Operation device and communication system

Abstract

To provide an operation device and a communication system capable of easily performing setting related to an information terminal with which a radio communication unit performs communication.SOLUTION: The operating device 1 includes a first operating unit 3, a first switch 6, a wireless communication unit, a second operating unit 91, and a housing 2. The first operation unit 3 has an operation surface 31A for receiving a first operation. The first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 that has received the first operation. At least a part of the second operation unit 91 is covered by the first operation unit 3, and the second operation unit 91 is arranged at a position where the second operation unit 91 does not contact the first operation unit 3 in the first operation. The second operation unit 91 receives a second operation for performing terminal setting that is setting related to an information terminal with which the wireless communication unit performs communication.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an operator and a communication system, and more particularly to an operator that accepts an operation to switch the state of a load, and a communication system including the operator. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a lighting control device that can group-control multiple lighting loads in response to the operation of an operation switch. The operation switches are incorporated into an operation terminal. The operation units for the operation switches are arranged side by side on the front of the case of the operation terminal. A status indicator light is disposed adjacent to one end of each operation unit, and another status indicator light is disposed adjacent to the other end. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-210566 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The above-mentioned operation terminal (operator) may include a wireless communication unit for wirelessly communicating with an external information terminal. In this case, it is required that the settings related to the information terminal can be easily performed.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an operating device and a communication system that allow easy setting of an information terminal with which a wireless communication unit communicates. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A controller according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first operation unit, a switch, a wireless communication unit, a second operation unit, and a housing. The first operation unit has an operation surface that accepts a first operation. The switch is pressed by the first operation unit that accepts the first operation. The wireless communication unit communicates wirelessly with an information terminal. The second operation unit is at least partially covered by the first operation unit and is positioned in a position that does not contact the first operation unit during the first operation. The second operation unit accepts a second operation that performs terminal settings, which are settings related to the information terminal. The housing houses the wireless communication unit, and the first operation unit and the second operation unit are provided so that they can be operated from the outside.

[0007] A communication system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes the controller described above and a communication device, which controls communication between the controller and a load that is an operation target of the first operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present disclosure has the advantage that it is possible to easily perform settings related to an information terminal with which the wireless communication unit communicates. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of the controller according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of the controller with the four operating parts and the housing cover removed. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the operating device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the operating device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the operating device of the same as above, in which a part of the operating device is disassembled. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the operating section of the operating device as viewed from the rear side. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the operation unit as viewed from the rear side. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view of the cover of the housing. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the operating device of the same, with the mounting frame omitted. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the housing of the same. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic system configuration diagram of a communication system including the above-mentioned controller. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of the controller of the same. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an external device that communicates with the wireless communication unit of the controller. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a front view of a modified example (cantilever type operating device) of the operating device of the same. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a front view of the above modification with the four operation units and the housing cover removed. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II shown in FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the above modification. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the operation unit in the modification of the above embodiment, seen from the rear side. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the operation unit in the above modification, as viewed from the rear side. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a front view of a cover of a housing in the modification of the above embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of the above modified example in which the mounting frame is omitted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modifications, and various modifications other than these embodiments and modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not deviate from the technical concept of the present disclosure. The drawings described in the following embodiments and modifications are schematic drawings, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0011] (Embodiment) (1) Overview An outline of the controller 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0012] 1 and 2, the controller 1 according to this embodiment includes a first operation unit 3, a first switch 6, a wireless communication unit 95 (see FIG. 13), a second operation unit 91 (see FIG. 9), and a housing 2. Note that the "switch" in this disclosure refers to the first switch 6.

[0013] The first operation unit 3 has an operation surface 31A that accepts a first operation to switch the state of the load L1 (see FIG. 12). The "first operation" here refers to, for example, an operation to change the state of the load L1 (see FIG. 12). The first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 that has accepted the first operation. The wireless communication unit 95 performs wireless communication with the information terminal X1 (see FIG. 14). The second operation unit 91 is at least partially covered by the first operation unit 3 and is disposed in a position that is not in contact with the first operation unit 3 during the first operation. The second operation unit 91 accepts a second operation to perform terminal settings that are settings related to the information terminal X1. The housing 2 houses the wireless communication unit 95, and the first operation unit 3 and the second operation unit 91 are provided so as to be operable from the outside. In addition, in this disclosure, "a position that is not in contact with the second operating unit 91 in the above-mentioned first operation" refers to a position that is not in contact with the second operating unit 91 in the above-mentioned first operation, that is, a position where the second operating unit 91 is not operated by the first operating unit 3 in the above-mentioned first operation.

[0014] According to the above configuration, a user who performs settings related to the information terminal X1 can perform settings related to the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 communicates by removing the first operation unit 3 from the housing 2 and operating the second operation unit 91. In other words, the controller 1 of this embodiment has the advantage that settings related to the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 communicates can be easily performed.

[0015] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Overall structure 12, a communication system 110 (control system) according to this embodiment includes an operator 1 and a communication device 111 (controller) that controls communication between the operator 1 and a load L1. The communication device 111 communicates with the operator 1 and also with the load L1 via a control terminal A1, which will be described later.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 12, the load control system 120 according to this embodiment includes a communication system 110 and a load L1. The number of loads L1 is not particularly limited. The load control system 120 may include one or more loads L1 (for example, two lighting loads B1). In the example of Fig. 12, a relay Ry1 and a control terminal A1 are also included as components of the load control system 120, but at least one of these may not be included as components of the load control system 120. It is not essential that the relay Ry1 be connected to the lighting load B1, and it may be omitted.

[0017] Furthermore, the load system 100 according to this embodiment includes an operator 1 and a load L1, as shown in FIG. 12. The load system 100 may include one or more loads L1 (for example, two lighting loads B1). In the example of FIG. 12, a relay Ry1 and a control terminal A1 are also included as components of the load system 100, but at least one of these may not be included as components of the load system 100. Furthermore, when the relay Ry1 is considered to be the load L1, the lighting load B1 may not be included as a component of the load system 100.

[0018] The communication system 110 is used in a facility such as an office building, a store, a hospital, a school, or a factory. A communication device 111 and an operating device 1 are installed in the facility. A lighting load B1 (lighting fixture), a relay Ry1, and a control terminal A1 are also installed in the facility. The relay Ry1 has a contact connected between an AC power supply and the lighting load B1, and the contact is switched on or off in response to a switching signal from the control terminal A1. The control terminal A1 outputs a switching signal to the relay Ry1 to switch the contact on or off, thereby switching between a state in which power is supplied from the AC power supply to the lighting load B1 and a state in which the power supply is cut off. Here, a load control system 120 that controls the load L1 is realized by the communication system 110 including the operating device 1 and the communication device 111, the control terminal A1, and a load L1 to be controlled (e.g., the lighting load B1 or the relay Ry1). Although FIG. 12 shows one controller 1, the number of controllers 1 may be two or more. Although FIG. 12 shows two control terminals A1, the number of control terminals A1 may be one or three or more. Although FIG. 12 shows one relay Ry1 connected to the control terminal A1, which controls the on / off of one lighting load B1, two or more relays Ry1 may be connected to one control terminal A1, and one control terminal A1 may control the on / off of two or more lighting loads B1. In the following description, when two lighting loads B1 are to be distinguished from each other, they may be referred to as lighting loads B11 and B12, and when two control terminals A1 are to be distinguished from each other, they may be referred to as control terminals A11 and A12.

[0019] The controller 1, the communication device 111, and the two control terminals A1 are electrically connected to a two-wire transmission line 112, respectively.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 2, the controller 1 has a plurality of (e.g., eight) first switches 6 (push buttons). A load address is assigned to each of the plurality of first switches 6. The load address is composed of, for example, a load channel and a load number. When one of the plurality of first switches 6 is pressed, the controller 1 transmits to the communication device 111 the load address assigned to the pressed first switch 6.

[0021] An individual address is assigned to the control terminal A1. An individual address is also assigned to the relay Ry1 connected to the control terminal A1, and the address of the load L1 to be controlled is the combination of the address of the control terminal A1 and the address of the relay Ry1. When the control terminal A1 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 111, it turns on or off the relay Ry1 to be controlled in accordance with the received control command, thereby turning on or off the lighting load B1. Note that the control terminal A1 may also perform dimming control of the lighting load B1 in accordance with the received control command.

[0022] The communication device 111 has a memory that stores the correspondence between the load addresses assigned to the multiple first switches 6 provided in the controller 1 and the addresses of the loads L1 to be controlled. The communication device 111 communicates with the controller 1 and two control terminals A1 connected to a transmission line 112 using a multiplex transmission method. The communication device 111 performs continuous polling by sequentially accessing the controller 1 and the two control terminals A1 to acquire information from the controller 1 and the two control terminals A1. When one of the multiple first switches 6 provided in the controller 1 is pressed, the controller 1 sends an interrupt signal to the communication device 111. Upon receiving the interrupt signal, the communication device 111 accesses the controller 1 that sent the interrupt signal and acquires from the controller 1 the load address assigned to the pressed first switch 6. Upon acquiring the load address of the pressed first switch 6, the communication device 111 acquires the address of the load L1 to be controlled that is associated with this load address and transmits a control command to the control terminal A1 corresponding to the acquired address. For example, if the load address of the pressed first switch 6 corresponds to the lighting load B11 connected to the control terminal A11, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to the control terminal A11. Also, if the load address of the pressed first switch 6 corresponds to the lighting load B12 connected to the control terminal A12, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to the control terminal A12. When the control terminal A1 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 111, the control terminal A1 controls the relay Ry1 to be controlled to be on or off in accordance with the control command, and turns on, off, or dims the lighting load B1.

[0023] The load addresses assigned to the first switch 6 include an individual control address, a group control address, and a pattern control address. When a first switch 6 assigned an individual control address is pressed, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to a control terminal A1 associated with the individual control address, and turns on, off, or dims one lighting load B1 associated with the individual control address. When a first switch 6 assigned a group control address is pressed, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to one or more control terminals A1 associated with the group control address. Based on the control command from the communication device 111, one or more control terminals A1 associated with the group control address collectively turns on, off, or dims the multiple lighting loads B1 associated with the group control address. When a first switch 6 assigned a pattern control address is pressed, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to one or more control terminals A1 associated with the pattern control address. Based on a control command from the communication device 111, one or more control terminals A1 associated with the pattern control address control each of the multiple lighting loads B1 to a state (on, off, or dimmed) specified by the control command.

[0024] The transmission signal transmitted by the communication device 111 to the transmission line 112 is a bipolar (±24V) time division multiplexed signal. The operating power for the internal circuits of the controller 1 and the two control terminals A1 is generated by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted by the communication device 111.

[0025] (2-2) Controller The configuration of the controller 1 (operation terminal) will be described in detail below. In the following description, the directions of the controller 1 will be defined based on the intangible arrows in the up / down, left / right, and front / rear directions shown in Figures 1 and 3, but this is not intended to limit the direction in which the controller 1 can be used. Figure 13 is a schematic block diagram of the controller 1.

[0026] The controller 1 includes a housing 2, a plurality of (four in FIG. 1 ) first operation units 3, a plurality of (eight in FIG. 2 ) first switches 6, a second operation unit 91, a second switch 92, a circuit board 7, a mounting frame 5, and a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 5 ). In FIG. 13 , the first switch 6 is abbreviated as a “switching SW,” and the second operation unit 91 is abbreviated as a “setting SW.” As shown in FIG. 13 , the controller 1 also includes a signal processing unit 15, a first light-emitting unit 93, a plurality of (eight in FIG. 13 ) second light-emitting units 10, a wireless communication unit 95, a communication unit 17, a memory unit 18, and a power supply unit 19. As shown in FIG. 13 , the quick-connect terminal block 8 includes a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82. Note that the “light-emitting unit” in this disclosure refers to the first light-emitting unit 93.

[0027] The second light-emitting unit 10 includes a plurality of (eight in FIG. 2) light-emitting groups G1. As shown in FIG. 2, each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting module 11 and a second light-emitting module 12. In short, the controller 1 includes a plurality of first operating units 3, and also includes a plurality of light-emitting groups G1 including the first light-emitting modules 11 and the second light-emitting modules 12.

