Operation input device

Abstract

To provide an operation input device which enables easily recognition of a position of a switch in switch operation without an eyesore of operation even at night.SOLUTION: An operation input device 1 includes: an operation panel 10; an approach detection part 200 for detecting approach of fingers to the operation panel 10; a switch part 42 that is provided on the operation panel 10 and inputs operation; a symbol mark 11 provided on the switch part 42; a light source part 45 and a light source part 48 for illuminating the symbol mark 11; and a control part 300 for turning the light source part 45 and the light source part 48 on in turned off states when approach of the fingers is detected by the approach detection part 200.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an operation input device. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, an overhead console disposed on the ceiling of a vehicle cabin is provided with illumination lamps, switches for the illumination lamps, and the like. The switch has a symbol mark indicating the object to be operated that is illuminated day or night, so the driver can easily identify the position of the switch. Techniques for recognizing switch positions in this type of vehicle interior lighting device and techniques for improving visibility have been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Furthermore, a touch switch has been used as the switch for the above-mentioned vehicle interior lighting device, and a device has been proposed in which the switch is operated by touching a light-emitting portion on which a symbol mark is displayed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-001296 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, devices that are operated by touching an illuminated part displaying a symbol mark have the problem that, for example, when driving at night and checking behind the driver in the rearview mirror, the illuminated symbol mark can get into the driver's field of vision, causing an eyesore.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an operation input device that does not obstruct driving even at night and allows the position of a switch to be easily recognized when operating the switch. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Mode 1: One or more embodiments of the present invention include an operation panel, a proximity detection unit that detects the approach of a finger to the operation panel, a switch unit that is provided on the operation panel and that inputs an operation, a symbol mark provided on the switch unit, a light source that illuminates the symbol mark, and a control unit that turns on the light source that is off when the approach detection unit detects the approach of a finger, The present invention proposes an operation input device characterized in that the switch unit is a first switch unit in which the symbol mark is lit when in the on state and the symbol mark is turned off when in the off state, and the control unit, when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, turns on the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the off state, and when the detection of the approach of the finger is released by the approach detection unit, keeps the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the on state lit and turns off the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the off state.

[0007] An operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention includes an operation panel, an approach detection unit that detects the approach of an operator's finger, a switch unit provided with a symbol mark illuminated by a light source, and a control unit that controls turning on and off the light source. When the approach detection unit detects the approach of a finger, the control unit turns on the light source that is off. That is, in the operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the operator's finger approaches the operation panel, a symbol mark is illuminated. Therefore, the symbol mark is turned off while driving, preventing it from being an eyesore when driving at night. In addition, when a finger approaches the operation panel, a symbol mark lights up, making it easy to identify the switch to be operated and the touch position. The operation input device includes a first switch portion in which a symbol mark is lit when in an on state and in which the symbol mark is unlit when in an off state. When the control unit detects the approach of a finger, it turns on the symbol mark, and when the detection of the approach of the finger is released, it keeps the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the on state turned on and turns off the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the off state. That is, in the operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when a finger is removed from the operation panel, the symbol mark of the switch portion in the ON state lights up. Therefore, even if the user's fingers are removed from the operation panel, the user can recognize the on state of the switch. Also, when the proximity detection unit detects the approach of a finger, the symbol mark of the switch in the off state is also lit, so that the user can easily turn the switch from the off state to the on state.

[0008] Form 2: In one or more embodiments of the present invention, The switch unit is a second switch unit in which the symbol mark is lit when in the off state and the symbol mark is turned off when in the on state, and the control unit, when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, turns on the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state, and when the detection of the approach of the finger is released by the approach detection unit, keeps the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the off state lit and turns off the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state.

[0009] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an operation input device includes: It is provided with a second switch portion in which the symbol mark is lit when in the off state and is turned off when in the on state. When the control unit detects the approach of a finger, it lights up the symbol mark, and when the detection of the approach of the finger is released, it keeps the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the off state lit and further turns off the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state. That is, in the operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the finger is removed from the operation panel, only the symbol mark of the switch portion in the off state is lit. Therefore, even if the fingers are removed from the operation panel, the off state of the switch can be recognized. Furthermore, when the approach of a finger is detected by the approach detection section, the symbol mark of the switch in the on state is also illuminated, so that the operation of turning the on switch into the off state can be easily performed.

