is bent (deformed) by the elasticity of the conductor 4 or the pressing force from the switch button 11, and the protruding portion 22a is lowered. For example, the thin portion 22b can be formed such that when the switch button 11 is pressed at 5N to 50N, the protrusion 22a is displaced by 0.05 mm to 0.15 mm. The thin portion 22b is formed so that the projection 22a is restored to its original state when the switch button 11 is no longer pressed.

In the support plate 22 shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, a protrusion 22a, a thin portion 22b, and a thick portion 22c are connected to each other. In the present embodiment, the thin portion 22b is produced by forming a recess on the surface of the support plate 22 that faces the wiring board 5 or the like. The support plate 22 as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 can be molded by, for example, pressing. Moreover, the thin part 22b is not adjacent to the projection part 22a, and can also be arranged via the thick part 22c between the projection part 22a.

As the planar shape of the protrusion 22a and the thin portion 22b, various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon can be selected. Further, the planar shape of the protrusion 22a and the planar shape of the thin portion 22b do not need to be the same shape.

The support plate 22 is preferably made of an elastic material that can be bent when the switch button 11 is pressed and can return to its original shape when the switch button 11 is released. For example, the support plate 22 can be made of a sheet metal such as stainless steel (SUS). For example, when the support plate 22 is made of a stainless steel (SUS) sheet metal having a thickness of about 0.3 mm, the thin part 22b with respect to the original sheet metal thickness (thickness of the thick part 22c) is about 0.3 mm. Is preferably molded into, for example, 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. In addition, it is preferable that the region determined by the outer periphery of the thin portion 22 b is larger than the outer shape of the conductor 4. When the protruding portion 22a and the thin portion 22b are formed by press working, a member remaining due to thinning of the thin portion 22b at the time of pressing is brought close to the molding portion of the protruding portion 22a, and at the same time, the protruding portion 22a has a cylindrical shape or a truncated cone. It can be drawn into a shape. The height of the protrusion 22a is appropriately set according to the stroke length of pressing the switch button 11. For example, the height of the protrusion 22a can be set so that the stroke length of the switch button 11 is about 0.2 mm by adding a margin to the movable stroke of the conductor 4 (depth of the dish shape). At this time, the height of the protrusion 22a can be set to 0.05 mm to 0.25 mm from the surface of the thin portion 22b, for example. The remaining members are removed at the time of pressing. When the planar shape of the upper surface of the protrusion 22a is circular as shown in FIG. 2, the diameter can be set to φ1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, for example.

When the switch button 11 is pressed, the thin portion 22b of the support plate 22 bends and displaces the protruding portion 22a downward. This displacement has a function of giving the operator a clear operational feeling of the switch button 11 from the start of pressing the switch button 11 until the conductor 4 contacts the first electrode 6. After contacting the first electrode 6, the conductor 4 and the switch button 11 have a function of suppressing fatigue failure. Therefore, the effect of bending of the thin portion 22 b will be described separately before and after the conductor 4 contacts the first electrode 6.

First, the function of the thin portion 22b from when the switch button 11 is pressed until the conductor 4 comes into contact with the first electrode 6 will be described. When the switch button 11 of the switch mechanism 21 is gradually pushed in, the dish-shaped conductor 4 is pressed by the projection 22a at the center thereof and begins to deform so as to rise. With the deformation of the conductor 4, the repulsive force increases. However, in the switch mechanism 21 of the present invention, the thin portion 22b is also bent by receiving the repulsive force. The repulsive force of the conductor 4 eventually reaches the maximum value. Thereafter, the repulsive force of the conductor 4 decreases as it is pushed in. Accordingly, the thin portion 22b that has been bent in the switch mechanism 21 of the present invention also starts to be restored. When the switch button 11 is further pushed in, the central portion 4 a of the conductor 4 comes into contact with the first electrode 6, and electrical conduction between the first electrode 6 and the second electrode 7 is obtained by the conductor 4. Thereafter, since the conductor 4 cannot be deformed, the repulsive force starts to increase again due to the rigidity of the support plate 22 and the like.