[0028] A pair of transmission lines 112 is connected to each of the pair of first connection terminals 81 and the pair of second connection terminals 82. The pair of first connection terminals 81 and the pair of second connection terminals 82 are electrically connected inside the controller 1, and the pair of second connection terminals 82 are used as terminals for feed wiring, for example.

[0029] The communication unit 17 is connected to the pair of transmission lines 112 via a pair of first connection terminals 81, and is connected to the pair of transmission lines 112 via a pair of second connection terminals 82. This allows the communication unit 17 to be branch-connected to the pair of transmission lines 112. The communication unit 17 communicates with the communication device 111 via the pair of transmission lines 112 using a multiplex transmission method.

[0030] The power supply unit 19 generates power for operating the internal circuits by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signals transmitted from the communication device 111 to the pair of transmission lines 112 .

[0031] The signal processing unit 15 performs overall control of the controller 1. The signal processing unit 15 is mainly composed of a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. The functions of the signal processing unit 15 are realized by the processor of the computer system executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided.

[0032] The storage unit 18 includes memories such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). The storage unit 18 stores, for example, a program executed by the signal processing unit 15. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, a load address assigned to each of the multiple first switches 6. Furthermore, the storage unit 18 stores information used by an application running on the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 performs wireless communication. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, a password used in the application for pairing the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1.

[0033] The wireless communication unit 95 wirelessly communicates with the information terminal X1. The wireless communication unit 95 is a communication module capable of wireless communication via, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or the like. The information terminal X1 in the present disclosure is, for example, a smartphone or tablet computer owned by a contractor who installs the controller 1 in a facility or a user (including a facility manager or resident, etc.) of the facility where the controller 1 is installed. An application runs on the information terminal X1 to perform at least one of presetting related to setting a state of the load L1 to be switched when the first switch 6 is pressed and state control for controlling the state of the load L1. More specifically, the presetting involves setting (changing, initializing, etc.) the address of the load L1 to be controlled, and setting the control target whose state is switched when the first switch 6 is pressed. Furthermore, the state control involves selecting the load L1 to be controlled and a desired state of the load L1 in the application, and controlling the communication unit 17 to transmit an operation signal to the communication device 111 to switch the selected load L1 to the desired state of the load L1.

[0034] (2-2-1) 1st operation section In this embodiment, the operating device 1 includes a mounting frame 5 having dimensions equivalent to those of a mounting frame for a single-unit large rectangular interconnect wiring device (a mounting frame for a single-unit switch) standardized by the Japanese Industrial Standards, for example, while the number of first operating units 3 is four. Each first operating unit 3 corresponds to a so-called seesaw-shaped operating handle; when one of the left and right ends is pressed and displaced backward, the other is displaced forward, and conversely, when the other is displaced backward, the one is displaced forward. However, the number of first switches 6 pressed by each first operating unit 3 is two (i.e., eight in total). That is, each first operating unit 3 corresponds to two first switches 6. The two first switches 6 corresponding to each first operating unit 3 are aligned at a predetermined interval in the left-right direction. Hereinafter, the two first switches 6 corresponding to each first operating unit 3 may be simply referred to as the "left and right first switches 6," one as the "right first switch 6," and the other as the "left first switch 6."

[0035] The number of first operating units 3 is not limited to four. For example, the number of first operating units 3 may be one to three, or may be five or more. Furthermore, the total number of first switches 6 is not limited to eight. Furthermore, the number of first switches 6 pressed by each first operating unit 3 is not limited to two. For example, as in a modified example (operating device 1A) described later, the number of first switches 6 pressed by each first operating unit 3 may be one.

[0036] As described above, the controller 1 includes four first operating units 3 (see FIG. 1). The four first operating units 3 are provided in a manner that allows them to be held by the housing 2. Each first operating unit 3 accepts an operation to switch the state of the load L1. In this embodiment, each first operating unit 3 can individually switch between different states of the load L1 depending on whether one end or the other end is pressed.

[0037] The four first operation units 3 are arranged so as to line up in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. In other words, the multiple first operation units 3 are arranged so as to line up in the longitudinal direction of the housing 2 (here, the vertical direction). The four first operation units 3 have the same structure. In the following description, when the four first operation units 3 are to be distinguished from one another, they may be referred to as, from top to bottom, first operation unit 3A, first operation unit 3B, first operation unit 3C, and first operation unit 3D.

[0038] Each first operating portion 3 (operating handle) includes a main body portion 31, a nameplate 32, a cover portion 33, and an optical member 4, as shown in FIGS.

[0039] The main body 31 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate that is long in the left-right direction and is made of, for example, resin.

[0040] 1, the main body 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left-right direction when viewed from the front. Each of the left and right portions of the opening 30 can emit light (such as light from the first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12) emitted from a housing-side opening 20 of the housing 2, which will be described later. The first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12 are arranged on each of the left and right portions of the opening 30 so as to be aligned in the short direction of the opening 30 (here, the up-down direction).

[0041] The main body 31 has a flat operation surface 31A (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 6) on its front side. The operation surface 31A is the surface surrounding the opening 30 and is the surface that receives a pressing operation, which is a first operation, from the user. That is, the operation surface 31A receives the first operation from the user to switch the state of the load L1. Note that not only the operation surface 31A but also the surface 40 (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 6) of the optical member 4 can be the surface that receives a pressing operation from the user. In the following description, when it is stated that "the operation surface 31A (surface 40) is pressed," it means that at least one of the operation surface 31A and the surface 40 is pressed.

[0042] In other words, the first operation for switching the state of the load L1 is to press at least one of the two end portions of the operation surface 31A in a first direction D1 (see FIG. 1). The first direction D1 here is the longitudinal direction (i.e., the left-right direction) of the main body 31, and the short-side direction of the housing 2. In other words, the first operation for switching the state of the load L1 is to press an area near the right end or left end of the operation surface 31A.

[0043] A pressing operation on the first operation unit 3 is performed when the user applies pressure to an area near the right or left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) with a fingertip or the like. The direction in which the user performs the pressing operation on the first operation unit 3 corresponds to roughly backward. That is, the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 corresponds to roughly backward, and the first operation unit 3 and the first switch 6 are arranged (lined up) to be aligned in the above pressing direction. As described above, the four first operation units 3 are arranged (lined up) to be aligned in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. In other words, the four first operation units 3 are arranged (lined up) to be aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting (here, perpendicular to) the above pressing direction.

[0044] The main body 31 has a pair of locking portions corresponding to the attachment portion 3X on both the left and right ends of the back surface 31B opposite the operation surface 31A. Hereinafter, the right locking portion of the pair of locking portions will be referred to as the "first locking portion 311," and the left locking portion will be referred to as the "second locking portion 312" (see FIGS. 6, 7, and 8).

[0045] The first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are formed symmetrically on the left and right. Each of the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 has a pair of locking pieces 3100 protruding rearward. Each locking piece 3100 has a claw-like shape with its tip protruding outward. Each locking piece 3100 is inserted into a corresponding one of a plurality of locking holes 212 (see FIGS. 6 and 9 ) provided in the cover 21 of the housing 2. When the right end (or left end) of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) is pressed, the right end (or left end) of the main body 31 retracts and the left end (or right end) moves forward, rotating the main body 31. However, the length of each locking piece 3100 is set so that the claw-like tip of the locking piece 3100 provided at the left end (or right end) comes into contact with the periphery of the locking hole 212 in this state.

[0046] The main body 31 also has a pair of holding portions corresponding to the attachment portion 3X at both the upper and lower ends on the rear surface 31B side. Hereinafter, the upper holding portion of the pair of holding portions will be referred to as the "first holding portion 313," and the lower holding portion will be referred to as the "second holding portion 314" (see FIGS. 6, 7, 8, and 10).

[0047] The first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 respectively hold a pair of rotation shafts 230 (see FIGS. 6, 9, and 10) of the support portion 23 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2. The first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 are each configured as a protruding piece protruding rearward from the back surface 31B of the main body portion 31. The tip of each of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 has a recess 315 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) recessed forward, and the corresponding rotation shaft 230 is fitted into the recess 315 by press-fitting. As a result, the main body portion 31 (i.e., the first operating unit 3) is supported by the support portion 23 and is rotatable like a seesaw around the pair of rotation shafts 230 within a predetermined angular range (see the two double-headed arrows on both the left and right sides of the first operating unit 3 in FIG. 10). That is, each of the four first operating units 3 is attached to (the cover 21 of) the housing 2 so that at least one of the two end portions stamped by the first operation is displaced and presses the first switch 6. In this embodiment, each of the four first operating units 3 is attached to (the cover 21 of) the housing 2 so that at least one of the two end portions stamped by the first operation is displaced and presses the first switch 6.

[0048] The main body 31 has a holding structure on the rear surface 31B side that holds the lid 33. Specifically, the main body 31 has a pair of bearings 316 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) that hold a pair of shafts 331 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) of the lid 33, on both the left and right sides of the second holding portion 314 at the lower end portion on the rear surface 31B side. The main body 31 also has a pair of protrusions 317 (see FIG. 7) that have holes 318, into which the pair of protrusions 332 (see FIG. 7) of the lid 33 are inserted, on both the left and right sides of the first holding portion 313 at the upper end portion on the rear surface 31B side.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 6 , the nameplate 32 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate that is elongated in the left-right direction. The nameplate 32 is made of, for example, resin. A name related to the load L1 (here, the lighting load B1) whose state is switched by operating the first operating unit 3 may be written on the nameplate 32. For example, a name such as "First Meeting Room," which corresponds to the location where the lighting load B1 is installed, may be written on the nameplate 32. For example, a user using the operating device 1 writes an appropriate name on the surface of the nameplate 32. The nameplate 32 is disposed on the rear surface 31B side of the main body 31 so as to face the central portion of the opening 30 of the main body 31 in the left-right direction via the optical member 4. The nameplate 32 has approximately the same shape and dimensions as the central portion of the opening 30 in the left-right direction when viewed from the front. A lid portion 33 is disposed on the rear side of the nameplate 32.

[0050] The lid part 33 is held by the main body part 31 on the rear surface 31B side of the main body part 31 with one end (here, the lower end) as a rotation axis and the other end (here, the upper end) being openable and closable. The lid part 33 is arranged on the rear surface 31B side of the main body part 31 so as to sandwich the optical member 4 and the nameplate 32 between the lid part 33 and the main body part 31.

[0051] Although the lid portion 33 is formed in a rectangular plate shape, the shape in plan view of the lid portion 33 can be changed as appropriate. A V-shaped recess may be provided at the lower end of the lid portion 33, which serves as the center of rotation, to avoid interference with the second holding portion 314.

[0052] The lid 33 is made of, for example, resin. The lid 33 has a pair of shafts 331 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) at its lower end. The lid 33 also has a pair of protrusions 332 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) at its upper end. The shafts 331 of the lid 33 are held by bearings 316 of the main body 31, and the lid 33 is held on the main body 31 so as to be rotatable about the shafts 331 between an open position in which the nameplate 32 can be removed and a closed position in which the nameplate 32 is covered. When the lid 33 is in the closed position, the pair of protrusions 332 fit into the pair of holes 318 of the main body 31, preventing the lid 33 from opening.

[0053] The cover 33 has a pair of protruding contact portions 334 (see FIG. 7 : a total of four) near each of the left and right ends on the rear surface thereof. The contact portions 334 are disposed opposite a first pressing portion 210 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2, which will be described later. The contact portions 334 contact the first pressing portion 210 to transmit a pressing operation received on the operation surface 31A (surface 40) from the user. The contact portions 334 may be in slight contact with the first pressing portion 210 even when no pressing operation is received. Alternatively, the contact portions 334 may be separated from the first pressing portion 210 when no pressing operation is received, and may come into contact when a pressing operation is received.

[0054] The lid part 33 further has a knob 333 (FIG. 7) on the back surface thereof that can be gripped by the user with the fingers, etc. When the first operating unit 3 is detached from the housing 2, the user can open the lid part 33 by gripping and pulling the knob 333.