[0010] Form 3: In one or more embodiments of the present invention, a control unit that turns on the light source when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, the control unit being configured to turn on the light source when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, the control unit being configured to turn on the light source when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, The switch unit is a second switch unit in which the symbol mark is lit when in the off state and the symbol mark is turned off when in the on state, and the control unit, when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, turns on the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state, and when the detection of the approach of the finger is released by the approach detection unit, keeps the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the off state lit and turns off the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state.

[0011] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, an operation input device includes: The device is equipped with an operation panel, an approach detection unit that detects the approach of an operator's finger, a switch unit provided with a symbol mark illuminated by a light source, and a control unit that controls the turning on and off of the light source. When the approach detection unit detects the approach of a finger, the control unit turns on the light source that is turned off. That is, in the operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the operator's finger approaches the operation panel, a symbol mark is illuminated. Therefore, the symbol mark is turned off while driving, preventing it from being an eyesore when driving at night. In addition, when a finger approaches the operation panel, a symbol mark lights up, making it easy to identify the switch to be operated and the touch position. The operation input device includes a second switch unit in which a symbol mark is turned on when in an off state and turned off when in an on state. The control unit turns on the symbol mark when it detects the approach of a finger, and when the detection of the approach of a finger is released, keeps the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the off state turned on and turns off the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state. That is, in the operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, when the finger is removed from the operation panel, only the symbol mark of the switch portion in the off state is lit. Therefore, even if the fingers are removed from the operation panel, the off state of the switch can be recognized. Furthermore, when the approach of a finger is detected by the approach detection section, the symbol mark of the switch in the on state is also illuminated, so that the operation of turning the on switch into the off state can be easily performed.

[0012] Form 4: One or more embodiments of the present invention propose an operation input device, wherein the light source comprises a first light source that emits a first color and a second light source that emits a second color, and the control unit turns on the first light source when the approach detection unit detects the approach of the finger, and when the switch unit is operated with the first light source turned on to change the state (on, off) of the switch unit, turns on the second light source instead of the first light source, or turns on the second light source together with the first light source.

[0013] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the operation input device includes a first light source and a second light source having different colors. The control unit turns on the first light source when the approach detection unit detects the approach of a finger. Furthermore, when the state of the switch unit is changed by operating the switch unit, the control unit turns off the first light source and turns on the second light source, or turns on both the first light source and the second light source. That is, in the operation input device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the color of the illumination of the symbol mark changes depending on whether the switch is in an on state or an off state. Therefore, it is possible to check whether the switch operation has been recognized effectively, and also to easily recognize the current on / off state of the switch. Effect of the Invention

[0014] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide an advantage that the position of the switch can be easily recognized when operating the switch without being an eyesore while driving even at night. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an overall configuration of an operation input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram showing an operation panel of an operation input device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3]2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control board of the operation input device according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagram showing a control circuit configuration of the operation input device according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a process of the operation input device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating examples of displays on a display panel of the operation input device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating a lighting control process of the operation input device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an operation panel of an operation input device according to a modified example of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] <Embodiment> An operation input device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. FIG.

[0017] <Structure and Configuration of Operation Input Device 1> The operation input device 1 according to this embodiment is, for example, a device including an illumination lamp in the vehicle cabin and an operation switch for operating the illumination, and is disposed in the front of the ceiling in the vehicle cabin. As shown in FIG. 1, the operation input device 1 includes an operation panel 10, a frame 20, a design panel 30, a control board 40, and a cover 50. The operation panel 10 is incorporated together with the frame 20 into the opening 30A of the design panel 30. In addition, the control board 40 is attached to the rear surface of the design panel 30. Furthermore, a cover 50, which is a part of the housing of the operation input device 1, is fastened to the design panel 30 so as to cover the control board 40.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2, the operation panel 10 is provided with a plurality of symbol marks 11 (four in this embodiment: 12A, 12B, 12C, and 13) that indicate operation positions. Furthermore, the operation panel 10 is made of a light-shielding material, but the symbol marks 11 indicating the operation positions are made of a light-transmitting material. That is, by turning on a light source disposed on the rear side of the operation panel 10, a symbol mark can be displayed on the operation panel 10.

