JP4551274B2 - Multi-directional input device - Google Patents

Multi-directional input device Download PDF

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Publication number
JP4551274B2
JP4551274B2 JP2005142749A JP2005142749A JP4551274B2 JP 4551274 B2 JP4551274 B2 JP 4551274B2 JP 2005142749 A JP2005142749 A JP 2005142749A JP 2005142749 A JP2005142749 A JP 2005142749A JP 4551274 B2 JP4551274 B2 JP 4551274B2
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peripheral
movable electrode
input device
central
pressing
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JP2006318859A (en
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基成 佐々木
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Alps Alpine Co Ltd
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Alps Electric Co Ltd
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Priority to JP2005142749A priority Critical patent/JP4551274B2/en
Priority to JP2005145130A priority patent/JP2006324083A/en
Priority to KR1020060043372A priority patent/KR100807613B1/en
Priority to CNB2006100819916A priority patent/CN100477051C/en
Publication of JP2006318859A publication Critical patent/JP2006318859A/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H25/00—Switches with compound movement of handle or other operating part
    • H01H25/04—Operating part movable angularly in more than one plane, e.g. joystick
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05G—CONTROL DEVICES OR SYSTEMS INSOFAR AS CHARACTERISED BY MECHANICAL FEATURES ONLY
    • G05G9/00—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously
    • G05G9/02—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only
    • G05G9/04—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously
    • G05G9/047—Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with one single controlling member co-operating with two or more controlled members, e.g. selectively, simultaneously the controlling member being movable in different independent ways, movement in each individual way actuating one controlled member only in which movement in two or more ways can occur simultaneously the controlling member being movable by hand about orthogonal axes, e.g. joysticks
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02—Details
    • H01H13/12—Movable parts; Contacts mounted thereon
    • H01H13/14—Operating parts, e.g. push-button
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H13/00—Switches having rectilinearly-movable operating part or parts adapted for pushing or pulling in one direction only, e.g. push-button switch
    • H01H13/02—Details
    • H01H13/26—Snap-action arrangements depending upon deformation of elastic members
    • H01H13/48—Snap-action arrangements depending upon deformation of elastic members using buckling of disc springs
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
    • H01H3/32—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts
    • H01H3/52—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts with means to ensure stopping at intermediate operative positions

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)

Description

本発明は、多方向入力装置に係り、携帯電話機、携帯用音楽再生機器、ゲーム機用コントローラなどに用いられている方向キーとして、各種電子機器の方位入力操作用に使用される多方向入力装置に関する。   The present invention relates to a multidirectional input device, and as a direction key used in a mobile phone, a portable music player, a game console controller, etc., the multidirectional input device used for azimuth input operations of various electronic devices About.

一般に、多方向入力装置は、方向キーやスティック状入力キーを押圧操作や傾倒操作することによって、上下左右などの多方向へのキー入力を行なうことが可能となっている。   In general, a multidirectional input device can perform key input in multiple directions such as up, down, left, and right by pressing or tilting a direction key or a stick-like input key.

従来の多方向入力装置の一例は図１８から図２０に示すように形成されている。この従来の多方向入力装置１００は、矩形箱状に形成された筐体１０１の内部に構成各部を配設し、筐体１０１の最頂部の開口部を蓋体１１２によって塞いでいる。   An example of a conventional multidirectional input device is formed as shown in FIGS. In this conventional multidirectional input device 100, each component is arranged inside a casing 101 formed in a rectangular box shape, and the topmost opening of the casing 101 is closed by a lid 112.

構成各部を下方から上に順に、即ち筐体１０１、中央用固定接点１０２、周縁用固定接点１０３、可動電極板１０５、反転部材１０６、操作部材１０７の順に説明する。   The components will be described in order from the bottom to the top, that is, the casing 101, the central fixed contact 102, the peripheral fixed contact 103, the movable electrode plate 105, the reversing member 106, and the operation member 107.

筐体１０１のほぼ矩形の凹部には周方向に部分的に４分割されて形成された円環状のガイド壁１０１ｂが立設されている。   An annular guide wall 101b formed by being divided into four parts in the circumferential direction is erected in a substantially rectangular recess of the housing 101.

筐体１０１のガイド壁１０１ｂの内側の円形の底面の中心位置には、円形の中央用固定接点１０２が表面を露出するようにして筐体１０１に一体成形されている。また、筐体１０１のガイド壁１０１ｂより外側の凹部の底面には、４個の矩形の周縁用固定接点１０３が表面を露出するようにして筐体１０１に一体成形されている。これらの周縁用固定接点１０３は、図１９に示すように、筐体１０１の内部底面の４辺にそれぞれ沿って周方向ほぼ等間隔に配設されている。   At the center position of the circular bottom surface inside the guide wall 101b of the housing 101, a circular center fixed contact 102 is integrally formed with the housing 101 so that the surface is exposed. Further, four rectangular peripheral fixed contacts 103 are integrally formed with the casing 101 on the bottom surface of the recess outside the guide wall 101b of the casing 101 so that the surface is exposed. As shown in FIG. 19, these peripheral fixed contacts 103 are arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction along the four sides of the inner bottom surface of the housing 101.

可動電極板１０５は、図１８に示すように、中央用固定接点１０２および周縁用固定接点１０３と対向して配設されている平板状の電極であって、ばねリン青銅などの金属平板を用いて形成されている。可動電極板１０５の形状は、中央用固定接点１０２と対向する中心部の円形な中央用可動電極部１０５ａと、周縁用固定接点１０３と対向する最外側の環状の周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂと、内外の中央用可動電極部１０５ａおよび周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂと連結部１０５ｄを介して連続している円環部１０５ｃと、ガイド壁１０１ｂを挿通させる円弧状の２つの開口部１０５ｅを有するように形成されている。そして、この可動電極板１０５は、その開口部１０５ｅをガイド壁１０１ｂに挿通させながら、周縁用固定接点１０３および中央用固定接点１０２と所定の空隙を介在させて装着される。周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂと円環部１０５ｃとを部分的に連結する各連結部１０５ｄは、円環状のガイド壁１０２ｂに形成されたスリット部１０１ａに挿通するように形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 18, the movable electrode plate 105 is a plate-like electrode disposed facing the central fixed contact 102 and the peripheral fixed contact 103, and uses a metal flat plate such as spring phosphor bronze. Is formed. The shape of the movable electrode plate 105 includes a circular central movable electrode portion 105 a facing the central fixed contact 102, an outermost annular peripheral movable electrode portion 105 b facing the peripheral fixed contact 103, and The inner and outer central movable electrode portions 105a and the peripheral movable electrode portions 105b are connected to the annular portion 105c through the connecting portion 105d, and two arc-shaped openings 105e through which the guide wall 101b is inserted. Is formed. The movable electrode plate 105 is attached to the peripheral fixed contact 103 and the central fixed contact 102 with a predetermined gap therebetween while the opening 105e is inserted through the guide wall 101b. Each connecting portion 105d that partially connects the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b and the annular portion 105c is formed so as to be inserted into the slit portion 101a formed in the annular guide wall 102b.

反転部材１０６は、図１８に示すように、円環部１０５ｃの上方にメタルドームなどのドーム状に形成されて配設されているが、省略することもできる。   As shown in FIG. 18, the reversing member 106 is formed and disposed in a dome shape such as a metal dome above the annular portion 105c, but may be omitted.

操作部材１０７は可動電極板１０５を押圧するものであり、図１８に示すように、可動電極部１０５の上方に配設されている。この操作部材１０７は入力操作を行なうための操作部１０８、鍔部１０９、中央用押圧部１１０および周縁用押圧部１１１を有している。鍔部１０９は、周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂと対向する位置に車輪形状に形成されている。中央用押圧部１１０は、鍔部１０９の内側の中央付近において、中央用可動電極部１０５ａに対向する方向に突出形成されている。周縁用押圧部１１１は、鍔部１０９の外周の下方において、周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂに対向する方向に突出形成されている。この鍔部１０９にはガイド壁１０１ｂに挿通可能な円弧状の開口部１０９ｃが形成されている。   The operation member 107 presses the movable electrode plate 105 and is disposed above the movable electrode portion 105 as shown in FIG. The operation member 107 includes an operation unit 108 for performing an input operation, a flange 109, a central pressing unit 110, and a peripheral pressing unit 111. The flange portion 109 is formed in a wheel shape at a position facing the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b. The central pressing portion 110 is formed so as to protrude in a direction facing the central movable electrode portion 105 a in the vicinity of the center inside the flange portion 109. The peripheral pressing portion 111 is formed below the outer periphery of the flange 109 so as to protrude in a direction facing the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b. The flange 109 has an arcuate opening 109c that can be inserted into the guide wall 101b.

筐体１０１をふさぐ蓋体１１２は、その中央に操作部材１０７の矩形のスティック状の操作部１０８が挿通する矩形の中央孔１１２ａを有して矩形平板状に形成されている。また、この蓋体１１２は、操作部材１０７を傾倒操作する際に、操作部材１０７の一部分１０９ａが当接して当該傾倒操作の回転支点となるように形成されている。   The lid body 112 that covers the casing 101 has a rectangular center hole 112a through which a rectangular stick-shaped operation portion 108 of the operation member 107 is inserted at the center thereof, and is formed in a rectangular flat plate shape. Further, the lid body 112 is formed such that when the operation member 107 is tilted, a part 109a of the operation member 107 comes into contact with and becomes a rotation fulcrum of the tilt operation.

このように構成された従来の多方向入力装置１００は、図２０に示すように、操作部材１０７を径方向外側へ傾倒させることによって、径方向外側への入力を可能としている。具体的には、傾倒操作された操作部材１０７の鍔部１０９が可動電極板１０５の周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂを押圧することにより、その周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂが周縁用固定接点１０３に接触して導通する。また、可動電極板１０５は弾性力を有する金属平板を用いて形成されていることから、操作部材１０７の傾倒操作時においてその操作部材１０７に適度な反力を生じさせることとなる。そのため、周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂと周縁用固定接点１０３とを接触させるときに適度な操作感を得ることが可能となっている（特許文献１を参照）。   As shown in FIG. 20, the conventional multidirectional input device 100 configured in this way enables input to the radially outer side by tilting the operating member 107 radially outward. Specifically, the flange portion 109 of the operation member 107 that has been tilted presses the peripheral movable electrode portion 105 b of the movable electrode plate 105, so that the peripheral movable electrode portion 105 b comes into contact with the peripheral fixed contact 103. And conduct. Further, since the movable electrode plate 105 is formed using a metal flat plate having elasticity, an appropriate reaction force is generated on the operation member 107 when the operation member 107 is tilted. Therefore, it is possible to obtain an appropriate operational feeling when the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b and the peripheral fixed contact 103 are brought into contact with each other (see Patent Document 1).

特許第３１８３７７６号公報Japanese Patent No. 3183376

しかしながら、可動電極板１０５に形成された周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂは、連結部１０５ｄの近傍以外に形成された周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂと比較して、連結部１０５ｄ近傍に形成された周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂの反力が大きくなり、径方向外側への入力操作感に周方向においてバラツキが生じるという問題があった。   However, the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b formed on the movable electrode plate 105 is compared with the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b formed outside the vicinity of the connecting portion 105d, and the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b is formed near the connecting portion 105d. There was a problem that the reaction force of the electrode portion 105b was increased, and the feeling of input operation to the outside in the radial direction was varied in the circumferential direction.

また、筐体１０１が可動電極板１０５および操作部材１０７を挿通してその配設位置を拘束するガイド壁１０１ｂを有しているため、そのガイド壁１０１ｂの立設方向への薄型化が困難であるという問題があった。   Further, since the housing 101 has the guide wall 101b that passes through the movable electrode plate 105 and the operation member 107 and restricts the arrangement position thereof, it is difficult to reduce the thickness of the guide wall 101b in the standing direction. There was a problem that there was.

さらに、可動電極板１０５は、中央用可動電極部１０５ａ、円環部１０５ｃ、連結部１０５ｄおよび周縁用可動電極部１０５ｂを有していることから、その構造が複雑になりやすく、多方向入力装置１００の製造コストを下げることが困難であるという問題があった。   Furthermore, since the movable electrode plate 105 includes the central movable electrode portion 105a, the annular portion 105c, the connecting portion 105d, and the peripheral movable electrode portion 105b, the structure is likely to be complicated, and the multidirectional input device There was a problem that it was difficult to reduce the manufacturing cost of 100.

そこで、本発明はこれらの点に鑑みてなされたものであり、周方向における径方向外側向きの操作力のバラツキを低減させて良好な操作感触を得ることが可能となる多方向入力装置を提供することを本発明の目的としている。   Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of these points, and provides a multidirectional input device capable of obtaining a favorable operation feeling by reducing variation in the operation force radially outward in the circumferential direction. This is the object of the present invention.