[0055] The optical member 4 is disposed within the opening 30. The optical member 4 has light-transmitting or light-guiding properties. Each first operation unit 3 is attached to the cover 21 of the housing 2 so as to cover the second light-emitting unit 10 in a state in which light emitted from the second light-emitting unit 10 passes through the optical member 4. As an example, the optical member 4 is formed from a transparent acrylic resin or the like. The optical member 4 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box with open top, bottom, and back surfaces as a whole.

[0056] 6 and 7, the optical member 4 includes a pair of first optical members 41 that respectively cover the left and right portions of the opening 30, and a second optical member 42 that covers the central portion of the opening 30 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the pair of first optical members 41 and second optical member 42 is a single member formed as a continuous, integrated unit, but these may also be separate members.

[0057] The second optical member 42 is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The nameplate 32 is disposed opposite the second optical member 42. The second optical member 42 has a pair of protrusions 420 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) protruding from the upper and lower edges, respectively. The pair of protrusions 420 contact the peripheral edges of the central portion of the opening 30 in the left-right direction from behind, thereby preventing the optical member 4 from falling off from the opening 30. The user can see the name written on the nameplate 32 through the second optical member 42.

[0058] The pair of first optical members 41 are provided on both the left and right ends of the second optical member 42. The right first optical member 41 is disposed within the right portion of the opening 30, thereby efficiently guiding light (visible light) from the first light emitting module 11 and the second light emitting module 12 (described later) to the outside of the first operation unit 3. The left first optical member 41 is disposed within the left portion of the opening 30, thereby efficiently guiding light (visible light) from the first light emitting module 11 and the second light emitting module 12 to the outside of the first operation unit 3.

[0059] In this embodiment, each first optical member 41 has a columnar portion 410 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) formed in a substantially rectangular columnar shape. The columnar portion 410 extends inward. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the columnar portion 410 passes through the housing-side opening 20 provided in the cover 21 and extends deep inside so as to face the vicinity of the first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12 mounted on the substrate 7 housed in the housing 2.

[0060] A user can view light (visible light) from the first light emitting module 11 and the second light emitting module 12 through each first optical member 41. A lens unit that converts light from the second light emitting unit 10 that is incident on the rear surface of the first optical member 41 into parallel light may be provided on the rear surface of each first optical member 41. Furthermore, part of the light from the first light emitting module 11 and the second light emitting module 12 may also be guided through the central second optical member 42. The second optical member 42 may have light guiding properties, and the light from the second light emitting unit 10 may be guided by the first optical member 41 and the second optical member 42 and emitted to the outside from the front surfaces of the first optical member 41 and the second optical member 42.

[0061] Each first optical member 41 further has protrusions 411 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) that protrude outward. The pair of protrusions 411 contact the peripheries of the right and left sides of the opening 30 from behind, respectively, thereby preventing the optical member 4 from falling off from the opening 30.

[0062] Furthermore, each first optical member 41 further has a protrusion 412 (see FIG. 6) that protrudes forward, which has the advantage of making it easy to see the position to press each first operation unit 3. Note that the protrusion indicating the operation position may be provided on the operation surface 31A of each first operation unit 3 (i.e., the peripheral portion of the opening 30), and in this case, there is no need to provide the protrusion 412 on the first optical member 41.

[0063] When attaching the first operating unit 3 configured in this manner to the housing 2, for example, the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are bent in directions toward each other with a fingertip or the like. In this state, each locking piece 3100 is inserted from the front into the corresponding locking hole 212, and the first operating unit 3 is pushed rearward so that the rotation shaft 230 is fitted into the recess 315 of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314. As a result, the main body 31 is supported by the support portion 23, and the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 elastically return to their original position in directions away from each other, thereby stably positioning each locking piece 3100 in the locking hole 212.

[0064] Even if the main body unit 31 is pulled toward the user, the tips of the locking pieces 3100 of the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are caught on the periphery of the locking hole 212. This prevents the main body unit 31 from coming off the support portion 23. As a result, the first operating unit 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0065] (2-2-2) Housing The housing 2 is formed in an elongated shape. In this embodiment, the housing 2 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box that is flat in the front-rear direction and elongated in the up-down direction.

[0066] The housing 2 accommodates the board 7 and other components therein. That is, the housing 2 accommodates the wireless communication unit 95 and other components mounted on the board 7. As shown in FIG. 5, the housing 2 holds the quick-connect terminal block 8 mounted on the board 7 on the rear side so that it is exposed to the outside. As shown in FIG. 11, the housing 2 includes a cover 21 and a case 22. Both the cover 21 and the case 22 are made of resin.

[0067] The cover 21 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box with an open rear face, and is attached to the case 22 so as to cover the (open) front face of the case 22.

[0068] A first operating unit 3 (i.e., an operating handle) is provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 so as to be operable from the outside. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, the cover 21 has a plurality of (four in this example) support parts 23 arranged side by side in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. As described above, each support part 23 has a pair of rotation shafts 230 that fit into a pair of recesses 315 of the corresponding first operating unit 3. Specifically, the support part 23 further has a pair of approximately triangular plate-shaped protrusions 231 that protrude forward from the front surface 21A of the cover 21 (see FIGS. 9 and 11). The pair of protrusions 231 are arranged with a predetermined gap between them in the vertical direction. The pair of rotation shafts 230 protrude in directions away from each other from the pair of protrusions 231 in the vertical direction.

[0069] 9 and 11, the cover 21 has a plurality of (eight in this example) first pressing portions 210 arranged in a vertical line in a front view. Each of the eight first pressing portions 210 is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first switches 6 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operating unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front), and transmits a first operation received by the first operating unit 3 to the corresponding first switch 6. The eight first pressing portions 210 are arranged to correspond to the eight support portions 23, respectively. Specifically, each first pressing portion 210 is arranged between a pair of protrusions 231 of the corresponding support portion 23, which are arranged at a predetermined interval. Each first pressing portion 210 transmits a pressing operation from the first operating unit 3 supported by the corresponding support portion 23 to either the left or right first switch 6. As shown in FIG. 3, each of the first pressing portions 210 has a pair of pressing pieces 211 and a pair of extending portions 213.

[0070] As shown in Figures 9 and 11, each of the pair of extension portions 213 is formed in a substantially T-shape when viewed from the front. The pair of extension portions 213 are arranged so as to be symmetrical in the front view. The pair of extension portions 213 are formed so as to extend in directions that separate from each other in the left-right direction. A groove 214 (see Figure 9) that penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction is formed in the surrounding area of ​​each extension portion 213. As a result, the tip portion 213A of each extension portion 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum.

[0071] 3, each extension portion 213 extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip portion 213A. Therefore, when a user presses the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3 with a fingertip or the like, the user receives an appropriate amount of stress from the extension portion 213. As a result, the operation feel is improved.

[0072] Each tip portion 213A has a block shape that is long in the vertical direction. The pressing piece 211 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the tip portion 213A.

[0073] For example, when a right side of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of a certain first operation unit 3 is pressed, a pair of right-side contact portions 334 on the back surface of the cover portion 33 of the first operation unit 3 transmits the pressure to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the right-side extension portion 213. As a result, the right-side extension portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, the tip portion 213A is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the first switch 6 on the right side.

[0074] Similarly, when the left side of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of a certain first operation unit 3 is pressed, the pair of contact portions 334 on the left side on the back surface of the cover portion 33 of the first operation unit 3 transmits the pressure to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the left extension portion 213. As a result, the left extension portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, the tip portion 213A is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the first switch 6 on the left side.

[0075] When the user finishes pressing the extension 213, which has been pressed, elastically returns to its original position, and the "pressing" of the first switch 6 by the tip 213A is released.

[0076] The cover 21 also has a plurality of (here, a total of 16) locking holes 212 (see FIG. 9). Each locking hole 212 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-to-rear direction. Each locking hole 212 is formed in a slit shape. Each locking hole 212 is elongated in the up-down direction.

[0077] The 16 locking holes 212 are arranged in two rows of eight holes each on the left and right when viewed from the front of the front surface 21A. The eight locking holes 212 in the right row are lined up in a row in the vertical direction near the right end of the front surface 21A. The eight locking holes 212 in the left row are lined up in a row in the vertical direction near the left end of the front surface 21A.

[0078] Hereinafter, the eight locking holes 212 in each of the right and left columns may be referred to as locking hole 212A, locking hole 212B, locking hole 212C, locking hole 212D, locking hole 212E, locking hole 212F, locking hole 212G, and locking hole 212H, in order from top to bottom (see Figure 9).

[0079] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating part 3A are inserted into the left and right locking holes 212A and the left and right locking holes 212B, respectively.

[0080] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating part 3B are inserted into the left and right locking holes 212C and the left and right locking holes 212D, respectively.

[0081] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating part 3C are inserted into the left and right locking holes 212E and the left and right locking holes 212F, respectively.

[0082] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating unit 3D are inserted into the left and right locking holes 212G and the left and right locking holes 212H, respectively.

[0083] 3, 6, 9, and 13A, the cover 21 has a plurality of (here, a total of eight) housing-side openings 20. Each housing-side opening 20 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-to-rear direction. Each housing-side opening 20 is formed in the shape of a slit. Each housing-side opening 20 is elongated in the up-down direction.

[0084] 9, the eight housing-side openings 20 are arranged in two rows of four on the left and right when viewed from the front of the front surface 21A. The four housing-side openings 20 in the right row are lined up in the vertical direction between the eight locking holes 212A-212H in the right row and the four first pressing portions 210 lined up in the center when viewed from the front of the front surface 21A. The four housing-side openings 20 in the left row are lined up in a single row in the vertical direction between the eight locking holes 212A-212H in the left row and the four first pressing portions 210 lined up in the center when viewed from the front of the front surface 21A.

[0085] Each of the four first operating units 3 is arranged to cover the corresponding two housing-side openings 20 on the left and right. That is, the first operating units 3 are arranged to cover the housing-side openings 20.

[0086] Hereinafter, the four housing-side openings 20 in each of the right and left columns may be referred to as opening 20A, opening 20B, opening 20C, and opening 20D in order from top to bottom (see FIG. 9).

[0087] The first operating unit 3A covers the left and right openings 20A. In particular, when viewed from the front, the right opening 20A is arranged to overlap at least a portion (here, almost the entirety) of the right side of the right opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3A. Furthermore, when viewed from the front, the left opening 20A is arranged to overlap at least a portion (here, almost the entirety) of the left side of the left opening 30 of the left opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3A.

[0088] The first operating unit 3B covers the left and right openings 20B. In particular, when viewed from the front, the right opening 20B is arranged to overlap at least a part (here, almost the entirety) of the right portion of the right opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3B. Furthermore, when viewed from the front, the left opening 20B is arranged to overlap at least a part (here, almost the entirety) of the left portion of the left opening 30 of the left opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3B.

[0089] The first operating unit 3C covers the left and right openings 20C. In particular, when viewed from the front, the right opening 20C is arranged to overlap with at least a portion (here, almost the entirety) of the right side of the right opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3C. Furthermore, when viewed from the front, the left opening 20C is arranged to overlap with at least a portion (here, almost the entirety) of the left side of the left opening 30 of the left opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3C.

[0090] The first operating unit 3D covers the left and right openings 20D. In particular, in a front view, the right opening 20D is arranged to overlap with at least a portion (here, almost the entirety) of the right side of the right opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3D. Furthermore, in a front view, the left opening 20D is arranged to overlap with at least a portion (here, almost the entirety) of the left side of the left opening 30 of the left opening 30 of the openings 30 of the first operating unit 3D.

[0091] 11, the cover 21 has a pair of first protrusions 215 (four in total) each having a hole 215A at its upper end and lower end. Each first protrusion 215 protrudes toward the case 22. Of the four first protrusions 215, only the pair of first protrusions 215 at the lower end of the cover 21 is shown in FIG.

[0092] Meanwhile, the case 22 is also provided with four claws 225. The cover 21 is assembled to the case 22 by the four claws 225 being hooked one-to-one with the holes 215A of the four first projections 215, respectively.