The operator recognizes the operation feeling of the switch button 11 by the change in the repulsive force. In the switch mechanism 21 of the present invention, from the start of pushing to the maximum repulsive force position, the thin-walled portion 22b also bends as the repulsive force of the conductor 4 increases, and the protrusion 22a is displaced in the pushing direction. And when the maximum repulsive force position is exceeded, as the repulsive force of the conductor 4 decreases, the bending of the thin-walled portion 22b is restored, and the protruding portion 22a also tries to return to the original position. Therefore, in the switch mechanism 21 of the present invention, the change in the repulsive force with respect to the change in the pushing amount is larger than that in the switch mechanism 1 having no thin portion shown in FIG. Due to the change in the repulsive force, the operator of the switch mechanism 21 of the present embodiment can obtain a clearer feeling of operation than when the switch mechanism 1 shown in FIG. 2 is operated even if the movable stroke of the conductor 4 is short. Can do.

Next, the function of the thin portion 22b after the conductor 4 comes into contact with the first electrode 6 will be described. When the central portion 4a of the conductor 4 comes into contact with the first electrode 6, the pressing force of the switch button 11 is applied to the protruding portion 22a. And by this pressing force, the thin part 22b bends, and the protrusion part 22a is displaced below by the part which the thin part 22b bent. That is, the height of the protrusion 22a on the surface of the support plate 22 is reduced. Thereby, the deformation along the pair of first electrode 6 and second electrode 7 portions on the wiring board 5 and the protrusion 22 a of the switch button 11 is alleviated. Thereby, combined with the effect of the reinforcing member 8, it is possible to prevent the switch button 11 and the conductor 4 from being excessively deformed and to improve the durability.

A switch mechanism according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 25 is a schematic partial sectional view of a switch mechanism according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26 shows a schematic partial plan view of the support plate in the switch mechanism according to the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. In FIGS. 25 and 26, the same reference numerals are given to the same elements as those in the first embodiment.

In the seventh embodiment, the thin portion is formed to displace the protrusion of the support plate. However, in the switch mechanism 31 according to the eighth embodiment, a through hole 32b is formed in the support plate 32. . By forming the through hole 32b, the projection 32a is displaced downward when the switch button 11 is pressed, as in the seventh embodiment, and the pair of first electrodes 6 on the switch button 11 and the wiring board 5 and While curving deformation of the 2nd electrode 7 part can be controlled, an operator can obtain a favorable operation feeling. The form of the switch mechanism 31 other than the support plate 32 is the same as that of the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment. Further, at least one of the second to seventh examples may be combined with this embodiment.

The form of the through-hole 32b may be any form as long as the protrusion 32a can be displaced downward by a desired amount when the switch button 11 is pressed. For example, in the form shown in FIG. 26, the support plate 32 is formed with a plurality of arc-shaped through holes 32b concentrically with the center of the protrusion 32a.

The shape, size, number, position, arrangement form, and the like of the through holes can be appropriately set so that the ease of displacement of the protrusions, the amount of displacement, and the like are adapted to a desired size. Further, the ease of displacement of the protrusions of the protrusion 32a, the amount of displacement, etc. may be adjusted by combining the thin wall portion and the through hole in the seventh embodiment.

Next, an electronic apparatus according to a ninth embodiment of the invention is described. FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of an electronic apparatus according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the electronic apparatus 101 of the present invention will be described by taking a mobile phone as an example. An electronic device 101 illustrated in FIG. 27 is a foldable mobile phone, and includes an operation unit 102 and a display unit 103. FIG. 28 is a schematic partial exploded perspective view of the operation unit of the mobile phone shown in FIG.

