WO2013172219A1 - Input device - Google Patents

Input device Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013172219A1
WO2013172219A1 PCT/JP2013/062843 JP2013062843W WO2013172219A1 WO 2013172219 A1 WO2013172219 A1 WO 2013172219A1 JP 2013062843 W JP2013062843 W JP 2013062843W WO 2013172219 A1 WO2013172219 A1 WO 2013172219A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
input
detection sensor
load
input device
position detection
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2013/062843
Other languages
French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
梅津　英治
佐藤　崇
昌彦 石曽根
雅史 金子
泰志 岡本
添田　薫
Original Assignee
アルプス電気株式会社
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by アルプス電気株式会社 filed Critical アルプス電気株式会社
Priority to JP2014515575A priority Critical patent/JPWO2013172219A1/en
Publication of WO2013172219A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013172219A1/en

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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1626—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
    • G06F3/0362—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of 1D translations or rotations of an operating part of the device, e.g. scroll wheels, sliders, knobs, rollers or belts
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
    • G06F3/041—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
    • G06F3/045—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
    • H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
    • H04M1/23—Construction or mounting of dials or of equivalent devices; Means for facilitating the use thereof
    • H04M1/236—Construction or mounting of dials or of equivalent devices; Means for facilitating the use thereof including keys on side or rear faces
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M2250/00—Details of telephonic subscriber devices
    • H04M2250/22—Details of telephonic subscriber devices including a touch pad, a touch sensor or a touch detector

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an input device provided on the side of a main surface of an electronic device such as a portable terminal device, and more particularly to an input device having good operability.
  • the display surface 151a is provided so as to occupy a large area of the main surface 151.
  • a liquid crystal display device for displaying an image and a light-transmissive input device are incorporated (not shown).
  • a resistive touch panel or a capacitive touch panel is used for the light-transmissive input device.
  • such a portable terminal device 150 is provided with input operation units 155 and 156 for performing power on / off and volume adjustment, or activating and operating a camera function. It is done.
  • the input operation units 155 and 156 are provided on the side surface 152 with respect to the main surface 151, and a mechanical switch, a volume, or the like is used.
  • the input operation units 155 and 156 By providing the input operation units 155 and 156 on the side surface 152, it is possible to secure a wide area of the display surface 151a on which the image is displayed on the main surface 151, and the visibility of the display image can be improved. In addition, since the input operation units 155 and 156 are provided on the side surface 152, unevenness due to the provision of the input operation units 155 and 156 does not appear on the main surface 151. Therefore, the main surface 151 can be formed flat, and the appearance quality of the portable terminal device 150 can be improved.
  • the side surface 152 of the portable terminal device 150 it is required to improve the appearance quality of the portable terminal device 150 by forming a flat surface without steps or unevenness.
  • the mechanical switch, the volume, and the like are disposed with holes, steps, irregularities, and the like on the side surface 152, it has been difficult to improve the appearance quality of the portable terminal device 150.
  • a portable terminal device in which a pressure sensor for detecting a pressing force is disposed on the side to enable an input operation.
  • Patent Document 1 discloses a portable terminal device in which a plurality of pressure sensors are provided on the side surface of a case.
  • each pressure sensor can detect the pressure applied to the side surface of the case, and the operator performs an input operation on the pressure sensor by applying pressure to the side surface of the case.
  • a plurality of pressure sensors are provided for each input position in accordance with the arrangement of the finger holding the portable terminal device by the operator.
  • Each pressure sensor is used for input and conversion operation of character information, and it is possible to improve the input speed as compared with a conventional method of pressing and inputting a number key.
  • the point at which the pressing force of the pressure sensor can be detected is limited to a small area, and when the pressure sensor is arranged on the inner surface side of the flat side, the operator can May be difficult to recognize, and there may be a problem that operability is reduced.
  • the portable terminal device 150 of the conventional example shown in FIG. 10 when a pressure sensor is disposed on the inner surface side of a flat side instead of a mechanical switch or volume, the side surface other than the input operation by the operation of holding the portable terminal device.
  • the force applied to the pressure sensor is applied to the pressure sensor to cause a problem that an unintended input operation is performed.
  • pressing force is applied not only to the pressure sensor performing the input operation but also to a pressure sensor disposed in the vicinity, and it is detected that the input is performed, resulting in an incorrect input. And it was difficult to realize good operability.
  • an electrostatic sensor capable of detecting the contact position is used on the side, it is possible to accurately detect the input position. However, even when the side surface is held or touched unintentionally at the time other than the input operation, it is detected as the input operation, which causes a problem that an erroneous input occurs.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide an input device capable of solving the above-mentioned problems and improving the appearance quality of an electronic device to be mounted and realizing good operability.
  • the input device is an input device provided on a side surface to a main surface of an electronic device, and a position detection sensor capable of detecting an input position on the side surface, and a load detection capable of detecting an input load on the side surface And a sensor.
  • the position detection sensor detects the input position touched to the side surface, and the load detection sensor presses the side surface. Detect pressure. That is, since it is not necessary to directly touch and operate the input device, the input operation can be detected without providing a hole, a step, a joint, or the like for providing the input device on the side surface. Therefore, the side surface viewed from the operator can be formed flat, and the appearance quality of the electronic device on which the input device is mounted can be improved.
  • the input position and the input load can be detected by using the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor in combination, the input operation can be accurately detected based on the data of both the input position and the input load. Furthermore, based on the data of the input position and the input load, it can be determined whether it is an input operation. For example, in the case where there is an unintentional contact other than the input operation, or when a pressing force is applied to the side surface while holding the electronic device, it can be determined that the input operation is not performed. Therefore, by using the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor, an erroneous input can be suppressed and good operability can be realized.
  • the input device of the present invention it is possible to improve the appearance quality of the mounted electronic device and to realize good operability.
  • the input device preferably includes a control unit that determines an input operation based on information on the input position from the position detection sensor and information on the input load from the load detection sensor. According to this, since the control unit does not determine input information due to an unintended touch or the like as an input operation, it is possible to suppress erroneous input and improve operability.
  • the position detection sensor can detect the movement of the input position. According to this, in addition to the input operation performed by selecting one place of the side surface provided with the position detection sensor, the operator may perform various input operations by the input rubbing operation etc. so as to rub the side surface. it can.
  • control unit can detect the movement of the load position of the input load based on information of the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor. According to this, it is possible to perform the input operation while applying pressure to trace the side surface, and to perform various input operations.
  • the position detection sensor can detect a plurality of input positions simultaneously pressed
  • the control unit is configured to input load data of the load detection sensor and input position data of the position detection sensor.
  • the gravity center position and the gravity center load of a plurality of the input positions can be calculated based on the above, and each load at a plurality of the input positions can be calculated based on position coordinates of the plurality of input positions, the gravity center coordinates and the gravity center load Is preferred.
  • simultaneous multi-point input can be performed at the time of input operation, and since the load of each input position is calculated by the control unit, various input operations can be performed by a combination of a plurality of input positions and each input load. Become.
  • even when the input operation is performed while holding a part of the side surface provided with the position detection sensor, it is possible to determine whether or not each of the plurality of input positions is the input operation. Yes, it is possible to prevent incorrect input and perform input operation with certainty.
  • the position detection sensor is formed in an elongated shape on the side surface. According to this, it is possible to widen the area which can be input on the side surface, and the operability can be improved. Also, various input operations can be performed along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor, and different functions can be assigned according to the respective input operations.
  • a plurality of the load detection sensors are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor on the inner surface side of the side surface. According to this, even when the area which can be input is wide, it is possible to accurately detect the input load, and it is possible to obtain good operability.
  • the position detection sensor is a capacitive touch sensor. According to this, it is possible to accurately detect input position coordinates, and it is also possible to accurately detect each input position coordinate even when simultaneous multipoint input is performed.
  • the input device of the present invention it is possible to improve the appearance quality of the mounted electronic device and to realize good operability.
  • FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the input device taken along line II-II in FIG. It is sectional drawing of the load detection sensor which comprises the input device of this embodiment. It is a back view of a sensor board which constitutes a load detection sensor. It is a disassembled perspective view of the position detection sensor which comprises the input device of this embodiment. It is a block diagram of the input device in this embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which detects input operation. It is a flowchart figure which performs processing based on input operation. It is a flowchart figure which detects input operation when a plurality of points are simultaneously input.
  • the perspective view of the portable terminal unit (electronic equipment) by which the input device of the conventional example was carried is shown.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 in which the input device 1 of the present embodiment is mounted.
  • a liquid crystal display device and a light-transmissive touch panel are incorporated inside the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2.
  • the operator can visually recognize the image of the liquid crystal display device through the display surface 51 a of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, and by touching or pressing the display surface 51 a while visually recognizing the image
  • input operations such as menu selection can be performed.
  • the main surface 51 is configured by the display surface 51 a so that an image from the liquid crystal display device can be viewed well.
  • the main surface 51 is formed substantially flat as a whole, and has a good appearance when viewed from the operator.
  • the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 has a side surface 52 with respect to the main surface 51, and side surfaces 52a, 52b facing in the Z1-Z2 direction and side surfaces 52c facing in the X1-X2 direction. , 52d.
  • the input device 1 is provided on the inner surface side of the side surface 52a on the Z1 side.
  • the input device 1 is formed to be elongated in a direction (X1-X2 direction in FIG. 1) along the main surface 51 at the side surface 52a.
  • the location where the input device 1 is provided is not limited to the side surface 52a, but may be provided on the side surfaces 52a to 52d, and a plurality of input devices 1 may be provided.
  • an input device capable of performing various input operations in addition to the input operation using a light-transmissive touch panel is required.
  • the operator can perform the input operation of the input device 1 by pressing the side surface 52a, and can perform the power on / off, the adjustment of the volume, the operation of the camera function, and the like.
  • FIG. 2 shows a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the input device 1 when it is cut in the Z1-Z2 direction along the II-II line in FIG.
  • the input device 1 of the present embodiment is configured to have a position detection sensor 20 and a load detection sensor 30, and the inner surface 52 e side of the side wall 53 of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2.
  • the position detection sensor 20 is a sensor capable of detecting an input position to the side surface 52a, and is formed in a long shape in a direction (X1-X2 direction) along the main surface 51.
