WO2012161061A1

WO2012161061A1 - Tactile sensation presentation device

Info

Publication number: WO2012161061A1
Application number: PCT/JP2012/062579
Authority: WO
Inventors: 森田亘; 宇波俊彦; 加賀山健司
Original assignee: 株式会社村田製作所
Priority date: 2011-05-23
Filing date: 2012-05-17
Publication date: 2012-11-29

Abstract

A through hole (202) is formed on end of a piezoelectric actuator (20B2) in the longitudinal direction thereof, and the piezoelectric actuator (20B2) is anchored to a support plate (102B) by a screw (220A) which is inserted in the through hole (202) and a washer (221A). The support plate (102B) is anchored to a rear face-side casing (101). A through hole (203) is formed on another end of the piezoelectric actuator (20B2) in the longitudinal direction thereof, and the piezoelectric actuator (20B2) is anchored to a touch panel anchor body (30B2) by a screw (220B) which is inserted in the through hole (203) and a washer (221B). The touch panel anchor body (30B2) is anchored to a touch panel (100). By adjusting the degree of tightness of the screws (220A, 220B), it is possible to adjust the anchoring state of the piezoelectric actuator (20B2) with respect to the support plate (102B) and the anchoring state of the piezoelectric actuator (20B2) with respect to the touch panel anchor body (30B2).

Description

Tactile presentation device

The present invention relates to a tactile sense presentation device that gives a tactile sense corresponding to an operation to an operator.

Currently, in electronic devices such as mobile phones and PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), electronic devices in which an operator operates a finger by touching the touch panel have been put into practical use. Some of such touch panel electronic devices include a tactile sensation presentation device as disclosed in Patent Document 1.

A tactile sensation presentation device is a device that provides an operator with some tactile sensation, mechanical sensation (force sensation), for example, by vibrating the touch panel when the operator touches the touch panel with a finger. .

In order to realize such a tactile sense presentation device, in Patent Document 1, a piezoelectric actuator is used as a vibration generating member. FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a support structure of a piezoelectric actuator in the tactile presentation device shown in Patent Document 1.

1 includes a piezoelectric actuator and a casing member made of a frame. On the inner wall surface side of the housing member, a component storage portion formed of a recess is formed. The component storage part is formed in a shape into which the piezoelectric actuator is fitted. The piezoelectric actuator is attached to the casing member by being inserted into the component storage portion and fitted therein.

Specifically, a convex portion is formed on the piezoelectric actuator, and concave portions are formed on both inner surfaces of the component storage portion. By engaging the convex portion with the concave portion, the piezoelectric actuator is attached to the housing member. ing. And a housing member is made to contact the touch panel which is a vibration transmission means, and a piezoelectric actuator is driven in this state, the vibration of a piezoelectric actuator is transmitted to a touch panel via a housing member, and a touch panel vibrates.

JP 2006-165318 A

However, in the structure of Patent Document 1, since the piezoelectric actuator is fixed by being inserted into the component housing portion of the housing member, the manufacturing variation in the dimensions of the piezoelectric actuator and the housing member, Depending on the assembling accuracy to be assembled to the casing member, the assembling strength of the piezoelectric actuator may be unstable or insufficient. This causes variations in the vibration amplitude of the touch panel. Furthermore, after the piezoelectric actuator is attached to the housing member, the magnitude of the vibration amplitude applied to the touch panel cannot be adjusted.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to stably suppress the vibration amplitude of the vibration transmitting means by fixing the vibration generating member to the housing with sufficient strength, and to easily reduce the vibration amplitude of the vibration transmitting means. Another object of the present invention is to provide a tactile sense presentation device that can be adjusted.

The present invention is connected to a housing having a flat plate surface, a vibration transmission means that is disposed substantially parallel to the flat plate surface of the housing and has a flat plate surface that is touched by an operator, the housing and the vibration transmission device, The present invention relates to a tactile sense presentation device including a vibration generating member that applies vibration in a predetermined direction to a vibration transmitting unit. The vibration generating member includes a flat elastic plate and a piezoelectric element provided on at least one surface of the elastic plate. The elastic plate is provided with a fixing through hole. The vibration transmitting means or the housing and the elastic plate are fixed by a fixing member inserted into the fixing through hole.

In this configuration, the fixed state between the vibration transmitting means or the casing and the vibration generating member can be changed to a desired state depending on the fixing specification of the fixing member. That is, it is possible to make appropriate adjustments such as fixing firmly by a fixing member (rigid bonding described later) or fixing weakly (pin bonding described later). Thereby, the vibration mode of the vibration transmitting means can be changed.

Further, the elastic plate has a fixing through hole, and the vibration transmitting means or the housing and the elastic plate are fixed by a fixing member inserted into the fixing through hole, so that an external force can be prevented. It becomes a strong fixed state. Therefore, a stable vibration can be supplied and the drop resistance can be improved.

In the tactile sense presentation device of the present invention, a buffer member can be provided between the vibration transmitting means or the housing and the elastic plate.

In this configuration, various fixed states can be easily realized by changing the type of the buffer member.

In the tactile sense presentation device according to the present invention, the fixing member can fix the vibration transmitting means or the casing and the elastic plate by rigid joining.