The operation unit 102 has the switch mechanism of the present invention. 27 and 28 show a form in which the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is applied. As shown in FIG. 28, the operation unit 102 includes a switch unit (base sheet 10, switch button 11, and cover member 12) 210 and a wiring board unit (adhesive sheet 3, conductor 4, wiring board 5, and reinforcing member 8). And the illumination sheet 9) 220 and the casing unit 230 (the outer casing 204 and the inner casing 205) are laminated. The housing unit 230 includes an external housing 204 and an internal housing 205 that houses built-in components such as a switch mechanism. The support plate 2 in the switch mechanism 1 of the present invention corresponds to the bottom surface of the internal housing 205. That is, a plurality of protrusions 2 a are formed on the inner surface of the inner housing 205 according to each switch button 11. The position of each protrusion 2 a corresponds to the position of the switch button 11. By using a part of the inner casing 205 as the support plate 2, even if each protrusion 2 a is bent when the switch button 11 is pressed, the support plate 2 as a whole can be prevented from being greatly deformed. The inner housing 205 is preferably formed of stainless steel or the like.

According to the present invention, the illumination sheet 9, the reinforcing member 8, the wiring board 5, the conductor 4, and the adhesive sheet 3 can be handled integrally as the wiring board unit 220, and the internal structure of the electronic device 101 is simplified. The electronic device 101 can be easily manufactured.

The electronic device of the present invention has been described by taking the electric device having the switch mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention as an example in the above description, but the electronic device of the present invention is not limited to this. Any form of the switch mechanism of the invention can be applied.

A keystroke test was conducted to examine the durability of the conductor in the switch mechanism of the present invention. The key to press the switch button is a columnar pressure member made of an elastic material such as a rubber material of φ5mm to φ10mm (to cover the entire surface of the switch button) that looks like a human finger. The key was repeatedly pressed. The form of the switch mechanism used for the test is the same as in the first embodiment. Further, as a comparative example, a keystroke test was similarly performed on a switch mechanism having no reinforcing member as shown in FIG.

As a result, in the switch mechanism of the present invention having the reinforcing member, the conductor was not cracked even by repeated keystrokes of 60,000 times or more, and good click feeling and switch operation could be maintained. On the other hand, in the switch mechanism having no reinforcing member, the conductor was cracked after 50,000 times and lost the click feeling. Thereby, according to this invention, it turned out that durability of a switch mechanism can be improved.

The entire contents of the support plate described in Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-56536 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-56537 are incorporated herein by reference.

The switch mechanism and the electronic device of the present invention have been described based on the above embodiments, but are not limited to the above embodiments, and are within the scope of the present invention and based on the basic technical idea of the present invention. Needless to say, various modifications, changes and improvements can be made to the above-described embodiments. Further, various combinations, substitutions, or selections of various disclosed elements are possible within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Further problems, objects, and development forms of the present invention will be made clear from the entire disclosure of the present invention including the claims.

In the above embodiment, a mobile phone has been described as an example of an electronic device to which the switch mechanism of the present invention is applied. However, an electronic device to which the switch mechanism of the present invention can be applied is not limited to a mobile phone, The present invention can be applied to various electronic devices such as a PDA (PDA: Personal Digital Assistant / Personal Data Assistant), portable audio device, and various remote controllers.

1, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71, 91

Switch mechanism

2, 22, 32

Support plate

2a, 22a,

32a Protruding part

3, 93 Adhesive sheet 4 Conductor 4a Central part 4b

Peripheral part

5, 42, 95

Wiring board

6,44

First electrode

7,45

Second electrode

8,58,68,78,81,82,83,84,85,86,87

Reinforcement member

9,52,99 Illumination sheet 10 Base sheet 11 Switch button 12 Cover member 22b Thin part 22c Thick part 32b Through hole 43 Base 43a Through hole 46 Ground electrode 47 Insulating

layer

48, 54, 63

Conductive adhesive

53, 62 Ground potential wiring 58a Concave

68a Convex part

78a, 81a, 82a , 83a, 84a, 85a, 86a, 87a Deformation assisting part 93a Deformation assisting part 95a Deformation assisting part 99a Deformation assisting part 101 Electronic device 102 Operation part 103 Display part 204 External housing 205 Internal housing 210 Switch unit 220 Wiring board unit 230 Housing unit 401 Switch mechanism 402 Support plate 402a Protruding part 403 Adhesive sheet 404 Conductor 404a Central part 404b Peripheral part 404c Crack 405 Wiring board 406 First electrode 407 Second electrode 409 Illumination sheet 410 Base sheet 411 Switch button 412 Cover member