  • the load detection sensor 30 is a sensor capable of detecting an input load on the side surface 52 a, and two load detection sensors 30 are disposed in the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20.
  • the load detection sensor 30 is supported by the support portion 12 and disposed on the back surface side of the position detection sensor 20.
  • the support portion 12 and the position detection sensor 20 are connected by the deformable connection portion 11. Therefore, when the operator presses the side surface 52 a, the side wall 53 and the position detection sensor 20 deform and move to the back side, and a load is applied to the load detection sensor 30.
  • a double-sided tape can be used as the connection portion 11.
  • the position detection sensor 20 is formed in a long shape on the side surface 52a, and according to this, it is possible to widen the inputtable region on the side surface 52a, and the operability is improved. It can be improved.
  • various input operations such as a rubbing operation can be performed along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20.
  • different functions can be assigned according to each input operation.
  • the position detection sensor 20 When the position detection sensor 20 is formed in a long shape, it is preferable that a plurality of load detection sensors 30 be disposed along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20, as shown in FIG. In this way, it is possible to accurately detect the input load even when the area that can be input is wide.
  • two load detection sensors 30 are provided in the Y1-Y2 direction in the input device 1 of the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this.
  • FIG. 3 sectional drawing of the load detection sensor 30 used for the input device 1 of this embodiment is shown. Further, FIG. 4 shows a rear view of the sensor substrate 32 which constitutes the load detection sensor 30.
  • the load detection sensor 30 is configured to have a base substrate 33 and a sensor substrate 32.
  • a pressure receiving portion 35 protruding upward is formed on the sensor substrate 32.
  • the displacement portion 34 is displaced downward.
  • a plurality of piezo elements 36 are formed on the back surface side of the sensor substrate 32 as strain detection elements.
  • the plurality of piezo elements 36 are connected to one another by the wiring layer 38 so as to constitute a bridge circuit.
  • the pressure receiving portion 35 receives the pressing force and the displacement portion 34 is displaced, and the resistance value of each of the piezoelectric elements 36 is changed according to the displacement amount.
  • the mid-point potential of thus, the output of the load detection sensor 30 is obtained.
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the position detection sensor 20 used in the input device 1 of the present embodiment.
  • the position detection sensor 20 in the present embodiment is a capacitive touch sensor, and as shown in FIG. 5, is configured to have a first base 21 and a second base 22.
  • the first base 21 and the second base 22 are formed in a long shape using a film-like resin material.
  • the 1st electrode layer 23 extended to a longitudinal direction is formed in the 1st substrate 21, the 2nd electrode layer 24 extended to a transverse direction is made to the 2nd substrate 22. It is formed.
  • the first electrode layer 23 and the second electrode layer 24 are formed using a metal material such as Cu or Ag, or a transparent conductive material such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide).
  • the first base 21 and the second base 22 have an electrostatic capacity between the first electrode layer 23 and the second electrode layer 24 through an adhesive layer (not shown). Be stacked.
  • the position detection sensor 20 is disposed on the inner surface 52 e of the side wall 53.
  • the capacitance between the first electrode layer 23 and the second electrode layer 24 becomes equal to the capacitance between the finger and the first electrode layer 23
  • a capacitance between the finger and the second electrode layer 24 is added to change the capacitance.
  • the input position can be detected based on the change in capacitance.
  • FIG. 5 shows the position detection sensor 20 configured by laminating the first base 21 and the second base 22, the first electrode layer 23 and the first electrode layer 23 may be formed on one film base.
  • the second embodiment may be a capacitive touch sensor in which the second electrode layer 24 is formed to detect a change in capacitance.
  • the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30 are provided on the inner surface 52e side of the side surface 52a, and the position detection sensor 20 contacts the side surface 52a.
  • the input position can be detected, and the load detection sensor 30 can detect the pressing force applied to the side surface 52a. That is, since it is not necessary to directly touch and operate the input device 1, the input operation can be detected without providing a hole, a step, a joint, or the like for providing the input device 1 on the side surface 52a. Therefore, the side surface 52 a visually recognized by the operator can be formed flat, and the appearance quality of the electronic device in which the input device 1 is mounted can be improved.
  • the input position and the input load can be detected by using the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30 in combination, it is possible to accurately detect the input operation based on the data of both the input position and the input load. it can. Furthermore, based on the data of the input position and the input load, it can be determined whether it is an input operation. That is, it can be determined that the input operation is not an input operation, for example, when the contact is made unintentionally except for the input operation, or when a pressing force is applied to the side surface 52a while holding the electronic device. Therefore, by using the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30, an erroneous input can be suppressed and good operability can be realized.
  • the input device 1 of the present invention it is possible to improve the appearance quality of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 to be mounted, and to realize good operability.
  • FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of the input device 1 of the present embodiment.
  • the input position data of the position detection sensor 20 and the input load data of the load detection sensor 30 are sent to the control unit (IC) 40.
  • the control unit (IC) 40 determines whether it is an input operation based on input position data and load detection data, and if it is determined that it is an input operation, the type of input operation (input position, load , Movement of the input position, etc.).
  • Data of the input operation is transmitted from the control unit (IC) 40 to the process execution unit 41, and appropriate processing is executed according to the type of the input operation.
  • input information due to an unintended touch or the like is not determined as an input operation by the control unit (IC) 40, so erroneous input is suppressed and operability is improved. be able to.
  • FIG. 7 shows a flowchart in the case where the control unit (IC) 40 determines whether the input information is an input operation.
  • the operator presses the side surface 52a of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 to perform an input operation.
  • the control unit 40 acquires input position data from the position detection sensor 20.
  • the control unit 40 acquires input load data from the load detection sensor 30.
  • the threshold value ⁇ set in advance is compared with the input load data acquired in step ST13.
  • the threshold value ⁇ can be appropriately set according to the rigidity (material, thickness) of the mobile terminal device (electronic device) 2, the material of the connection portion 11, and the like.
  • step ST15 If the input load data is equal to or greater than the threshold value ⁇ , it is determined in step ST15 that an input operation has been performed, and the process proceeds to the process execution flow of the input operation described later.
  • the process does not advance to the next flow and returns to the initial state. Even when the position load sensor 20 is touched unintentionally during normal use of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, it is not determined as the input operation when the input load is not more than ⁇ in step ST14. It is possible to suppress incorrect input.
  • FIG. 8 shows a flow in the case where the process is executed based on the operation determined as the input operation in step ST15 shown in FIG.
  • step ST21 shown in FIG. 8 it is determined whether a tap operation has been performed. For example, even when the operator holds the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, it may be determined in step ST15 that the input operation is performed. However, when the tap operation which is a pressing operation for a short time is performed in step ST21, it can be clearly distinguished from the normal holding operation, so it is determined that the input operation has been performed. In this case, the process execution unit 41 is instructed to execute the process A in step ST22. In the process A of step ST22, it is possible to execute determination or on / off of a predetermined function. For example, power ON / OFF, display of a menu screen, determination of a selected menu item, activation of a camera function, activation of a music or video viewing function, etc. are executed.
  • step ST21 it is determined whether or not the tap operation is performed by one tap operation. It is also possible to add a determination as to whether or not the tap operation has been performed twice after it has been determined that the tap operation has been performed. In this way, it is possible to more reliably determine whether the input operation is performed and to execute the process of the input operation.
  • step ST28 After the process A is performed, the process proceeds to step ST28, and it is determined whether the process ends. When the operation is continuously performed, the process returns to step ST11 to perform an input operation.
  • step ST21 If it is determined in step ST21 that the tap operation has not been performed, it is determined based on the data of the position detection sensor 20 whether or not the input position has been moved continuously (step ST23). If it is determined that the input position does not move, the process B is executed (step ST24). However, in this case, there is neither a tap operation nor a movement of the input position, and it is difficult to distinguish it from the operation of holding the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2. You may go ahead. Also, the process B can be executed in combination with the simultaneous multipoint input operation described later.
  • step ST25 it is determined based on the data of the load detection sensor 30 whether the load position has moved continuously along with the movement of the input position. Do.
  • step ST25 it is determined whether or not the value of the input load is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value ⁇ along with the movement of the input position. That is, when the operation is performed so as to trace the side surface 52a while applying the input load equal to or more than the threshold value ⁇ (hereinafter referred to as a tracing operation), it is determined as (Y) in step ST25, and the process C is performed in step ST26. Ru.
  • the operator performs the tracing operation relatively slowly, so in selecting the menu item displayed in the process A of step ST22, adjusting the volume at the time of viewing music or moving pictures, or operating the camera function. It is preferable to assign processing such as zoom, focus, and adjustment of image quality.
  • step ST25 when the movement of the load is not detected or the load at the time of movement is equal to or less than the threshold value ⁇ , it is determined that the operator operated to rub by a relatively fast movement (hereinafter referred to as a rubbing operation).
  • the process D of step ST27 is performed.
  • process D a function of moving a menu screen or the like to another page, or a skip operation such as skipping to another photo, music, moving image, etc. to be reproduced when viewing a photo, music, moving image, etc. it can.
  • steps ST23 and ST25 it is possible to detect the moving direction of the input position and the input load and to execute different functions for each moving direction.
  • different operations are assigned to correspond to four directions of X1 direction, X2 direction, Y1 direction, and Y2 direction shown in FIG.
  • the next menu can be displayed by the rubbing operation in the X2 direction, and the previous menu can be returned by the rubbing operation in the X1 direction.
  • an operation such as cancellation can be executed.
  • steps ST23 and ST25 may be executed after the input of the tap operation in step ST21. In this case, the input operation can be determined more reliably.
  • step ST28 it is determined whether to end the process. When a series of processes are continuously performed, the process returns to step ST11 to continue the input operation.
  • the process can be executed by performing the input operation on the side surface 52a, and the operation can be performed without touching the display surface 51a. Therefore, the operation is performed without obstructing the viewing of the display image on the display surface 51a. It can be performed.
  • various input operations can be performed by a combination of a tap operation, a trace operation, a rubbing operation, or an operation direction thereof.
  • the input operation is performed by steps ST11 to ST15 and steps ST21 to ST28 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.
  • erroneous input can be suppressed and reliable input operation can be performed, and various input operations can be performed, and good operability can be realized.