This configuration shows the case where the above-mentioned is firmly fixed, and the vibration region of the vibration generating member can be narrowed.

In the tactile sense presentation device according to the present invention, the fixing member can fix the vibration transmitting means or the casing and the elastic plate by pin joining.

This configuration shows the above-described weakly fixed case, and the vibration region of the vibration generating member can be widened.

In the tactile sense presentation device of the present invention, the fixing member is preferably a screw.

This configuration shows one aspect of the fixing member. By using the fixing member as a screw, the above-described various fixing states can be easily realized by tightening the screw.

Further, the tactile sense presentation device of the present invention can realize the following aspect. The vibration generating member has an elastic plate having a flat plate surface and has a rectangular shape in plan view, and is curved and vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the flat plate surface of the elastic plate, and the flat plate surface of the elastic plate is a vibration transmitting means. It is attached to be parallel to the side of The vibration generating member is fixed to the housing by a first fixing member that is inserted into a first fixing through-hole provided at a first end in the longitudinal direction of the rectangular shape of the elastic plate. The vibration generating member is a vibration transmitting means by a second fixing member inserted in a second fixing through-hole provided at a second end located on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction with respect to the first end of the elastic plate. It is fixed to.

In this configuration, an example of a specific manner of fixing the vibration generating member to the vibration transmitting means and the housing is shown. In this configuration, one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate having a flat plate surface and rectangular in plan view is connected to the casing, and the other end (second end) is the vibration transmitting means. Connected to. In this state, when a drive voltage is applied to the vibration generating member, one end (first end) is fixed to the housing, and therefore the vibration of the vibration generating member causes the other end (second end) to move. The vibration transmitting means vibrates in a direction that is parallel to its flat plate surface and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vibration generating member.

Further, the tactile sense presentation device of the present invention can realize the following aspect. The vibration generating member has an elastic plate having a flat plate surface and has a rectangular shape in plan view, and is curved and vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the flat plate surface of the elastic plate, and the flat plate surface of the elastic plate is a vibration transmitting means. It is attached to be parallel to the side of The vibration generating member is fixed to the housing by fixing members inserted into fixing through holes provided at both ends of the elastic plate in the longitudinal direction of the rectangle. The vibration generating member is fixed to the vibration transmitting means by a third fixing member inserted in a third fixing through hole provided between both ends of the elastic plate in the longitudinal direction of the rectangle.

In this configuration, an example of a specific manner of fixing the vibration generating member to the vibration transmitting means and the housing is shown. In this configuration, both ends in the longitudinal direction of the rectangular vibration generating member are connected to the casing, and a portion between both ends in the longitudinal direction is connected to the vibration transmitting means. In this state, when a drive voltage is applied to the vibration generating member, since both ends are fixed to the casing, the vibration of the vibration generating member is transmitted to the vibration transmitting means via the portion between both ends, and the vibration is generated. The transmitting means vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vibration generating member in parallel with its flat plate surface.

Further, the tactile sense presentation device of the present invention can realize the following aspect. In the vibration generating member, the elastic plate has a flat plate surface and bends and vibrates in a direction orthogonal to the flat plate surface of the elastic plate, and the flat plate surface of the elastic plate is spaced from the flat plate surface of the vibration transmitting means by a predetermined distance. It is provided so as to be substantially parallel and at least partially in contact with the back surface of the vibration transmitting means via the contact member. The vibration generating member is fixed to the housing by fixing members inserted into a plurality of fixing through holes provided on the elastic plate.

In this configuration, an example of a specific manner of fixing the vibration generating member to the vibration transmitting means and the housing is shown. In this configuration, the vibration generating member is fixed to the housing at a plurality of positions so that the flat plate surface of the vibration generating member and the flat plate surface of the vibration transmitting means are substantially parallel. The vibration generating member and the vibration transmitting means are in contact via a contact member. In this state, when a drive voltage is applied to the vibration generating member, the vibration of the vibration generating member is transmitted to the vibration transmitting means via the contact member because a plurality of locations are fixed to the housing, and the vibration is transmitted. The means vibrates in the normal direction of its flat surface.

According to the present invention, the vibration generating member can be stably fixed to the housing with sufficient strength, thereby suppressing variation in the vibration amplitude of the vibration transmitting means and easily adjusting the vibration amplitude of the vibration transmitting means. can do.

10 is an exploded perspective view showing a support structure of a piezoelectric actuator in the tactile presentation device shown in Patent Document 1. FIG. It is a top view which shows the structure of the tactile sense presentation apparatus 10 which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a three-view figure of the piezoelectric actuator 20 in the haptic presentation apparatus 10 which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged view of the installation part of piezoelectric actuator 20B2 in the tactile sense presentation device 10 concerning the 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is the figure which showed schematically the vibration aspect at the time of adjusting the fixed state of piezoelectric actuator 20B2 in the tactile sense presentation apparatus 10 concerning the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows the structure of 10 A of tactile sense presentation apparatuses which concern on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged view of the installation part of piezoelectric actuator 21A2 in 10 A of tactile sense presentation apparatuses which concern on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is the top view which shows the structure of the haptic presentation apparatus 10B which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and the block diagram which looked at the haptic presentation apparatus 10B from the side.