[0019] The frame 20 has a structure for guiding light from the light source described above to the symbol mark 11 on the operation panel 10, and is disposed on the rear surface of the operation panel 10 and fixed to the design panel 30 together with the operation panel 10.

[0020] The design panel 30 includes lighting sections 31C, 31L, and 31R that emit light from the illumination lamps. An illumination lens (not shown) is disposed in the illumination unit 31C, and light from an illumination light source disposed on the rear surface of the design panel 30 is emitted. For example, the lighting unit 31C emits light that illuminates the interior of the vehicle. Further, the lighting units 31L and 31R are provided with lighting lenses (not shown), and light from a lighting light source provided on the back surface of the design panel 30 is emitted. For example, the lighting units 31L and 31R emit spotlights that partially illuminate the driver's seat, the passenger seat, and the like.

[0021] The control board 40 will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 3, the control board 40 is provided with at least an illumination light source unit 41, a switch unit 42, a finger approach sensor 49, and a CPU 100.

[0022] The illumination light source section 41 includes light sources 41A to 41D, a light source 41L, and a light source 41R. Here, the light sources 41A to 41D are light sources for the room lighting emitted from the above-mentioned lighting unit 31C. Furthermore, the light source 41L is a light source for the spot illumination emitted from the above-mentioned illumination unit 31L. Furthermore, the light source 41R is a light source for the spot illumination emitted from the above-mentioned illumination unit 31R. The light sources 41A to 41D, the light source 41L, and the light source 41R are, for example, high-luminance white LEDs.

[0023] The switch section 42 includes a first switch section 43 and a second switch section 46 .

[0024] The first switch section 43 in the operation input device 1 is an operation member for turning on and off the interior lighting. The first switch section 43 includes a switch section 44 and a light source section 45 . The switch section 44 includes switches 44A to 44C. The light source section 45 includes light sources 45A to 45C. As shown in FIG. 4, the switches 44A to 44C are touch sensors provided on the control board 40, and are disposed on the rear side of the symbol marks 12A to 12C disposed on the operation panel 10, respectively. The outputs of the switches 44A to 44C are connected to the CPU 100, and the CPU 100 detects touch operations on the symbol marks 12A to 12C. The light sources 45A to 45C are light sources for displaying the symbol marks 12A to 12C, respectively. For example, white LEDs are used as the light sources 45A to 45C, and the symbol mark is displayed in white.

[0025] When the CPU 100 detects a touch operation on the symbol mark 12A, the CPU 100 turns on the light source 41L. After that, the light source 41L is repeatedly turned on and off every time a touch operation on the symbol mark 12A is detected. That is, the illumination of the illumination unit 31L is repeatedly turned on and off. Furthermore, when the CPU 100 detects a touch operation on the symbol mark 12B, the CPU 100 turns on the light sources 41A to 41D. After that, every time a touch operation on the symbol mark 12B is detected, the light sources 41A to 41D are repeatedly turned on and off. That is, the illumination of the illumination unit 31C is repeatedly turned on and off. Furthermore, when the CPU 100 detects a touch operation on the symbol mark 12C, the CPU 100 turns on the light source 41R. After that, the light source 41R is repeatedly turned on and off every time a touch operation on the symbol mark 12C is detected. That is, the illumination of the illumination unit 31R is repeatedly turned on and off.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, the second switch section 46 includes a switch section 47 and a light source section 48. The switch section 47 includes a switch 47A. The light source section 48 includes a first light source 48A and a second light source 48B. As shown in FIG. 4, the switch 47A is a touch sensor provided on the control board 40, and is disposed behind the symbol mark 13 disposed on the operation panel 10. The output of the switch 47A is connected to the CPU 100, which detects the touch operation on the symbol mark 13. When the CPU 100 detects a touch operation on the symbol mark 13, the function of turning on the interior light in conjunction with the door opening and closing is switched on and off. The CPU 100 switches the function on and off every time a touch operation on the symbol mark 13 is detected.