[0093] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 11, the cover 21 has a pair of second protrusions 216 (four in total) on each of its right and left ends. Each second protrusion 216 protrudes toward the case 22. Of the four second protrusions 216, only the pair of second protrusions 216 on the right end of the cover 21 is shown in FIG. 11. A pair of mounting claws 216A (see FIG. 11) is provided on the surface of each second protrusion 216. A total of eight mounting claws 216A are provided on the entire cover 21. The eight mounting claws 216A are hooked into a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) provided in the mounting frame 5, thereby mounting the entire housing 2 to the mounting frame 5.

[0094] 11, the case 22 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box with an open front face. The case 22 has substantially the same shape as the board 7 when viewed from the front, but is slightly larger than the board 7.

[0095] The case 22 has a plurality of rectangular pillar-shaped protrusions 221 (see FIG. 11) on its peripheral edge 22B. The plurality of protrusions 221 come into contact with the periphery of the substrate 7 to stably position the substrate 7 in all directions.

[0096] The case 22 also has two cylindrical insertion protrusions 222 (see FIGS. 2 and 11) protruding from the bottom surface 22A thereof. The two insertion protrusions 222 are inserted into two positioning holes 71 provided in the substrate 7, respectively, to stably position the substrate 7 in all directions.

[0097] The case 22 also has a plurality of cylindrical bosses 223 (see FIG. 3) protruding from the bottom surface 22A thereof. The plurality of bosses 223 come into contact with the rear surface of the board 7 to stably position the board 7 relative to the rear.

[0098] Furthermore, the case 22 has four claws 225 (see FIG. 11) on the outer surfaces of the upper and lower ends of the peripheral edge 22B thereof that are respectively hooked into the four holes 215A of the cover 21, as described above.

[0099] (2-2-3)Second operation section The second operation unit 91 accepts a second operation for performing terminal settings. The "terminal settings" here refer to settings related to the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 performs wireless communication.

[0100] In this embodiment, the terminal settings accepted by the second operation unit 91 include pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 and application settings that are settings related to applications that run on the information terminal X1. Note that the terminal settings accepted by the second operation unit 91 may include at least one of the pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 and the application settings that are settings related to applications that run on the information terminal X1. In other words, the terminal settings accepted by the second operation unit 91 may include only the pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1, or may include only the application settings that are settings related to applications that run on the information terminal X1.

[0101] The application settings described above include deletion or initialization of stored information used for the operation of the application and stored in the storage unit 18. The stored information here includes a password used in the pairing operation between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 in the application. That is, the application settings described above include deletion or initialization of the password used for the pairing operation between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1.

[0102] When the second operation unit 91 accepts the terminal setting including the pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1, the signal processing unit 15 controls the wireless communication unit 95 to start pairing with the information terminal X1. As a specific example, the second operation unit 91 accepts the terminal setting including the pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 when the user applies pressure to the second operation unit 91 with a fingertip or the like for a certain period of time.

[0103] On the other hand, when the second operation unit 91 accepts application settings including password deletion or initialization, the signal processing unit 15 controls the storage unit 18 to delete or initialize the password. As a specific example, the second operation unit 91 accepts application settings including password deletion and initialization when the user further presses the second operation unit 91 with a fingertip or the like for a certain period of time while pressing an area near the right or left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3A.

[0104] When the password is deleted or initialized by the second operation, the information stored in the storage unit 18 that is different from the password is maintained in the storage unit 18 in the state it was in before the password was deleted or initialized. Here, "the information stored in the storage unit 18 that is different from the password" refers to the load addresses assigned to each of the multiple first switches 6, etc. According to the above configuration, when the password is deleted or initialized by the second operation, maintaining the load addresses in the storage unit 18 has the advantage of preventing the first operation received by the first operation unit 3 from unintentionally switching the state of the load.

[0105] The second operation unit 91 is disposed corresponding to one of the plurality of first operation units 3. More specifically, the second operation unit 91 is provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1 , the second operation unit 91 is provided at a position overlapping the first operation unit 3B of the four first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3. Therefore, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the second operation unit 91 is covered by the first operation unit 3. Note that the entire second operation unit 91 may be covered by the first operation unit 3.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 1 , the eight first switches 6 and the second operation unit 91 are provided at different positions in the first direction D1 when viewed from a second direction D2 (vertical direction) that intersects (here, is perpendicular to) the first direction D1 (horizontal direction), which is the direction in which both pressed ends of the operation surface 31A face each other. That is, the eight first switches 6 and the second operation unit 91 are provided at positions that do not overlap in the second direction D2. Note that the second direction D2 here is the widthwise direction of the main body 31 of the first operation unit 3 and the lengthwise direction of the housing 2. The above configuration has the advantage that it is possible to prevent the second operation unit 91 from erroneously accepting an operation when the first operation unit 3 is pressed.

[0107] The second operation unit 91 is provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 at a position overlapping the second switch 92 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). That is, as shown in FIG. 9 , the cover 21 of the housing 2 has a second pressing unit 240 that is provided at a position overlapping the second switch 92 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3, and functions as the second operation unit 91. The second pressing unit 240 is formed in a circular shape when viewed from the front. The right end of the second pressing unit 240 and the cover 21 of the housing 2 are connected by a connecting unit 241. The connecting unit 241 is formed in a long rectangular shape when viewed from the front. The connecting unit 241 extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base of the cover 21 toward the tip on the second pressing unit 240 side. Therefore, when the user presses second pressing portion 240 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate amount of stress is applied from connection portion 241 side.

[0108] (2-2-4) Board and mounted components The substrate 7 is a single printed wiring board. The substrate 7 has a first mounting surface 7A (front surface) and a second mounting surface 7B (rear surface) opposite the first mounting surface 7A. A plurality of electronic components (mounted components) are mounted on the first mounting surface 7A and the second mounting surface 7B. The plurality of electronic components includes eight first switches 6, a second switch 92, a first light-emitting unit 93, eight light-emitting groups G1, and a quick-connect terminal block 8. The plurality of electronic components also includes electronic components that respectively constitute a signal processing unit 15, a communication unit 17, a memory unit 18, and a power supply unit 19. Furthermore, a wireless communication unit 95 is mounted on one of the first mounting surface 7A and the second mounting surface 7B.

[0109] (1st switch) Each of the eight first switches 6 is pressed by a corresponding first operating unit 3 that has accepted the first operation. More specifically, each of the eight first switches 6 is pressed by the tip of a first pressing unit 210 that has been pressed by a corresponding first operating unit 3 that has accepted the first operation.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 2, the eight first switches 6 are provided on the substrate 7. When viewed from the front of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface), the eight first switches 6 are arranged in two rows of four in the vertical direction. The eight first switches 6 are switches having the same structure. In this embodiment, each first switch 6 is a so-called tactile switch that turns on when pressed and turns off when released. The eight first switches 6 are surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0111] Hereinafter, the four first switches 6 in the right column may be referred to as "first first switches 61," and the four first switches 6 in the left column may be referred to as "second first switches 62."

[0112] Hereinafter, the first first switches 61 and second first switches 62 in the first row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "first switch group 6A," and the first first switches 61 and second first switches 62 in the second row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "second switch group 6B" (see FIG. 2). Furthermore, the first first switches 61 and second first switches 62 in the third row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "third switch group 6C," and the first first switches 61 and second first switches 62 in the fourth row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "fourth switch group 6D" (see FIG. 2).

[0113] The first switch group 6A is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3A. More specifically, the first switch group 6A is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3A when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch group 6A is pressed by the first operation unit 3A (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the first operation unit 3A is pressed near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the first first switch 61 of the first switch group 6A is turned on. When the first operation unit 3A is pressed near the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the second first switch 62 of the first switch group 6A is turned on.

[0114] The second switch group 6B is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3B. More specifically, the second switch group 6B is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3B when viewed from the pressing direction of the first operation unit 3B (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the first operation unit 3B is pressed near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the first first switch 61 of the second switch group 6B is turned on. When the first operation unit 3B is pressed near the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the second first switch 62 of the second switch group 6B is turned on.

[0115] The third switch group 6C is disposed corresponding to the first operation unit 3C. More specifically, the third switch group 6C is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3C when viewed from the pressing direction of the first operation unit 3C (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the first operation unit 3C is pressed near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the first first switch 61 of the third switch group 6C is turned on. When the first operation unit 3C is pressed near the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the second first switch 62 of the third switch group 6C is turned on.

[0116] The fourth switch group 6D is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3D. More specifically, the fourth switch group 6D is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3D when viewed from the pressing direction of the first operation unit 3D (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the first operation unit 3D is pressed near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the first first switch 61 of the fourth switch group 6D is turned on. When the first operation unit 3D is pressed near the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40), the second first switch 62 of the fourth switch group 6D is turned on.

[0117] As described above, each of the multiple first switches 6 is provided at a position that overlaps with a corresponding first operating unit 3 among the multiple first operating units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operating unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front), and when the corresponding first operating unit 3 accepts the first operation, the first switch 6 is pressed by the corresponding first operating unit 3 and turns on.

[0118] Every time the first operating unit 3 receives a pressing operation and the corresponding first switch 6 is turned on, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111. That is, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 based on the operation accepted by the first operating unit 3. The communication unit 17 also receives a status signal related to the status of the load L1.

[0119] (Second switch) The second switch 92 is pressed by the second operating unit 91 that has received the second operation. In this embodiment, the second switch 92 is a so-called tactile switch that turns on when pressed and turns off when released. The second switch 92 is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0120] The second switch 92 is disposed corresponding to one of the plurality of first operation units 3. More specifically, the second switch 92 is provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the second switch 92 is provided at a position overlapping a first operation unit 3B among the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3. The "pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3" here is the same direction as the pressing direction in which the second switch 92 is pressed by the second operation unit 91. When the second operation unit 91 is pressed, the second switch 92 is turned on.

[0121] (First light-emitting part) The first light-emitting unit 93 emits light in response to the second operation received by the second operation unit 91. More specifically, the first light-emitting unit 93 emits light in response to the contents of the terminal settings received by the second operation unit 91. The "terminal settings" here refer to settings related to the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 performs wireless communication.

[0122] The first light-emitting unit 93 may have one or more light-emitting elements and a lens unit that covers the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, LED elements. The first light-emitting unit 93 is, for example, a packaged LED module, and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface). The cover 21 of the housing 2 is formed with an opening 94 that can emit light emitted from the first light-emitting unit 93.

[0123] Any one of the four first operating units 3 is attached to the housing 2 (cover 21) so as to cover the first light-emitting unit 93. In this embodiment, the first operating unit 3B is attached to the housing 2 (cover 21) so as to cover the first light-emitting unit 93. With this configuration, the user can check the light-emitting state of the first light-emitting unit 93 only when the first operating unit 3 (in this embodiment, the first operating unit 3B) covering the first light-emitting unit 93 is removed. This has the advantage of improving the design of the controller 1.

[0124] The first light-emitting unit 93 emits light intermittently in a specific color when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings (details of which will be described later) including pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1. Furthermore, the first light-emitting unit 93 flashes light in a specific color when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings (details of which will be described later) including deletion or initialization of stored information used for operation of an application of the information terminal X1 and stored in the storage unit 18. Here, as an example, the specific color is a cool color, i.e., blue. Here, as an example, the first light-emitting unit 93 emits light intermittently in blue when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings (details of which will be described later) including pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 and stored in the storage unit 18. Furthermore, the first light-emitting unit 93 flashes light in blue when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings (details of which will be described later) including deletion or initialization of stored information used for operation of an application of the information terminal X1 and stored in the storage unit 18. Note that the "intermittent light emission" here refers to repeating a light-emitting state and a light-stopped state at regular intervals.

[0125] The first light-emitting unit 93 is arranged corresponding to one of the multiple first operation units 3. More specifically, the first light-emitting unit 93 is provided at a position overlapping with one of the multiple first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first light-emitting unit 93 is provided at a position overlapping with a first operation unit 3B of the multiple first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3.

[0126] (Second light-emitting part) 2, the eight light-emitting groups G1 of the second light-emitting unit 10 are provided on the substrate 7. The multiple (eight in this case) light-emitting groups G1 are arranged so as to correspond to the multiple (four in this case) first operation units 3, respectively. That is, as an example here, two light-emitting groups G1, one on the left and one on the right, are arranged so as to correspond to one first operation unit 3.

