Sliding multidirectional inputting key

Abstract

A multi-directional input key is capable of plural inputs through multi-directional operation, wherein the plural inputs are realized by a novel multi-directional operation, instead of the conventional operation in which force is applied to the operation surface so as to push it in deeply. There is provided a central key top equipped with an upper key top protruding from an insertion hole of an outer-ring key top and a lower key top having a pushing member protruding downwardly therefrom. This central key top is supported on a key sheet so as to be slidable in the direction of the hole inner surface of the insertion hole. And, when the central key top is caused to slide, an upper contact and a lower contact of a membrane switch are brought into contact with each other to effect input under the pressure from the pushing member.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to an input key provided in an input operation device of electronic equipment such as a portable information terminal device such as a mobile phone and a PDA, a car stereo, and a remote control for remote operation, and particularly relates to an input key that uses a single input key. Multi-directional operation, so as to realize the multi-directional input key of various inputs. Background technique [0002] In order to meet the recent requirements of multi-functionalization of electronic equipment, there are many examples of multi-directional input keys that can perform multi-directional operations with a single input key in the input operation device of the aforementioned electronic equipment, thereby enabling various inputs. Known as such multidirectional input keys, such as those seen on mobile phones, press the upper position, lower position, right position, and left position on the ring-shaped operating surface of ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0003] However, the above-mentioned multi-direction input key must perform such a pressing operation, that is, apply force from above, and deeply press down, up, down, left, and right positions on the ring-shaped operating surface, so there is an operator who is prone to early failure. fatigue problem

Therefore, the frequency of use of the multi-directional input key may be higher in electronic equipment, such as the input operation device of portable information terminal devices such as mobile phones and PDAs that can use e-mail and game programs. Sexuality, the call for improvements is now particularly high

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