The configuration of the haptic presentation device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of the tactile presentation device 10 according to the present embodiment. The tactile sense presentation device 10 includes a touch panel 100, a front side case, a back side case 101, a liquid crystal panel, and a main control circuit board of a backlight module. In FIG. 2, descriptions of the front-side housing, the liquid crystal panel, and the main control circuit board of the backlight module are omitted. In FIG. 2, only the outer shape of the touch panel 100 corresponding to the “vibration transmitting unit” of the present invention is indicated by a dotted line.

The tactile sensation presentation device 10 includes a rear side housing 101 having a substantially rectangular shape in plan view as a part of the housing. The back side housing 101 includes a flat back plate and a side plate formed along the side of the back plate. The back plate constitutes a flat plate surface of the back side housing 101. The side plate is formed to extend from the back plate at a predetermined height in the normal direction of the flat plate surface of the back side housing 101. With this structure, a recess having a predetermined depth surrounded by the side plate is formed in the back side housing 101.

A support plate 102A is installed as a support member at one end in the longitudinal direction (lateral direction in FIG. 2) of the back side casing 101 in the recess of the back side casing 101, and a support member at the other end. A support plate 102B is installed. These

support plates

102A and 102B are fixed to the rear case 101. The

support plates

102A and 102B are fixed so as to have a predetermined interval with respect to the side plate of the rear housing 101. Further, the

support plates

102A and 102B are fixed so that the short side direction (vertical direction in FIG. 2) of the back side casing 101 is the longitudinal direction of itself.

The

support plates

102A and 102B are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the

support plates

102A and 102B so as to be spaced apart from the side plates of the rear housing 101 so that the following piezoelectric actuator and touch panel fixing body can be installed. Has been. At this time, the interval is set as narrow as possible without inhibiting the vibration of the piezoelectric actuator so that mechanical interference with the piezoelectric actuator does not occur. The piezoelectric actuator corresponds to the “vibration generating member” of the present invention. In the tactile sense presentation device of the present invention, an actuator using a piezoelectric principle, an actuator using an electromagnetic force, an actuator using a shape memory element, an artificial muscle type actuator, or the like can be appropriately used as a vibration generating member.

A set of the piezoelectric actuator 20A1 and the touch panel fixing body 30A1 is installed on one side between the support plate 102A and the side plate along the short side direction of the back side housing 101, and the piezoelectric actuator 20A2 and the other side are installed on the other side. A set of touch panel fixed bodies 30A2 is installed. At this time, the piezoelectric actuators 20A1 and 20A2 are installed on the support plate 102A side, and the touch panel fixing bodies 30A1 and 30A2 are installed on the side plate side.

A set of the piezoelectric actuator 20B1 and the touch panel fixing body 30B1 is installed on one side between the support plate 102B and the side plate along the short side direction of the back side housing 101, and the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and the touch panel fixing body 30B1 are installed on the other side. A set of touch panel fixed bodies 30B2 is installed. At this time, the piezoelectric actuators 20B1 and 20B2 are disposed on the support plate 102B side, and the touch panel fixing bodies 30B1 and 30B2 are disposed on the side plate side.

With such a configuration, a set of the piezoelectric actuator 20A1 and the touch panel fixing body 30A1, a set of the piezoelectric actuator 20A2 and the touch panel fixing body 30A2, a set of the piezoelectric actuator 20B1 and the touch panel fixing body 30B1, and a set of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and the touch panel fixing body 30B2 are obtained. These are arranged at the four corners of the back side housing 101. Note that the number of piezoelectric actuators is not limited to four. A configuration in which the set of the piezoelectric actuator 20A1 and the touch panel fixing body 30A1 and the set of the piezoelectric actuator 20B1 and the touch panel fixing body 30B1 are arranged at the corners of the back side housing 101 may be employed.

Further, the upper surface of the touch panel fixing body 30A1, 30A2, 30B1, 30B2 (the surface opposite to the surface facing the back plate of the back side housing 101) is bonded to the four corners on the back surface of the touch panel 100, respectively. Yes. Accordingly, the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 are disposed at the four corners of the touch panel 100. The touch panel 100 is disposed substantially parallel to the rear plate of the rear housing 101 and includes a flat plate surface that is touched by an operator.

Next, a specific structure of the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 will be described. Since the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 all have the same structure, in the following description, the piezoelectric actuator 20 will be referred to as a representative. FIG. 3 is a trihedral view of the piezoelectric actuator 20.

As shown in FIG. 3, the piezoelectric actuator 20 includes a long and flat elastic plate 200 and two long and flat piezoelectric elements 201. The elastic plate 200 has, for example, a rectangular shape in plan view, a length (length in the longitudinal direction) of 15 mm, a width (length in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flat plate surface) of 3 mm, and a thickness. Is 0.4 mm. The elastic plate 200 only needs to be formed of a material such as a metal, a resin, an alloy, and a composite resin including a metal. In the present embodiment, the elastic plate 200 is formed of 42Ni or stainless steel. Piezoelectric elements 201 are provided on both main surfaces of the elastic plate 200, respectively. The piezoelectric element 201 has, for example, a rectangular shape in plan view, a length (length in the longitudinal direction) of 11 mm, a width (length in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flat plate surface) of 3 mm, and a thickness. Is a dimension of 0.2 mm. The piezoelectric element 201 is long and flat, and has a piezoelectric layer made of piezoelectric ceramics. The piezoelectric layer may be made of a lead zirconate titanate ceramic or may be made of an alkali niobate ceramic such as potassium sodium niobate. The piezoelectric element 201 has drive electrodes for applying voltage, which are formed on both ends in the thickness direction of the piezoelectric layer, that is, on opposing flat plate surfaces. The piezoelectric element 201 is displaced by applying a voltage to the drive electrode, and expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction.