[0127] Unlike the first light-emitting unit 93, the second light-emitting unit 10 emits light in response to a first operation received by the first operation unit 3. More specifically, the second light-emitting unit 10 emits light in response to the state of the load L1 switched by the first operation received by the first operation received by the first operation unit 3. In this embodiment, each of the multiple second light-emitting units 10 emits light in response to a first operation received by a corresponding one of the multiple first operation units 3. That is, each of the eight light-emitting groups G1 in the second light-emitting unit 10 emits light in response to the first operation received by the corresponding first operation unit 3.

[0128] Each light-emitting group G1 has a first light-emitting module 11 and a second light-emitting module 12. That is, the controller 1 is equipped with the first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12. The first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12 each emit visible light. That is, each light-emitting group G1 constitutes a visible light emitter. The light-emitting group G1 is housed inside the housing 2. In other words, the first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12 are housed inside the housing 2.

[0129] The first light emitting module 11 and the second light emitting module 12 of each light emitting group G1 are arranged adjacent to each other vertically in the order of the second light emitting module 12 and the first light emitting module 11 from the top.

[0130] Furthermore, the first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged so as to line up in the longitudinal direction (here, the up-and-down direction) of the (corresponding) housing-side opening 20 (see FIG. 13). This makes it easy to reduce the size of the controller 1 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the housing-side opening 20 (for example, the left-right direction).

[0131] Hereinafter, the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the first row from the top will be referred to as the "first visible light section 10A," and the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the second row from the top will be referred to as the "second visible light section 10B" (see FIG. 2). Furthermore, the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the third row from the top will be referred to as the "third visible light section 10C," and the left and right light-emitting groups G1 in the fourth row from the top will be referred to as the "fourth visible light section 10D" (see FIG. 2).

[0132] The first light emitting module 11 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) may have one or more light emitting elements and a lens portion that covers the light emitting elements. The light emitting elements are, for example, LED (Light Emitting Diode) elements. The first light emitting module 11 is, for example, a packaged LED module, and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0133] The first light-emitting module 11 emits light in a specific color other than white when the state of the load L1 is the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17. Here, as an example, the specific color is a warm color and red. Here, as an example, the first light-emitting module 11 emits light in red when the corresponding lighting load B1 (load L1) is in a lighting state (or may be in a dimmed lighting state). For example, the first light-emitting module 11 has one or more red LED elements. However, the specific color is not limited to red as long as it is other than white. The specific color may be a warm color and green. Furthermore, the specific color is not limited to a warm color. The specific color may be a cool color (e.g., blue). In other words, the specific color may be a warm color or a cool color.

[0134] The second light-emitting module 12 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) may have one or more light-emitting elements and a lens portion that covers the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting elements are, for example, LED elements. The second light-emitting module 12 is, for example, a package-type LED module, and is surface-mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0135] The second light-emitting module 12 emits white light when the state of the load L1 is a second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17. Here, as an example, the second light-emitting module 12 emits white light when the corresponding lighting load B1 (load L1) is in an off state. The second light-emitting module 12 may have, for example, red, green, and blue LED elements, and white light may be emitted from the lens unit by combining the light colors of these LED elements. Alternatively, the second light-emitting module 12 may generate white light using a phosphor. For example, the second light-emitting module 12 may include a blue LED element and a yellow phosphor, and white light may be emitted from the lens unit by combining blue light and yellow light generated by exciting the blue light with the phosphor.

[0136] The left and right first visible light units 10A are disposed corresponding to the first operation unit 3A. More specifically, the left and right first visible light units 10A are positioned so as to overlap the corresponding first operation unit 3A when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch group 6A is pressed by the first operation unit 3A (i.e., when viewed from the front). The first first switch 61 and the second first switch 62 pressed by the first operation unit 3A are located between the left and right first visible light units 10A. The right first visible light unit 10A faces the right opening 20A and also faces the right portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3A. Visible light from the right first visible light unit 10A is guided to the outside through the first optical member 41 on the right side of the first operation unit 3A. The left first visible light unit 10A faces the left opening 20A and also faces the left portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3A. The visible light from the left first visible light unit 10A is guided to the outside from the left first optical member 41 of the first operation unit 3A.

[0137] The left and right second visible light units 10B are disposed corresponding to the first operation unit 3B. More specifically, the left and right second visible light units 10B are positioned so as to overlap the corresponding first operation unit 3B when viewed from the pressing direction in which the second switch group 6B is pressed by the first operation unit 3B (i.e., when viewed from the front). The first first switch 61 and the second first switch 62 pressed by the first operation unit 3B are located between the left and right second visible light units 10B. The right second visible light unit 10B faces the right opening 20B and also faces the right portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3B. Visible light from the right second visible light unit 10B is guided to the outside through the first optical member 41 on the right side of the first operation unit 3B. The left second visible light unit 10B faces the left opening 20B and also faces the left portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3B. The visible light from the left second visible light unit 10B is guided to the outside from the left first optical member 41 of the first operation unit 3B.

[0138] The left and right third visible light units 10C are disposed corresponding to the first operation unit 3C. More specifically, the left and right third visible light units 10C are positioned so as to overlap the corresponding first operation unit 3C when viewed from the pressing direction in which the third switch group 6C is pressed by the first operation unit 3C (i.e., when viewed from the front). The first first switch 61 and the second first switch 62 pressed by the first operation unit 3C are located between the left and right third visible light units 10C. The right third visible light unit 10C faces the right opening 20C and also faces the right portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3C. Visible light from the right third visible light unit 10C is guided to the outside through the first optical member 41 on the right side of the first operation unit 3C. The left third visible light unit 10C faces the left opening 20C and also faces the left portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3C. The visible light from the left third visible light unit 10C is guided to the outside from the left first optical member 41 of the first operation unit 3C.

[0139] The left and right fourth visible light units 10D are disposed corresponding to the first operation unit 3D. More specifically, the left and right fourth visible light units 10D are provided at positions overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3D when viewed from the pressing direction in which the fourth switch group 6D is pressed by the first operation unit 3D (i.e., when viewed from the front). The first first switch 61 and the second first switch 62 pressed by the first operation unit 3D are located between the left and right fourth visible light units 10D. The right fourth visible light unit 10D faces the right opening 20D and also faces the right portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3D. Visible light from the right fourth visible light unit 10D is guided to the outside through the first optical member 41 on the right side of the first operation unit 3D. The left fourth visible light unit 10D faces the left opening 20D and also faces the left portion of the opening 30 of the first operation unit 3D. The visible light from the left fourth visible light unit 10D is guided to the outside from the left first optical member 41 of the first operation unit 3D.

[0140] As described above, each of the multiple second light-emitting units 10 (i.e., first visible light unit 10A to fourth visible light unit 10D) is provided at a position overlapping with a corresponding one of the multiple first operating units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operating unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front).

[0141] (2-2-5) Mounting frame The mounting frame 5 is a member to which the four first operating units 3 and the housing 2 are attached. As shown in FIG. 4, the mounting frame 5 is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame with an opening 50 in the center for accommodating the housing 2. The mounting frame 5 is made of, for example, metal. As described above, the mounting frame 5 has the same dimensions as the mounting frame of a single switch. As described above, the mounting frame 5 has a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) into which the eight mounting claws 216A of the housing 2 are hooked. Note that the mounting frame 5 does not have to be a component of the controller 1.

[0142] The mounting frame 5 can be screwed to a mounting member such as a switch box. That is, for example, a mounting hole is formed in the mounting object such as a wall, and a mounting member such as a recessed switch box is placed on the back side (behind the wall) of the mounting object. The controller 1 is attached to the mounting object through the mounting hole by screwing the mounting frame 5 to the mounting member. A decorative plate K1 (see FIG. 14) can be attached around the front of the controller 1 to hide the mounting hole.

[0143] (2-2-6) Quick-connect terminal block The quick-connect terminal block 8 is mounted on the second mounting surface 7B (rear surface) of the substrate 7. The quick-connect terminal block 8 accommodates a plurality of (four in this example) quick-connect terminals therein. In this embodiment, the quick-connect terminal block 8 has four quick-connect terminals corresponding to a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82. The quick-connect terminal block 8 also has four wire insertion holes 80 (see FIG. 5) for respectively introducing four transmission lines 112, which are wired from the switch box side, into the four quick-connect terminals.

[0144] The rear surface 22C of the case 22 (see FIG. 5) has a window hole for exposing the quick-connect terminal block 8 to the outside of the housing 2. The quick-connect terminal block 8 is inserted into the window hole of the case 22 in a state where it is mounted on the board 7, and is exposed to the outside by protruding rearward from the rear surface 22C.

[0145] (3) Effects The controller 1 according to this embodiment includes a first operation unit 3, a first switch 6, a wireless communication unit 95, a second operation unit 91, and a housing 2. The first operation unit 3 has an operation surface 31A that accepts a first operation for switching the state of the load L1. The first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 that accepts the first operation. The wireless communication unit 95 performs wireless communication with the information terminal X1. The second operation unit 91 accepts a second operation for performing terminal settings, which are settings related to the information terminal X1. The housing 2 houses the wireless communication unit 95, and the first operation unit 3 and the second operation unit 91 are provided so as to be operable from outside. The first operation unit 3 is attached to the housing 2 so as to cover the second operation unit 91 at a position where the first switch 6 can be pressed in response to the first operation and where the first operation unit 3 is not in contact with the second operation unit 91 during the first operation. As a result, a user who performs settings related to the information terminal X1 can perform settings related to the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 communicates by removing the first operation unit 3 from the housing 2 and operating the second operation unit 91. In other words, the controller 1 of this embodiment has the advantage that settings related to the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 communicates can be easily performed.

[0146] In the controller 1 according to the present embodiment, the terminal settings accepted by the second operation unit 91 include pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1. This has the advantage that pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 can be easily performed.

[0147] In the controller 1 according to this embodiment, an application runs on the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 communicates, performing at least one of presetting related to the setting for switching the state of the load L1 and state control for controlling the state of the load L1 when the first switch 6 is pressed. The terminal settings accepted by the second operation unit 91 include application settings, which are settings related to the applications running on the information terminal X1. This has the advantage of making it easy to set up the applications running on the information terminal X1.

[0148] In the controller 1 according to this embodiment, the application settings include the deletion or initialization of stored information used in the operation of the application and stored in the storage unit 18. This has the advantage that the information used in the operation of the application can be easily deleted or initialized.

[0149] In the controller 1 according to the present embodiment, the information used for application operation and stored in the storage unit 18 includes a password used for pairing the application between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1. This has the advantage that the password can be easily deleted or initialized if the set password is forgotten, for example.

[0150] In the controller 1 according to the present embodiment, when the password is deleted or initialized by the second operation, the information stored in the storage unit 18 that is different from the password is maintained in the storage unit 18 in the state before the password was deleted or initialized. This has the advantage that by maintaining the load address in the storage unit 18 when the password is deleted or initialized by the second operation, it is possible to prevent the state of the load from being unintentionally switched when the first operation is performed on the first operation unit 3.

[0151] The controller 1 according to this embodiment further includes a first light-emitting unit 93 that emits light in response to a second operation received by the second operation unit 91. The first operation unit 3 is attached to the housing 2 so as to cover the first light-emitting unit 93. This has the advantage of improving the design of the controller 1.

[0152] The controller 1 according to this embodiment includes a first operation unit 3 and a plurality of first switches 6. The first operation units 3 and the first switches 6 are aligned in a pressing direction in which the first switches 6 are pressed by the first operation units 3. The plurality of first operation units 3 are aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of first switches 6 is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. When the corresponding first operation unit 3 receives a first operation, the corresponding first switch 6 is pressed by the corresponding first operation unit 3. The second operation unit 91 and the first light-emitting unit 93 are provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. This has the advantage that the user can easily perform terminal settings on the second operation unit 91 and easily check the lighting state of the first light-emitting unit 93 by removing only the first operation unit 3 that is provided at a position overlapping the second operation unit 91 and the first light-emitting unit 93.