  • a plurality of input positions simultaneously pressed by the position detection sensor 20 can be detected. Further, based on the input load data of the load detection sensor 30, the control unit (IC) 40 can calculate the gravity center position and gravity center load of the plurality of input positions. Further, when a plurality of locations are simultaneously pressed, the load detection sensor 30 can not measure the load at each input position by the load detection sensor 30 because a value obtained by combining a plurality of pressing forces is detected. According to the present embodiment, the control unit 40 can calculate each load at a plurality of input positions based on the position coordinates of the plurality of input positions, the gravity center coordinates, and the gravity center load.
  • FIG. 9 shows a flowchart for obtaining each load when input is simultaneously made to a plurality of places.
  • each load detection method when simultaneously input to the input position A and the input position B will be shown based on FIG.
  • position coordinates of the input position A are (x1, y1)
  • position coordinates of the input position B are (x2, y2).
  • step ST31 the input position A and the input position B are simultaneously pressed in the region where the position detection sensor 20 of the side surface 52a is provided, and the input operation is performed.
  • step ST32 based on the data from the position detection sensor 20, the control unit 40 acquires position coordinates at each input position.
  • step ST33 the control unit 40 calculates the barycentric coordinates (X, Y) and the barycentric load (F) of the input position A and the input position B based on the data from each of the load detection sensors 30.
  • step ST34 each load at each input position is calculated.
  • the loads at the input position A and the input position B are f1 and f2, respectively, the barycentric coordinates (X, Y) and the barycentric load F are expressed by the following equations.
  • step ST35 based on the position coordinates of each input position and each input load obtained.
  • each input position and each input load can be calculated by an operation of simultaneously inputting a plurality of places, and various input operations become possible.
  • the menu selection screen is displayed on the display surface 51a, and functions that can be executed by a plurality of input operations can be easily performed by the input device 1 provided on the side surface 52a.
  • each input coordinate and each input load at a plurality of input positions can be calculated by the method shown in FIG. Thus, by executing steps ST11 to ST15 shown in FIG. 7 and ST21 to ST28 shown in FIG.
  • connection portion 11 connection portion 12 support portion 20 position detection sensor 21 first base material 22 second base material 23 first electrode layer 24 second electrode layer 30 load detection sensor 32 sensor substrate 33 base substrate 34 displacement portion 35 pressure receiving portion 36 Piezoelectric element 40 Control unit 41 Processing execution unit 51 Main surface 51a Display surface 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d Side surface 52e Inner surface 53 Side wall

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Position Input By Displaying (AREA)
  • Telephone Set Structure (AREA)

Abstract

[Problem] The purpose of this invention is to provide an input device capable of improving quality of appearance by making a side surface of a mounted electronic device flat, and realizing good operability by reducing incorrect inputs. [Solution] This input device (1) is provided on a side surface (52a) of an electronic device relative to the principal surface of the electronic device, and has a location detection sensor (20) capable of detecting an input location on the side surface (52a), and load detection sensors (30) capable of detecting an input load on the side surface (52a). This makes it possible to detect an input operation without providing in the side surface (52a) with a hole, a step, a seam, or the like for mounting the input device (1). It is also possible to reduce incorrect inputs on the basis of data related to both an input location and an input load by using the location detection sensor (20) together with the load detection sensors (30).

Description

入力装置Input device
　本発明は、携帯端末装置等の電子機器の主面に対する側面に設けられる入力装置に関し、特に、良好な操作性を有する入力装置に関する。 The present invention relates to an input device provided on the side of a main surface of an electronic device such as a portable terminal device, and more particularly to an input device having good operability.
　近年、携帯端末装置等の電子機器において多数の機能が実現可能となっており、それに合わせて様々な入力デバイスが搭載されている。図１０に示す従来例の携帯端末装置１５０では、主面１５１の多くの面積を占めて表示面１５１ａが設けられている。表示面１５１ａの内面には画像を表示する液晶表示装置、及び透光型の入力装置が組み込まれている（図示しない）。透光型の入力装置には、抵抗式タッチパネルや静電容量式タッチパネルが用いられる。操作者は、表示面１５１ａを通して、携帯端末装置１５０の内部に組み込まれた液晶表示装置等の画像を視認可能となっている。また、操作者は、表示面１５１ａの画像を視認しながら、直接、表示面１５１ａを接触、又は押圧して入力操作を行うことができる。 In recent years, many functions have become feasible in electronic devices such as portable terminal devices, and various input devices are mounted accordingly. In the portable terminal device 150 of the conventional example shown in FIG. 10, the display surface 151a is provided so as to occupy a large area of the main surface 151. On the inner surface of the display surface 151a, a liquid crystal display device for displaying an image and a light-transmissive input device are incorporated (not shown). A resistive touch panel or a capacitive touch panel is used for the light-transmissive input device. An operator can visually recognize an image of a liquid crystal display or the like incorporated in the inside of the mobile terminal device 150 through the display surface 151 a. Further, the operator can perform an input operation by directly touching or pressing the display surface 151a while visually recognizing the image on the display surface 151a.
　このような携帯端末装置１５０には、透光型の入力装置に加えて、電源のオン、オフや音量の調整、またはカメラ機能の起動、操作等を行うための入力操作部１５５、１５６が設けられている。これらの入力操作部１５５、１５６は、主面１５１に対する側面１５２に設けられており、メカニカルスイッチやボリューム等が用いられる。 In addition to the translucent input device, such a portable terminal device 150 is provided with input operation units 155 and 156 for performing power on / off and volume adjustment, or activating and operating a camera function. It is done. The input operation units 155 and 156 are provided on the side surface 152 with respect to the main surface 151, and a mechanical switch, a volume, or the like is used.
　入力操作部１５５、１５６を側面１５２に設けることにより、主面１５１において、画像を表示する表示面１５１ａの面積を広く確保することが可能であり、表示画像の視認性を向上させることができる。また、入力操作部１５５、１５６は側面１５２に設けられているため、主面１５１おいては、入力操作部１５５、１５６を設けることによる凹凸が現れない。したがって、主面１５１を平坦に形成することができ、携帯端末装置１５０の外観品質を向上させることが可能である。 By providing the input operation units 155 and 156 on the side surface 152, it is possible to secure a wide area of the display surface 151a on which the image is displayed on the main surface 151, and the visibility of the display image can be improved. In addition, since the input operation units 155 and 156 are provided on the side surface 152, unevenness due to the provision of the input operation units 155 and 156 does not appear on the main surface 151. Therefore, the main surface 151 can be formed flat, and the appearance quality of the portable terminal device 150 can be improved.
　また、携帯端末装置１５０の側面１５２においても、段差や凹凸のない平坦な面にして、携帯端末装置１５０の外観品質を向上させることが求められている。しかし、メカニカルスイッチやボリューム等は、側面１５２に孔、段差、凹凸等を設けて配置されるため、携帯端末装置１５０の外観品質を向上させることが困難であった。このような課題に対して、押圧力を検知する圧力センサを側面に配置して入力操作を可能とする携帯端末装置が提案されている。 Further, also in the side surface 152 of the portable terminal device 150, it is required to improve the appearance quality of the portable terminal device 150 by forming a flat surface without steps or unevenness. However, since the mechanical switch, the volume, and the like are disposed with holes, steps, irregularities, and the like on the side surface 152, it has been difficult to improve the appearance quality of the portable terminal device 150. In order to solve such a problem, there has been proposed a portable terminal device in which a pressure sensor for detecting a pressing force is disposed on the side to enable an input operation.
　下記の特許文献１には、筐体側面に複数の圧力センサを設けた携帯端末装置が開示されている。特許文献１に記載の携帯情報端末において、各々の圧力センサは筐体側面にかかる圧力を検出することができ、操作者は筐体側面に圧力を加えることによって、圧力センサに入力操作を行う。また、特許文献１に記載の携帯情報端末では、操作者が携帯端末装置を保持する指の配置に合わせて、入力する位置ごとに複数の圧力センサが設けられている。各々の圧力センサは、文字情報の入力や変換操作に使用され、従来の番号キーを押して入力する方式に比べて入力速度を向上させることが可能である。 Patent Document 1 below discloses a portable terminal device in which a plurality of pressure sensors are provided on the side surface of a case. In the portable information terminal described in Patent Document 1, each pressure sensor can detect the pressure applied to the side surface of the case, and the operator performs an input operation on the pressure sensor by applying pressure to the side surface of the case. Further, in the portable information terminal described in Patent Document 1, a plurality of pressure sensors are provided for each input position in accordance with the arrangement of the finger holding the portable terminal device by the operator. Each pressure sensor is used for input and conversion operation of character information, and it is possible to improve the input speed as compared with a conventional method of pressing and inputting a number key.
　このような圧力センサを用いた入力装置では、圧力センサの押圧力を検知できるポイントは小さい領域に限られており、平坦な側面の内面側に圧力センサを配置したときに、操作者が入力位置を認識することが困難であり、操作性が低下するという課題を生じる場合がある。 In an input device using such a pressure sensor, the point at which the pressing force of the pressure sensor can be detected is limited to a small area, and when the pressure sensor is arranged on the inner surface side of the flat side, the operator can May be difficult to recognize, and there may be a problem that operability is reduced.
特開２００６－２０１９８４号公報Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2006-201984
　図１０に示す従来例の携帯端末装置１５０において、メカニカルスイッチやボリューム等に換えて平坦な側面の内面側に圧力センサを配置した場合、携帯端末装置を保持する動作などにより、入力操作以外で側面に加えられた力が圧力センサに加えられて、意図しない入力操作が実行されるという課題が発生する。また、複数の圧力センサを設けた場合、入力操作を行う圧力センサだけではなく、近傍に配置された圧力センサにも押圧力が加えられて、入力が行われたと検出されて誤入力となる場合があり、良好な操作性を実現することが困難であった。 In the portable terminal device 150 of the conventional example shown in FIG. 10, when a pressure sensor is disposed on the inner surface side of a flat side instead of a mechanical switch or volume, the side surface other than the input operation by the operation of holding the portable terminal device. The force applied to the pressure sensor is applied to the pressure sensor to cause a problem that an unintended input operation is performed. When a plurality of pressure sensors are provided, pressing force is applied not only to the pressure sensor performing the input operation but also to a pressure sensor disposed in the vicinity, and it is detected that the input is performed, resulting in an incorrect input. And it was difficult to realize good operability.