また、本発明の他の目的は、多方向入力装置の小型化およびその製造コストの低廉化が可能となる多方向入力装置を提供することとしている。   Another object of the present invention is to provide a multidirectional input device capable of reducing the size of the multidirectional input device and reducing the manufacturing cost thereof.

前述した目的を達成するため、本発明の多方向入力装置は、筐体内に複数個の周縁用固定接点を環状に配設し、環状に配設された前記周縁用固定接点と対向する環状の平板状に形成されてなる周縁用可動電極を前記周縁用固定接点の上方に所定の空隙を介して前記筐体内に保持し、前記周縁用可動電極の周方向の一部分を反力に抗して上から押圧して前記周縁用固定接点に接続させる周縁用押圧部を有する操作部材を前記筐体内に配置し、前記周縁用押圧部が前記周縁用可動電極の周方向の一部分を押圧することにより、前記周縁用可動電極と前記周縁用固定接点とを導通させて、当該押圧による入力操作を検出するように形成されている。 In order to achieve the above-described object, a multidirectional input device according to the present invention has a plurality of peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape in a casing, and is arranged in an annular shape facing the peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape. The peripheral movable electrode formed in a flat plate shape is held in the casing via a predetermined gap above the peripheral fixed contact, and a part of the peripheral movable electrode in the circumferential direction resists a reaction force. An operation member having a peripheral pressing portion that is pressed from above and connected to the peripheral fixed contact is disposed in the housing, and the peripheral pressing portion presses a part in the circumferential direction of the peripheral movable electrode. The peripheral movable electrode and the peripheral fixed contact are electrically connected to detect an input operation caused by the pressing.

そして、本発明の多方向入力装置は、その第１の態様として、前記周縁用可動電極が、前記筐体に保持されている当該周縁用可動電極の被保持部の近傍に生じる反力を周縁用可動電極の被保持部の近傍以外の部分に生じる反力と同程度にする反力調整部を有していることを特徴としている。   The multidirectional input device according to the first aspect of the present invention has a first aspect in which the peripheral movable electrode generates a reaction force generated in the vicinity of the held portion of the peripheral movable electrode held by the casing. It is characterized by having a reaction force adjusting portion that is made to be approximately the same as the reaction force generated in a portion other than the vicinity of the held portion of the movable electrode for use.

これによって、周縁用可動電極の周方向における反力がどの部分においても一定となり、周方向における径方向外側方向への操作力のバラツキを低減することが可能となる。   As a result, the reaction force in the circumferential direction of the peripheral movable electrode is constant in any part, and it is possible to reduce variations in the operating force in the radially outward direction in the circumferential direction.

また、本発明の第２の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１の態様の多方向入力装置において、反力調整部が、周縁用可動電極の被保持部の近傍の径方向の幅寸法を被保持部の近傍以外の部分の幅寸法よりも小さくすることによって形成されていることを特徴としている。   Moreover, the multidirectional input device according to the second aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to the first aspect, wherein the reaction force adjusting portion has a radial width dimension in the vicinity of the held portion of the peripheral movable electrode. It is formed by making it smaller than the width dimension of parts other than the vicinity of a to-be-held part.

これによって、プレス加工等の簡単な加工のみによって周方向における径方向外側向きの操作力を変化させることが可能となる。   Accordingly, it is possible to change the operation force in the radially outward direction in the circumferential direction only by simple processing such as pressing.

本発明の第３の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１の態様の多方向入力装置において、反力調整部が、周縁用可動電極の被保持部の近傍の厚みを被保持部の近傍以外の部分の厚みよりも薄くすることによって形成されていることを特徴としている。   The multi-directional input device according to the third aspect of the present invention is the multi-directional input device according to the first aspect, wherein the reaction force adjusting portion has a thickness in the vicinity of the held portion of the movable electrode for peripheral edge other than the vicinity of the held portion. It is characterized by being formed by making it thinner than the thickness of this part.

これによって、幅方向の長さを変化させることなく周方向における径方向外側向きの操作力を変化させることが可能となる。   As a result, it is possible to change the radially outward operating force in the circumferential direction without changing the length in the width direction.

本発明の第４の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１の態様の多方向入力装置において、反力調整部が、周縁用可動電極における被保持部の近傍以外の部分に対して、その周方向に沿って凹状もしくは凸状に形成されていることを特徴としている。   A multidirectional input device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to the first aspect, wherein the reaction force adjusting portion is arranged around a portion other than the vicinity of the held portion in the movable electrode for the periphery. It is characterized by being formed concave or convex along the direction.

これによって、プレス加工等の簡単な加工のみによって周方向における径方向外側向きの操作力を変化させることが可能となる。   Accordingly, it is possible to change the operation force in the radially outward direction in the circumferential direction only by simple processing such as pressing.

本発明の第５の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１から第４のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、周縁用可動電極が、筐体の支持部によって支持される被支持部を有しており、反力調整部は、被支持部と一体に形成されていることを特徴としている。   A multidirectional input device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the peripheral movable electrode is supported by the support portion of the housing. The reaction force adjusting portion is formed integrally with the supported portion.

これによって、周方向において径方向外側向きの操作力をあまり変化させることなく周縁用可動電極を安定して支持することが可能となる。また、当該被支持部を反力調整部と一体に形成することによって、反力調整部の形成工程を減らすことが可能となる。   As a result, the peripheral movable electrode can be stably supported without significantly changing the operation force radially outward in the circumferential direction. In addition, by forming the supported portion integrally with the reaction force adjusting portion, it is possible to reduce the reaction force adjusting portion forming step.

本発明の第６の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１から第５のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、周縁用可動電極が、金属板材を用いて形成されていることを特徴としている。   A multidirectional input device according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the peripheral movable electrode is formed using a metal plate. It is said.

これによって、周縁用可動電極に高い反発力を発揮させつつ、当該周縁用可動電極を薄型化することが可能となる。   As a result, the peripheral movable electrode can be made thin while exhibiting a high repulsive force.

本発明の第７の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１から第６のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記周縁用可動電極と前記周縁用固定接点との間に、前記周縁用可動電極および前記周縁用固定接点に絶縁されながら配設されている第２の周縁用可動電極を備えていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the peripheral edge is interposed between the peripheral movable electrode and the peripheral fixed contact. And a second peripheral movable electrode disposed while being insulated from the peripheral movable electrode and the peripheral fixed contact .

これによって、径方向外側方向への２段階入力に対して誤動作を防止することが可能となる。また、径方向外側方向への２段階目の入力操作を行なう際に良好なクリック感を得ることが可能となる。 This makes it possible to prevent a malfunction with respect to two-step input radially outward direction. In addition, it is possible to obtain a good click feeling when performing the second-stage input operation in the radially outward direction .

本発明の第８の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１から第７のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記第２の周縁用可動電極は、前記周縁用固定接点を覆いつつ前記周縁用可動電極の軸方向に突出するドーム状に形成されていることを特徴としている。 The multidirectional input device according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the second peripheral movable electrode covers the peripheral fixed contact. The peripheral movable electrode is formed in a dome shape protruding in the axial direction .

これによって、径方向外側方向への２段階入力に対して誤動作を防止することが可能となる。また、径方向外側方向への２段階目の入力操作を行なう際に良好なクリック感を得ることが可能となる。 As a result, it is possible to prevent malfunctions with respect to the two-stage input in the radially outward direction. In addition, it is possible to obtain a good click feeling when performing the second-stage input operation in the radially outward direction .

本発明の第９の態様の多方向入力装置が、第１から第８のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記筐体は、その外周が多角形状となる箱形に形成されているとともに、その外周の角部の内側に前記周縁用固定接点が配設されている位置から前記周縁用可動電極を所定の空隙をもって配設させるために前記被保持部を保持する必要な高さの保持部を有していることを特徴としている。 The multidirectional input device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the casing is formed in a box shape having a polygonal outer periphery. And a height required to hold the held portion in order to dispose the peripheral movable electrode with a predetermined gap from the position where the peripheral fixed contact is disposed inside the corner of the outer periphery. It is characterized by having a holding part .

これによって、デッドスペースとなりやすい筐体の角部を好適に利用することが可能となる。 As a result, it is possible to suitably use the corners of the housing that are likely to become dead spaces .

本発明の第１０の態様の多方向入力装置は、第９の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記保持部は、前記被保持部と常に接触する部分に共通電極を有していることを特徴としている。 The multidirectional input device according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to the ninth aspect, characterized in that the holding portion has a common electrode in a portion that is always in contact with the held portion. It is said.

これによって、共通電極を周縁用可動電極に接触させるためだけに設けられたスペースと保持部とを一体に形成することが可能となる。 As a result, it is possible to integrally form the space and the holding portion provided only for bringing the common electrode into contact with the peripheral movable electrode .

本発明の第１１の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１から第１０のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記筐体内の環状に配設された複数個の前記周縁用固定接点および前記周縁用可動電極の内周側部分に、中央用固定接点と、所定の空隙をもって前記中央用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央用可動電極と、前記中央用可動電極の上方に前記中央用可動電極を押圧する中央用押圧部を有する前記操作部材とを備えていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the plurality of peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape in the housing. And a central fixed contact, a central movable electrode disposed opposite to the central fixed contact with a predetermined gap on an inner peripheral side portion of the peripheral movable electrode, and an upper side of the central movable electrode And the operation member having a center pressing portion for pressing the center movable electrode .

これによって、径方向外側方向への入力操作のみならず中央押下方向への入力操作が可能となる。 Thereby, not only the input operation in the radially outward direction but also the input operation in the center pressing direction is possible.

本発明の第１２の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１０の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記筐体内の環状に配設された複数個の前記周縁用固定接点および前記周縁用可動電極の内周側部分に、中央用固定接点と、所定の空隙をもって前記中央用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央用可動電極と、前記中央用可動電極の上方に前記中央用可動電極を押圧する中央用押圧部を有する前記操作部材とを備え、前記周縁用固定接点、前記共通電極もしくは前記中央用固定接点の少なくとも一つは、前記筐体にインサート成型されていることを特徴としている。 A multi-directional input device according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the multi-directional input device according to the tenth aspect, wherein a plurality of the peripheral fixed contacts and the peripheral movable electrodes arranged in an annular shape in the housing are provided. A central fixed contact, a central movable electrode disposed opposite to the central fixed contact with a predetermined gap on the inner peripheral side portion, and the central movable electrode above the central movable electrode. And an operation member having a central pressing portion for pressing, wherein at least one of the peripheral fixed contact, the common electrode, or the central fixed contact is insert-molded in the casing. .

これによって、部品点数を少なくすることが可能となる。また、組立工程を少なくすることが可能となる。   As a result, the number of parts can be reduced. In addition, the assembly process can be reduced.

本発明の第１３の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１０の態様の多方向入力装置において、周縁用固定接点、前記筐体内の環状に配設された複数個の前記周縁用固定接点および前記周縁用可動電極の内周側部分に、中央用固定接点と、所定の空隙をもって前記中央用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央用可動電極と、前記中央用可動電極の上方に前記中央用可動電極を押圧する中央用押圧部を有する前記操作部材とを備え、前記周縁用固定接点、前記共通電極もしくは前記中央用固定接点の少なくとも一つは、前記筐体外に引出される引出端子を有しており、前記筐体外に引き出された当該引出端子は、当該各部材の種類によって異なる形状に形成されていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to the tenth aspect, wherein the peripheral fixed contact, the plurality of peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape in the housing , and the A central fixed contact, a central movable electrode disposed opposite to the central fixed contact with a predetermined gap on the inner peripheral side portion of the peripheral movable electrode, and the central movable electrode above the central movable electrode The operation member having a central pressing portion for pressing the central movable electrode, and at least one of the peripheral fixed contact, the common electrode, or the central fixed contact is a lead terminal that is pulled out of the housing The lead-out terminals drawn out of the housing are formed in different shapes depending on the types of the members.

これによって、多方向入力装置を他の装置に組み込む際に誤って組み立てることを防止することが可能となる。   This makes it possible to prevent the multidirectional input device from being mistakenly assembled when it is incorporated into another device.

本発明の第１４の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１１から第１３のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記中央用可動電極は、前記周縁用可動電極の支持部を介して前記周縁用可動電極と連続して一体形成されていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the eleventh to thirteenth aspects, wherein the central movable electrode is interposed via a support portion of the peripheral movable electrode. It is characterized by being integrally formed continuously with the peripheral movable electrode .

これによって、多方向入力装置の部品点数を削減することが可能となる。 As a result, the number of parts of the multidirectional input device can be reduced .

本発明の第１５の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１１から第１４のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、前記中央用可動電極は、前記中央用押圧部の軸方向に突出するドーム状に形成されていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the eleventh to fourteenth aspects, wherein the central movable electrode projects in the axial direction of the central pressing portion. It is formed in a dome shape .