[0153] Unlike the first light-emitting unit 93, the operating device 1 according to this embodiment includes a second light-emitting unit 10 that emits light in response to a first operation received by the first operating unit 3. The first operating unit 3 has an optical member 4 that is translucent or light-guiding, and is attached to the cover 21 of the housing 2 so as to cover the second light-emitting unit 10 in a state in which light emitted from the second light-emitting unit 10 passes through the optical member 4. This has the advantage that it becomes easier to visually determine the state of the load L1.

[0154] The controller 1 according to this embodiment includes a first operation unit 3, a first switch 6, and a plurality of second light-emitting units 10. The first operation units 3 and the first switches 6 are aligned in a pressing direction in which the first switches 6 are pressed by the first operation unit 3. The plurality of first operation units 3 are aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of first switches 6 is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. When the corresponding first operation unit 3 receives a first operation, the corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units 3 is pressed by the corresponding first operation unit 3. Each of the plurality of second light-emitting units 10 emits light in response to the first operation received by the corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units 3, and is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. The second operation unit 91 and the first light-emitting unit 93 are provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. This has the advantage that the user can easily perform terminal settings on the second operation unit 91 by removing only the first operation unit 3, which is located in a position overlapping the second operation unit 91 and the first light-emitting unit 93, and can also easily check the lighting status of the first light-emitting unit 93.

[0155] In the actuator 1 according to this embodiment, the first operation for switching the state of the load L1 is to press at least one of the ends of the operation surface 31A in the first direction D1. The first operation unit 3 is attached to the housing 2 so that at least one of the ends pressed by the first operation is displaced and presses the first switch 6. The first switch 6 and the second operation unit 91 are provided at different positions in the first direction D1 when viewed from a second direction D2 that intersects with the first direction D1. This has the advantage that when a pressing operation is performed on the first operation unit 3, it is possible to prevent the second operation unit 91 from erroneously accepting an operation.

[0156] The controller 1 according to this embodiment includes a second switch 92 that is pressed by a second operation unit 91 that has received a second operation. The first operation unit 3 and the first switch 6 are aligned in a pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3. The housing 2 includes a first pressing unit 210 and a second pressing unit 240. The first pressing unit 210 is positioned so as to overlap the first switch 6 when viewed from the pressing direction, and transmits the first operation received by the first operation unit 3 to the first switch 6. The second pressing unit 240 is positioned so as to overlap the second switch 92 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3, and functions as the second operation unit 91. This has the advantage that when a pressing operation is performed on the first operation unit 3 and the first pressing unit 210 is pressed by the first operation unit 3, it is possible to prevent the second switch 92 from being accidentally pressed.

[0157] The controller 1 according to this embodiment includes a first operation unit 3 and a plurality of first switches 6. The first operation units 3 and the first switches 6 are aligned in a pressing direction in which the first switches 6 are pressed by the first operation units 3. The plurality of first operation units 3 are aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of first switches 6 is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. When the corresponding first operation unit 3 receives a first operation, the corresponding first switch 6 is pressed by the corresponding first operation unit 3. The second operation unit 91 is provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction. This has the advantage that the user can easily perform terminal settings on the second operation unit 91 by removing only the first operation unit 3 that is positioned overlapping the second operation unit 91.

[0158] The communication system 110 according to this embodiment includes the controller 1 and a communication device 111 (controller) that controls communication between the controller 1 and the load L1. This has the advantage of providing a communication system that allows easy configuration of the information terminal X1 with which the wireless communication unit 95 communicates.

[0159] (4) Variations The above-described embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The above-described embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. The following modifications may be implemented in appropriate combination. The same components as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0160] (4-1) First Modification Whereas the controller 1 of the above-described embodiment is provided with four first operating units 3 corresponding to seesaw-type operating handles, the controller 1A of the first modified example differs from the controller 1 in that it is provided with four first operating units 3 corresponding to cantilever-type operating handles. The number of first switches 6 and the like provided in the controller 1A also differs from that of the controller 1. Hereinafter, when the four first operating units 3 of the controller 1A are described separately from one another, they may be referred to as, from top to bottom, first operating unit 3E, first operating unit 3F, first operating unit 3G, and first operating unit 3H (see FIG. 15 ).

[0161] The configuration of the controller 1A (operation terminal) of the first modified example will be described in detail below. In the following description, the directions of the controller 1A will be defined based on the disembodied arrows in the up / down, left / right, and front / rear directions shown in Figures 15 and 17, but this is not intended to limit the direction in which the controller 1A can be used.

[0162] Controller 1A of the first modified example includes a housing 2, a plurality (four in FIG. 15) of first operating units 3 (operating handles), a plurality (four in FIG. 16) of first switches (push buttons) 6, a second operating unit 91, a second switch 92, a circuit board 7, a mounting frame 5, and a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 17). Controller 1A of the first modified example also includes a signal processing unit 15, a first light-emitting unit 93, a plurality (four in FIG. 16) of second light-emitting units 10, a wireless communication unit 95, a communication unit 17 that communicates with communication device 111, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19 (see FIG. 15).

[0163] The second light-emitting unit 10 of the controller 1A includes a plurality of (four in FIG. 16) light-emitting groups G1. Each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting module 11 and a second light-emitting module 12, as shown in FIG.

[0164] (1st operation section) Each first operation unit 3 corresponds to a cantilever-type operation handle, with one of its left and right ends (here, the left end) supported by the housing 2, and when the other end (here, the right end) is pressed, the other displaces backward, with the other end serving as a fulcrum. The number of first switches 6 pressed by each first operation unit 3 is one (i.e., a total of four for the entire controller 1A). That is, each first operation unit 3 corresponds to one first switch 6. The one first switch 6 corresponding to each first operation unit 3 is arranged on the right side of the first mounting surface 7A of the substrate 7.

[0165] Each first operating unit 3 accepts an operation to switch the state of a load L1 (for example, a lighting load B1 or a relay Ry1 shown in FIG. 14). In the first modified example, each first operating unit 3 can switch the state of the corresponding load L1 by turning on a first switch 6 arranged on the right side of the first mounting surface 7A. The four first operating units 3 are arranged so as to be aligned vertically when viewed from the front. As shown in FIGS. 17 to 20, each first operating unit 3 of the first modified example includes a main body 31, a nameplate 32, a cover 33, and an optical member 4A.

[0166] The main body 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left-right direction when viewed from the front. In the first modification, each right portion of the opening 30 can emit light (such as light from the first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12) emitted from the housing-side opening 20 of the housing 2. The first light-emitting module 11 and the second light-emitting module 12 are arranged in each right portion of the opening 30 so as to be aligned in the short-side direction of the opening 30 (here, the up-down direction).

[0167] In the first modified example, a pressing operation on the first operation unit 3 is performed when the user applies pressure to an area near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3 with a fingertip or the like.

[0168] The main body 31 has a locking portion 311 corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at the right end of the rear surface 31B thereof (see FIGS. 18, 19, and 20). The length of each locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 of the first modified example is set shorter than the length of each locking piece 3100 of the first locking portion 311 of the operating device 1.

[0169] The first modified example does not include the second locking portion 312 that is provided at the left end of the rear surface 31B of the operating device 1. Instead, in the first modified example, the main body 31 has a holding portion 314A that corresponds to the attachment portion 3X at the left end of the rear surface 31B (see FIGS. 19 and 20).

[0170] The holding portion 314A holds a pair of rotation shafts 230A (see FIGS. 18 and 21) of the support portion 23A provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2. The holding portion 314A has a recess recessed in the front, and the pair of rotation shafts 230A are press-fitted into the recess. A substantially rectangular leaf spring-like auxiliary member 24 (see FIGS. 18 and 20) is also fitted into the recess to assist the first operating unit 3 in returning to its original position after the pressing operation. As a result, the main body 31 (i.e., the first operating unit 3) is supported by the support portion 23A, and the right end portion of the first operating unit 3 can rotate within a predetermined angle range around the pair of rotation shafts 230A as a fulcrum (see the double-headed arrow on the right side of the first operating unit 3H in FIG. 22).

[0171] In short, in the first modified example, the first operating unit 3 has an attachment portion 3X for attachment to the housing 2, and the attachment portion 3X includes the locking portion 311 and the holding portion 314A described above.

[0172] The optical member 4A of the first modified example is formed into an L-shaped plate as a whole. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 18 to 20 , the optical member 4A includes a right-side first optical member 41 that covers the right portion of the opening 30, and a second optical member 42 that covers the entire area of ​​the opening 30 except for the right portion. In other words, the left-side first optical member 41 that is provided in the optical member 4 of the controller 1 in the first embodiment described above is not provided in the optical member 4A of the first modified example. The right-side first optical member 41 and the second optical member 42 are a single member formed as a continuous, integrated unit, but they may also be separate members.

[0173] When attaching the first operating unit 3 configured in this manner to the housing 2, for example, the locking pieces 3100 of the locking portion 311 are inserted from the front into the corresponding locking holes 212 (see FIG. 21 ), and the first operating unit 3 is pushed rearward so that the rotation shaft 230A fits into the recess of the holding portion 314A. As a result, the main body 31 is supported by the support portion 23A, and each locking piece 3100 is stably positioned within the locking hole 212.

[0174] Even if the main body 31 is pulled toward you, the tip of the locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 is caught on the periphery of the locking hole 212. This prevents the main body 31 from coming off the support portion 23A. As a result, the first operating unit 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0175] (Housing) In the first modified example, a first operating unit 3 (i.e., an operating handle) is provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 so as to be operable from the outside. More specifically, the cover 21 of the first modified example has a plurality of (four in this case) support parts 23A arranged near the left end so as to be aligned in the vertical direction when viewed from the front, as shown in Fig. 21. Each support part 23A has a pair of rotation shafts 230A that fit into the recesses of the corresponding first operating unit 3, as described above.

[0176] 21, the cover 21 of the first modification has a plurality of (four in this example) first pressing portions 210 arranged in a vertical line in a front view. Each of the four first pressing portions 210 is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding first switch 6 among the plurality of first switches 6 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operating unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front), and transmits a first operation received by the first operating unit 3 to the corresponding first switch 6. The four first pressing portions 210 are arranged to correspond to the four support portions 23A, respectively. Each first pressing portion 210 transmits a pressing operation from the first operating unit 3 supported by the corresponding support portion 23A to the right-side first switch 6 (first first switch 61). As shown in FIG. 17, each first pressing portion 210 has an extension portion 213 extending to the right and a pressing piece 211 provided on the back side of the tip portion 213A. The tip 213A of each extension portion 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum. As shown in FIG. 17, each extension portion 213 extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip 213A. Therefore, when the user presses the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate amount of stress is applied from the extension portion 213 side. As a result, the operation feel is improved.

[0177] For example, when a right side of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of a certain first operation unit 3 is pressed, a pair of contact portions 334 on the right side on the back surface of the cover portion 33 of the first operation unit 3 transmits the pressure to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the extension portion 213. As a result, the extension portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, the tip portion 213A is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the first switch 6 on the right side. When the user finishes pressing the extension portion 213, which has been pressed, elastically returns to its original position, and the "pressing" of the first switch 6 by the tip portion 213A is released.

[0178] Moreover, the cover 21 of the first modified example has a plurality of (here, a total of eight) locking holes 212 (see FIG. 21). The eight locking holes 212 (212A to 212H) are aligned in a line in the vertical direction near the right end of the front surface 21A.

[0179] Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating unit 3E are inserted into the locking holes 212A and 212B, respectively. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating unit 3F are inserted into the locking holes 212C and 212D, respectively. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating unit 3G are inserted into the locking holes 212E and 212F, respectively. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operating unit 3H are inserted into the locking holes 212G and 212H, respectively.

[0180] As shown in FIG. 21 , the cover 21 of the first modified example has one or more (here, a total of four) housing-side openings 20. Each housing-side opening 20 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each housing-side opening 20 is formed in a slit shape. Each housing-side opening 20 is elongated in the up-down direction. As shown in FIG. 21 , the four housing-side openings 20 (openings 20A to 20D) are lined up in the up-down direction between the right-hand row of eight locking holes 212A to 212H and the four first pressing portions 210 lined up in the center, in a front view of the front surface 21A. Each of the four first operating portions 3 is arranged to cover the corresponding right housing-side opening 20. That is, the first operating portion 3 is arranged to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0181] The first operating part 3E covers the opening 20A. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20A is arranged to overlap at least a part (here, substantially the entirety) of the right part of the opening 30 on the right side of the first operating part 3E.