　圧力センサに換えて、接触位置を検出可能な静電センサを側面に用いる場合、入力位置を正確に検出することが可能である。しかし、入力操作時以外において側面を保持したり、意図せず触れたりした場合においても入力操作として検出されてしまうため、誤入力が発生するという課題がある。 If, instead of the pressure sensor, an electrostatic sensor capable of detecting the contact position is used on the side, it is possible to accurately detect the input position. However, even when the side surface is held or touched unintentionally at the time other than the input operation, it is detected as the input operation, which causes a problem that an erroneous input occurs.
　本発明は、上記課題を解決して、搭載される電子機器の外観品質を向上させるとともに、良好な操作性を実現することが可能な入力装置を提供することを目的とする。 An object of the present invention is to provide an input device capable of solving the above-mentioned problems and improving the appearance quality of an electronic device to be mounted and realizing good operability.
　本発明の入力装置は、電子機器の主面に対する側面に設けられる入力装置であって、前記側面への入力位置を検出可能な位置検出センサと、前記側面への入力荷重を検出可能な荷重検出センサと、を有することを特徴とする。 The input device according to the present invention is an input device provided on a side surface to a main surface of an electronic device, and a position detection sensor capable of detecting an input position on the side surface, and a load detection capable of detecting an input load on the side surface And a sensor.
　これによれば、操作者が側面に接触または押圧して入力操作を行ったときに、位置検出センサは側面に接触された入力位置を検出し、また、荷重検出センサは側面に加えられた押圧力を検出する。すなわち、入力装置を直接触れて操作する必要がないため、側面には、入力装置を設けるための孔、段差、継ぎ目などを設けることなく入力操作を検出することができる。よって、操作者から視認される側面を平坦にして形成することができ、入力装置が搭載される電子機器の外観品質を向上させることが可能である。 According to this, when the operator touches or presses the side surface to perform an input operation, the position detection sensor detects the input position touched to the side surface, and the load detection sensor presses the side surface. Detect pressure. That is, since it is not necessary to directly touch and operate the input device, the input operation can be detected without providing a hole, a step, a joint, or the like for providing the input device on the side surface. Therefore, the side surface viewed from the operator can be formed flat, and the appearance quality of the electronic device on which the input device is mounted can be improved.
　また、位置検出センサと荷重検出センサとを併用して入力位置及び入力荷重を検出することができるため、入力位置及び入力荷重の両方のデータに基づいて正確に入力操作を検出することができる。さらに、入力位置及び入力荷重のデータに基づいて、入力操作であるかどうかの判定をすることができる。例えば、入力操作以外に意図せず接触した場合や、電子機器を保持して側面に押圧力が加えられた場合等には、入力操作ではないと判定することができる。したがって、位置検出センサと荷重検出センサとを用いることにより、誤入力を抑制して良好な操作性を実現できる。 Further, since the input position and the input load can be detected by using the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor in combination, the input operation can be accurately detected based on the data of both the input position and the input load. Furthermore, based on the data of the input position and the input load, it can be determined whether it is an input operation. For example, in the case where there is an unintentional contact other than the input operation, or when a pressing force is applied to the side surface while holding the electronic device, it can be determined that the input operation is not performed. Therefore, by using the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor, an erroneous input can be suppressed and good operability can be realized.
　したがって、本発明の入力装置によれば、搭載される電子機器の外観品質を向上させるとともに、良好な操作性を実現することが可能となる。 Therefore, according to the input device of the present invention, it is possible to improve the appearance quality of the mounted electronic device and to realize good operability.
　本発明の入力装置は、前記位置検出センサからの前記入力位置の情報、及び前記荷重検出センサからの前記入力荷重の情報に基づいて、入力操作を判定する制御部を有することが好ましい。これによれば、制御部において、意図しない接触等による入力情報は入力操作として判定されないため、誤入力を抑制して操作性を向上させることができる。 The input device according to the present invention preferably includes a control unit that determines an input operation based on information on the input position from the position detection sensor and information on the input load from the load detection sensor. According to this, since the control unit does not determine input information due to an unintended touch or the like as an input operation, it is possible to suppress erroneous input and improve operability.
　本発明の入力装置において、前記位置検出センサは、前記入力位置の移動を検出可能であることが好ましい。これによれば、位置検出センサが設けられた側面の１箇所を選択して行う入力操作だけではなく、操作者が側面をこするように入力するこすり操作等によって多様な入力操作を行うことができる。 In the input device of the present invention, preferably, the position detection sensor can detect the movement of the input position. According to this, in addition to the input operation performed by selecting one place of the side surface provided with the position detection sensor, the operator may perform various input operations by the input rubbing operation etc. so as to rub the side surface. it can.
　本発明の入力装置において、前記制御部は、前記位置検出センサ及び前記荷重検出センサの情報に基づき、前記入力荷重の荷重位置の移動を検出可能であることが好ましい。これによれば、側面をなぞるように押圧を加えながら入力操作を行うことが可能であり、多様な入力操作を行うことが可能となる。 In the input device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the control unit can detect the movement of the load position of the input load based on information of the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor. According to this, it is possible to perform the input operation while applying pressure to trace the side surface, and to perform various input operations.
　本発明の入力装置において、前記位置検出センサは、同時に押圧された複数の入力位置を検出可能であるとともに、前記制御部は、前記荷重検出センサの入力荷重データ及び前記位置検出センサの入力位置データに基づいて複数の前記入力位置の重心位置及び重心荷重を算出するとともに、複数の前記入力位置の位置座標、重心座標及び重心荷重に基づいて、複数の前記入力位置における各荷重を算出可能であることが好適である。これによれば、入力操作時に同時多点入力することができ、制御部により各入力位置の荷重が算出されるため、複数の入力位置と各入力荷重との組み合わせによって多様な入力操作が可能となる。また、位置検出センサが設けられた側面の一部を保持しながら、入力操作を行った場合等であっても、複数の入力位置について、それぞれ入力操作であるかどうかを判定することが可能であり、誤入力を防止して確実に入力操作を行うことができる。 In the input device according to the present invention, the position detection sensor can detect a plurality of input positions simultaneously pressed, and the control unit is configured to input load data of the load detection sensor and input position data of the position detection sensor. The gravity center position and the gravity center load of a plurality of the input positions can be calculated based on the above, and each load at a plurality of the input positions can be calculated based on position coordinates of the plurality of input positions, the gravity center coordinates and the gravity center load Is preferred. According to this, simultaneous multi-point input can be performed at the time of input operation, and since the load of each input position is calculated by the control unit, various input operations can be performed by a combination of a plurality of input positions and each input load. Become. In addition, even when the input operation is performed while holding a part of the side surface provided with the position detection sensor, it is possible to determine whether or not each of the plurality of input positions is the input operation. Yes, it is possible to prevent incorrect input and perform input operation with certainty.
　本発明の入力装置において、前記位置検出センサは前記側面において長尺状に形成されていることが好ましい。これによれば、側面における入力可能な領域を広くすることが可能であり、操作性を向上させることができる。また、前記位置検出センサの長手方向に沿って、多様な入力操作を実行することができ、それぞれの入力操作に応じて異なる機能を割り当てることができる。 In the input device according to the present invention, preferably, the position detection sensor is formed in an elongated shape on the side surface. According to this, it is possible to widen the area which can be input on the side surface, and the operability can be improved. Also, various input operations can be performed along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor, and different functions can be assigned according to the respective input operations.
　本発明の入力装置において、前記荷重検出センサは、前記側面の内面側において前記位置検出センサの長手方向に複数配置されていることが好ましい。これによれば、入力可能な領域が広い場合にも、入力荷重を正確に検出することが可能であり、良好な操作性を得ることが可能である。 In the input device of the present invention, it is preferable that a plurality of the load detection sensors are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor on the inner surface side of the side surface. According to this, even when the area which can be input is wide, it is possible to accurately detect the input load, and it is possible to obtain good operability.
　本発明の入力装置において、前記位置検出センサは、静電容量式タッチセンサであることが好適である。これによれば、入力位置座標を正確に検出することが可能であり、また、同時多点入力された場合にも各入力位置座標を正確に検出することができる。 In the input device of the present invention, preferably, the position detection sensor is a capacitive touch sensor. According to this, it is possible to accurately detect input position coordinates, and it is also possible to accurately detect each input position coordinate even when simultaneous multipoint input is performed.
　本発明の入力装置によれば、搭載される電子機器の外観品質を向上させるとともに、良好な操作性を実現することが可能となる。 According to the input device of the present invention, it is possible to improve the appearance quality of the mounted electronic device and to realize good operability.
本発明の実施形態における入力装置が搭載された携帯端末装置（電子機器）を示す斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the portable terminal device (electronic device) by which the input device in embodiment of this invention was mounted. 図１のＩＩ－ＩＩ線で切断したときの入力装置の部分拡大断面図である。FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the input device taken along line II-II in FIG. 本実施形態の入力装置を構成する荷重検出センサの断面図である。It is sectional drawing of the load detection sensor which comprises the input device of this embodiment. 荷重検出センサを構成するセンサ基板の裏面図である。It is a back view of a sensor board which constitutes a load detection sensor. 本実施形態の入力装置を構成する位置検出センサの分解斜視図である。It is a disassembled perspective view of the position detection sensor which comprises the input device of this embodiment. 本実施形態における入力装置のブロック図である。It is a block diagram of the input device in this embodiment. 入力操作を検出するフローチャート図である。It is a flowchart figure which detects input operation. 入力操作に基づいて処理を実行するフローチャート図である。It is a flowchart figure which performs processing based on input operation. 複数点を同時入力したときの入力操作を検出するフローチャート図である。It is a flowchart figure which detects input operation when a plurality of points are simultaneously input. 従来例の入力装置が搭載された携帯端末装置（電子機器）の斜視図を示す。The perspective view of the portable terminal unit (electronic equipment) by which the input device of the conventional example was carried is shown.
　以下、図面を参照して本実施形態の入力装置について説明する。なお、各図面は、見やすくするために適宜寸法を変更して示している。 Hereinafter, the input device of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The respective drawings are shown by appropriately changing dimensions in order to make them easy to see.