これによって、誤入力を防止することが可能となる。また、中央押下方向へ操作した際に良好なクリック感を得ることが可能となる。 This makes it possible to prevent erroneous input . In addition, it is possible to obtain a good click feeling when operated in the center pressing direction .

本発明の第１６の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１１から第１５のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、操作部材が、周縁用押圧部を有する周縁用押圧部材と、中央用押圧部を有する中央用押圧部材と、操作主体から直接的に入力される操作体とを有しており、周縁用押圧部材が、その中央付近に形成された中央孔に中央用押圧部材を挿通して配設されており、中央用押圧部材が、押圧方向の前方が周縁用押圧部材の中央孔の外形よりも大きくなり、押圧方向の後方が周縁用押圧部材の中央孔の外形と同等もしくはその中央孔の外形よりも小さくなるような押圧方向に対して外形の異なる形状に形成されていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the eleventh to fifteenth aspects, wherein the operating member includes a peripheral pressing member having a peripheral pressing portion, and a central one. It has a central pressing member having a pressing portion and an operating body that is directly input from the operating body, and the peripheral pressing member is inserted through the central pressing member formed in the vicinity of the center. The center pressing member has a front in the pressing direction larger than the outer shape of the central hole of the peripheral pressing member, and the rear in the pressing direction is equal to the outer shape of the central hole of the peripheral pressing member or It is characterized by being formed in a shape having a different outer shape with respect to the pressing direction so as to be smaller than the outer shape of the central hole.

これによって、中央用押圧部材が中央用可動電極を押圧する際に周縁用押圧部材が筐体と当接して当該中央用押圧部材の移動を制限することを防止することが可能となる。   Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the peripheral pressing member from coming into contact with the housing and restricting the movement of the central pressing member when the central pressing member presses the central movable electrode.

本発明の第１７の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１１から第１６のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、操作部材が周縁用可動電極もしくは中央用可動電極を押圧した際に操作部材の初期位置へ当該操作部材を復元させる方向に復元力を生じさせる弾性アームを有していることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the eleventh to sixteenth aspects, which is operated when the operation member presses the peripheral movable electrode or the central movable electrode. It has an elastic arm that generates a restoring force in a direction to restore the operation member to the initial position of the member.

これによって、入力操作を行なう際に常に初期位置から入力操作を行なうことが可能となる。   Thus, it is possible to always perform an input operation from the initial position when performing the input operation.

本発明の第１８の態様の多方向入力装置が、第１７の態様の多方向入力装置において、弾性アームは、筐体に形成された開口部を覆うように蓋状に形成されていることを特徴としている。   The multidirectional input device according to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to the seventeenth aspect, wherein the elastic arm is formed in a lid shape so as to cover the opening formed in the housing. It is a feature.

これによって、筐体内に塵や水分などの誤動作要因が侵入することを防止することが可能となる。   As a result, it is possible to prevent malfunction factors such as dust and moisture from entering the housing.

本発明の第１９の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１１から第１８のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、筐体が周縁用押圧部材を径方向外側方向への摺動移動量を拘束する蓋体と、蓋体の反対方向から周縁用押圧部を摺動自在に支持するガイド壁とを有しており、周縁用押圧部材が中央用押圧部と中央用可動電極とが接している部分を摺動させながら周縁用可動電極を押圧するように形成されていることを特徴としている。 A multidirectional input device according to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the eleventh to eighteenth aspects, wherein the housing slides the peripheral pressing member in the radially outward direction. And a guide wall that slidably supports the peripheral pressing portion from the opposite direction of the lid, and the peripheral pressing member is in contact with the central pressing portion and the central movable electrode. It is characterized in that it is formed so as to press the peripheral movable electrode while sliding the portion.

これによって、操作部材をスライド移動させながら径方向外側方向へ入力操作することが可能となる。   Accordingly, it is possible to perform an input operation in the radially outward direction while sliding the operation member.

本発明の第２０の態様の多方向入力装置は、第１１から第１８のいずれか１の態様の多方向入力装置において、筐体が周縁用押圧部材を径方向外側方向への摺動移動量を拘束する蓋体を有しており、周縁用押圧部材が中央用押圧部と中央用可動電極との接点を回転支点として周縁用可動電極を押圧するように形成されていることを特徴としている。 The multidirectional input device according to a twentieth aspect of the present invention is the multidirectional input device according to any one of the eleventh to eighteenth aspects, wherein the casing slides the peripheral pressing member in the radially outward direction. The peripheral pressing member is formed so as to press the peripheral movable electrode with a contact point between the central pressing portion and the central movable electrode as a rotation fulcrum. .

これによって、操作部材を傾倒させながら径方向外側方向へ入力操作することが可能となる。   As a result, it is possible to perform an input operation in the radially outward direction while tilting the operation member.

本発明の多方向入力装置によって、周縁用可動電極の周方向における径方向外側向きの操作力のバラツキを低減することが可能となるため、多方向入力装置の操作感触が良好となる効果を奏する。また、反力調整部の形成が容易となったり、多方向入力装置に実装する部品点数が減少したりするため、多方向入力装置の製造コストが低廉なものとなる効果を奏する。   Since the multidirectional input device according to the present invention can reduce the variation in the operation force in the radially outward direction in the circumferential direction of the movable electrode for the periphery, the operational feeling of the multidirectional input device is improved. . In addition, since the reaction force adjusting unit can be easily formed and the number of components to be mounted on the multidirectional input device is reduced, the manufacturing cost of the multidirectional input device is reduced.

以下、図１から図１７を用いて、本発明の多方向入力装置における第１から第４の実施形態を説明する。   Hereinafter, the first to fourth embodiments of the multidirectional input device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

ここで、図１は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の分解斜視図を示している。図２は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置における筐体の平面図を示している。図３は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置における周縁用可動電極が配設された筐体の平面図を示している。図４は、周縁用可動電極の他の一例を示している。図５は、図４のＡ−Ａ断面図を示している。図６は、図４に示したものとは異なる周縁用可動電極の他の一例を示している。図７は、図６のＢ−Ｂ断面図を示している。図８は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の斜視図を示している。図９は、図８のＣ−Ｃ断面図を示している。図１０は、図８のＤ−Ｄ断面図を示している。図１１は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の周方向への入力操作時における図８のＣ−Ｃ断面図を示している。図１２は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の周方向への入力操作時における図８のＤ−Ｄ断面図を示している。   Here, FIG. 1 shows an exploded perspective view of the multidirectional input device of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view of a housing in the multidirectional input device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the housing in which the peripheral movable electrode is disposed in the multidirectional input device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 shows another example of the peripheral movable electrode. FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. FIG. 6 shows another example of the peripheral movable electrode different from that shown in FIG. FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the multidirectional input device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. FIG. 10 shows a sectional view taken along the line DD in FIG. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C in FIG. 8 when the multidirectional input device according to the first embodiment performs an input operation in the circumferential direction. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line DD of FIG. 8 at the time of an input operation in the circumferential direction of the multidirectional input device of the first embodiment.

また、図１３は、第２の実施形態の多方向入力装置における周縁用可動電極が配設された筐体の平面図を示している。   FIG. 13 is a plan view of the housing in which the peripheral movable electrode is arranged in the multidirectional input device according to the second embodiment.

さらに、図１４は、第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置における図８のＤ−Ｄ断面図を示している。図１５は、第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置における筐体の平面図を示している。図１６は、第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置における周縁用可動電極および第２の周縁用可動電極が配設された筐体の平面図を示している。   Furthermore, FIG. 14 shows a DD cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 in the multidirectional input device of the third embodiment. FIG. 15 is a plan view of a housing in the multidirectional input device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a plan view of a housing in which the peripheral movable electrode and the second peripheral movable electrode are arranged in the multidirectional input device of the third embodiment.

そして、図１７は、第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置における図８のＣ−Ｃ断面図を示している。   FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 8 in the multidirectional input device according to the fourth embodiment.

（１）第１の実施形態
本発明の第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１は、図１に示すように分解されている構成各部を、図８および図９に示すように組立て形成される。本実施形態の多方向入力装置１の構成各部を下方から上に順に、筐体２、周縁用固定接点３および周縁用可動電極４ならびに周縁用共通電極５などの周方向への入力に用いられる各部材、中央用固定接点６および中央用可動電極７ならびに中央用共通電極８などの中央における押下方向への入力に用いられる各部材、操作部材９、蓋体１３、弾性アーム１４、ならびに拘束部材１５を順に説明する。 (1) First Embodiment A multi-directional input device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is formed by assembling constituent parts disassembled as shown in FIG. 1 as shown in FIGS. The The constituent parts of the multi-directional input device 1 of this embodiment are used for inputting in the circumferential direction of the casing 2, the fixed contact for peripheral edge 3, the movable electrode for peripheral edge 4, the common electrode for peripheral edge 5, etc. in order from the bottom to the top. Each member, each member used for input in the pressing direction at the center, such as the center fixed contact 6 and the center movable electrode 7 and the center common electrode 8, the operation member 9, the lid 13, the elastic arm 14, and the restraint member 15 will be described in order.

多方向入力装置１の筐体２は、図２に示すように、絶縁性の合成樹脂を用いて略矩形状の薄い箱状に形成されている。また、この筐体２の中央部には、略円柱状の空洞部２ａが形成されている。空洞部２ａの内周径の略２／３位置には、底部から円環状のガイド壁２ｂが立設されている。また、空洞部２ａの筐体２の対角線位置には放射状にそれぞれ凹溝状の周縁用可動電極４を周方向に移動しないように保持する保持部２ｅが一体的に形成されている。そして、筐体２の空洞部２ａの内部でありかつガイド壁２ｂの外側であるの底面（以下、「ガイド壁外側の底面」という。）２ｃよりも上方位置において周縁用可動電極４を保持する前記保持部２ｅと、ガイド壁２ｂの外周であって各保時部２ｅの中間となる位置において突出して当該周縁用可動電極４を支持する支持部２ｇとが形成されている。そして、保持部２ｅの保持面２ｆおよび支持部２ｇの支持面２ｈは、周縁用可動電極４を水平に保持するために、それぞれの面２ｆ、２ｈが同一平面となるように形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 2 of the multidirectional input device 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular thin box shape using an insulating synthetic resin. In addition, a substantially cylindrical cavity 2 a is formed at the center of the housing 2. An annular guide wall 2b is erected from the bottom at approximately 2/3 of the inner peripheral diameter of the cavity 2a. In addition, holding portions 2e are formed integrally at the diagonal positions of the casing 2 of the cavity portion 2a so as to hold the circumferentially movable peripheral electrodes 4 so as not to move in the circumferential direction. The peripheral movable electrode 4 is held at a position above the bottom surface (hereinafter referred to as “the bottom surface outside the guide wall”) 2c that is inside the hollow portion 2a of the housing 2 and outside the guide wall 2b. The holding portion 2e and a support portion 2g that supports the peripheral movable electrode 4 projecting at a position on the outer periphery of the guide wall 2b and in the middle of each holding portion 2e are formed. The holding surface 2f of the holding portion 2e and the support surface 2h of the support portion 2g are formed so that the surfaces 2f and 2h are on the same plane in order to hold the peripheral movable electrode 4 horizontally.

周縁用固定接点３は、インサート成型によって、筐体２に一体成形されている。また、この周縁用固定接点３は、図２に示すように、筐体２のガイド壁外側の底面２ｃにおいて露出しており、平面から見て上下左右の４方向に一定の間隔をもって環状に配設されている。そして、各周縁用固定接点３は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子３ａを有している。この引出端子３ａの筐体２外に引き出された部分（以下、「引出端子の先端部」という。）３ｂは、周縁用共通電極５、中央用固定接点６および中央用共通電極８の各引出端子５ａ、６ａ、８ａの先端部５ｂ、６ｂ、８ｂとそれぞれ区別するために、当該各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａを異なる形状に形成されている。たとえば、各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａの長さや幅などがそれぞれ異なるように形成されたり、各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａの先端部３ｂ、５ｂ、６ｂ、８ｂがそれぞれ異なる形状もしくは模様を有するように、各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａがそれぞれ独特の形状を有するように形成されている。   The peripheral fixed contact 3 is integrally formed with the housing 2 by insert molding. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the peripheral fixed contact 3 is exposed on the bottom surface 2c outside the guide wall of the housing 2, and is arranged in an annular shape at regular intervals in four directions, up, down, left, and right when viewed from the plane. It is installed. Each of the peripheral fixed contacts 3 has a lead terminal 3 a for drawing out to the outside of the housing 2. A portion 3 b of the lead terminal 3 a that is pulled out of the housing 2 (hereinafter referred to as “leading end portion of the lead terminal”) 3 b is a lead of the peripheral common electrode 5, the center fixed contact 6, and the center common electrode 8. In order to distinguish from the tip portions 5b, 6b, 8b of the terminals 5a, 6a, 8a, the respective lead terminals 3a, 5a, 6a, 8a are formed in different shapes. For example, the lead terminals 3a, 5a, 6a, 8a are formed to have different lengths, widths, etc., or the leading ends 3b, 5b, 6b, 8b of the lead terminals 3a, 5a, 6a, 8a are different from each other. Alternatively, each lead-out terminal 3a, 5a, 6a, 8a is formed to have a unique shape so as to have a pattern.