Claims

A wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface;
At least one switch button disposed on the other surface side of the wiring board and receiving a pressing operation from outside;
A support plate disposed on the one surface side of the wiring board and having at least one protrusion at a position corresponding to the at least one switch button;
At least one conductor disposed between the wiring board and the support plate and electrically connecting the first electrode and the second electrode by pressing the protrusion by pressing the switch button;
A switch mechanism comprising: at least one reinforcing member that is disposed between the switch button and the wiring board and suppresses deformation of the switch button when the switch button is pressed.
The switch mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcing member has higher rigidity than the switch board.
3. The switch mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcing member covers the conductor in a planar projection of a pressing operation surface of the switch button.
The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, in the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button, the reinforcing member does not protrude from the switch button.
A wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface;
At least one switch button disposed on the other surface side of the wiring board and receiving a pressing operation from outside;
A support plate disposed on the one surface side of the wiring board and having at least one protrusion at a position corresponding to the at least one switch button;
At least one conductor disposed between the wiring board and the support plate and electrically connecting the first electrode and the second electrode by pressing the protrusion by pressing the switch button;
At least one reinforcing member disposed between the switch button and the wiring board and having a rigidity higher than that of the switch button,
In the planar projection of the pressing operation surface of the switch button, the outer edge of the reinforcing member exists between the outer side of the outer edge of the conductor and the inner side of the outer edge of the switch button.
A plurality of the reinforcing members,
The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an interval between two adjacent reinforcing members is 1.0 mm or more.
When one of the adjacent switch buttons is pressed, the end of the reinforcing member on the one switch button side below the other switch button is partially bent. The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
8. The switch mechanism according to claim 7, wherein the reinforcing member has at least one deformation assisting portion that at least partially facilitates bending.
The switch mechanism according to claim 8, wherein the deformation assisting portion is formed as a through hole.
The switch mechanism according to claim 8, wherein the deformation assisting portion is formed as a thin portion.
The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the reinforcing member is a metal plate.
The switch mechanism according to claim 11, wherein the reinforcing member is electrically connected to a ground potential wiring.
The switch mechanism according to claim 12, wherein the ground potential wiring is formed on the wiring board.
Further comprising an illumination sheet for illuminating the switch button,
The switch mechanism according to claim 12, wherein the ground potential wiring is formed on the illumination sheet.
15. The switch mechanism according to claim 14, wherein the reinforcing member is disposed between the illumination sheet and the wiring board, or between the illumination sheet and the switch button.
The switch mechanism according to claim 12, wherein the ground potential wiring is formed between the switch button and the reinforcing member.
The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the protrusion is displaced in a pressing direction of the switch button in accordance with a pressing operation of the switch button.
The switch mechanism according to claim 17, wherein when the pressing operation of the switch button is released, the displacement of the protrusion is restored.
The switch mechanism according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the support plate has a thin portion having a thickness thinner than other regions in at least one region around the protrusion.
The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the support plate has at least one through hole in at least one region around the protrusion.
The conductor is dish-shaped, and its concave surface faces the wiring board,
In a state where the switch button is not pressed, the conductor is in contact with the second electrode without being in contact with the first electrode,
In a state in which the switch button is pressed, a part of the concave surface of the conductor is raised in the direction of the wiring board by pressing the projection, and the conductor comes into contact with the first electrode. The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 20.
The switch mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the switch button is made of resin.
An electronic device including a switch mechanism,
The switch mechanism includes a wiring board having at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode on one surface;
At least one switch button disposed on the other surface side of the wiring board and receiving a pressing operation from outside;
A support plate disposed on the one surface side of the wiring board and having at least one protrusion at a position corresponding to the at least one switch button;
At least one conductor disposed between the wiring board and the support plate and electrically connecting the first electrode and the second electrode by pressing the protrusion by pressing the switch button;
An electronic apparatus comprising: a reinforcing member that is disposed between the switch button and the wiring board and suppresses deformation of the switch button when the switch button is pressed.
24. The electronic apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the support plate is a part of a housing that houses a built-in component of the electronic apparatus.
The electronic device according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the switch mechanism is the switch mechanism according to any one of claims 2 to 22.