　図１には、本実施形態の入力装置１が搭載された携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の斜視図を示す。携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の内部には、図示しない液晶表示装置及び透光型のタッチパネルが組み込まれている。操作者は、携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の表示面５１ａを通して液晶表示装置の画像を視認することができ、また、画像を視認しながら表示面５１ａを接触又は押圧することにより透光型のタッチパネルを操作して、メニュー選択などの入力操作を実行することができる。 FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 in which the input device 1 of the present embodiment is mounted. Inside the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, a liquid crystal display device and a light-transmissive touch panel (not shown) are incorporated. The operator can visually recognize the image of the liquid crystal display device through the display surface 51 a of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, and by touching or pressing the display surface 51 a while visually recognizing the image By operating the touch panel, input operations such as menu selection can be performed.
　携帯端末装置（電子機器）２において、液晶表示装置からの画像を良好に視認できるように、主面５１の大部分が表示面５１ａで構成されている。また、主面５１は全体としてほぼフラットに形成されており、操作者から見たときに良好な外観を有している。 In the mobile terminal device (electronic device) 2, most of the main surface 51 is configured by the display surface 51 a so that an image from the liquid crystal display device can be viewed well. The main surface 51 is formed substantially flat as a whole, and has a good appearance when viewed from the operator.
　図１に示すように、携帯端末装置（電子機器）２は、主面５１に対する側面５２を有しており、Ｚ１－Ｚ２方向に対向する側面５２ａ、５２ｂ、Ｘ１－Ｘ２方向に対向する側面５２ｃ、５２ｄを有している。そして、Ｚ１側の側面５２ａの内面側には、入力装置１が設けられている。入力装置１は、側面５２ａにおいて主面５１に沿う方向（図１のＸ１－Ｘ２方向）に長尺状に形成されている。なお、入力装置１を設ける箇所は側面５２ａに限定されず、側面５２ａ～５２ｄに設けることができ、また、入力装置１を複数設けて良い。 As shown in FIG. 1, the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 has a side surface 52 with respect to the main surface 51, and side surfaces 52a, 52b facing in the Z1-Z2 direction and side surfaces 52c facing in the X1-X2 direction. , 52d. The input device 1 is provided on the inner surface side of the side surface 52a on the Z1 side. The input device 1 is formed to be elongated in a direction (X1-X2 direction in FIG. 1) along the main surface 51 at the side surface 52a. The location where the input device 1 is provided is not limited to the side surface 52a, but may be provided on the side surfaces 52a to 52d, and a plurality of input devices 1 may be provided.
　近年の携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の多機能化に伴い、透光型のタッチパネルによる入力操作に加えて、多様な入力操作を実行可能な入力装置が求められている。操作者は、側面５２ａを押圧操作することによって入力装置１の入力操作を行うことができ、これにより、電源のオン／オフ、音量の調整、カメラ機能の操作等を行うことが可能である。 With the recent multifunctionalization of the mobile terminal device (electronic device) 2, an input device capable of performing various input operations in addition to the input operation using a light-transmissive touch panel is required. The operator can perform the input operation of the input device 1 by pressing the side surface 52a, and can perform the power on / off, the adjustment of the volume, the operation of the camera function, and the like.
　図２には、図１のＩＩ－ＩＩ線に沿ってＺ１－Ｚ２方向に切断したときの入力装置１の部分拡大断面図を示す。 FIG. 2 shows a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the input device 1 when it is cut in the Z1-Z2 direction along the II-II line in FIG.
　図２に示すように、本実施形態の入力装置１は、位置検出センサ２０と荷重検出センサ３０とを有して構成されており、携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の側壁５３の内面５２ｅ側に設けられている。位置検出センサ２０は、側面５２ａへの入力位置を検出可能なセンサであり、主面５１に沿う方向（Ｘ１－Ｘ２方向）に長尺状に形成されている。また、荷重検出センサ３０は、側面５２ａへの入力荷重を検出可能なセンサであり、位置検出センサ２０の長手方向に２つ配置されている。 As shown in FIG. 2, the input device 1 of the present embodiment is configured to have a position detection sensor 20 and a load detection sensor 30, and the inner surface 52 e side of the side wall 53 of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2. Provided in The position detection sensor 20 is a sensor capable of detecting an input position to the side surface 52a, and is formed in a long shape in a direction (X1-X2 direction) along the main surface 51. The load detection sensor 30 is a sensor capable of detecting an input load on the side surface 52 a, and two load detection sensors 30 are disposed in the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20.
　荷重検出センサ３０は、支持部１２によって支えられて位置検出センサ２０の裏面側に配置されており、支持部１２と位置検出センサ２０とは変形可能な接続部１１によって接続されている。したがって、操作者が側面５２ａを押圧操作したときに、側壁５３と位置検出センサ２０とが裏面側に変形移動して、荷重検出センサ３０に荷重が加えられる。本実施形態において、接続部１１として例えば両面テープを用いることができる。 The load detection sensor 30 is supported by the support portion 12 and disposed on the back surface side of the position detection sensor 20. The support portion 12 and the position detection sensor 20 are connected by the deformable connection portion 11. Therefore, when the operator presses the side surface 52 a, the side wall 53 and the position detection sensor 20 deform and move to the back side, and a load is applied to the load detection sensor 30. In the present embodiment, for example, a double-sided tape can be used as the connection portion 11.
　本実施形態の入力装置１において、位置検出センサ２０は側面５２ａにおいて長尺状に形成されており、これによれば、側面５２ａにおける入力可能な領域を広くすることが可能であり、操作性を向上させることができる。また、位置検出センサ２０の長手方向に沿って、こすり操作など多様な入力操作を実行することができる。また、それぞれの入力操作に応じて異なる機能を割り当てることができる。 In the input device 1 of the present embodiment, the position detection sensor 20 is formed in a long shape on the side surface 52a, and according to this, it is possible to widen the inputtable region on the side surface 52a, and the operability is improved. It can be improved. In addition, various input operations such as a rubbing operation can be performed along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20. Also, different functions can be assigned according to each input operation.
　位置検出センサ２０を長尺状に形成した場合、荷重検出センサ３０は図２に示すように、位置検出センサ２０の長手方向に沿って複数配置されていることが好ましい。こうすれば、入力可能な領域が広い場合においても、入力荷重を正確に検出することが可能である。なお、本実施形態の入力装置１において、荷重検出センサ３０はＹ１－Ｙ２方向に２つ設けられているが、これに限定されない。例えば、位置検出センサ２０の長手方向に沿って異なる機能を実現可能とした場合には、それぞれの機能に対応させて複数の荷重検出センサ３０を設けることが好ましい。また、荷重検出センサ３０が１個のみ設けられた構成であっても良い。 When the position detection sensor 20 is formed in a long shape, it is preferable that a plurality of load detection sensors 30 be disposed along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20, as shown in FIG. In this way, it is possible to accurately detect the input load even when the area that can be input is wide. Although two load detection sensors 30 are provided in the Y1-Y2 direction in the input device 1 of the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when different functions can be realized along the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor 20, it is preferable to provide a plurality of load detection sensors 30 corresponding to the respective functions. Further, only one load detection sensor 30 may be provided.
　図３には、本実施形態の入力装置１に用いられる荷重検出センサ３０の断面図を示す。また、図４には、荷重検出センサ３０を構成するセンサ基板３２の裏面図を示す。 In FIG. 3, sectional drawing of the load detection sensor 30 used for the input device 1 of this embodiment is shown. Further, FIG. 4 shows a rear view of the sensor substrate 32 which constitutes the load detection sensor 30.
　図３に示すように、荷重検出センサ３０は、ベース基板３３及びセンサ基板３２を有して構成されている。センサ基板３２には、上方に突出する受圧部３５が形成されており、受圧部３５が押圧力を受けると変位部３４が下方に変位する。図３及び図４に示すように、センサ基板３２の裏面側には、歪検出素子として複数のピエゾ素子３６が形成されている。図４に示すように、複数のピエゾ素子３６はブリッジ回路を構成するように配線層３８によって互いに接続されている。操作者が側面５２ａに押圧力を加えたとき、受圧部３５が押圧力を受けて変位部３４が変位して、その変位量に応じて各ピエゾ素子３６の抵抗値が変化して、ブリッジ回路の中点電位が変化する。このようにして、荷重検出センサ３０の出力が得られる。 As shown in FIG. 3, the load detection sensor 30 is configured to have a base substrate 33 and a sensor substrate 32. A pressure receiving portion 35 protruding upward is formed on the sensor substrate 32. When the pressure receiving portion 35 receives a pressing force, the displacement portion 34 is displaced downward. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a plurality of piezo elements 36 are formed on the back surface side of the sensor substrate 32 as strain detection elements. As shown in FIG. 4, the plurality of piezo elements 36 are connected to one another by the wiring layer 38 so as to constitute a bridge circuit. When the operator applies a pressing force to the side surface 52a, the pressure receiving portion 35 receives the pressing force and the displacement portion 34 is displaced, and the resistance value of each of the piezoelectric elements 36 is changed according to the displacement amount. The mid-point potential of Thus, the output of the load detection sensor 30 is obtained.
　また、図５には、本実施形態の入力装置１に用いられる位置検出センサ２０の分解斜視図を示す。本実施形態における位置検出センサ２０は、静電容量式タッチセンサであり、図５に示すように、第１の基材２１と第２の基材２２とを有して構成される。第１の基材２１及び第２の基材２２は、フィルム状の樹脂材料を用いて長尺状に形成されている。そして、第１の基材２１には長手方向に延出する第１の電極層２３が形成されるとともに、第２の基材２２には短手方向に延出する第２の電極層２４が形成されている。第１の電極層２３及び第２の電極層２４はＣｕ、Ａｇ等の金属材料、あるいはＩＴＯ（Ｉｎｄｉｕｍｕ　Ｔｉｎ　Ｏｘｉｄｅ）等の透明導電材料を用いて形成される。第１の基材２１と第２の基材２２とは、第１の電極層２３と第２の電極層２４との間で静電容量を有するように、粘着層（図示しない）を介して積層される。 FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the position detection sensor 20 used in the input device 1 of the present embodiment. The position detection sensor 20 in the present embodiment is a capacitive touch sensor, and as shown in FIG. 5, is configured to have a first base 21 and a second base 22. The first base 21 and the second base 22 are formed in a long shape using a film-like resin material. And while the 1st electrode layer 23 extended to a longitudinal direction is formed in the 1st substrate 21, the 2nd electrode layer 24 extended to a transverse direction is made to the 2nd substrate 22. It is formed. The first electrode layer 23 and the second electrode layer 24 are formed using a metal material such as Cu or Ag, or a transparent conductive material such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide). The first base 21 and the second base 22 have an electrostatic capacity between the first electrode layer 23 and the second electrode layer 24 through an adhesive layer (not shown). Be stacked.