周縁用可動電極４は、図１および図３に示すように、大きな反力を発生させるばねリン青銅などの金属平板材を用いて平板状に形成されており、筐体２のガイド壁外側の底面２ｃと重複する環状形状であって、４つの周縁用固定接点３によって形成された環と同等の大きさとなるように所定の径方向の幅を有して形成されている。この周縁用可動電極４には、その外周から外側へ向かって放射状に延びる被保持部４ａが保持部２ｅと対応してその外周の４方向に形成されているとともに、その内周かつ各被保持部４ａの周方向中間位置に内周から内側へ向かって延びる凸状の被支持部４ｂが形成されている。この被保持部４ａの突出長さは、保持面２ｆによって一方を保持されつつもその保持部２ｅを外側に超えないような長さとなっている。また、被支持部４ｂの突出長さは、支持面２ｈに支持されつつもその内側にあるガイド壁２ｂと接触しないような長さとなっている。   As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the peripheral movable electrode 4 is formed in a flat plate shape using a metal flat plate material such as spring phosphor bronze that generates a large reaction force. The annular shape overlaps with the bottom surface 2c, and is formed with a predetermined radial width so as to have the same size as the ring formed by the four fixed contact points 3 for the periphery. In the movable electrode 4 for the periphery, a held portion 4a extending radially outward from the outer periphery is formed in four directions on the outer periphery corresponding to the holding portion 2e, and the inner periphery and each held portion A convex supported portion 4b extending inwardly from the inner periphery is formed at an intermediate position in the circumferential direction of the portion 4a. The protruding length of the held portion 4a is such that one of the held portions 4a is held by the holding surface 2f but does not exceed the holding portion 2e. The protruding length of the supported portion 4b is such that it is supported by the support surface 2h but does not come into contact with the guide wall 2b inside.

また、この周縁用可動電極４は、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅに生じる反力と被保持部４ａの近傍以外の部分４ｆに生じる反力とを同程度にする反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄを有している。具体的には、図３に示すように、この反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄは、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅの径方向の幅寸法が被保持部４ａの近傍以外の部分４ｆの径方向の幅寸法よりも小さくなるように、プレス加工によって形成されている。さらに、この反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄは、周縁用可動電極４の形成が容易となることから、被支持部４ｂと一体に形成されていることが好ましい。   Further, the peripheral movable electrode 4 includes reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d that make the reaction force generated in the vicinity 4e of the held portion 4a and the reaction force generated in the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a approximately the same. Have. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d have a radial width dimension in the vicinity 4e of the held portion 4a in the radial direction of the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a. It is formed by pressing so as to be smaller than the width dimension. Furthermore, the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d are preferably formed integrally with the supported portion 4b because the peripheral movable electrode 4 can be easily formed.

もちろん、反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄは、前述したような幅寸法の変化によって形成される形状に限られることはない。たとえば、その反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄは、図４および図５に示すように、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅの厚みを被保持部４ａ近傍以外の部分４ｆの厚みよりも薄くすることによって形成されていてもよいし、図６および図７に示すように、周縁用可動電極４における被保持部近傍以外の部分４ｆに、その環に沿って厚さ方向に凹状もしくは凸状に形成されていてもよい。また、反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄの形成位置および個数は前述したものに限られず、周縁用可動電極４の環上の様々な位置に様々な形状の反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄを複数個形成することにより、周縁用可動電極４の反力が、各被保持部４ａ間において、無段階変化するようにすることがさらに好ましい。   Of course, the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d are not limited to the shape formed by the change in the width dimension as described above. For example, the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d are formed by making the thickness of the vicinity 4e of the held portion 4a thinner than the thickness of the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a, as shown in FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the peripheral movable electrode 4 is formed in a concave or convex shape in the thickness direction along the ring on the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion. May be. Further, the formation position and the number of the reaction force adjusting parts 4c and 4d are not limited to those described above, and a plurality of reaction force adjusting parts 4c and 4d having various shapes are formed at various positions on the ring of the peripheral movable electrode 4. By doing so, it is more preferable that the reaction force of the peripheral movable electrode 4 changes steplessly between the held portions 4a.

周縁用共通電極５は、図２に示すように、インサート成型によって、筐体２の四隅の周縁用可動電極４を保持する保持部２ｅのうちのいくつかに一体成形されているとともに、周縁用共通電極５に形成された凸部５ｃのみがいくつかの保持部２ｅの保持面２ｆから露出させられている。また、各周縁用共通電極５は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子５ａを有している。この引出端子５ａの先端部５ｂは、前述したように、周縁用固定電極３、中央用固定接点６および中央用共通電極８の各引出端子３ａ、６ａ、８ａの先端部３ｂ、６ｂ、８ｂとそれぞれ区別するため、当該各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａが異なる形状に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 2, the peripheral common electrode 5 is integrally formed with some of the holding portions 2e for holding the peripheral movable electrodes 4 at the four corners of the casing 2 by insert molding. Only the convex portions 5c formed on the common electrode 5 are exposed from the holding surfaces 2f of some holding portions 2e. In addition, each peripheral common electrode 5 has a lead terminal 5 a for leading to the outside of the housing 2. As described above, the leading end portion 5b of the lead terminal 5a is connected to the leading end portions 3b, 6b, 8b of the lead terminals 3a, 6a, 8a of the peripheral fixed electrode 3, the central fixed contact 6, and the central common electrode 8. In order to distinguish each, the extraction terminals 3a, 5a, 6a, 8a are formed in different shapes.

中央用固定接点６は、図２に示すように、インサート成型によって、筐体２の空洞部２ａの内部かつガイド壁２ｂの内側の底面（以下、「ガイド壁内側の底面」という。）２ｄに一体成形されている。また、この中央用固定接点６は、その中央用固定接点６に形成された凸部６ｃのみが前記底面２ｄから突出して露出するように配設されている。そして、この中央用固定接点６は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子６ａを有しているとともに、前述したように、その先端部６ｂが当該各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、８ａの先端部３ｂ、５ｂ、８ｂと異なる形状に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 2, the center fixed contact 6 is formed on the bottom surface inside the hollow portion 2a of the housing 2 and inside the guide wall 2b (hereinafter referred to as “bottom surface inside the guide wall”) 2d by insert molding. It is integrally molded. The center fixed contact 6 is disposed such that only the convex portion 6c formed on the center fixed contact 6 protrudes from the bottom surface 2d and is exposed. The center fixed contact 6 has a lead terminal 6a for pulling out to the outside of the housing 2, and as described above, its tip portion 6b is the tip of each lead terminal 3a, 5a, 8a. It is formed in a shape different from the parts 3b, 5b, 8b.

中央用共通電極８は、図２に示すように、インサート成型によって、ガイド壁内側の底面２ｄにおいて、中央用固定接点６の外周を接触せずに囲むような平面Ｕ字形状に形成されている。また、この中央用共通電極８は、Ｕ字状の中央用共通電極８に形成された凸部８ｃのみが前記底面２ｄから突出して露出するように配設されている。そして、この中央用共通電極８は、筐体２の外部に引き出すための引出端子８ａを有しているとともに、この引出端子８ａは、前述したように、その先端部８ｂが当該各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａの先端部３ｂ、５ｂ、６ｂと異なる形状に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 2, the center common electrode 8 is formed by insert molding into a planar U-shape that surrounds the outer periphery of the center fixed contact 6 without contacting the bottom surface 2d inside the guide wall. . The central common electrode 8 is disposed such that only the convex portion 8c formed on the U-shaped central common electrode 8 protrudes from the bottom surface 2d and is exposed. The central common electrode 8 has a lead terminal 8a for pulling out to the outside of the housing 2, and the lead terminal 8a has the leading end portion 8b of each lead terminal 3a as described above. It is formed in a shape different from the tip portions 3b, 5b, 6b of 5a, 6a.

中央用可動電極７は、図１、図９および図１０に示すように、上方に向かって突出するドーム状に形成された湾曲部７ａと、中央用共通電極８の凸部８ｃと接触する台座部７ｂとを有している。この中央用可動電極７は、所定の空隙をもって中央用固定接点６と対向して配設されている。また、この台座部７ｂの直径は、中央用共通電極８の対向する各凸部８ｃ間の距離と同等となっている。そして、この中央用可動電極７は、図９および図１０に示すように、その上方から中央用可動電極８を覆う固着用樹脂シート７ｃによって固着されている。   As shown in FIGS. 1, 9, and 10, the central movable electrode 7 is a pedestal that comes into contact with the curved portion 7 a formed in a dome shape protruding upward and the convex portion 8 c of the central common electrode 8. Part 7b. The central movable electrode 7 is disposed to face the central fixed contact 6 with a predetermined gap. Further, the diameter of the pedestal portion 7b is equal to the distance between the opposing convex portions 8c of the central common electrode 8. Then, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the central movable electrode 7 is fixed by a fixing resin sheet 7 c covering the central movable electrode 8 from above.

操作部材９は、図１、図８、図９および図１０に示すように、操作体１０、中央用押圧部材１１および周縁用押圧部材１２を有している。   As shown in FIGS. 1, 8, 9, and 10, the operating member 9 includes an operating body 10, a central pressing member 11, and a peripheral pressing member 12.

操作体１０は、図１、図９および図１０に示すように、円盤状に形成された操作部１０ａの下方に、中央用押圧部材１１と係合する円柱状の凸部１０ｂを有して形成されている。   As shown in FIGS. 1, 9, and 10, the operation body 10 has a columnar convex portion 10 b that engages with the central pressing member 11 below the operation portion 10 a formed in a disk shape. Is formed.

周縁用押圧部材１２は、周縁用可動電極４の内径と同程度の直径を有して円形鍔状に形成されている。この周縁用押圧部材１２は、その外周下方に周縁用可動電極４を押圧する周縁用押圧部１２ａを有しているとともに、その中心部分に中央孔１２ｂを有している。また、その中央孔１２ｂより外側上面部分には、円形凸状の凸壁１２ｃが形成されている。   The peripheral pressing member 12 has a diameter similar to the internal diameter of the peripheral movable electrode 4 and is formed in a circular bowl shape. The peripheral pressing member 12 includes a peripheral pressing portion 12a that presses the peripheral movable electrode 4 below the outer periphery, and a central hole 12b at the center thereof. A circular convex convex wall 12c is formed on the upper surface portion outside the central hole 12b.

中央用押圧部材１１は、上方から下方の順（操作部材９の押下方向ＰＤに向かう順）に、周縁用押圧部材１２の中央孔１２ｂに遊嵌する直径を有して円柱状に形成された挿着部１１ａと、挿着部１１ａおよび周縁用押圧部材１２の中央孔１２ｂの直径よりも大きな直径を有して円形状に形成された抑止部１１ｂとを有している。また、挿着部１１ａは、操作体１０の円柱状の凸部１０ｂと嵌合する凹部１１ｃを有しており、抑止部１１ｂは、その下面に、中央用可動電極７を押圧する凸状の中央用押圧部１１ｄを有している。そして、中央用押圧部材１１は、周縁用押圧部材１２の中央孔１２ｂに挿着部１１ａを挿通しつつ、操作体１０の凸部１０ｂと中央用押圧部材の凹部１１ｃとを嵌合して筐体２内に配設されている。   The central pressing member 11 is formed in a columnar shape having a diameter that fits loosely into the central hole 12b of the peripheral pressing member 12 in order from the top to the bottom (in order of the pressing direction PD of the operation member 9). It has the insertion part 11a and the suppression part 11b which has a larger diameter than the diameter of the center hole 12b of the insertion part 11a and the peripheral pressing member 12, and was formed in a circular shape. Moreover, the insertion part 11a has the recessed part 11c fitted with the column-shaped convex part 10b of the operation body 10, and the suppression part 11b is the convex shape which presses the center movable electrode 7 on the lower surface. A central pressing portion 11d is provided. Then, the central pressing member 11 fits the convex portion 10b of the operating body 10 and the concave portion 11c of the central pressing member while inserting the insertion portion 11a through the central hole 12b of the peripheral pressing member 12. Arranged in the body 2.