[0027] The first light source 48A and the second light source 48B are light sources for displaying the symbol mark 13. Here, the first light source 48A and the second light source 48B are light sources that emit light of different colors. For example, the first light source 48A is a white LED, and the second light source 48B is a red LED. The lighting control of first light source 48A and second light source 48B will be described later in detail.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, the finger approach sensor 49 is disposed on the control board 40. The hand approach sensor 49 is a sensor that detects the approach of a finger to the operation panel 10 , and the sensor output of the hand approach sensor 49 is connected to the CPU 100 .

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 100 includes an approach detection unit 200 and a control unit 300. The approach detection unit 200 and the control unit 300 are part of the functions of a CPU 100 that includes well-known RAM, ROM, an I / O bus, and the like (not shown). The CPU 100 controls the entire operation input device 1 in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM. For example, the CPU 100 monitors the state of the vehicle's accessory power supply, the unlocking state of the doors, and the like, and starts or ends the processing of the operation input device 1 based on the monitored information.

[0030] The approach detection unit 200 detects whether or not a finger has approached the operation panel 10 based on the sensor output of the finger approach sensor 49 . The detection result of the approach detection unit 200 is then transferred to the control unit 300 .

[0031] The control unit 300 controls the lighting of the illumination light source unit 41 , the light source unit 45 , and the light source unit 48 based on the detection result of the approach detection unit 200 and the detection results of the switch unit 44 and the switch unit 47 . The lighting control process executed by the control unit 300 will be described later.

[0032] <Processing flow of operation input device 1> The process flow of the operation input device 1 executed by the CPU 100, the approach detection section 200, and the control section 300 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 5, the CPU 100 determines whether the vehicle doors are unlocked or not (step S10). When the CPU 100 determines that the vehicle doors are unlocked ("YES" in step S10), the process proceeds to step S20. On the other hand, if the CPU 100 determines that the vehicle doors are not unlocked ("NO" in step S10), the process returns to step S10 and transitions to the standby mode.

[0034] The approach detection unit 200 determines whether or not the approach of a finger to the operation panel 10 has been detected (step S20). When it is determined in the approach detection section 200 that the approach of a finger has been detected ("YES" in step S20), the process proceeds to step S30. On the other hand, if the approach detection unit 200 determines that the approach of a finger has not been detected ("NO" in step S20), the process returns to step S20 and transitions to the standby mode. As shown in FIG. 6(1), in step S20, nothing is displayed on operation panel 10.

[0035] If the approach of a finger is detected in step S20, control unit 300 turns on light sources 45A to 45C and first light source 48A (step S30). That is, when the process of step S30 is executed, as shown in FIG. 6(2), when the approach of a finger is detected, all symbol marks provided on the operation panel 10 are displayed. The display example shown here is an example when the function of turning on the interior lights in conjunction with the opening and closing of the doors is turned on.

[0036] Next, the CPU 100 determines whether or not a touch operation has been performed on the symbol mark 11 on the operation panel 10 based on the outputs of the switches 44A to 44C and the output of the switch 47A (step S40). When the CPU 100 determines that a touch operation has been performed on the symbol mark 11 ("YES" in step S40), the process proceeds to step S50. On the other hand, if the CPU 100 determines that a touch operation has not been performed on the symbol mark 11 ("NO" in step S40), the process proceeds to step S60.

[0037] When the CPU 100 determines that a touch operation has been performed on the symbol mark 11 ("YES" in step S40), the control unit 300 controls the lighting of the illumination light source unit 41, the light source unit 45, and the light source unit 48 (step S50). The lighting control of the light source executed in step S50 will be described later in detail.

[0038] If the CPU 100 determines that a touch operation has not been performed on the symbol mark 11 ("NO" in step S40), the approach detection unit 200 determines whether or not the detection of the approach of a finger has been released (step S60). That is, it is determined whether or not the finger that once approached operation panel 10 has moved away. If it is determined in the approach detection section 200 that the detection of the approach of the finger has been released ("YES" in step S60), the process proceeds to step S70. On the other hand, if the approach detection unit 200 determines that the detection of the approach of the finger has not been released ("NO" in step S60), the process returns to step S40 and continues.