　図２に示すように、側壁５３の内面５２ｅに位置検出センサ２０は配置される。操作者が、側面５２ａに指を接触させると、第１の電極層２３と第２の電極層２４との間の静電容量に、指と第１の電極層２３との間の静電容量、及び指と第２の電極層２４との間の静電容量が付加されて、静電容量が変化する。この静電容量変化に基づいて、入力位置を検出することができる。位置検出センサ２０として、図５に示すように静電容量式タッチセンサを用いることにより、側面５２ａに入力された入力位置座標を正確に検出することが可能であり、また、同時に多点入力された場合においても各入力位置座標を正確に検出することができる。 As shown in FIG. 2, the position detection sensor 20 is disposed on the inner surface 52 e of the side wall 53. When the operator brings the finger into contact with the side surface 52 a, the capacitance between the first electrode layer 23 and the second electrode layer 24 becomes equal to the capacitance between the finger and the first electrode layer 23 And a capacitance between the finger and the second electrode layer 24 is added to change the capacitance. The input position can be detected based on the change in capacitance. By using a capacitive touch sensor as the position detection sensor 20 as shown in FIG. 5, it is possible to accurately detect input position coordinates input to the side surface 52a, and at the same time, it is input at multiple points. Also in this case, each input position coordinate can be accurately detected.
　図５には、第１の基材２１及び第２の基材２２を積層して構成された位置検出センサ２０について示したが、１枚のフィルム基材上に第１の電極層２３と第２の電極層２４とを形成して静電容量変化を検出可能とした静電容量式タッチセンサであっても良い。 Although FIG. 5 shows the position detection sensor 20 configured by laminating the first base 21 and the second base 22, the first electrode layer 23 and the first electrode layer 23 may be formed on one film base. The second embodiment may be a capacitive touch sensor in which the second electrode layer 24 is formed to detect a change in capacitance.
　本実施形態の入力装置１によれば、位置検出センサ２０及び荷重検出センサ３０は図２に示すように、側面５２ａの内面５２ｅ側に設けられており、位置検出センサ２０は側面５２ａに接触した入力位置を検出可能であり、また、荷重検出センサ３０は側面５２ａに加えられた押圧力を検出することができる。すなわち、入力装置１を直接触れて操作する必要がないため、側面５２ａには、入力装置１を設けるための孔、段差、継ぎ目などを設けることなく入力操作を検出することができる。よって、操作者から視認される側面５２ａを平坦にして形成することができ、入力装置１が搭載される電子機器の外観品質を向上させることが可能である。 According to the input device 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30 are provided on the inner surface 52e side of the side surface 52a, and the position detection sensor 20 contacts the side surface 52a. The input position can be detected, and the load detection sensor 30 can detect the pressing force applied to the side surface 52a. That is, since it is not necessary to directly touch and operate the input device 1, the input operation can be detected without providing a hole, a step, a joint, or the like for providing the input device 1 on the side surface 52a. Therefore, the side surface 52 a visually recognized by the operator can be formed flat, and the appearance quality of the electronic device in which the input device 1 is mounted can be improved.
　また、入力装置１を配置する場合であっても、側面５２ａの形状の制約を小さくすることができるため、側面５２ａに印刷、刻印、模様等を施すことが可能であり、デザインの自由度を高くすることができる。 In addition, even when the input device 1 is disposed, restrictions on the shape of the side surface 52a can be reduced, so that printing, marking, a pattern, and the like can be applied to the side surface 52a. It can be raised.
　また、位置検出センサ２０と荷重検出センサ３０とを併用して入力位置及び入力荷重を検出することができるため、入力位置及び入力荷重の両方のデータに基づいて正確に入力操作を検出することができる。さらに、入力位置及び入力荷重のデータに基づいて、入力操作であるかどうかの判定することができる。すなわち、入力操作以外に意図せず接触した場合や、電子機器を保持して側面５２ａに押圧力が加えられた場合等には、入力操作ではないと判定することができる。したがって、位置検出センサ２０と荷重検出センサ３０とを用いることにより、誤入力を抑制して良好な操作性を実現できる。 Further, since the input position and the input load can be detected by using the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30 in combination, it is possible to accurately detect the input operation based on the data of both the input position and the input load. it can. Furthermore, based on the data of the input position and the input load, it can be determined whether it is an input operation. That is, it can be determined that the input operation is not an input operation, for example, when the contact is made unintentionally except for the input operation, or when a pressing force is applied to the side surface 52a while holding the electronic device. Therefore, by using the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30, an erroneous input can be suppressed and good operability can be realized.
　したがって、本発明の入力装置１によれば、搭載される携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の外観品質を向上させるとともに、良好な操作性を実現することが可能となる。 Therefore, according to the input device 1 of the present invention, it is possible to improve the appearance quality of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 to be mounted, and to realize good operability.
　以下、本実施形態の入力装置１における入力データの取得方法及び各種処理の実行方法について説明する。図６には、本実施形態の入力装置１のブロック図を示す。位置検出センサ２０の入力位置データ、及び荷重検出センサ３０の入力荷重データは、制御部（ＩＣ）４０へと送られる。制御部（ＩＣ）４０では、入力位置データ及び荷重検出データに基づき入力操作であるかどうかを判定して、また、入力操作であると判定した場合には、入力操作の種類（入力位置、荷重、入力位置の移動等）を決定する。入力操作のデータは、制御部（ＩＣ）４０から処理実行部４１へと送信されて、入力操作の種類に従って適当な処理が実行される。以上のように、本実施形態の入力装置１によれば、制御部（ＩＣ）４０によって、意図しない接触等による入力情報は入力操作として判定されないため、誤入力が抑制されて操作性を向上することができる。 Hereinafter, the acquisition method of the input data in the input device 1 of this embodiment and the execution method of various processes are demonstrated. FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of the input device 1 of the present embodiment. The input position data of the position detection sensor 20 and the input load data of the load detection sensor 30 are sent to the control unit (IC) 40. The control unit (IC) 40 determines whether it is an input operation based on input position data and load detection data, and if it is determined that it is an input operation, the type of input operation (input position, load , Movement of the input position, etc.). Data of the input operation is transmitted from the control unit (IC) 40 to the process execution unit 41, and appropriate processing is executed according to the type of the input operation. As described above, according to the input device 1 of the present embodiment, input information due to an unintended touch or the like is not determined as an input operation by the control unit (IC) 40, so erroneous input is suppressed and operability is improved. be able to.
　図７には、入力された情報が入力操作であるかどうかを、制御部（ＩＣ）４０が判定する場合のフローチャートを示す。
　図７に示すステップＳＴ１１では、操作者が携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の側面５２ａを押圧して入力操作が行われる。ステップＳＴ１２では位置検出センサ２０からの入力位置データを制御部４０が取得する。そして、ステップＳＴ１３では荷重検出センサ３０からの入力荷重データを制御部４０が取得する。その後、ステップＳＴ１４では、あらかじめ設定された閾値αと、ステップＳＴ１３で取得された入力荷重データとを比較する。閾値αは、携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の剛性（材料、厚さ）や、接続部１１の材料等によって適切に設定することができる。 FIG. 7 shows a flowchart in the case where the control unit (IC) 40 determines whether the input information is an input operation.
In step ST11 shown in FIG. 7, the operator presses the side surface 52a of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2 to perform an input operation. In step ST12, the control unit 40 acquires input position data from the position detection sensor 20. Then, in step ST13, the control unit 40 acquires input load data from the load detection sensor 30. Thereafter, in step ST14, the threshold value α set in advance is compared with the input load data acquired in step ST13. The threshold value α can be appropriately set according to the rigidity (material, thickness) of the mobile terminal device (electronic device) 2, the material of the connection portion 11, and the like.
　入力荷重データが閾値α以上であるときは、ステップＳＴ１５において入力操作があったと判定して、後述する入力操作の処理実行フローへと進む。 If the input load data is equal to or greater than the threshold value α, it is determined in step ST15 that an input operation has been performed, and the process proceeds to the process execution flow of the input operation described later.
　入力荷重が閾値αよりも小さい場合には、入力操作ではなかったと判断して、次のフローには進まず、初期状態へと戻る。携帯端末装置（電子機器）２の通常の使用時において意図せず位置荷重センサ２０に触れた場合であっても、ステップＳＴ１４により、入力荷重がα以下である場合には入力操作として判定されないため、誤入力を抑制することが可能である。 If the input load is smaller than the threshold value α, it is determined that the input operation is not performed, and the process does not advance to the next flow and returns to the initial state. Even when the position load sensor 20 is touched unintentionally during normal use of the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, it is not determined as the input operation when the input load is not more than α in step ST14. It is possible to suppress incorrect input.
　図８には、図７に示したステップＳＴ１５で、入力操作であると判定された操作に基づいて、処理を実行する場合のフローを示す。 FIG. 8 shows a flow in the case where the process is executed based on the operation determined as the input operation in step ST15 shown in FIG.