蓋体１３は、金属板を用いて、筐体２の外周と同程度の大きさを有する矩形状に形成されている。また、この蓋体１３の中央付近には、凸壁１２ｃの直径よりも大きな直径を有する円形の中央孔１３ａが形成されているとともに、この蓋体１３の四隅に挿通孔１３ｂがそれぞれ穿設されている。この蓋体１３は、周縁用押圧部材１２の上方に配設されており、操作体１０を任意の周方向にスライドさせると、周縁用押圧部材１２がその下面を筐体２のガイド壁２ａの上面２ｊに摺動させると同時にその上面を蓋体１３の中央孔１３ａの下部１３ｃに摺動させながらスライド移動自在に狭持されるようになっている。また、周縁用押圧部材１２が大きくスライドすると、その凸壁１２ｃの外周部が蓋体１３の中央孔１３ｃの内周面と当接してストッパとして機能するようになっている。   The lid 13 is formed in a rectangular shape having the same size as the outer periphery of the housing 2 using a metal plate. A circular central hole 13a having a diameter larger than the diameter of the convex wall 12c is formed in the vicinity of the center of the lid body 13, and insertion holes 13b are formed at the four corners of the lid body 13, respectively. ing. The lid 13 is disposed above the peripheral pressing member 12, and when the operating body 10 is slid in an arbitrary circumferential direction, the peripheral pressing member 12 has the lower surface of the guide wall 2 a of the housing 2. The upper surface 2j is slid so as to be slidable while sliding on the lower surface 13c of the central hole 13a of the lid 13 at the same time as sliding on the upper surface 2j. Further, when the peripheral pressing member 12 slides greatly, the outer peripheral portion of the convex wall 12c comes into contact with the inner peripheral surface of the central hole 13c of the lid 13 and functions as a stopper.

弾性アーム１４は、図９に示すように、蓋体１３の上方に配設されている。この弾性アーム１４は、蓋体１３の外形と同程度の大きさの外形を有して形成されているとともに、操作体１０のスライド操作方向に対して当該操作体１０の配設初期位置（中心位置）への復元力を生じさせるジグザグ断面を有する環状の弾性ダイヤフラム部１４ａを有している。この弾性ダイヤフラム部１４ａの中心部には中央用押圧部材１１の凹部１１ｃの外周を覆う大きさの中央孔１４ｂが形成されており、下面には蓋体１３の挿通孔１３ｂに挿通しながら周縁用可動電極４の被保持部４ａを保持部２ｅの保持面２ｆおよび周縁用共通電極５に押圧して保持する４個の突出部１４ｃが形成されている。また、この弾性アーム１４は、中央孔１４ｂを除いて、外部から筐体２の内部に水分や塵などが侵入するおそれのある穴が形成されておらず、筐体２に形成された開口部を密閉して覆うような蓋状に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 9, the elastic arm 14 is disposed above the lid body 13. The elastic arm 14 is formed to have an outer shape of the same size as the outer shape of the lid body 13, and the initial position (center of the operating body 10) with respect to the sliding operation direction of the operating body 10. A ring-shaped elastic diaphragm portion 14a having a zigzag cross section for generating a restoring force to the position). A central hole 14b having a size covering the outer periphery of the concave portion 11c of the central pressing member 11 is formed in the central portion of the elastic diaphragm portion 14a, and the bottom surface is inserted into the insertion hole 13b of the lid 13 on the lower surface. Four protrusions 14c are formed that press and hold the held portion 4a of the movable electrode 4 against the holding surface 2f of the holding portion 2e and the peripheral common electrode 5. In addition, the elastic arm 14 is not formed with a hole in which moisture or dust may enter the inside of the housing 2 from the outside except for the central hole 14b, and an opening formed in the housing 2 It is formed in a lid shape that covers and covers.

拘束部材１５は、弾性アーム１４の弾性ダイヤフラム部１４ａの外側上面に被せられる環状板状に形成されており、筐体２の各辺の外側面に形成されている爪部２ｉと係合する４個の腕部１５ａが下向きに突接されており、弾性ダイヤフラム部１４ａの動きを妨害しないように内周部を筒状に立ち上げて中央孔１５ｂが形成されている。この拘束部材１５は、蓋体１３および弾性アーム１４を拘束するように、それらの上方から各腕部１５ａを各爪部２ｉとを係合させて組立てられる。   The restraining member 15 is formed in an annular plate shape that covers the outer upper surface of the elastic diaphragm portion 14 a of the elastic arm 14, and engages with the claw portions 2 i formed on the outer surface of each side of the housing 2 4. Each arm portion 15a projects downward, and a central hole 15b is formed by raising the inner peripheral portion in a cylindrical shape so as not to disturb the movement of the elastic diaphragm portion 14a. The restraining member 15 is assembled by engaging each arm portion 15a with each claw portion 2i from above so as to restrain the lid 13 and the elastic arm 14.

次に、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１の作用を説明する。   Next, the operation of the multidirectional input device 1 of the first embodiment will be described.

多方向入力装置１の操作部材９の操作体１０を任意の径方向外側へスライド移動させて入力操作すると、図１１もしくは図１２に示すように、周縁用押圧部材１２が、筐体２のガイド壁２ｂの上面２ｊと蓋体１３の中央孔１３ａの下部１３ｃと摺動しながら当該スライド操作された方向に移動し、周縁用押圧部材１２の周縁用押圧部１２ａが周縁用可動電極４と当接する。その操作体１０をさらにスライド移動させると、周縁用押圧部１２ａが周縁用可動電極４を変形させて、周縁用可動電極４とその下方にある周縁用固定接点３が接触して導通する。これにより、多方向入力装置１は、操作体１０を任意の径方向外側へ入力操作したことを検出することが可能となる。   When the operating body 10 of the operating member 9 of the multidirectional input device 1 is slid and moved to the outside in an arbitrary radial direction, the peripheral pressing member 12 becomes a guide of the housing 2 as shown in FIG. While moving with the upper surface 2j of the wall 2b and the lower portion 13c of the central hole 13a of the lid 13, the peripheral pressing portion 12a of the peripheral pressing member 12 contacts the peripheral movable electrode 4 while moving in the sliding direction. Touch. When the operating body 10 is further slid, the peripheral pressing portion 12a deforms the peripheral movable electrode 4, and the peripheral movable electrode 4 and the peripheral fixed contact 3 below the contact are brought into conduction. As a result, the multidirectional input device 1 can detect that the operation body 10 has been input to the outside in an arbitrary radial direction.

この径方向外側への入力操作は、周縁用可動電極４を厚さ方向に変形させることになり、これによって周縁用可動電極４に高い反発力を生じさせる。ここで、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１の周縁用可動電極４は反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄを有していることから、周縁用可動電極４の周方向における反力がどの部分においても一定となり、径方向外側の操作力のバラツキを低減することが可能となる。この反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄは、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅの幅寸法を被保持部４ａの近傍以外の部分４ｆの幅寸法よりも小さく形成されていることから、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅにおいてはその反力を小さくし、被保持部４ａの近傍以外の部分４ｆにおいてはその反力を大きくすることが可能となっている。それによって、径方向外側への操作力のバラツキを低減することが可能となるため、多方向入力装置１の操作感触が良好となる。   This input operation to the outside in the radial direction causes the peripheral movable electrode 4 to be deformed in the thickness direction, thereby generating a high repulsive force on the peripheral movable electrode 4. Here, since the peripheral movable electrode 4 of the multi-directional input device 1 of the first embodiment includes the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d, which part of the peripheral movable electrode 4 has the reaction force in the circumferential direction. In this case, the variation in the operating force on the radially outer side can be reduced. The reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d are formed so that the width dimension of the vicinity 4e of the held portion 4a is smaller than the width dimension of the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a. In 4e, the reaction force can be reduced, and in the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a, the reaction force can be increased. As a result, it is possible to reduce variation in the operating force toward the radially outer side, so that the operation feeling of the multidirectional input device 1 is improved.

なお、前述したように、反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄは、図４および図５に示すように、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅの厚みを被保持部４ａ近傍以外の部分４ｆの厚みよりも薄くすることによって形成されていたり、図６および図７に示すように、周縁用可動電極４における被保持部４ａの近傍以外の部分４ｆに、その周に沿って凹状もしくは凸状に形成されていることにより、前記の幅寸法を変化させた場合と同様に、被保持部４ａの近傍４ｅにおいてはその反力を小さくし、被保持部４ａの近傍以外の部分４ｆにおいてはその反力を大きくすることも可能となっている。   As described above, in the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the thickness of the vicinity 4e of the held portion 4a is smaller than the thickness of the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a. As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the peripheral movable electrode 4 is formed in a concave or convex shape along the circumference of the portion 4 f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4 a. Thus, as in the case of changing the width dimension, the reaction force is reduced in the vicinity 4e of the held portion 4a, and the reaction force is increased in the portion 4f other than the vicinity of the held portion 4a. It is also possible.

また、この周縁用可動電極４は、筐体２の支持部２ｇにおいて何も拘束されずに支持される被支持部４ｂを有していることから、被支持部４ｂの近傍に生じる反力をあまり上昇させることなく周縁用可動電極４を安定して支持することが可能となる。また、この被支持部４ｂを反力調整部４ｄと一体に形成することによって、反力調整部４ｄの形成工程を減らすことが可能となり、周縁用可動電極４の製造コストを下げることが可能となっている。   Further, since the peripheral movable electrode 4 has a supported portion 4b supported without any restriction on the support portion 2g of the housing 2, a reaction force generated in the vicinity of the supported portion 4b is generated. The peripheral movable electrode 4 can be stably supported without being raised so much. Further, by forming the supported portion 4b integrally with the reaction force adjusting portion 4d, it is possible to reduce the process of forming the reaction force adjusting portion 4d, and to reduce the manufacturing cost of the peripheral movable electrode 4. It has become.

さらに、この周縁用可動電極４の被保持部４ａを保持する筐体２の保持部２ｅは、図２に示すように、筐体２の四隅に形成されている。これによって、筐体２の外形を大きくすることなく、かつ、筐体２内のデッドスペースとなりやすい筐体２の角隅部を好適に利用することが可能となり、多方向入力装置１の小型化を図ることが可能となる。さらに、この保持部２ｅの保持面２ｆには、周縁用可動電極４と導通させる周縁用共通電極５が形成されていることから、周縁用共通電極５を周縁用可動電極４に接触させるためだけに設けられたスペースと保持部２ｅとを一体に形成することが可能となり、多方向入力装置１の更なる小型化を図ることが可能となる。   Furthermore, the holding portions 2e of the housing 2 that holds the held portion 4a of the movable electrode 4 for the periphery are formed at the four corners of the housing 2 as shown in FIG. As a result, the outer corner of the housing 2 can be suitably used without enlarging the outer shape of the housing 2, and the corners of the housing 2 that are likely to become a dead space in the housing 2 can be suitably used. Can be achieved. Further, since the peripheral common electrode 5 is formed on the holding surface 2f of the holding portion 2e so as to be electrically connected to the peripheral movable electrode 4, only the peripheral common electrode 5 is brought into contact with the peripheral movable electrode 4. It is possible to integrally form the space provided in the holding portion 2e and the holding portion 2e, and it is possible to further reduce the size of the multidirectional input device 1.

また、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１は、操作部材９の押下方向ＰＤに対して、中央用固定接点６、中央用共通電極８に接触した中央用可動電極７を備えている。これにより、操作部材９の操作体１０を押下することにより、中央用押圧部材１１の中央用押圧部１１ｄが中央用可動電極７を押圧しながら変形させ、中央用可動電極７と中央用固定接点６との接触により、押下方向ＰＤへの入力操作を検出することが可能となっている。その際、操作部材９に配設された周縁用押圧部材１２はガイド壁２ｂの上面２ｊによって、押下方向ＰＤの前方へ向かう方向への移動が制限されるが、中央用押圧部材１１の挿通部１１ａは周縁用押圧部材１２の中央孔１２ｂに遊嵌していることから、当該中央孔１２ｂを摺動しながら押下方向ＰＤの前方（図面の下方）へ移動することが可能となっている。これにより、ガイド壁２ｂの上面２ｊと周縁用押圧部材１２とが接触していても、操作部材９は押下方向への移動が可能となる。よって、径方向外側への入力操作のみならず押下方向ＰＤへの入力操作が可能となっている。   The multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment includes a central movable electrode 7 in contact with the central fixed contact 6 and the central common electrode 8 with respect to the pressing direction PD of the operation member 9. Accordingly, by pressing the operating body 10 of the operating member 9, the central pressing portion 11d of the central pressing member 11 deforms while pressing the central movable electrode 7, and the central movable electrode 7 and the central fixed contact are deformed. 6 makes it possible to detect an input operation in the pressing direction PD. At that time, the peripheral pressing member 12 disposed on the operating member 9 is restricted from moving forward in the pressing direction PD by the upper surface 2j of the guide wall 2b. Since 11a is loosely fitted in the central hole 12b of the peripheral pressing member 12, it can move forward (downward in the drawing) in the pressing direction PD while sliding through the central hole 12b. Thereby, even if the upper surface 2j of the guide wall 2b and the peripheral pressing member 12 are in contact, the operation member 9 can be moved in the pressing direction. Therefore, not only the input operation to the outside in the radial direction but also the input operation to the pressing direction PD is possible.