These dimensions and materials are examples, and the driving force and amplitude of the vibration to be generated, the shape of the position where the piezoelectric actuator 20 is installed (the distance between the support plate and the side plate, and the depth of the back side casing 101), etc. Therefore, it may be set as appropriate.

The piezoelectric actuator 20 having such a configuration is a bimorph piezoelectric actuator that vibrates in the d31 mode. Therefore, the piezoelectric actuator 20 bends and vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the main surface (flat plate surface).

In the vicinity of both ends in the longitudinal direction (length direction) of the elastic plate 200, through

holes

202 and 203 that penetrate between the principal surfaces of the elastic plate 200 facing each other are formed in regions where the piezoelectric elements 201 are not provided. ing. The through

holes

202 and 203 correspond to the “fixing through holes” of the present invention.

Next, a specific installation structure of the piezoelectric actuator 20 will be described. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of an installation portion of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2. Here, the installation structure of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 will be described on behalf of the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2.

The piezoelectric actuator 20B2 includes an elastic plate 200 and piezoelectric elements 201 provided on both main surfaces of the elastic plate 200. As shown in FIG. 4, the piezoelectric actuator 20 B 2 is arranged such that the short side direction (width direction) is the depth direction of the concave portion of the back side housing 101, in other words, the main surface is the longitudinal direction of the back side housing 101 The main surface and the side surface of the support plate 102B are disposed so as to face each other.

One end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is fixed to the support plate 102B with a screw 220A. Specifically, the screw 220A is inserted in a through hole 202 formed in a region where the piezoelectric element 201 is not provided near one end in the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate 200, and the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is formed by the screw 220A. Is fixed to the support plate 102B. The screw 220A corresponds to the “fixing member” of the present invention. A washer 221A having a predetermined height is provided between the support plate 102B and the elastic plate 200 of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2. The distance between the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and the support plate 102B is controlled by the washer 221A. For example, in this embodiment, the distance between the surface of the piezoelectric element 201 on the support plate 102B side of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and the support plate 102B is set to about 0.2 mm. The washer 221 A corresponds to a “buffer member” of the present invention. A washer 222A having a predetermined height is provided between the head of the screw 220A and the elastic plate 200 of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2.

The other end (second end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is fixed to the touch panel fixing body 30B2 by a screw 220B. Specifically, the screw 220B is inserted in the through hole 203 formed in the region where the piezoelectric element 201 is not provided near the other end in the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate 200, and the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is formed by the screw 220B. The other end in the longitudinal direction is fixed to the support plate 102B. The screw 220B corresponds to the “fixing member” of the present invention. At this time, the touch panel fixing body 30B2 is installed on the side opposite to the support plate 102B with respect to the piezoelectric actuator 20B2. Furthermore, the touch panel fixing body 30B2 is fixed so that the length direction thereof coincides with the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and is installed in parallel to the piezoelectric actuator 20B2. Further, a washer 221B having a predetermined height is provided between the touch panel fixing body 30B2 and the elastic plate 200 of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2. The distance between the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and the touch panel fixing body 30B2 is controlled by the washer 221B. For example, in this embodiment, the interval between the surface of the piezoelectric element 201 on the touch panel fixing body 30B2 side of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 and the touch panel fixing body 30B2 is set to about 0.2 mm. The washer 221B corresponds to the “buffer member” of the present invention. A washer 222B having a predetermined height is provided between the head of the screw 220B and the elastic plate 200 of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2.

Here, in the piezoelectric actuator 20B2, the fixed end with the support plate 102B is separated from the end in the longitudinal direction of the back side casing 101, and the fixed end with the touch panel fixing body 30B2 is in the longitudinal direction of the back side casing 101. It is installed so as to be close to the end of the. Similarly, the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, and 20B1 are installed such that the fixed end with the support plate is separated from the end portion in the longitudinal direction of the back side housing 101, rather than the fixed end with the touch panel fixed body. The installation structure along the longitudinal direction of the back-side housing 101 may be reversed, but the structure is preferable.

With such a configuration and installation structure of the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2, when the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 are driven, the

support plates

102A and 102B in the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 are driven. The end of the side that is not fixed to the back side housing 101 via the touch panel, that is, the end that is fixed to the touch panel fixing bodies 30A1, 30A2, 30B1, and 30B2 is in the short direction of the back side housing 101. Vibrates along. Thereby, the touch panel fixing bodies 30A1, 30A2, 30B1, and 30B2 vibrate along the short side direction of the back side housing 101, and the touch panel fixing bodies 30A1, 30A2, 30B1, and 30B2 are bonded to the four corners. 100 can be vibrated in a direction substantially parallel to the short direction along the flat plate surface of the touch panel 100.