　図８に示す、ステップＳＴ２１では、タップ操作がされたかどうかを判断する。例えば、操作者が携帯端末装置（電子機器）２を保持した場合であっても、ステップＳＴ１５において入力操作であると判定される場合がある。しかし、ステップＳＴ２１において短時間の押圧操作であるタップ操作がされた場合には通常の保持する動作とは明確に区別できるため、入力操作がされたと判定する。この場合、ステップＳＴ２２において処理Ａを実行するように処理実行部４１に指示される。ステップＳＴ２２の処理Ａでは、所定の機能についての決定、またはオン／オフを実行することができる。例えば、電源のＯＮ／ＯＦＦや、メニュー画面の表示や、選択したメニュー項目の決定、カメラ機能の起動、音楽や動画の視聴機能の起動等が実行される。 In step ST21 shown in FIG. 8, it is determined whether a tap operation has been performed. For example, even when the operator holds the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2, it may be determined in step ST15 that the input operation is performed. However, when the tap operation which is a pressing operation for a short time is performed in step ST21, it can be clearly distinguished from the normal holding operation, so it is determined that the input operation has been performed. In this case, the process execution unit 41 is instructed to execute the process A in step ST22. In the process A of step ST22, it is possible to execute determination or on / off of a predetermined function. For example, power ON / OFF, display of a menu screen, determination of a selected menu item, activation of a camera function, activation of a music or video viewing function, etc. are executed.
　ステップＳＴ２１では、１回のタップ操作でタップ操作されたかどうかを判定する。タップ操作がされたと判定された後に、２回連続のタップ操作であるかどうかの判定を追加することも可能である。こうすれば、入力操作であるかどうかの判定及び入力操作の処理の実行をより確実に行うことができる。 In step ST21, it is determined whether or not the tap operation is performed by one tap operation. It is also possible to add a determination as to whether or not the tap operation has been performed twice after it has been determined that the tap operation has been performed. In this way, it is possible to more reliably determine whether the input operation is performed and to execute the process of the input operation.
　処理Ａを実行した後、ステップＳＴ２８に進み、終了するかどうか判定する。操作を続けて実行する場合には、ステップＳＴ１１に戻り入力操作を行う。 After the process A is performed, the process proceeds to step ST28, and it is determined whether the process ends. When the operation is continuously performed, the process returns to step ST11 to perform an input operation.
　ステップＳＴ２１においてタップ操作がされなかったと判定された場合には、位置検出センサ２０のデータに基づいて、入力位置が連続的に移動したかどうかを判定する（ステップＳＴ２３）。入力位置が移動しないと判定された場合、処理Ｂを実行する（ステップＳＴ２４）。ただしこの場合は、タップ操作も入力位置の移動もなく、携帯端末装置（電子機器）２を保持する動作と区別が難しいため、入力操作ではないと判定して処理Ｂを保留してステップＳＴ２８に進んでも良い。また、後述する、同時多点入力操作と併用して処理Ｂを実行することもできる。 If it is determined in step ST21 that the tap operation has not been performed, it is determined based on the data of the position detection sensor 20 whether or not the input position has been moved continuously (step ST23). If it is determined that the input position does not move, the process B is executed (step ST24). However, in this case, there is neither a tap operation nor a movement of the input position, and it is difficult to distinguish it from the operation of holding the portable terminal device (electronic device) 2. You may go ahead. Also, the process B can be executed in combination with the simultaneous multipoint input operation described later.
　ステップＳＴ２３において入力位置が連続的に移動したと判定されたときには、ステップＳＴ２５に進み、荷重検出センサ３０のデータに基づいて、入力位置の移動に伴って荷重位置が連続的に移動しているか判定する。ステップＳＴ２５では、入力位置の移動に伴って入力荷重の値が所定の閾値β以上であるかどうかで判定する。すなわち、閾値β以上の入力荷重を加えながら側面５２ａをなぞるように操作している場合（以下、なぞり操作という）には、ステップＳＴ２５で（Ｙ）と判定され、ステップＳＴ２６において処理Ｃが実行される。 If it is determined in step ST23 that the input position has moved continuously, the process proceeds to step ST25, and it is determined based on the data of the load detection sensor 30 whether the load position has moved continuously along with the movement of the input position. Do. In step ST25, it is determined whether or not the value of the input load is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value β along with the movement of the input position. That is, when the operation is performed so as to trace the side surface 52a while applying the input load equal to or more than the threshold value β (hereinafter referred to as a tracing operation), it is determined as (Y) in step ST25, and the process C is performed in step ST26. Ru.
　処理Ｃでは、操作者が比較的ゆっくりとなぞり操作を行うため、ステップＳＴ２２の処理Ａで表示したメニュー項目の選択や、音楽や動画の視聴時における音量の調整、またはカメラ機能の動作時においては、ズームやフォーカス、画質の調整等の処理を割り当てることが好適である。 In the process C, the operator performs the tracing operation relatively slowly, so in selecting the menu item displayed in the process A of step ST22, adjusting the volume at the time of viewing music or moving pictures, or operating the camera function. It is preferable to assign processing such as zoom, focus, and adjustment of image quality.
　ステップＳＴ２５において、荷重の移動が検出されない、あるいは、移動の際の荷重が閾値β以下である場合、操作者が比較的速い動きでこするように操作した（以下、こすり操作という）と判定され、ステップＳＴ２７の処理Ｄが実行される。処理Ｄでは、メニュー画面等を他のページに移動する機能や、写真、音楽、動画の視聴時に、別の写真、曲、動画等にスキップして再生させる等のスキップ操作等を実行することができる。 In step ST25, when the movement of the load is not detected or the load at the time of movement is equal to or less than the threshold value β, it is determined that the operator operated to rub by a relatively fast movement (hereinafter referred to as a rubbing operation). The process D of step ST27 is performed. In process D, a function of moving a menu screen or the like to another page, or a skip operation such as skipping to another photo, music, moving image, etc. to be reproduced when viewing a photo, music, moving image, etc. it can.
　また、ステップＳＴ２３及びステップＳＴ２５においては、入力位置および入力荷重の移動方向を検出して、移動方向ごとに異なる機能を実行させることが可能である。例えば、図１に示すＸ１方向、Ｘ２方向、Ｙ１方向、Ｙ２方向の４方向に対応させてそれぞれ異なる操作を割り当てることが好ましい。例えば、Ｘ２方向のこすり操作で次のメニューを表示させ、Ｘ１方向のこすり操作で前のメニューに戻る、Ｙ１方向、Ｙ２方向では、キャンセル等の操作を実行できる。 Further, in steps ST23 and ST25, it is possible to detect the moving direction of the input position and the input load and to execute different functions for each moving direction. For example, preferably, different operations are assigned to correspond to four directions of X1 direction, X2 direction, Y1 direction, and Y2 direction shown in FIG. For example, the next menu can be displayed by the rubbing operation in the X2 direction, and the previous menu can be returned by the rubbing operation in the X1 direction. In the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction, an operation such as cancellation can be executed.
　なお、ステップＳＴ２３及びステップＳＴ２５では、なぞり操作またはこすり操作を入力操作として判定しているが、ステップＳＴ２１のタップ操作の入力の後にステップＳＴ２３及びステップＳＴ２５を実行しても良い。この場合、より確実に入力操作の判定が可能となる。 Although the tracing operation or the rubbing operation is determined as the input operation in steps ST23 and ST25, steps ST23 and ST25 may be executed after the input of the tap operation in step ST21. In this case, the input operation can be determined more reliably.
　ステップＳＴ２８では、処理を終了するかどうかを決定する。一連の処理を連続して実行する場合には、ステップＳＴ１１に戻り入力操作を継続する。 In step ST28, it is determined whether to end the process. When a series of processes are continuously performed, the process returns to step ST11 to continue the input operation.
　ステップＳＴ２１からステップＳＴ２５では、側面５２ａにおいて入力操作を行うことにより処理が実行可能であり、表示面５１ａを触れずに操作を実行できるため、表示面５１ａの表示画像の視聴を阻害することなく操作を行うことができる。また、位置検出センサ２０と荷重検出センサ３０とを併用することにより、タップ操作、なぞり操作、こすり操作、またはその操作方向の組み合わせにより、多様な入力操作を実行することができる。 In steps ST21 to ST25, the process can be executed by performing the input operation on the side surface 52a, and the operation can be performed without touching the display surface 51a. Therefore, the operation is performed without obstructing the viewing of the display image on the display surface 51a. It can be performed. In addition, by using the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30 in combination, various input operations can be performed by a combination of a tap operation, a trace operation, a rubbing operation, or an operation direction thereof.
　以上のように、本実施形態の入力装置１において、図７及び図８に示すステップＳＴ１１～ＳＴ１５、及びステップＳＴ２１～ＳＴ２８によって入力操作が実行される。これにより位置検出センサ２０と荷重検出センサ３０とのデータを用いて、誤入力を抑制して確実な入力操作を行うことができるとともに多様な入力操作が可能であり、良好な操作性を実現できる。 As described above, in the input device 1 of the present embodiment, the input operation is performed by steps ST11 to ST15 and steps ST21 to ST28 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. As a result, by using data of the position detection sensor 20 and the load detection sensor 30, erroneous input can be suppressed and reliable input operation can be performed, and various input operations can be performed, and good operability can be realized. .
　本実施形態の入力装置１においては、位置検出センサ２０によって同時に押圧された複数の入力位置を検出可能である。また、荷重検出センサ３０の入力荷重データに基づき制御部（ＩＣ）４０により、複数の入力位置の重心位置及び重心荷重を算出することができる。また、複数箇所が同時に押圧された場合、荷重検出センサ３０には複数の押圧力が合成された値が検出されるため、荷重検出センサ３０によって各入力位置における荷重を計測することはできない。本実施形態によれば、制御部４０は、複数の入力位置の位置座標、重心座標及び重心荷重に基づいて、複数の入力位置での各荷重を算出可能である。 In the input device 1 of this embodiment, a plurality of input positions simultaneously pressed by the position detection sensor 20 can be detected. Further, based on the input load data of the load detection sensor 30, the control unit (IC) 40 can calculate the gravity center position and gravity center load of the plurality of input positions. Further, when a plurality of locations are simultaneously pressed, the load detection sensor 30 can not measure the load at each input position by the load detection sensor 30 because a value obtained by combining a plurality of pressing forces is detected. According to the present embodiment, the control unit 40 can calculate each load at a plurality of input positions based on the position coordinates of the plurality of input positions, the gravity center coordinates, and the gravity center load.
　図９には、複数箇所について同時入力された場合において各荷重を求めるフローチャートを示す。以下、入力位置Ａ及び入力位置Ｂに同時入力された場合の各荷重検出方法を図９に基づいて示す。ここで、入力位置Ａの位置座標を（ｘ１、ｙ１）、入力位置Ｂの位置座標を（ｘ２、ｙ２）とする。 FIG. 9 shows a flowchart for obtaining each load when input is simultaneously made to a plurality of places. Hereinafter, each load detection method when simultaneously input to the input position A and the input position B will be shown based on FIG. Here, position coordinates of the input position A are (x1, y1), and position coordinates of the input position B are (x2, y2).