この押下方向ＰＤへの入力操作は、中央用可動電極７がドーム状に形成されていることから、押下方向ＰＤと反対の方向に反力を生じ、誤入力を防止することが可能となっている。また、押下方向ＰＤへ意図して操作した際に良好なクリック感を得ることも可能となっている。   In this input operation in the pressing direction PD, since the central movable electrode 7 is formed in a dome shape, a reaction force is generated in a direction opposite to the pressing direction PD, and erroneous input can be prevented. Yes. In addition, it is possible to obtain a good click feeling when an intentional operation is performed in the pressing direction PD.

そして、前述した周方向および押下方向ＰＤへの入力操作を終了すると、次ぎに入力操作を行ないやすくするために、操作部材９の操作体１０を配設されていた初期位置に戻す必要がある。このとき、多方向入力装置１は、操作部材９を当該初期位置に復元するための復元力を発生させる弾性アーム１４を有していることから、入力操作を行なう際に、自動的に初期位置から入力操作を行なうことが可能となる。また、この弾性アーム１４が筐体２の内部を密閉する蓋状に形成されていることから、筐体２内に塵や水分などの誤動作要因の侵入を防止することが可能となっている。   When the input operation in the circumferential direction and the push-down direction PD is completed, it is necessary to return the operation body 10 of the operation member 9 to the initial position where the operation member 10 is disposed in order to facilitate the next input operation. At this time, since the multidirectional input device 1 includes the elastic arm 14 that generates a restoring force for restoring the operation member 9 to the initial position, the initial position is automatically set when performing an input operation. It becomes possible to perform input operation from. Further, since the elastic arm 14 is formed in a lid shape that seals the inside of the housing 2, it is possible to prevent intrusion of malfunction factors such as dust and moisture into the housing 2.

なお、筐体２の内部に配設されており、かつ筐体２の外部の部材と電気的に接続させる必要がある周縁用固定接点３、周縁用共通電極５、中央用固定接点６および中央用共通電極８は、すべてインサート成形によって形成されていることから、多方向入力装置１の部品点数を少なくすることが可能となるとともに、その組立工程を少なくすることが可能となる。また、それら各引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａの先端部３ｂ、５ｂ、６ｂ、８ｂがそれぞれ異なる形状となるように形成されていることから、組立時に誤った組立を引き起こすことも少なくなり、多方向入力装置１の歩留まりを向上させることが可能となっている。   In addition, the fixed contact 3 for the periphery, the common electrode 5 for the periphery, the fixed contact 6 for the center, and the center that are disposed inside the housing 2 and need to be electrically connected to members outside the housing 2. Since all the common electrodes 8 are formed by insert molding, the number of parts of the multidirectional input device 1 can be reduced and the assembly process can be reduced. In addition, since the leading end portions 3b, 5b, 6b, 8b of each of the lead terminals 3a, 5a, 6a, 8a are formed to have different shapes, it is less likely to cause erroneous assembly during assembly. The yield of the multidirectional input device 1 can be improved.

すなわち、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１によって、径方向外側方向および押下方向ＰＤへの入力操作の際に快適な操作感を得ることが可能になるとともに、低コスト化、信頼性および歩留まりの向上が可能となる。   That is, the multi-directional input device 1 of the first embodiment makes it possible to obtain a comfortable operation feeling in the input operation in the radially outer direction and the pressing direction PD, while reducing cost, reliability, and the like. Yield can be improved.

（２）第２の実施形態
第２の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ａおいては、図１３に示すように、筐体２のガイド壁２ｂ、周縁用可動電極４、中央用可動電極７および中央用共通電極８以外の多方向入力装置１ａに配設された各部材は、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１に用いられたものと同様のものが用いられている。ここで、第２の実施形態に用いられた周縁用可動電極４および中央用可動電極７は、図１３に示すように、支持部４ｇを介して連通されて一体に形成されている。これによって、第２の実施形態においては、中央用共通電極８が配設されずに排除されている。また、環状のガイド壁２ｂの一部分に、周縁用可動電極４および中央用可動電極７を連結して支持する支持部４ｇを通過させるスリット２ｋが設けられている。 (2) Second Embodiment In the multidirectional input device 1a of the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the guide wall 2b of the housing 2, the peripheral movable electrode 4, the central movable electrode 7 and The same members as those used in the multidirectional input device 1 of the first embodiment are used for the members disposed in the multidirectional input device 1a other than the central common electrode 8. Here, as shown in FIG. 13, the peripheral movable electrode 4 and the central movable electrode 7 used in the second embodiment are communicated via a support portion 4g and formed integrally. As a result, in the second embodiment, the central common electrode 8 is eliminated without being disposed. In addition, a slit 2k is provided in a part of the annular guide wall 2b to allow the support 4g to connect and support the peripheral movable electrode 4 and the central movable electrode 7 to pass therethrough.

次に、第２の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ａの作用を説明する。   Next, the operation of the multidirectional input device 1a of the second embodiment will be described.

第２の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ａは、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１と同様、径方向外側向きおよび押下方向ＰＤへの入力操作を行なうことが可能となっている。しかし、第２の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ａは、周縁用可動電極４および中央用可動電極７が一体に形成されていることから、周縁用可動電極４および中央用可動電極７を介して、中央用固定接点６と周縁用共通電極５を導通させることにより、中央用固定接点６と中央用可動電極７の接触を検出することが可能となる。これにより、中央用共通電極８を配設させる必要が無くなり、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１の構成部品よりも部品点数を削減することが可能となることから、多方向入力装置１ａの組立が容易になり、かつ当該多方向入力装置１ａの誤った組立を防止することが可能となる。また、多方向入力装置１ａの低コスト化を図ることが可能となっている。   Similar to the multidirectional input device 1 of the first embodiment, the multidirectional input device 1a of the second embodiment can perform an input operation in the radially outward direction and the pressing direction PD. However, in the multi-directional input device 1a of the second embodiment, the peripheral movable electrode 4 and the central movable electrode 7 are integrally formed, so that the peripheral movable electrode 4 and the central movable electrode 7 are interposed. The contact between the center fixed contact 6 and the center movable electrode 7 can be detected by making the center fixed contact 6 and the peripheral common electrode 5 conductive. Thereby, it is not necessary to arrange the central common electrode 8, and the number of components can be reduced as compared with the components of the multidirectional input device 1 of the first embodiment. Assembling of the multidirectional input device 1a can be prevented. Further, it is possible to reduce the cost of the multidirectional input device 1a.

（３）第３の実施形態
第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｂは、図１４に示すように、周方向への入力操作に２段階の入力を付与するため、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１に以下のような各部材を付与して形成されている。すなわち、第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｂは、図１４に示すように、第１の実施形態と同様、筐体２に、周縁用固定接点３および周縁用可動電極４ならびに周縁用共通電極５などの径方向外側への入力に用いられる各部材、中央用固定接点６および中央用可動電極７ならびに中央用共通電極８などの中央における押下方向への入力に用いられる各部材、操作部材９、蓋体１３、弾性アーム１４、ならびに拘束部材１５を備えているとともに、径方向外側への２段階入力操作を行なうために、周縁用固定接点３の付近に第２の周縁用可動電極１６および第２の周縁用共通電極１７を備えている。具体的には、第２の周縁用可動電極１６および第２の周縁用共通電極１７は以下のように形成されている。なお、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１と同様の部材を用いているものは、その具体的説明を省略する。 (3) Third Embodiment As shown in FIG. 14, the multidirectional input device 1b of the third embodiment gives two-stage input to the input operation in the circumferential direction. The multi-directional input device 1 is formed by applying the following members. That is, as shown in FIG. 14, the multidirectional input device 1 b of the third embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in the casing 2, the peripheral fixed contact 3, the peripheral movable electrode 4, and the peripheral common. Each member used for input to the outside in the radial direction such as the electrode 5, each member used for input in the pressing direction at the center, such as the central fixed contact 6 and the central movable electrode 7, and the central common electrode 8, and the operation member 9, a lid 13, an elastic arm 14, and a restraining member 15, and a second peripheral movable electrode 16 in the vicinity of the peripheral fixed contact 3 in order to perform a two-stage input operation radially outward. And a second peripheral common electrode 17. Specifically, the second peripheral movable electrode 16 and the second peripheral common electrode 17 are formed as follows. In addition, the specific description is abbreviate | omitted about the thing using the member similar to the multi-directional input device 1 of 1st Embodiment.

第２の周縁用共通電極１７は、図１５に示すように、インサート成形により筐体２と一体に形成されているとともに、筐体２のガイド壁外側の底面２ｃから露出する部分が４方向にある各周縁用固定接点３に絶縁されながらその各周縁用固定接点３を覆う略コの字状に形成されている。この第２の周縁用共通電極１７は、筐体２の内部にインサート成形されたその他の接点もしくは電極３、５、６、８と同様、筐体２の外部に引き出される各引出端子１７ａを有しており、その引出端子の先端部１７ｂは、他の引出端子３ａ、５ａ、６ａ、８ａと区別され得るような特別の形状を有して形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 15, the second peripheral common electrode 17 is formed integrally with the housing 2 by insert molding, and the portion exposed from the bottom surface 2c outside the guide wall of the housing 2 is in four directions. It is formed in a substantially U-shape covering each peripheral fixed contact 3 while being insulated by each peripheral fixed contact 3. The second peripheral common electrode 17 has other lead terminals 17 a that are drawn out of the housing 2 in the same manner as other contacts or electrodes 3, 5, 6, 8 inserted in the housing 2. The leading end portion 17b of the lead terminal has a special shape that can be distinguished from the other lead terminals 3a, 5a, 6a, and 8a.

第２の周縁用可動電極１６は、図１４から図１６に示すように、周縁用可動電極４の厚さ方向に突出する楕円ドーム状の湾曲部１６ａと、湾曲部１６ａの周縁に形成された第２の周縁用共通電極１７と接触する台座部１６ｂとを有しており、初期状態（径方向外側への入力操作を行なわない状態）において周縁用固定接点３および周縁用可動電極４に絶縁されながら４方向にある各周縁用固定接点３を覆うように配設されている。また、第２の周縁用可動電極１６の台座部１６ｂは、第２の周縁用共通電極１７と接触するように配設されている。   As shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the second peripheral movable electrode 16 is formed on an elliptical dome-shaped curved portion 16a protruding in the thickness direction of the peripheral movable electrode 4, and on the peripheral edge of the curved portion 16a. It has a pedestal portion 16b in contact with the second peripheral common electrode 17 and is insulated from the peripheral fixed contact 3 and the peripheral movable electrode 4 in an initial state (a state where no input operation is performed radially outward). However, they are arranged so as to cover the peripheral contact points 3 in the four directions. Further, the pedestal portion 16 b of the second peripheral movable electrode 16 is disposed so as to be in contact with the second peripheral common electrode 17.

次に、第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｂの作用を説明する。   Next, the operation of the multidirectional input device 1b of the third embodiment will be described.

第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｂは、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１によって行なわれる入力の他に、径方向外側への２段階入力を可能としている。例えば、図１４に示されている操作部材９の操作体１０を任意の径方向外側へスライド移動させると、周縁用押圧部材１２が周縁用可動電極４を押圧して変形させる。すると、周縁用可動電極４が４方向に配置された第２の周縁用可動電極１６のいずれかと接触し、当該第２の周縁用可動電極１６に接触した第２の周縁用共通電極１７と周縁用共通電極５とが導通する。これにより、多方向入力装置１ｂは任意の径方向外側への入力操作を適切に検出することが可能となる。これが、第１段階目の周方向への入力操作となる。   The multidirectional input device 1b of the third embodiment enables two-stage input to the outside in the radial direction in addition to the input performed by the multidirectional input device 1 of the first embodiment. For example, when the operating body 10 of the operating member 9 shown in FIG. 14 is slid to the outside in an arbitrary radial direction, the peripheral pressing member 12 presses and deforms the peripheral movable electrode 4. Then, the peripheral movable electrode 4 comes into contact with any one of the second peripheral movable electrodes 16 arranged in four directions, and the second peripheral common electrode 17 and the peripheral contact with the second peripheral movable electrode 16 The common electrode 5 is electrically connected. Thereby, the multidirectional input device 1b can appropriately detect an input operation to an arbitrary outer side in the radial direction. This is the input operation in the first step in the circumferential direction.