[0182] The first operating part 3F covers the opening 20B. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20B is arranged to overlap at least a part (here, substantially the entirety) of the right part of the opening 30 on the right side of the first operating part 3F.

[0183] The first operating part 3G covers the opening 20C. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20C is arranged to overlap at least a part (here, substantially the entirety) of the right portion of the opening 30 on the right side of the first operating part 3G.

[0184] The first operating part 3H covers the opening 20D. In particular, in a front view, the opening 20D is arranged to overlap at least a part (here, substantially the entirety) of the right portion of the opening 30 on the right side of the first operating part 3H.

[0185] (2nd operation section) The second operation unit 91 is arranged corresponding to one of the multiple first operation units 3. More specifically, the second operation unit 91 is provided at a position overlapping one of the multiple first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). In the first modified example, the second operation unit 91 is provided at a position overlapping a first operation unit 3F of the four first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3, as shown in FIG.

[0186] 15, in the first modified example, the four first switches 6 and the second operation unit 91 are provided at different positions in the first direction D1 when viewed from a second direction D2 (vertical direction) that intersects (here, is perpendicular to) the first direction D1 (horizontal direction), which is the direction in which both pressed ends of the operation surface 31A face each other. That is, the four first switches 6 and the second operation unit 91 are provided at positions that do not overlap in the second direction D2. Note that the second direction D2 here is the widthwise direction of the first operation unit 3 and the lengthwise direction of the housing 2. The above configuration has the advantage that it is possible to prevent the second operation unit 91 from erroneously accepting an operation when the first operation unit 3 is pressed.

[0187] The second operation unit 91 is provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 at a position overlapping the second switch 92 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). That is, the cover 21 of the housing 2 has a second pressing unit 240 that is provided at a position overlapping the second switch 92 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3, and functions as the second operation unit 91. The second pressing unit 240 is formed in a circular shape when viewed from the front. The upper end of the second pressing unit 240 and the cover 21 of the housing 2 are connected by a connecting unit 241A. The connecting unit 241A is formed in a long rectangular shape when viewed from the front. The connecting unit 241A extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base of the cover 21 toward the tip on the second pressing unit 240 side. Therefore, when the user presses second pressing portion 240 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate amount of stress is applied from the connecting portion 241A side.

[0188] (1st switch) Each of the four first switches 6 is pressed by a corresponding first operating unit 3 that has accepted the first operation. More specifically, each of the four first switches 6 is pressed by the tip of a first pressing unit 210 that has been pressed by a corresponding first operating unit 3 that has accepted the first operation.

[0189] The four first switches 6 of the first modified example are provided on the substrate 7, as shown in Fig. 16. The four first switches 6 are lined up in a vertical row near the right end of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface) when viewed from the front. Each first switch 6 is a so-called tactile switch that turns on when pressed and turns off when released.

[0190] The first switch 6 from the top is disposed corresponding to the first operation unit 3E. More specifically, the first switch 6 from the top is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3E when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 from the top is pressed by the first operation unit 3E (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3E is pressed, the first switch 6 is turned on.

[0191] The second-highest first switch 6 is arranged corresponding to the first operation unit 3F. More specifically, the second-highest first switch 6 is turned on when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3F, which is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3F when viewed from the pressing direction in which the second-highest first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3F (i.e., when viewed from the front), is pressed.

[0192] The third first switch 6 from the top is arranged to correspond to the first operation unit 3G. More specifically, the third first switch 6 from the top is provided at a position that overlaps with the corresponding first operation unit 3G when viewed from the pressing direction in which the third first switch 6 from the top is pressed by the first operation unit 3G (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3G is pressed, the first switch 6 is turned on.

[0193] The fourth first switch 6 from the top is disposed in correspondence with the first operation unit 3H. More specifically, the fourth first switch 6 from the top is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operation unit 3H when viewed from the pressing direction in which the fourth first switch 6 from the top is pressed by the first operation unit 3E (i.e., when viewed from the front). When the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the first operation unit 3H is pressed, the first switch 6 is turned on.

[0194] As described above, each of the multiple first switches 6 is provided at a position that overlaps with a corresponding first operating unit 3 among the multiple first operating units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operating unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front), and when the corresponding first operating unit 3 accepts the first operation, the first switch 6 is pressed by the corresponding first operating unit 3 and turns on.

[0195] Every time the first operating unit 3 receives a pressing operation and the corresponding first switch 6 is turned on, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111. That is, the communication unit 17 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 based on the operation accepted by the first operating unit 3. The communication unit 17 also receives a status signal related to the status of the load L1.

[0196] (First light-emitting part) Any one of the four first operating units 3 is attached to the housing 2 (cover 21) so as to cover the first light-emitting unit 93. In the first modified example, the first operating unit 3F is attached to the housing 2 (cover 21) so as to cover the first light-emitting unit 93. With this configuration, the user can check the light-emitting state of the first light-emitting unit 93 only when the first operating unit 3 (first operating unit 3F in the first modified example) covering the first light-emitting unit 93 is removed. This has the advantage of improving the design of the controller 1.

[0197] In the first modified example, the first light-emitting unit 93 also emits light intermittently in a specific color when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings including pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1. Furthermore, the first light-emitting unit 93 flashes light in a specific color when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings (details of which will be described later) including deletion or initialization of stored information used for operation of an application of the information terminal X1 and stored in the storage unit 18. Here, as an example, the specific color is a cool color, i.e., blue. Here, as an example, the first light-emitting unit 93 emits light intermittently in blue when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings including pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1, which will be described later. Furthermore, the first light-emitting unit 93 flashes light in blue when the second operation unit 91 receives terminal settings including deletion or initialization of stored information used for operation of an application of the information terminal X1 and stored in the storage unit 18. Note that the "intermittent light emission" here refers to repeating a light-emitting state and a light-stopped state at regular intervals.

[0198] The first light-emitting unit 93 is arranged corresponding to one of the multiple first operation units 3. More specifically, the first light-emitting unit 93 is provided at a position overlapping with one of the multiple first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front). In the first modified example, the first light-emitting unit 93 is provided at a position overlapping with a first operation unit 3F of the multiple first operation units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operation unit 3, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

[0199] (Second light-emitting part) The four light-emitting groups G1 of the second light-emitting unit 10 of the first modified example are provided on the substrate 7, as shown in Fig. 16. Here, the four light-emitting groups G1 are arranged so as to correspond to the four first operation units 3, respectively. That is, one light-emitting group G1 is arranged so as to correspond to one first operation unit 3. The first light-emitting module 11 and second light-emitting module 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged so as to line up in the longitudinal direction (here, the up-and-down direction) of the (corresponding) housing-side opening 20.

[0200] In the first modified example, the first light-emitting module 11 also emits light in red (specific color) when the state of the load L1 is the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17. However, the specific color is not limited to red as long as it is a color other than white. The specific color may be a warm color or green. Furthermore, the specific color is not limited to a warm color. The specific color may be a cool color (e.g., blue). In other words, the specific color may be a warm color or a cool color.

[0201] In the first modified example as well, when the state signal received by the communication unit 17 indicates that the state of the load L1 is the second state, the second light-emitting module 12 emits white light.

[0202] First visible light unit 10A (see FIG. 16) is disposed in correspondence with first operation unit 3E. More specifically, first visible light unit 10A is provided at a position overlapping with the corresponding first operation unit 3E when viewed from the pressing direction in which first switch 6, the first from the top, is pressed by first operation unit 3E (i.e., when viewed from the front). First visible light unit 10A faces opening 20A and also faces the right side of opening 30 of first operation unit 3E. Visible light from first visible light unit 10A is guided to the outside from first optical member 41 of first operation unit 3E.

[0203] Second visible light unit 10B (see FIG. 16) is disposed in correspondence with first operation unit 3F. More specifically, second visible light unit 10B is provided at a position overlapping with the corresponding first operation unit 3F when viewed from the pressing direction in which first switch 6, the second from the top, is pressed by first operation unit 3F (i.e., when viewed from the front). Second visible light unit 10B faces opening 20B and also faces the right side of opening 30 of first operation unit 3F. Visible light from second visible light unit 10B is guided to the outside through first optical member 41 of first operation unit 3F.

[0204] Third visible light unit 10C (see FIG. 16) is disposed in correspondence with first operation unit 3G. More specifically, third visible light unit 10C is provided at a position overlapping with the corresponding first operation unit 3G when viewed from the pressing direction in which first switch 6, the third from the top, is pressed by first operation unit 3G (i.e., when viewed from the front). Third visible light unit 10C faces opening 20C and also faces the right side of opening 30 of first operation unit 3G. Visible light from third visible light unit 10C is guided to the outside from first optical member 41 of first operation unit 3G.

[0205] Fourth visible light unit 10D (see FIG. 16) is disposed in correspondence with first operation unit 3H. More specifically, fourth visible light unit 10D is provided at a position overlapping with the corresponding first operation unit 3H when viewed from the pressing direction in which the fourth first switch 6 from the top is pressed by first operation unit 3H (i.e., when viewed from the front). Fourth visible light unit 10D faces opening 20D and also faces the right side of opening 30 of first operation unit 3H. Visible light from fourth visible light unit 10D is guided to the outside from first optical member 41 of first operation unit 3H.

[0206] As described above, in the first variant, each of the multiple second light-emitting units 10 (i.e., first visible light unit 10A to fourth visible light unit 10D) is provided at a position overlapping with a corresponding one of the multiple first operating units 3 when viewed from the pressing direction in which the first switch 6 is pressed by the first operating unit 3 (i.e., when viewed from the front).

[0207] (4-2) Other Modifications Other variations of the above-described embodiment are listed below. The following variations may be realized in appropriate combination.

[0208] The controller 1, 1A, communication device 111 (controller), etc. in the present disclosure include a computer system. A computer system is primarily composed of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program stored in the memory of the computer system to realize the functions of the controller 1, 1A, communication device 111, etc. in the present disclosure. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided by being stored on a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integration (VLSI), or ultra-large-scale integration (ULSI). Furthermore, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which is programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or a logic device capable of reconfiguring the connections within the LSI or the circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be employed as a processor. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated into a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, a microcontroller may also be composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0209] Furthermore, it is not essential that multiple functions of each of the controllers 1, 1A, the communication device 111, etc. are integrated into one housing. The components of each of the controllers 1, 1A, the communication device 111, etc. may be distributed across multiple housings. Conversely, multiple functions of each of the controllers 1, 1A, the communication device 111, etc. may be integrated into one housing. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of each of the controllers 1, 1A, the communication device 111, etc., for example, some of the functions of the communication device 111, may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0210] Specifically, in the above-described embodiment, the controller 1 includes the storage unit 18, but the storage unit 18 may be provided in a device different from the controller 1. For example, a server or the like located in a remote location away from the facility where the controller 1 is installed may function as the storage unit 18.

[0211] In the above-described embodiment, the controller 1 includes a plurality of first operation units 3 and a plurality of first switches 6. However, the controller 1 may include a housing 2, one first operation unit 3, and one first switch 6. In other words, the number of first operation units 3 and first switches 6 is not limited.

[0212] In the above-described embodiment, the application setting includes deleting or initializing a password used for pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1. However, the application setting may also include deleting or initializing setting information in which a combination of a load L1 to be controlled and a desired state of the load L1 is pre-set. The setting information here is information used for the purpose of shortening the time required for selection when performing state control to control the state of the load L1 in the application by pre-setting the above combinations that are frequently selected in the application.