In such a configuration, by adjusting the tightening degree of the

screws

220A and 220B, the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 are fixed to the

support plates

102A and 102B, and the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 are fixed. The fixed state with respect to the touch panel fixing bodies 30A1, 30A2, 30B1, and 30B2 can be adjusted.

FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a vibration mode when the fixed state of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is adjusted. 5A shows a case where the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is weakly fixed to the support plate 102B, and FIG. 5B shows a case where the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is firmly fixed to the support plate 102B.

In the following description, the other end (second end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is described as being strongly fixed to the touch panel fixing body 30B2, that is, being rigidly joined.

As shown in FIG. 5A, when one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is weakly fixed to the support plate 102B by a screw 220A that is loosely tightened, a so-called pin-bonded state is obtained. . Accordingly, one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is in a single-point fastened state by the screw 220A. Therefore, the vibrable range along the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is a range from one end side end portion of the predetermined range of the other end (second end portion) rigidly joined to a position to be fastened by the screw 220A. Thus, the width of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2, which will be described later, becomes wider than when both the other end (second end) and one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction are rigidly joined.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5B, one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is strongly fixed to the support plate 102B by a screw 220A that is tightened, and the elastic plate 200 of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2. Is in a so-called rigid joint state when the surface contact is made with a large pressure applied to the washer 221A. Thereby, one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is fixed on the surface over the predetermined range by the screw 220A. Therefore, the vibrable range along the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is the same end (first end) that is also rigidly joined from one end side end of the predetermined range of the other end (second end) that is rigidly joined. Portion) of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 in the longitudinal direction is narrower than that in the case where the one end (first end portion) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is pin-joined.

Thus, by adjusting the tightening of the

screws

220A and 220B, that is, the fixing state of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 with respect to the support 102B, the vibration possible range of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 can be adjusted.

For example, in the case of pin bonding, since the oscillating range of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is wide, as shown in FIG. 5A, the touch panel fixed body 30B2 (s) side of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 (s) in a non-driven state The displacement amount of the position of the end portion on the touch panel fixing body 30B2 (v1) side in the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 (v1) in the state where the amplitude is maximum when driven is increased. Accordingly, the position of the touch panel 100 (s) when the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is not driven and the touch panel when the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is driven and the amplitude is maximized with respect to the rear side housing 101. The relative distance between the position of 100 (v1) becomes longer. In FIG. 5A, (s) shows each member in a state in which the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is not driven, and (v1) shows a state in which the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is driven and the amplitude is maximum. Each member is shown.

On the other hand, in the case of the rigid joint, since the oscillating range of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is narrow, as shown in FIG. 5B, the touch panel fixed body 30B2 (s) side of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 (s) in a non-driven state. The displacement amount of the position of the end of the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 (v2) on the side of the touch panel fixing body 30B2 (v2) in the state where the amplitude is maximized with respect to the position of the end of the is small. Accordingly, the position of the touch panel 100 (s) when the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is not driven and the touch panel when the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is driven and the amplitude is maximized with respect to the rear side housing 101. The relative distance between the position of 100 (v2) is shortened. In FIG. 5B, (s) shows each member in a state where the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is not driven, and (v2) shows that the piezoelectric actuator 20B2 is driven and the amplitude is maximized. Each member is shown.

Such adjustment is also possible for the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, and 20B1. When the same drive voltage is applied to the drive electrodes of the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 simply by changing the fixed state of the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 with respect to the

support plates

102A and 102B as described above. The vibration amount (amplitude) of the touch panel 100 can be adjusted.

In the above description, the structure of the

washers

221A and 221B corresponding to the “buffer member” of the present invention is not particularly described. However, these

washers

221A and 221B may be flat washers and have a spring property. It may be a spring washer. Further, instead of these washers, an elastic material such as urethane rubber or a microcell polymer sheet may be used. Thus, by changing the shape, material, and elastic modulus of the buffer member, it is possible to adjust the fixed state of the piezoelectric actuator, to realize more various fixing specifications, and to vibrate the touch panel 100 more variously according to this. it can.

In addition, as shown in the present embodiment, by using a screwing mechanism that allows a screw to pass through a through-hole and fix it, due to manufacturing variations in dimensions between components rather than a structure in which a piezoelectric actuator is simply fitted into a housing. It is less affected and can stably vibrate the touch panel. Furthermore, by using the screwing mechanism, it is possible to realize high-strength fixing against an external force, and it is possible to suppress damage to the vibration mechanism due to dropping of the tactile presentation device.

Next, a tactile sense presentation device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the configuration of the tactile presentation device 10A according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the tactile sense presentation device 10 A includes a frame 100 HD that holds the touch panel 100. The touch panel 100 is fixed to the frame 100HD.

In the tactile sense presentation device 10 of the first embodiment described above, one end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuators 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, and 20B2 is attached to the back side housing 101 via the

support plates

102A and 102B. An example of a cantilever mechanism in which the other end (second end) is fixed to the touch panel 100 via the touch panel fixing bodies 30A1, 30A2, 30B1, and 30B2 has been shown. In the presentation apparatus 10A, an example of a double-supported beam mechanism is shown. In addition, since the shape of the back side housing | casing 101 is the same, description is abbreviate | omitted.