そして、周縁用可動電極４が第２の周縁用可動電極１６と接触した状態において、操作部材９の操作体１０を当該任意の径方向外側へさらにスライド移動すると、周縁用押圧部材１２が、周縁用可動電極４および周縁用可動電極４と接触した第２の周縁用可動電極１６をさらに押圧する。すると、押圧された第２の周縁用可動電極１６は、下方に配設された周縁用固定接点３と接触する。これにより、周縁用可動電極４に接続された周縁用共通電極５が第２の周縁用共通電極１７および周縁用固定接点３と導通するため、多方向入力装置１ｂが、第１段階目の周方向への入力操作からさらに押圧されて径方向外側へ入力操作されたことを検出することが可能となる。これが、第２段階目の径方向外側への入力操作となる。この第２段階目の径方向外側への入力操作は、第１段階目の径方向外側への入力操作とは異なり、ドーム状に形成された第２の周縁用可動電極１６を押圧することによりクリック感を備えて行なうため、径方向外側への２段階入力に対して誤動作を防止することが可能となっている。また、径方向外側への２段階目の入力操作を行なう際に良好かつ軽快なクリック感を伴って操作することが可能となっている。   Then, in a state where the peripheral movable electrode 4 is in contact with the second peripheral movable electrode 16, when the operating body 10 of the operating member 9 is further slid outward in the arbitrary radial direction, the peripheral pressing member 12 is The second movable electrode for peripheral edge 16 in contact with the movable electrode for peripheral 4 and the movable electrode for peripheral edge 4 is further pressed. Then, the pressed second peripheral movable electrode 16 comes into contact with the peripheral fixed contact 3 disposed below. Accordingly, the peripheral common electrode 5 connected to the peripheral movable electrode 4 is electrically connected to the second peripheral common electrode 17 and the peripheral fixed contact 3, so that the multidirectional input device 1 b can It is possible to detect that the input operation is further pressed from the input operation in the direction and the input operation is performed outward in the radial direction. This is an input operation to the radially outer side of the second stage. The input operation to the radially outer side of the second stage is different from the input operation to the radially outer side of the first stage by pressing the second peripheral movable electrode 16 formed in a dome shape. Since it is performed with a click feeling, it is possible to prevent malfunctions with respect to two-stage input to the outside in the radial direction. In addition, when performing the second-stage input operation to the outside in the radial direction, it is possible to perform an operation with a good and light click feeling.

すなわち、第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｂは、径方向外側への入力操作において押圧方向に２段階の入力が可能となり、多方向入力装置１ｂの利便性が向上するという効果を奏する。   That is, the multidirectional input device 1b according to the third embodiment can input in two stages in the pressing direction in the input operation to the outer side in the radial direction, and there is an effect that the convenience of the multidirectional input device 1b is improved.

（４）第４の実施形態
第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｃは、図１７に示すように、第１の実施形態と同様、筐体２に、周縁用固定接点３および周縁用可動電極４ならびに周縁用共通電極５などの周方向への入力に用いられる各部材、中央用固定接点６および中央用可動電極７ならびに中央用共通電極８などの中央における押下方向への入力に用いられる各部材、操作部材９、蓋体１３、弾性アーム１４、ならびに拘束部材１５を備えている。ここで、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１と異なるのは、筐体２のガイド壁２ｂが周縁用押圧部材１２に接触しない程度の高さを有して形成されているとともに、中央用可動電極７が中央用押圧部１１ｄと接触する部分にくぼみ７ｃを有して形成されていることである。 (4) Fourth Embodiment As shown in FIG. 17, the multidirectional input device 1c according to the fourth embodiment has a fixed peripheral contact 3 and a movable peripheral for the casing 2 as in the first embodiment. Each member used for input in the circumferential direction such as the electrode 4 and the common electrode 5 for the periphery, the fixed contact 6 for the center, the movable electrode 7 for the center, and the input in the pressing direction in the center such as the common electrode 8 for the center. Each member, an operation member 9, a lid body 13, an elastic arm 14, and a restraining member 15 are provided. Here, the multi-directional input device 1 of the first embodiment is different from the multi-directional input device 1 in that the guide wall 2b of the housing 2 is formed with a height that does not contact the peripheral pressing member 12, and the center. That is, the movable electrode 7 is formed to have a recess 7c in a portion in contact with the central pressing portion 11d.

前述したガイド壁２ｂおよび中央用可動電極７を有する第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｃは、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１とは異なり、周方向への入力操作時においてスライド移動ではなく傾倒移動によりその入力操作を行なうことが可能となる。具体的には、操作部材９を径方向外側へ傾倒操作すると、操作部材９が中央用押圧部１１ｄと中央用可動電極７のくぼみ７ｃとの接点を回転支点とするとともに、蓋体１３が第１の実施形態と同様に周縁用押圧部材１２を周方向へ摺動移動自在に拘束するするため、周縁用押圧部材１２が周縁用可動電極４を押圧しながら傾倒することが可能となる。これより、第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｃは、第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置１のような操作体１０のスライド移動による周方向への入力操作だけでなく、第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置１ｃのような操作体１０の傾倒による径方向外側への入力操作を可能となる。   Unlike the multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment, the multidirectional input device 1c according to the fourth embodiment having the guide wall 2b and the central movable electrode 7 described above is slid during an input operation in the circumferential direction. The input operation can be performed by tilting movement instead of movement. Specifically, when the operation member 9 is tilted outward in the radial direction, the operation member 9 uses the contact point between the central pressing portion 11d and the recess 7c of the central movable electrode 7 as a rotation fulcrum, and the lid 13 is Since the peripheral pressing member 12 is slidably restrained in the circumferential direction as in the first embodiment, the peripheral pressing member 12 can be tilted while pressing the peripheral movable electrode 4. Accordingly, the multidirectional input device 1c according to the fourth embodiment is not limited to the input operation in the circumferential direction by the sliding movement of the operating body 10 like the multidirectional input device 1 according to the first embodiment, but the fourth direction. An input operation to the outside in the radial direction by tilting of the operating body 10 like the multidirectional input device 1c of the embodiment can be performed.

すなわち、前述した第１から第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置１、１ａ、１ｂ、１ｃによって、径方向外側向きの操作力のバラツキを低減することが可能となることから、多方向入力装置１、１ａ、１ｂ、１ｃの操作感触が良好となる。また、反力調整部４ｃ、４ｄの形成が容易に形成可能となったり、筐体２の内部のガイド壁２ｂを従来よりも低く形成することができるので、多方向入力装置１、１ａ、１ｂ、１ｃの形状がコンパクトになる効果を奏する。さらに、周縁用可動電極４や、周縁用押圧部材１２の形状が比較的簡単なものであるということから、多方向入力装置１、１ａ、１ｂ、１ｃの製造コストが低廉になるという効果を奏する。そして、ガイド壁２ｂなどの形状を変化させることにより、径方向外側への２段階入力を可能としたり、スライド移動および傾倒による入力操作の選択が可能となるという効果を奏する。   That is, the multidirectional input devices 1, 1a, 1b, and 1c of the first to fourth embodiments described above can reduce variations in the operating force in the radially outward direction. The operation feeling of 1, 1a, 1b, 1c becomes good. Further, the reaction force adjusting portions 4c and 4d can be easily formed, and the guide wall 2b inside the housing 2 can be formed lower than the conventional one, so that the multidirectional input devices 1, 1a and 1b can be formed. There is an effect that the shape of 1c becomes compact. Furthermore, since the shape of the peripheral movable electrode 4 and the peripheral pressing member 12 is relatively simple, the manufacturing cost of the multidirectional input devices 1, 1a, 1b, 1c is reduced. . Then, by changing the shape of the guide wall 2b and the like, it is possible to perform two-stage input to the outside in the radial direction and to select an input operation by sliding and tilting.

なお、本発明は、前述した実施形態などに限定されるものではなく、必要に応じて種々の変更が可能である。   In addition, this invention is not limited to embodiment mentioned above etc., A various change is possible as needed.

第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置を示す分解斜視図1 is an exploded perspective view showing a multidirectional input device according to a first embodiment. 第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置に配設された筐体を示す平面図The top view which shows the housing | casing arrange | positioned at the multidirectional input device of 1st Embodiment. 第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置における周縁用可動電極が配設された筐体を示す平面図The top view which shows the housing | casing in which the movable electrode for periphery in the multidirectional input device of 1st Embodiment was arrange | positioned. 周縁用可動電極の他の一例を示す平面図The top view which shows another example of the movable electrode for periphery 図４のＡ−Ａ断面図AA sectional view of FIG. 図４に示したものとは異なる周縁用可動電極の他の一例を示す平面図The top view which shows another example of the movable electrode for peripheral edges different from what was shown in FIG. 図６のＢ−Ｂ断面図BB sectional view of FIG. 第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の斜視図1 is a perspective view of a multidirectional input device according to a first embodiment. 図８のＣ−Ｃ断面図CC sectional view of FIG. 図８のＤ−Ｄ断面図DD sectional view of FIG. 第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の周方向への入力操作時における図８のＣ−Ｃ断面図CC sectional drawing of FIG. 8 at the time of the input operation to the circumferential direction of the multidirectional input device of 1st Embodiment. 第１の実施形態の多方向入力装置の周方向への入力操作時における図８のＤ−Ｄ断面図DD sectional drawing of FIG. 8 at the time of input operation to the circumferential direction of the multidirectional input device of 1st Embodiment. 第２の実施形態の多方向入力装置における周縁用可動電極が配設された筐体の平面図The top view of the housing | casing by which the movable electrode for periphery was arrange | positioned in the multidirectional input device of 2nd Embodiment. 第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置における図８のＤ−Ｄ断面図DD sectional drawing of FIG. 8 in the multidirectional input device of 3rd Embodiment. 第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置に配設された筐体の平面図The top view of the housing | casing arrange | positioned at the multidirectional input device of 3rd Embodiment. 第３の実施形態の多方向入力装置における周縁用可動電極および第２の周縁用可動電極が配設された筐体の平面図The top view of the housing | casing by which the movable electrode for peripheral edges and the movable electrode for 2nd peripheral edges were arrange | positioned in the multidirectional input device of 3rd Embodiment. 第４の実施形態の多方向入力装置における図８のＣ−Ｃ断面図CC sectional drawing of FIG. 8 in the multidirectional input device of 4th Embodiment. 従来の多方向入力装置の一例を示す分解斜視図An exploded perspective view showing an example of a conventional multidirectional input device 従来の多方向入力装置に配設された筐体を示す平面図The top view which shows the housing | casing arrange | positioned at the conventional multidirectional input device. 従来の多方向入力装置における周方向への入力操作を示す概略図Schematic showing the input operation in the circumferential direction in a conventional multidirectional input device

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１ 多方向入力装置
２ 筐体
２ａ 空洞部
２ｂ ガイド壁
２ｃ ガイド壁外側の底面
２ｄ ガイド壁内側の底面
２ｅ 保持部
２ｆ 保持面
２ｇ 支持部
２ｈ 支持面
２ｉ 爪部
３ 周縁用固定接点
３ａ 引出端子
３ｂ 引出端子の先端部
４ 周縁用可動電極
４ａ 被保持部
４ｂ 被支持部
４ｃ、４ｄ 反力調整部
４ｅ 被保持部近傍の部分
４ｆ 被保持部近傍以外の部分
５ 周縁用共通電極
５ａ 引出端子
５ｂ 引出端子の先端部
６ 中央用固定接点
６ａ 引出端子
６ｂ 引出端子の先端部
７ 中央用可動電極
７ａ 湾曲部
７ｂ 台座部
８ 中央用共通電極
８ａ 引出端子
８ｂ 引出端子の先端部
９ 操作部材
１０ 操作体
１０ａ 操作部
１０ｂ 凸部
１１ 中央用押圧部材
１１ａ 挿着部
１１ｂ 抑止部
１１ｃ 凹部
１１ｄ 中央用押圧部
１２ 周縁用押圧部材
１２ａ 周縁用押圧部
１２ｂ 中央孔
１２ｃ 凸壁
１３ 蓋体
１３ａ 中央孔
１３ｂ 挿通孔
１３ｃ 中央孔の下部
１４ 弾性アーム
１４ａ 弾性ダイヤフラム部
１４ｂ 中央孔
１４ｃ 突出部
１５ 拘束部材
１５ａ 腕部
１５ｂ 中央孔
１６ 第２の周縁用可動電極
１６ａ 湾曲部
１６ｂ 台座部
１７ 第２の周縁用共通電極
１７ａ 引出端子
１７ｂ 引出端子の先端部
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Multi-directional input device 2 Case 2a Hollow part 2b Guide wall 2c Bottom face outside guide wall 2d Bottom face inside guide wall 2e Holding part 2f Holding surface 2g Support part 2h Support surface 2i Claw part 3 Peripheral fixed contact 3a Lead terminal 3b Lead terminal 4 Leading edge movable electrode 4a Held part 4b Supported part 4c, 4d Reaction force adjusting part 4e Part near the part to be held 4f Part other than the part near the part to be held 5 Common electrode for peripheral part 5a Lead terminal 5b Lead Terminal tip 6 Center fixed contact 6a Lead terminal 6b Lead terminal tip 7 Center movable electrode 7a Curved part 7b Base 8 Central common electrode 8a Lead terminal 8b Lead terminal tip 9 Operating member 10 Operating body 10a Operation part 10b Convex part 11 Central pressing member 11a Insertion part 11b Suppression part 11c Concave part 11d Central pressing part 12 Peripheral pressing member 12a Circumference Edge pressing part 12b Central hole 12c Convex wall 13 Lid 13a Central hole 13b Insertion hole 13c Lower part of central hole 14 Elastic arm 14a Elastic diaphragm part 14b Central hole 14c Projection part 15 Restraining member 15a Arm part 15b Central hole 16 Second hole Peripheral movable electrode 16a Bending portion 16b Pedestal portion 17 Second peripheral common electrode 17a Lead terminal 17b Lead end of lead terminal