[0039] If the approach detection unit 200 determines that the detection of the approach of a finger has been released ("YES" in step S60), the control unit 300 causes the symbol marks of the switches of the first switch unit 43 that are currently in the on state to continue to be lit, and causes the symbol marks of the switches of the first switch unit 43 that are currently in the off state to turn off (step S70). Furthermore, the control unit 300 continues to light the symbol mark 13 of the switch 47A of the second switch unit 46 that is currently in the off state, and turns off the display of the symbol mark 13 of the switch 47A of the second switch unit 46 that is currently in the on state (step S70).

[0040] When the processing of step S70 is executed, as shown in (4) of FIG. 6, for example, if the switch 44A is operated and the light source 41L is currently turned on (on state), the light source 45A continues to be turned on and the symbol mark 12A continues to be displayed. Furthermore, when the processing of step S70 is executed, as shown in (4) of FIG. 6, for example, if the switches 44B and 44C are not operated and the light sources 41A to 41D and the light source 41R are currently turned off (off state), the light sources 45B and 45C are turned off and the display of the symbol marks 12B and 12C is turned off.

[0041] Furthermore, when the processing of step S70 is executed, as shown in (5) of FIG. 6, for example, if the switch 47A of the second switch section 46 is operated and set to not turn on the interior lighting in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door (off state), the second light source 48B continues to be lit and the symbol mark 13 continues to be displayed in red. In other words, when the switch 47A of the second switch section 46 is operated and set to turn on the interior lighting in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door (on state), the second light source 48B is turned off and the display of the symbol mark 13 is turned off.

[0042] When the process of step S70 ends, CPU 100 determines whether the accessory power supply of the vehicle is turned off and the doors are locked (step S80). When the CPU 100 determines that the accessory power supply of the vehicle is off and the doors are locked ("YES" in step S80), the process ends. On the other hand, if the CPU 100 determines that the accessory power supply of the vehicle is off and the doors are not locked ("NO" in step S80), the process returns to step S20 and continues.

[0043] <Lighting control process in step S50> The lighting control process executed in step S50 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0044] When the CPU 100 determines that a touch operation has been performed on the symbol mark 11 on the operation panel 10 ("YES" in step S40), it determines whether the touched switch is a switch of the first switch section 43 or not (step S100). When the CPU 100 determines that the touched switch is a switch of the first switch section 43 ("YES" in step S100), the process proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, if the CPU 100 determines that the touched switch is not a switch of the first switch section 43 ("NO" in step S100), the process proceeds to step S140.

[0045] If the CPU 100 determines that the touched switch is a switch of the first switch section 43 ("YES" in step S100), the control section 300 determines whether the state of the touched switch is currently off (step S110). When the control unit 300 determines that the state of the touched switch is currently OFF ("YES" in step S110), the process proceeds to step S120. On the other hand, when the control unit 300 determines that the state of the touched switch is not currently in the OFF state ("NO" in step S110), the process proceeds to step S130. The off state mentioned above refers to a state in which the light source of the illumination light source unit 41 is turned off, and the on state refers to a state in which the light source of the illumination light source unit 41 is turned on.

[0046] When the control unit 300 determines that the touched switch is currently in the off state ("YES" in step S110), the control unit 300 turns on the illumination light source corresponding to the touched switch (step S120). For example, when a touch operation of the switch 44A is detected, the light source 41L corresponding to the switch 44A is turned on.

[0047] On the other hand, if the control unit 300 determines that the state of the touched switch is not currently off ("NO" in step S110), the control unit 300 turns off the lighting light source corresponding to the touched switch (step S130). For example, when a touch operation of the switch 44A is detected, the light source 41L corresponding to the switch 44A is turned off.

[0048] If the CPU 100 determines that the touched switch is not a switch of the first switch section 43 ("NO" in step S100), the control section 300 determines whether the state of the operated switch 47A is currently off (step S140). That is, it is determined whether or not the function that is set by touching switch 47A is turned off. If the control unit 300 determines that the operated switch is currently in the OFF state ("YES" in step S140), the process proceeds to step S150. On the other hand, if the control unit 300 determines that the state of the touched switch is not currently in the OFF state ("NO" in step S140), the process proceeds to step S170.

[0049] When the control unit 300 determines that the operated switch is currently in the off state ("YES" in step S140), the control unit 300 turns on the first light source 48A and turns off the second light source 48B (step S150). When the processing of step S150 is executed, as shown in (2) of FIG. 6, the function of turning on the interior lighting in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door is set to the on state, so that the first light source 48A is turned on and the symbol mark 13 is displayed in white.