In the tactile sense presentation device 10A of the present embodiment, the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 are installed in the concave portion of the back side housing 101 and at substantially the center in the longitudinal direction of the back side housing 101. The piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 are formed along the longitudinal direction of the back-side casing 101 on the side plate of the back-side casing 101, and are respectively installed at substantially the center in the longitudinal direction of the portions facing each other. .

Next, a specific installation structure of the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 will be described. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the installation portion of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2. Since the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 have the same structure and installation structure, the installation structure of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 will be described as a representative in FIG.

The piezoelectric actuator 21A2 includes a long and flat elastic plate 210 and a long and flat piezoelectric element 211. The elastic plate 210 has, for example, a rectangular shape in plan view, a length (length in the longitudinal direction) of 35 mm, a width (length in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flat plate surface) of 3 mm, and a thickness. Is 0.4 mm. The elastic plate 200 only needs to be formed of a material such as a metal, a resin, an alloy, and a composite resin including a metal. In the present embodiment, the elastic plate 200 is formed of glass epoxy. A fixing projection 40 that protrudes in the short direction of the elastic plate 210 is formed at the approximate center in the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate 210. The length in the protruding direction of the fixing protrusion 40 is set to be approximately the thickness of the frame 100HD that holds the touch panel 100, for example.

A piezoelectric element 211 is provided on one main surface of the elastic plate 210. In FIG. 7, the piezoelectric element 211 is provided on the surface of the elastic plate 210 facing the side plate of the back-side housing 101, but the opposite surface may be used. The piezoelectric element 211 has, for example, a rectangular shape in plan view, a length (length in the longitudinal direction) of 30 mm, a width (length in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flat plate surface) of 3 mm, and a thickness. Is a dimension of 0.2 mm. The piezoelectric element 211 is long and flat, and has a piezoelectric layer made of piezoelectric ceramics. The piezoelectric layer may be made of a lead zirconate titanate ceramic or may be made of an alkali niobate ceramic such as potassium sodium niobate. The piezoelectric element 211 has drive electrodes for applying voltage, which are formed on both ends in the thickness direction of the piezoelectric layer, that is, on opposing flat plate surfaces. The piezoelectric element 211 is displaced by applying a voltage to the drive electrode, and expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction. These dimensions and materials are examples, and the driving force and amplitude of the vibration to be generated, the shape of the position where the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 are installed (the distance between the side plate and the end face of the frame 100HD, and the back side casing 101). What is necessary is just to set suitably by depth).

The piezoelectric actuators 21A1, 21A2 having such a configuration are unimorph piezoelectric actuators that vibrate in the d31 mode. Thereby, the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 bend and vibrate in a direction orthogonal to the main surface (flat plate surface).

The piezoelectric actuator 21 A 2 is arranged so that the short side direction (width direction) is the depth direction of the concave portion of the back side housing 101, in other words, the main surface is along the longitudinal direction of the back side housing 101. It is installed so as to face the face plate.

In the piezoelectric actuator 21A2, in the vicinity of both ends in the longitudinal direction (length direction) of the elastic plate 210, in the region where the piezoelectric element 211 is not provided, through

holes

202C and 203C penetrating between the opposing main surfaces of the elastic plate 210. Are formed respectively.

One end (first end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 is fixed to the rear case 101 with a screw 220. Specifically, the screw 220 is inserted into a through-hole 202C formed in a region where the piezoelectric element 211 is not provided in the vicinity of one end in the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate 210, and the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 by the screw 220. One end in the longitudinal direction is fixed to the rear case 101. The screw 220 corresponds to the “fixing member” of the present invention. A washer 221C2 having a predetermined height is provided between the rear housing 101 and the elastic plate 210 of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2. The distance between the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 and the rear case 101 is controlled by the washer 221C2. The washer 221C2 corresponds to the “buffer member” of the present invention. A washer 222 having a predetermined height is provided between the head of the screw 220 and the elastic plate 210 of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2.

The other end (second end) in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 is fixed to the rear housing 101 by a screw 220. Specifically, the screw 220 is inserted into a through hole 202C formed in a region where the piezoelectric element 211 is not provided near the other end in the longitudinal direction of the elastic plate 210, and the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 is formed by the screw 220. The other end in the longitudinal direction is fixed to the rear case 101. A washer 221D2 having a predetermined height is provided between the rear housing 101 and the elastic plate 210 of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2. The distance between the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 and the rear case 101 is controlled by the washer 221D2. The washer 221D2 corresponds to the “buffer member” of the present invention. Here, by setting the washers 221C2 and 221D2 to the same height, the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 is arranged on the rear side so that the flat plate surface of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 and the flat plate surface of the side plate of the rear housing 101 are parallel to each other. It is fixed to the housing 101. A washer 222 having a predetermined height is provided between the head of the screw 220 and the elastic plate 210 of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2.

A through hole 204 is formed in the fixing projection 40 of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2. The fixing projection 40 of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 is fixed to the frame 100HD by a screw 220. Specifically, the screw 220 is inserted into the through hole 204 formed in the fixing projection 40 of the elastic plate 210, and the screw 220 fixes the approximate center in the longitudinal direction of the piezoelectric actuator 21A2 to the frame 100HD. ing.