Claims (20)

筐体内に複数個の周縁用固定接点を環状に配設し、
環状に配設された前記周縁用固定接点と対向する環状の平板状に形成されてなる周縁用可動電極を前記周縁用固定接点の上方に所定の空隙を介して前記筐体内に保持し、
前記周縁用可動電極の周方向の一部分を反力に抗して上から押圧して前記周縁用固定接点に接続させる周縁用押圧部を有する操作部材を前記筐体内に配置し、
前記周縁用押圧部が前記周縁用可動電極の周方向の一部分を押圧することにより、前記周縁用可動電極と前記周縁用固定接点とを導通させて、当該押圧による入力操作を検出する多方向入力装置であって、
前記周縁用可動電極は、前記筐体に保持されている当該周縁用可動電極の被保持部の近傍に生じる反力を前記周縁用可動電極の被保持部の近傍以外の部分に生じる反力と同程度にする反力調整部を有している
ことを特徴とする多方向入力装置。 A plurality of peripheral fixed contacts are annularly arranged in the housing,
A peripheral movable electrode formed in the shape of an annular flat plate facing the peripheral fixed contact arranged annularly is held in the housing via a predetermined gap above the peripheral fixed contact,
An operation member having a peripheral pressing portion that presses a part of the peripheral movable electrode in the circumferential direction against a reaction force from above and connects to the peripheral fixed contact is disposed in the casing.
Multi-directional input for detecting an input operation by pressing the peripheral movable electrode and the peripheral fixed contact by causing the peripheral pressing portion to press a part of the peripheral movable electrode in the circumferential direction. A device,
The peripheral movable electrode includes a reaction force generated in the vicinity of the held portion of the peripheral movable electrode held in the housing and a reaction force generated in a portion other than the vicinity of the held portion of the peripheral movable electrode. A multidirectional input device characterized by having a reaction force adjusting unit that is of the same level. 前記反力調整部は、前記周縁用可動電極の前記被保持部の近傍の径方向の幅寸法を前記被保持部の近傍以外の部分の幅寸法よりも小さく形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の多方向入力装置。 The reaction force adjusting portion is formed so that a radial width dimension in the vicinity of the held portion of the peripheral movable electrode is smaller than a width dimension of a portion other than the vicinity of the held portion. The multidirectional input device according to claim 1. 前記反力調整部は、前記周縁用可動電極の前記被保持部の近傍の厚みを前記被保持部の近傍以外の部分の厚みよりも薄く形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の多方向入力装置。 The said reaction force adjustment part is formed in the thickness of the vicinity of the said to-be-held part of the said movable electrode for peripheral edges thinner than the thickness of parts other than the vicinity of the said to-be-held part. Multi-directional input device. 前記反力調整部は、前記周縁用可動電極における前記被保持部の近傍以外の部分に対して、その周方向に沿って凹状もしくは凸状に形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１に記載の多方向入力装置。 The said reaction force adjustment part is formed in the concave shape or convex shape along the circumferential direction with respect to parts other than the vicinity of the said to-be-held part in the said peripheral movable electrode. The multidirectional input device described. 前記周縁用可動電極は、前記筐体の支持部によって支持される被支持部を有しており、
前記反力調整部は、前記被支持部と一体に形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１から請求項４のいずれか１項に前記記載の多方向入力装置。 The peripheral movable electrode has a supported part supported by the support part of the housing,
The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the reaction force adjusting unit is formed integrally with the supported portion. 前記周縁用可動電極は、金属板材を用いて形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１から請求項５のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the peripheral movable electrode is formed using a metal plate. 前記周縁用可動電極と前記周縁用固定接点との間に、前記周縁用可動電極および前記周縁用固定接点に絶縁されながら配設されている第２の周縁用可動電極を備えている
ことを特徴とする請求項１から請求項６いずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 A second peripheral movable electrode disposed between the peripheral movable electrode and the peripheral fixed contact while being insulated from the peripheral movable electrode and the peripheral fixed contact is provided. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. 前記第２の周縁用可動電極は、前記周縁用固定接点を覆いつつ前記周縁用可動電極の軸方向に突出するドーム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７のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The second peripheral movable electrode is formed in a dome shape protruding in the axial direction of the peripheral movable electrode while covering the peripheral fixed contact. The multi-directional input device according to claim 1. 前記筐体は、その外周が多角形状となる箱形に形成されているとともに、その外周の角部の内側に前記周縁用固定接点が配設されている位置から前記周縁用可動電極を所定の空隙をもって配設させるために前記被保持部を保持する必要な高さの保持部を有している
ことを特徴とする請求項１から請求項８のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The casing is formed in a box shape whose outer periphery is a polygonal shape, and the movable electrode for peripheral edge is set to a predetermined position from the position where the fixed contact for peripheral edge is disposed inside the corner of the outer periphery. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a holding portion having a height necessary to hold the held portion so as to be disposed with a gap. . 前記保持部は、前記被保持部と常に接触する部分に共通電極を有している
ことを特徴とする請求項９に記載の多方向入力装置。 The multi-directional input device according to claim 9, wherein the holding portion has a common electrode in a portion that is always in contact with the held portion. 前記筐体内の環状に配設された複数個の前記周縁用固定接点および前記周縁用可動電極の内周側部分に、中央用固定接点と、所定の空隙をもって前記中央用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央用可動電極と、前記中央用可動電極の上方に前記中央用可動電極を押圧する中央用押圧部を有する前記操作部材とを備えている
ことを特徴とする請求項１から請求項１０のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 A plurality of the peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape in the casing and the inner peripheral side portion of the peripheral movable electrode are opposed to the central fixed contact with a central fixed contact and a predetermined gap. The center movable electrode provided, and the operation member having the center pressing portion for pressing the center movable electrode above the center movable electrode are provided. The multidirectional input device according to claim 10. 前記筐体内の環状に配設された複数個の前記周縁用固定接点および前記周縁用可動電極の内周側部分に、中央用固定接点と、所定の空隙をもって前記中央用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央用可動電極と、前記中央用可動電極の上方に前記中央用可動電極を押圧する中央用押圧部を有する前記操作部材とを備え、
前記周縁用固定接点、前記共通電極もしくは前記中央用固定接点の少なくとも一つは、前記筐体にインサート成型されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１０に記載の多方向入力装置。 A plurality of the peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape in the casing and the inner peripheral side portion of the peripheral movable electrode are opposed to the central fixed contact with a central fixed contact and a predetermined gap. The central movable electrode disposed, and the operation member having a central pressing portion for pressing the central movable electrode above the central movable electrode,
The multidirectional input device according to claim 10 , wherein at least one of the peripheral fixed contact, the common electrode, or the central fixed contact is insert-molded in the casing. 前記筐体内の環状に配設された複数個の前記周縁用固定接点および前記周縁用可動電極の内周側部分に、中央用固定接点と、所定の空隙をもって前記中央用固定接点と対向して配設されている中央用可動電極と、前記中央用可動電極の上方に前記中央用可動電極を押圧する中央用押圧部を有する前記操作部材とを備え、
前記周縁用固定接点、前記共通電極もしくは前記中央用固定接点の少なくとも一つは、前記筐体外に引出される引出端子を有しており、
前記筐体外に引き出された当該引出端子は、当該各部材の種類によって異なる形状に形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１０に記載の多方向入力装置。 A plurality of the peripheral fixed contacts arranged in an annular shape in the casing and the inner peripheral side portion of the peripheral movable electrode are opposed to the central fixed contact with a central fixed contact and a predetermined gap. The central movable electrode disposed, and the operation member having a central pressing portion for pressing the central movable electrode above the central movable electrode,
At least one of the fixed contact for peripheral edge, the common electrode, or the fixed contact for center has a lead terminal that is pulled out of the housing,
The multidirectional input device according to claim 10 , wherein the extraction terminal drawn out of the housing is formed in a different shape depending on the type of each member. 前記中央用可動電極は、前記周縁用可動電極の支持部を介して前記周縁用可動電極と連続して一体形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１１から請求項１３のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The center movable electrode is formed integrally and continuously with the peripheral movable electrode via a support portion of the peripheral movable electrode. 14. The multidirectional input device described. 前記中央用可動電極は、前記中央用押圧部の軸方向に突出するドーム状に形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１１から請求項１４のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the central movable electrode is formed in a dome shape protruding in an axial direction of the central pressing portion. 前記操作部材は、前記周縁用押圧部を有する周縁用押圧部材と、前記中央用押圧部を有する中央用押圧部材と、操作主体から直接的に入力される操作体とを有しており、
前記周縁用押圧部材は、その中央付近に形成された中央孔に前記中央用押圧部材を挿通して配設されており、
前記中央用押圧部材は、押圧方向の前方が前記周縁用押圧部材の中央孔の外形よりも大きくなり、押圧方向の後方が前記周縁用押圧部材の中央孔の外形と同等もしくはその外形よりも小さくなるような押圧方向に対して外形の異なる形状に形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１１から請求項１５のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The operating member includes a peripheral pressing member having the peripheral pressing portion, a central pressing member having the central pressing portion, and an operating body that is directly input from an operating subject.
The peripheral pressing member is disposed through the central pressing member in a central hole formed near the center thereof,
The central pressing member has a front in the pressing direction larger than the outer shape of the central hole of the peripheral pressing member, and a rear in the pressing direction is equal to or smaller than the outer shape of the central hole of the peripheral pressing member. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the multidirectional input device is formed in a shape having a different outer shape with respect to the pressing direction. 前記操作部材が前記周縁用可動電極もしくは前記中央用可動電極を押圧した際に前記操作部材の初期位置へ当該操作部材を復元させる方向に復元力を生じさせる弾性アームを有している
ことを特徴とする請求項１１から請求項１６のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 When the operation member presses the peripheral movable electrode or the central movable electrode, the elastic member generates a restoring force in a direction in which the operation member is restored to the initial position of the operation member. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 11 to 16. 前記弾性アームは、前記筐体に形成された開口部を覆うように蓋状に形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１７に記載の多方向入力装置。 The multi-directional input device according to claim 17, wherein the elastic arm is formed in a lid shape so as to cover an opening formed in the casing. 前記筐体は、前記周縁用押圧部材の径方向外側への摺動移動量を拘束する蓋体と、前記蓋体の反対方向から前記周縁用押圧部を摺動自在に支持するガイド壁とを有しており、
前記周縁用押圧部材は、前記中央用押圧部と前記中央用可動電極とが接している部分を摺動させながら前記周縁用可動電極を押圧するように形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１１から請求項１８のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The housing includes a lid body that restrains a sliding movement amount of the peripheral pressing member radially outward, and a guide wall that slidably supports the peripheral pressing section from the opposite direction of the lid body. Have
The peripheral pressing member is formed so as to press the peripheral movable electrode while sliding the portion where the central pressing portion and the central movable electrode are in contact with each other. The multidirectional input device according to any one of claims 11 to 18. 前記筐体は、前記周縁用押圧部材の径方向外側への摺動移動量を拘束する蓋体を有しており、
前記周縁用押圧部材は、前記中央用押圧部と前記中央用可動電極との接点を回転支点として前記周縁用可動電極を押圧するように形成されている
ことを特徴とする請求項１１から請求項１８のいずれか１項に記載の多方向入力装置。 The housing has a lid that restrains the sliding movement amount of the peripheral pressing member to the outside in the radial direction,
The peripheral edge for pressing member according to claim claim 11, characterized in that it is formed so as to press the peripheral movable electrode contacts with the central movable electrode and the center for the pressing portion as a rotational fulcrum The multidirectional input device according to any one of 18.
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