[0050] Then, the CPU 100 sets the function of turning on the interior lighting in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door to an on state (step S160).

[0051] If the control unit 300 determines that the state of the touched switch is not currently off ("NO" in step S140), the control unit 300 turns off the first light source 48A and turns on the second light source 48B (step S170). When the processing of step S170 is executed, as shown in (3) of FIG. 6, the function of turning on the interior lighting in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door is set to the off state, so that the second light source 48B is turned on and the symbol mark 13 is displayed in red.

[0052] Next, the CPU 100 sets to an off state the function of turning on the interior lighting in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door (step S180). In step S170, the display color of the symbol mark 13 is changed by changing the light source to be turned on from the first light source 48A to the second light source 48B, but the display color of the symbol mark 13 may be changed by turning on the first light source 48A and the second light source 48B simultaneously. When the lighting control process in step S50 described above is completed, the process proceeds to step S60.

[0053] <Actions and Effects> As described above, the operation input device 1 of this embodiment includes the operation panel 10, an approach detection unit 200 that detects the approach of a finger to the operation panel 10, a switch unit 42 provided on the operation panel 10 for inputting operations, a symbol mark 11 provided on the switch unit 42, a light source unit 45 and a light source unit 48 that illuminate the symbol mark 11, and a control unit 300 that turns on the light source that is off when the approach detection unit 200 detects the approach of a finger.

[0054] The operation input device 1 according to this embodiment includes an operation panel 10, an approach detection unit 200 that detects the approach of an operator's finger, a switch unit 42 provided with a symbol mark 11 illuminated by a light source unit 45 and a light source unit 48, and a control unit 300 that controls turning on and off the light source. When the approach detection unit 200 detects the approach of a finger, the control unit 300 turns on the light source that is turned off. That is, in the operation input device 1, when the operator's finger approaches the operation panel, the symbol mark 11 is illuminated. Therefore, the symbol mark 11 is turned off while driving, so that it is prevented from being an eyesore when driving at night. In addition, when a finger approaches the operation panel 10, the symbol mark 11 lights up, so that the switch to be operated and the touch position can be easily identified.

[0055] In the operation input device 1 of this embodiment, the first switch section 43 has a symbol mark 12 that is lit when the switch section 42 is in the on state and is turned off when the switch section 42 is in the off state. When the approach of a finger is detected by the approach detection section 200, the control section 300 turns on the symbol mark 12 of the first switch section 43 in the off state, and when the detection of the approach of a finger is released by the approach detection section 200, the control section 300 keeps the symbol mark 12 of the first switch section 43 in the on state lit and turns off the symbol mark 12 of the first switch section 43 in the off state.

[0056] The operation input device 1 in this embodiment includes a first switch section 43 in which the symbol mark 12 is turned on when in an on state and turned off when in an off state. The control section 300 turns on the symbol mark 12 when the approach detection section 200 detects the approach of a finger, and when the approach detection section 200 cancels the detection of the approach of a finger, keeps the symbol mark 12 of the first switch section 43 in the on state turned on and turns off the symbol mark 12 of the first switch section 43 in the off state. That is, in the operation input device 1, when the finger is removed from the operation panel 10, only the symbol mark of the switch that is in the ON state is turned on. Therefore, even when the fingers are removed from the operation panel 10, it is possible to easily recognize which switch is set to the on state.

[0057] In the operation input device 1 of this embodiment, the second switch section 46 has a symbol mark 13 that is lit when the switch section 42 is in the off state and is turned off when the switch section 42 is in the on state. When the approach of a finger is detected by the approach detection section 200, the control section 300 turns on the symbol mark 13 of the second switch section 46 in the on state, and when the detection of the approach of a finger is released by the approach detection section 200, the control section 300 keeps the symbol mark 13 of the second switch section 46 in the off state lit and turns off the symbol mark 13 of the second switch section 46 in the on state.