At this time, the fixing protrusion 40 is directly fixed to the side surface of the frame 100HD by the screw 220. However, the positions of the fixing protrusions 40 fixed to the frame 100HD and the rear side housings at both ends of the elastic plate 210 are fixed. Since the position fixed to 101 differs along the height direction of the back side casing 101 (thickness direction of the touch panel 100 and the frame 100HD), both ends of the elastic plate 210 are fixed to the back side casing 101. Even if the screw 220 is installed from the inside of the back side housing 101, it does not contact the touch panel 100 and the frame 100HD.

In such a configuration, when the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 are driven, the central region in the longitudinal direction located between both ends of the piezoelectric actuators 21A1 and 21A2 in the longitudinal direction that are fixed to the rear case 101 is fixed. It vibrates along the short side direction of the back side housing 101 with the center between both ends in the longitudinal direction as the antinode of vibration. A fixing protrusion 40 is formed in the central region in the longitudinal direction, and the fixing protrusion 40 is fixed to the frame 100HD. Thereby, the touch panel 100 fixed to the frame 100HD and the frame 100HD can be vibrated in a direction substantially parallel to the short direction along the flat plate surface of the touch panel 100.

At this time, as shown in the above-described first embodiment, if the fixed state of the piezoelectric actuators 21A1, 21A2 is adjusted by the tightening of the screw 220, the drive voltage applied to the drive electrodes of the piezoelectric actuators 21A1, 21A2 is changed. Even if they are the same, various vibrations can be realized in the touch panel 100. Also in the present embodiment, various vibrations can be realized in the touch panel 100 by changing the shape, material, and elastic modulus of a buffer member such as a washer. Note that the number of piezoelectric actuators is not limited to two. Only one of the piezoelectric actuators 21 A 1 and 21 A 2 may be installed at a substantially central position in the longitudinal direction of the rear housing 101.

Next, a tactile sense presentation device according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8A is a plan view showing the configuration of the tactile presentation device 10B according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a configuration diagram of the tactile presentation device 10B viewed from the side.

Although the haptic presentation device 10 of the first embodiment and the haptic presentation device 10A of the second embodiment described above are configured to apply vibration to the touch panel 100 from the side surface of the touch panel 100, the haptic presentation of the present embodiment. The device 10B is configured to apply vibration from the back surface of the touch panel 100. In addition, since the shape of the back side housing | casing 101 is the same, description is abbreviate | omitted.

A frame 100HD ′ is installed on the opening surface of the rear housing 101 via an elastic body 103. The touch panel 100 is fixed to the frame 100HD ', and the entire opening surface of the rear housing 101 is covered with a composite body including the touch panel 100 and the frame 100HD'.

In the tactile sense presentation device 10B of the present embodiment, the piezoelectric actuator 22 is installed in the approximate center of the opening surface of the rear housing 101. The piezoelectric actuator 22 includes a rectangular elastic plate 200C in plan view and a flat plate-like piezoelectric element 201C that is circular in plan view. A piezoelectric element 201 C is provided on the back plate side surface of the back case 101 in the elastic plate 200 C. The piezoelectric element 201C is provided so that the center of the piezoelectric element 201C in plan view and the center of the flat plate surface of the elastic plate 200C substantially coincide. The piezoelectric element 201C has a piezoelectric layer made of piezoelectric ceramics. The piezoelectric element 201 C has drive electrodes for applying voltage, which are formed on both ends of the piezoelectric layer in the thickness direction, that is, on opposing flat plate surfaces. The piezoelectric element 201C is displaced by applying a voltage to the drive electrode, and expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction. The piezoelectric actuator 22 having such a configuration is a unimorph piezoelectric actuator that vibrates in the d31 mode. Thereby, the piezoelectric actuator 22 bends and vibrates in a direction orthogonal to the main surface (flat plate surface).

In the vicinity of the four corners of the flat plate surface of the elastic plate 200C in the piezoelectric actuator 22, through-holes 205 penetrating between the mutually opposing main surfaces of the elastic plate 200C are formed in areas where the piezoelectric elements 201C are not provided. Has been.

Four corners of the flat plate surface of the elastic plate 200C in the piezoelectric actuator 22 are fixed to the rear housing 101 by screws 220. Specifically, the screws 220 are inserted into through holes 205 formed in areas where the piezoelectric elements 201C are not provided near the four corners of the flat surface of the elastic plate 200C. Four corners of the flat plate surface of the elastic plate 200 C at 22 are fixed to the back-side housing 101. A washer 221E having a predetermined height is provided between the back-side housing 101 and the elastic plate 200C of the piezoelectric actuator 22. The distance between the piezoelectric actuator 22 and the rear case 101 is controlled by the washer 221E. The piezoelectric actuator 22 is fixed to the rear housing 101 so that the flat surface of the piezoelectric actuator 22 (the flat surface of the elastic plate 200C) and the rear plate of the rear housing 101 are parallel to each other.

An abutting member 50 made of an elastic body is provided on the surface of the elastic plate 200C opposite to the surface on which the piezoelectric element 201C is provided so as to be positioned at the approximate center in plan view. The contact member 50 has a predetermined thickness, and the surface opposite to the contact surface to the elastic plate 200C is in contact with the back surface of the frame 100HD '.