　ステップＳＴ３１では、側面５２ａの位置検出センサ２０が設けられた領域において、入力位置Ａ及び入力位置Ｂが同時に押圧されて入力操作が行われる。ステップＳＴ３２では、位置検出センサ２０からのデータに基づいて、各入力位置における位置座標を制御部４０が取得する。 In step ST31, the input position A and the input position B are simultaneously pressed in the region where the position detection sensor 20 of the side surface 52a is provided, and the input operation is performed. In step ST32, based on the data from the position detection sensor 20, the control unit 40 acquires position coordinates at each input position.
　ステップＳＴ３３では、各荷重検出センサ３０からのデータに基づいて、入力位置Ａと入力位置Ｂとの重心座標（Ｘ、Ｙ）及び重心荷重（Ｆ）を制御部４０が算出する。 In step ST33, the control unit 40 calculates the barycentric coordinates (X, Y) and the barycentric load (F) of the input position A and the input position B based on the data from each of the load detection sensors 30.
　次にステップＳＴ３４において、各入力位置における各荷重を算出する。ここで、入力位置Ａ及び入力位置Ｂにおける各荷重をｆ１、ｆ２としたときに、重心座標（Ｘ、Ｙ）及び重心荷重Ｆは、以下の式で表される。 Next, in step ST34, each load at each input position is calculated. Here, assuming that the loads at the input position A and the input position B are f1 and f2, respectively, the barycentric coordinates (X, Y) and the barycentric load F are expressed by the following equations.
　　（数１）
　Ｘ＝（ｆ１ｘ１＋ｆ２ｘ２）／（ｆ１＋ｆ２）
　Ｙ＝（ｆ１ｙ１＋ｆ２ｙ２）／（ｆ１＋ｆ２）
　Ｆ＝ｆ１＋ｆ２
　入力位置Ａの位置座標（ｘ１、ｙ１）、及び入力位置Ｂの位置座標（ｘ２、ｙ２）は、ステップＳＴ３２により既知であり、重心座標（Ｘ、Ｙ）及び重心荷重（Ｆ）はステップＳＴ３３により既知である。従って、上記（数１）の各式に基づいて入力位置Ａ、入力位置Ｂにおける各荷重ｆ１、ｆ２は以下の式によって算出することができる。 (1)
X = (f1x1 + f2x2) / (f1 + f2)
Y = (f1y1 + f2y2) / (f1 + f2)
F = f1 + f2
The position coordinates (x1, y1) of the input position A and the position coordinates (x2, y2) of the input position B are known in step ST32, and the barycentric coordinates (X, Y) and the barycentric load (F) are as per step ST33. It is known. Therefore, the loads f1 and f2 at the input position A and the input position B can be calculated by the following equations based on the above equations (1).
　　（数２）
　ｆ１＝Ｆ（ｘ２－Ｘ）／（ｘ２－ｘ１）
　ｆ２＝Ｆ（Ｘ－ｘ１）／（ｘ２－ｘ１）
　このようにして、求められた各入力位置の位置座標、及び各入力荷重に基づいて、ステップＳＴ３５において処理が実行される。 (2)
f1 = F (x2-x) / (x2-x1)
f2 = F (X-x1) / (x2-x1)
Thus, the process is executed in step ST35 based on the position coordinates of each input position and each input load obtained.
　図９に示すように、複数箇所を同時入力する操作によって各入力位置及び各入力荷重を算出することが可能となり、多様な入力操作が可能となる。これにより、表示面５１ａにメニュー選択画面を表示させて複数回の入力操作によって実行可能な機能について、側面５２ａに設けられた入力装置１によって簡単に実行可能となる。 As shown in FIG. 9, each input position and each input load can be calculated by an operation of simultaneously inputting a plurality of places, and various input operations become possible. As a result, the menu selection screen is displayed on the display surface 51a, and functions that can be executed by a plurality of input operations can be easily performed by the input device 1 provided on the side surface 52a.
　また、入力操作を容易にするために位置検出センサ２０の入力可能領域を大きくした場合、位置検出センサ２０の入力可能領域の一部を意図せずに保持した状態で入力操作が行われる場合がある。位置検出センサ、荷重検出センサのいずれか一方のみで構成された従来例の入力装置においては、複数箇所に押圧が加えられた場合、入力操作であるかどうかを判定することが困難であり操作性が低下する場合があった。本実施形態の入力装置１によれば、図９に示した方法により、複数の入力位置における各入力座標及び各入力荷重を算出することができる。これにより、各入力座標及び各入力荷重に基づいて、図７に示したステップＳＴ１１～ＳＴ１５、及び図８に示したＳＴ２１～ＳＴ２８を実行することによって、各入力位置について入力操作であるかどうかを判定することが可能である。よって、位置検出センサ２０の一部を保持または接触した状態で入力操作が行われた場合であっても、それぞれの位置について入力操作であるかどうかを判定することが可能である。したがって、本実施形態の入力装置１によれば、誤入力を抑制してより確実に入力操作を実行することができる。 When the input available area of the position detection sensor 20 is enlarged to facilitate the input operation, the input operation may be performed in a state where a part of the input available area of the position detection sensor 20 is unintentionally held. is there. In the input device of the conventional example configured by only one of the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor, when pressing is applied to a plurality of places, it is difficult to determine whether it is an input operation and operability Could have fallen. According to the input device 1 of the present embodiment, each input coordinate and each input load at a plurality of input positions can be calculated by the method shown in FIG. Thus, by executing steps ST11 to ST15 shown in FIG. 7 and ST21 to ST28 shown in FIG. 8 based on each input coordinate and each input load, it is determined whether or not the input operation is performed for each input position. It is possible to determine. Therefore, even if the input operation is performed while holding or touching a part of the position detection sensor 20, it is possible to determine whether or not the input operation is performed for each position. Therefore, according to the input device 1 of the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress input errors and execute input operations more reliably.
　１　入力装置
　２　携帯端末装置（電子機器）
　１１　接続部
　１２　支持部
　２０　位置検出センサ
　２１　第１の基材
　２２　第２の基材
　２３　第１の電極層
　２４　第２の電極層
　３０　荷重検出センサ
　３２　センサ基板
　３３　ベース基板
　３４　変位部
　３５　受圧部
　３６　ピエゾ素子
　４０　制御部
　４１　処理実行部
　５１　主面
　５１ａ　表示面
　５２、５２ａ、５２ｂ、５２ｃ、５２ｄ　側面
　５２ｅ　内面
　５３　側壁 1 input device 2 portable terminal device (electronic device)
11 connection portion 12 support portion 20 position detection sensor 21 first base material 22 second base material 23 first electrode layer 24 second electrode layer 30 load detection sensor 32 sensor substrate 33 base substrate 34 displacement portion 35 pressure receiving portion 36 Piezoelectric element 40 Control unit 41 Processing execution unit 51 Main surface 51a Display surface 52, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d Side surface 52e Inner surface 53 Side wall

Claims (8)

  1. 　電子機器の主面に対する側面に設けられる入力装置であって、
    前記側面への入力位置を検出可能な位置検出センサと、前記側面への入力荷重を検出可能な荷重検出センサと、を有することを特徴とする入力装置。     An input device provided on a side surface to a main surface of an electronic device, the input device comprising:
    An input device comprising: a position detection sensor capable of detecting an input position on the side surface; and a load detection sensor capable of detecting an input load on the side surface.
  2. 　前記位置検出センサからの前記入力位置の情報、及び前記荷重検出センサからの前記入力荷重の情報に基づいて、入力操作を判定する制御部を有することを特徴とする請求項１に記載の入力装置。 The input device according to claim 1, further comprising: a control unit that determines an input operation based on information on the input position from the position detection sensor and information on the input load from the load detection sensor. .
  3. 　前記位置検出センサは、前記入力位置の移動を検出可能であることを特徴とする請求項２に記載の入力装置。 The input device according to claim 2, wherein the position detection sensor can detect movement of the input position.
  4. 　前記制御部は、前記位置検出センサ及び前記荷重検出センサの情報に基づき、前記入力荷重の荷重位置の移動を検出可能であることを特徴とする請求項２または請求項３に記載の入力装置。 The input device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the control unit is capable of detecting movement of a load position of the input load based on information of the position detection sensor and the load detection sensor.
  5. 　前記位置検出センサは、同時に押圧された複数の入力位置を検出可能であるとともに、前記制御部は、前記荷重検出センサの入力荷重データ及び前記位置検出センサの入力位置データに基づいて複数の前記入力位置の重心位置及び重心荷重を算出するとともに、複数の前記入力位置の位置座標、重心座標及び重心荷重に基づいて、複数の前記入力位置における各荷重を算出可能であることを特徴とする請求項２から請求項４のいずれか１項に記載の入力装置。 The position detection sensor can detect a plurality of input positions pressed simultaneously, and the control unit is configured to input the plurality of inputs based on input load data of the load detection sensor and input position data of the position detection sensor. The center of gravity position of the position and the center of gravity load are calculated, and each load at the plurality of input positions can be calculated based on the position coordinates of the plurality of input positions, the center of gravity coordinates and the center of gravity load. The input device according to any one of claims 2 to 4.
  6. 　前記位置検出センサは前記側面において長尺状に形成されていることを特徴とする、請求項１から請求項５のいずれか１項に記載の入力装置。 The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the position detection sensor is formed in an elongated shape on the side surface.
  7. 　前記荷重検出センサは、前記側面の内面側において前記位置検出センサの長手方向に複数配置されていることを特徴とする請求項６に記載の入力装置。 The input device according to claim 6, wherein a plurality of the load detection sensors are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the position detection sensor on the inner surface side of the side surface.
  8. 　前記位置検出センサは、静電容量式タッチセンサであることを特徴とする請求項１から請求項７のいずれか１項に記載の入力装置。 The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the position detection sensor is a capacitive touch sensor.
PCT/JP2013/062843 2012-05-16 2013-05-07 Input device WO2013172219A1 (en)

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