[0213] (summary) The first embodiment of the operating device (1, 1A) includes a first operating unit (3), a switch (6), a wireless communication unit (95), a second operating unit (91), and a housing (2). The first operating unit (3) has an operating surface (31A) that accepts a first operation. The switch (6) is pressed by the first operating unit (3) that has accepted the first operation. The wireless communication unit (95) communicates wirelessly with the information terminal (X1). The second operating unit (91) is at least partially covered by the first operating unit (3) and is positioned in a position that is not in contact with the first operating unit (3) during the first operation. The second operating unit (91) accepts a second operation for performing terminal settings, which are settings related to the information terminal (X1). The housing (2) houses the wireless communication unit (95), and the first operating unit (3) and the second operating unit (91) are provided so as to be operable from the outside.

[0214] This embodiment has the advantage that it is easy to set up the information terminal (X1) with which the wireless communication unit (95) communicates.

[0215] In the controller (1, 1A) of the second aspect, in the first aspect, the terminal setting includes pairing between the wireless communication unit (95) and the information terminal (X1).

[0216] This embodiment has the advantage that pairing between the wireless communication unit 95 and the information terminal X1 can be easily performed.

[0217] In the third embodiment of the controller (1, 1A), in the first or second embodiment, the first operation is an operation to change the state of the load. In the information terminal (X1), when the switch (6) is pressed, an application runs that performs at least one of presetting related to the setting of switching the state of the load (L1) and state control that controls the state of the load (L1). The terminal setting includes an application setting that is a setting related to the application.

[0218] This embodiment has the advantage that it is easy to set up the applications that run on the information terminal (X1).

[0219] In the fourth aspect of the controller (1, 1A), in the third aspect, the application settings include deletion or initialization of stored information used for the operation of the application and stored in the storage unit (18).

[0220] This aspect has the advantage that information used for the operation of an application can be easily deleted or initialized.

[0221] In the controller (1, 1A) of the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the stored information includes a password used in the pairing operation between the wireless communication unit (95) and the information terminal (X1) in the application.

[0222] This embodiment has the advantage that the password can be easily deleted or initialized.

[0223] In the sixth aspect of the operating device (1, 1A), when the password is deleted or initialized by the second operation in the fifth aspect, the information that is different from the password among the stored information is maintained in the memory unit (18) in the state before the password was deleted or initialized.

[0224] This aspect has the advantage that it is possible to prevent the state of the load (L1) from being unintentionally switched by the first operation received by the first operating portion (3).

[0225] The operating device (1, 1A) of a seventh aspect is any one of the first to sixth aspects, and further includes a light emitting unit (93) that emits light in response to the second operation. The first operating unit (3) is attached to the housing (2) so as to cover the light emitting unit (93).

[0226] This embodiment has the advantage of improving the design of the operating device (1, 1A).

[0227] The operating device (1, 1A) of the eighth aspect is the seventh aspect and includes a plurality of first operating units (3) and switches (6). The first operating units (3) and the switches (6) are aligned in a pressing direction, which is a direction in which the switches (6) are pressed by the first operating units (3). The plurality of first operating units (3) are aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of switches (6) is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operating units (3) when viewed from the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of switches (6) is pressed by the corresponding first operating unit (3) when the corresponding first operating unit (3) accepts a first operation. The second operating unit (91) and the light-emitting unit (93) are provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operating units (3) when viewed from the pressing direction.

[0228] This embodiment has the advantage that the terminal settings can be easily performed on the second operation unit (91) and the lighting state of the first light emitting unit (93) can be easily confirmed.

[0229] The operating device (1, 1A) of the ninth aspect is the light-emitting unit (93) of the seventh or eighth aspect, and further includes a second light-emitting unit (10) that emits light in response to a first operation, different from the first light-emitting unit (93). The first operating unit (3) has an optical member that is translucent or light-guiding. The first operating unit (3) is attached to the housing (2) so as to cover the second light-emitting unit (10) in a state in which light emitted from the second light-emitting unit (10) passes through the optical member.

[0230] This embodiment has the advantage that the state of the load (L1) can be easily determined visually.

[0231] The operating device (1, 1A) of a tenth aspect is the ninth aspect and includes a plurality of first operating units (3), switches (6), and second light-emitting units (10). The first operating units (3) and the switches (6) are aligned in a pressing direction, which is a direction in which the switches (6) are pressed by the first operating units (3). The plurality of first operating units (3) are aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of switches (6) is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operating units (3) when viewed from the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of switches (6) is pressed by the corresponding first operating unit (3) when the corresponding first operating unit (3) accepts a first operation. Each of the plurality of second light-emitting units (10) emits light in response to the first operation accepted by the corresponding one of the plurality of first operating units (3). Each of the plurality of second light-emitting units (10) is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operating unit (3) when viewed from the pressing direction. The second operating unit (91) and the first light-emitting unit (93) are provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operating units (3) when viewed from the pressing direction.

[0232] This embodiment has the advantage that the terminal settings can be easily performed on the second operation unit (91) and the lighting state of the first light emitting unit (93) can be easily confirmed.

[0233] In an eleventh aspect of the operating device (1, 1A), in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the first operation is to press at least one of both end portions of the operating surface (31A) in a first direction (D1). The first operating part (3) is attached to the housing (2) so that at least one of the both end portions pressed by the first operation is displaced and presses the switch (6). The switch (6) and the second operating part (91) are provided at different positions in the first direction (D1) when viewed from a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1).

[0234] This embodiment has the advantage that when the first operating portion (3) is pressed, the second operating portion (91) can be prevented from erroneously accepting the operation.

[0235] The operating device (1, 1A) of a twelfth aspect is the switch (6) of any one of the first to eleventh aspects, and further includes a second switch (92) that is different from the first switch (6) and is pressed by the second operating unit (91) that receives a second operation. The first operating unit (3) and the first switch (6) are aligned in a pressing direction in which the first switch (6) is pressed by the first operating unit (3). The housing (2) has a first pressing unit (210) and a second pressing unit (240). The first pressing unit (210) is provided at a position overlapping with the first switch (6) when viewed from the pressing direction, and transmits the first operation received by the first operating unit (3) to the first switch (6). The second pressing unit (240) is provided at a position overlapping with the second switch (92) when viewed from the pressing direction, and functions as the second operating unit (91).

[0236] According to this aspect, there is an advantage that when a pressing operation is performed on the first operating portion (3) and the first pressing portion (210) is pressed by the first operating portion (3), it is possible to prevent the second switch (92) from being pressed accidentally.

[0237] The operating device (1, 1A) of a thirteenth aspect is any one of the first to twelfth aspects and includes a plurality of first operating units (3) and switches (6). The first operating units (3) and the switches (6) are aligned in a pressing direction, which is a direction in which the switches (6) are pressed by the first operating units (3). The plurality of first operating units (3) are aligned in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of switches (6) is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operating units (3) when viewed from the pressing direction. Each of the plurality of switches (6) is pressed by the corresponding first operating unit (3) when the corresponding first operating unit (3) receives a first operation. The second operating unit (91) is provided at a position overlapping one of the plurality of first operating units (3) when viewed from the pressing direction.

[0238] This embodiment has the advantage that terminal settings can be easily performed on the second operation section (91).

[0239] A communication system (110) of a fourteenth aspect includes an operating device (1, 1A) according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects and a communication device (111). The communication device (111) controls communication between the operating device (1, 1A) and a load (L1) that is an operation target of a first operation.

[0240] This embodiment has the advantage of providing a communication system that allows easy setting of the information terminal (X1) with which the wireless communication unit (95) communicates. [Explanation of symbols]

[0241] 1, 1A controller 2. Case 210 First pressing part 240 Second pressing part 3 1st operation section 31A Operation surface 4. 4A Optical Components 6 First switch (switch) 10 Second light-emitting part 17 Communications Department 18 Memory section 91 2nd operation section 92 Second Switch 93 First light-emitting part (light-emitting part) 95 Radio Communication Department 110 Communication Systems 111 Communication equipment D1 1st direction D2 2nd direction L1 load X1 Information Terminal

Claims

1. a first operation unit having an operation surface that accepts a first operation; a switch that is pressed by the first operation unit that has received the first operation; a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with an information terminal; a second operation unit that is at least partially covered by the first operation unit, that is disposed at a position that does not contact the first operation unit during the first operation, and that accepts a second operation for performing terminal settings that are settings related to the information terminal; a housing that houses the wireless communication unit and on which the first operation unit and the second operation unit are provided so as to be operable from outside, Operator.

2. The terminal setting includes pairing between the wireless communication unit and the information terminal. The controller according to claim 1 .

3. the first operation is an operation for changing a state of a load, an application that performs at least one of presetting related to setting of switching of a state of a load when the switch is pressed and state control that controls the state of the load runs on the information terminal; The terminal settings include application settings that are settings related to the application. The controller according to claim 1 .

4. The application settings include deletion or initialization of information used for the operation of the application and stored in a storage unit. The operating device according to claim 3 .

5. the stored information includes a password used for pairing between the wireless communication unit and the information terminal in the application. The controller according to claim 4.

6. When the password is deleted or initialized by the second operation, information that is different from the password among the stored information is maintained in the storage unit in a state before the password is deleted or initialized. The controller according to claim 5 .

7. a light emitting unit that emits light in response to the second operation; The first operation unit is attached to the housing so as to cover the light emitting unit. The controller according to claim 1 .

8. a plurality of the first operation units and the switches; the first operation unit and the switch are aligned in a pressing direction in which the switch is pressed by the first operation unit, the plurality of first operation portions are arranged in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction, Each of the plurality of switches When viewed from the pressing direction, the pressing member is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operating portions, When the corresponding first operation unit receives the first operation, the corresponding first operation unit is pressed, the second operation unit and the light emitting unit are provided at positions overlapping with any one of the first operation units among the plurality of first operation units when viewed from the pressing direction; The controller according to claim 7.

9. The device further includes a second light-emitting unit that emits light in response to the first operation, different from the first light-emitting unit as the light-emitting unit, The first operation unit is an optical member having light-transmitting or light-guiding properties; the optical member is attached to the housing so as to cover the second light-emitting unit in a state in which light emitted from the second light-emitting unit is transmitted through the optical member; The controller according to claim 7.

10. a plurality of the first operation units, the switches, and the second light-emitting units; the first operation unit and the switch are aligned in a pressing direction in which the switch is pressed by the first operation unit, the plurality of first operation portions are arranged in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction, Each of the plurality of switches When viewed from the pressing direction, the pressing member is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operating portions, When the corresponding first operation unit receives the first operation, the corresponding first operation unit is pressed, Each of the plurality of second light-emitting units is a corresponding one of the plurality of first operation units emits light in response to the received first operation; the first operating portion is provided at a position overlapping the corresponding first operating portion when viewed from the pressing direction, the second operation unit and the first light-emitting unit are provided at positions overlapping with any one of the first operation units among the plurality of first operation units when viewed from the pressing direction; The controller according to claim 9.

11. the first operation is pressing at least one of both end portions of the operation surface in a first direction, the first operation unit is attached to the housing so that at least one of the two end portions stamped by the first operation is displaced and presses the switch; The switch and the second operation unit are provided at different positions in the first direction when viewed from a second direction intersecting the first direction. The controller according to claim 1 .

12. The switch further includes a second switch that is different from the first switch and is pressed by the second operation unit that has accepted the second operation. the first operation unit and the first switch are aligned in a pressing direction in which the first switch is pressed by the first operation unit, The housing includes: a first pressing portion that is provided at a position overlapping with the first switch when viewed from the pressing direction and that transmits the first operation received by the first operating portion to the first switch; a second pressing portion that is provided at a position overlapping with the second switch when viewed from the pressing direction and functions as the second operation portion; The controller according to claim 1 .

13. a plurality of the first operation units and the switches; the first operation unit and the switch are aligned in a pressing direction in which the switch is pressed by the first operation unit, the plurality of first operation portions are arranged in a predetermined direction intersecting the pressing direction, Each of the plurality of switches When viewed from the pressing direction, the pressing member is provided at a position overlapping a corresponding one of the plurality of first operating portions, When the corresponding first operation unit receives the first operation, the corresponding first operation unit is pressed, The second operation unit is provided at a position overlapping with any one of the first operation units when viewed from the pressing direction. The controller according to claim 1 .

14. An operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13; a communication device that controls communication between the controller and a load that is an operation target of the first operation, Communication system.

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