In such a configuration, when the piezoelectric actuator 22 is driven, the central region of the piezoelectric actuator 22 is along the thickness (height) direction of the back-side housing 101 with the center of the piezoelectric actuator 22 in plan view as a vibration antinode. Vibrate. An abutting member 50 is provided in the central region of the piezoelectric actuator 22, and the abutting member 50 is in contact with the frame 100HD '. Thus, the frame 100HD ′ and the touch panel 100 fixed to the frame 100HD ′ can be vibrated in a direction (normal direction) perpendicular to the flat plate surface of the touch panel 100.

At this time, as shown in the first and second embodiments described above, if the fixing state of the piezoelectric actuator 22 is adjusted by tightening the screw 220, the drive voltage applied to the drive electrode of the piezoelectric actuator 22 is the same. Even so, various vibrations can be realized in the touch panel 100. Also in the present embodiment, various vibrations can be realized in the touch panel 100 by changing the shape, material, and elastic modulus of a buffer member such as a washer. There may be a plurality of piezoelectric actuators. A configuration may be employed in which a plurality of piezoelectric actuators are arranged on the back-side housing 101.

Furthermore, in the configuration of the present embodiment, the touch panel 100 can be vibrated in a direction orthogonal to the flat surface of the touch panel 100, so that it is possible to intentionally emit sound from the touch panel 100 as necessary.

In each of the above-described embodiments, an example in which the screw is directly inserted into the through hole is shown. However, it is more preferable to use an adhesive for screw loosening prevention.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the touch panel 100 has been described as an example, but any flat plate member can be used as the vibration transmission means of the present invention. For example, a protective glass plate may be used as the vibration transmitting means.

The tactile presentation device having the above-described configuration is preferably used for a portable electronic device such as a peripheral device of a personal computer such as a mobile phone, a portable game machine, and an input device.

10, 10A, 10B: Tactile presentation device,
101: Back side housing,
102A, 102B: support plate,
103: elastic body,
20, 20A1, 20A2, 20B1, 20B2, 21, 21A1, 21A2, 22: Piezoelectric actuator,
30A1, 30A2, 30B1, 30B2: touch panel fixed body,
40: fixing protrusion,
50: contact member,
200, 200C, 210: elastic plate,
201, 201C, 211: Piezoelectric element,
202, 202C, 203, 203C, 205: through holes,
220, 220A, 220B: screw,
221A, 221B, 221C2, 221D2, 221E, 222: Washer

Claims

A housing having a flat surface;
A vibration transmitting means that is disposed substantially parallel to the flat surface of the housing and has a flat surface that the operator touches;
A tactile sensation presentation device comprising: a vibration generating member connected to the housing and the vibration transmission means, and applying a vibration in a predetermined direction to the vibration transmission means;
The vibration generating member includes a flat elastic plate and a piezoelectric element provided on at least one surface of the elastic plate,
The elastic plate is provided with a fixing through hole,
The vibration transmitting means or the housing and the elastic plate are fixed by a fixing member inserted into the fixing through hole.
The tactile sense presentation device according to claim 1, wherein a buffer member is provided between the vibration transmitting means or the casing and the elastic plate.
The tactile sense presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixing member fixes the vibration transmitting means or the casing and the elastic plate by rigid joining.
The tactile sense presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixing member fixes the vibration transmitting means or the housing and the elastic plate by pin joining.
The tactile sense presentation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fixing member is a screw.
The vibration generating member is
The elastic plate has a flat plate surface and has a rectangular shape in plan view;
Curved and vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the flat plate surface of the elastic plate, and is attached so that the flat plate surface of the elastic plate is parallel to the side surface of the vibration transmitting means,
The elastic plate is fixed to the housing by a first fixing member inserted in a first fixing through-hole provided at a first end of the rectangular shape in the longitudinal direction,
The vibration transmitting means is provided by a second fixing member inserted in a second fixing through-hole provided at a second end located on the opposite side of the longitudinal direction with respect to the first end of the elastic plate. The tactile sense presentation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is fixed.
The vibration generating member is
The elastic plate has a flat plate surface and has a rectangular shape in plan view;
Curved and vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the flat plate surface of the elastic plate, and is attached so that the flat plate surface of the elastic plate is parallel to the side surface of the vibration transmitting means,
The elastic plate is fixed to the housing by fixing members inserted into fixing through holes provided at both ends of the rectangular shape in the longitudinal direction,
The said elastic board is being fixed to the said vibration transmission means by the 3rd fixing member inserted in the 3rd fixing through-hole provided between the said both ends of the said rectangular-shaped longitudinal direction. Item 6. The tactile sense presentation device according to any one of Items 5 to 6.
The vibration generating member is
The elastic plate has a flat plate surface, and bends and vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the flat plate surface of the elastic plate, and the flat plate surface of the elastic plate is substantially spaced apart from the flat plate surface of the vibration transmitting means. Parallel and at least a portion is provided so as to contact the back surface of the vibration transmitting means via the contact member,
The tactile sense presentation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the tactile sense presentation device is fixed to the housing by fixing members inserted into a plurality of fixing through holes provided in the elastic plate.