[0058] The operation input device 1 according to this embodiment includes a second switch section 46 in which the symbol mark 13 is lit when in an off state and is turned off when in an on state. The control section 300 turns on the symbol mark 13 when the approach detection section 200 detects the approach of a finger, and when the detection of the approach of a finger is released by the approach detection section 200, the control section 300 keeps the symbol mark 13 of the second switch section 46 in the off state lit and further turns off the symbol mark 13 of the second switch section in the on state. That is, in the operation input device 1, when the finger is removed from the operation panel 10, only the symbol mark of the switch that is in the OFF state is lit. Therefore, even when the fingers are removed from the operation panel 10, it is possible to easily recognize which switches are set to the off state. Generally, functions such as turning on the interior lights in conjunction with the opening and closing of the doors are used very frequently with the function in the on state, so the symbol mark is not lit when the function is in the on state, and the symbol mark is lit when the function is in the off state. Therefore, when the function is on, the symbol mark is turned off, preventing it from being an eyesore when driving at night. Furthermore, when the function is on, the symbol mark is not displayed, but when a finger approaches the operation panel 10, the symbol mark is displayed, so that the switch position can be easily recognized when operating the switch.

[0059] In the operation input device 1 of this embodiment, the light source unit 48 includes a first light source 48A that emits a first color and a second light source 48B that emits a second color, and when the approach of a finger is detected by the approach detection unit 200, the control unit 300 turns on the first light source 48A, and when the switch 47A is operated while the first light source 48A is on and the state (on, off) of the switch 47A is changed, the control unit 300 turns on the second light source 48B instead of the first light source 48A, or turns on the second light source 48B together with the first light source 48A.

[0060] The operation input device 1 in this embodiment includes a first light source 48A and a second light source 48B, each of which has a different color. When the approach of a finger is detected by the approach detection unit 200, the control unit 300 turns on the first light source 48A. Furthermore, when the state of the switch 47A is changed by operating the switch 47A, the control unit 300 turns off the first light source 48A and turns on the second light source 48B, or turns on both the first light source 48A and the second light source 48B. That is, in the operation input device 1, the display color of the symbol mark changes depending on whether the switch is in an on state or an off state. Therefore, the on and off states of the switch can be easily recognized. In addition, when the operation panel 10 is touched to change the state of a switch, the color of the symbol mark changes, making it easy to recognize whether or not the touch input has been accepted.

[0061] <Modification> As shown in FIG. 8, the operation panel 10 may also display telltales 60 such as seat belts, airbags, and the like. Since this type of display is a warning display, it is necessary to ensure that the driver notices it. However, if the symbol mark 11 is displayed at the same time, the warning display and the symbol mark are mixed together, which may make it difficult for the driver to recognize the warning display. However, in the above-described operation input device 1, the symbol mark 11 is turned off and only the warning display is displayed while driving, so that the warning display can be clearly displayed to the driver. In addition, when a finger approaches the operation panel 10, the symbol mark 11 lights up, so that the switch to be operated and the touch position can be easily identified.

[0062] Furthermore, in the above-described operation input device 1, touch sensors are used for the switches 44A to 44C and the switch 47A to detect switch operations, but mechanical switches may be used to detect switch operations.

[0063] Furthermore, in the above-described operation input device 1, the touch operation on the operation panel 10 is detected by a touch sensor disposed on the control board 40, but the touch operation may be detected by a liquid crystal panel and a touch panel. That is, a symbol mark may be displayed on a liquid crystal panel, and a touch operation may be detected by a touch panel.

[0064] The operation input device 1 of the present invention can be realized by recording the processes of the CPU 100, the approach detection unit 200, and the control unit 300 in a recording medium readable by a computer system, and having the CPU 100, the approach detection unit 200, and the control unit 300 read and execute the program recorded on this recording medium. The computer system here includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.

[0065] Furthermore, "computer system" also includes the homepage providing environment (or display environment) if a WWW (World Wide Web) system is used. The above program may be transmitted from a computer system in which the program is stored in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium, or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet, or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line.

[0066] The program may be for implementing some of the functions described above, or may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

[0067] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and designs that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention are also included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1; Operation input device 10. Operation panel 11; Symbol mark 20;Frame 30: Design panel 40: Control board 41; Light source section for lighting 42: Switch section 43: First switch section 44: Switch section 45;Light source part 46: Second switch section 47: Switch section 48;Light source section 49;Finger proximity sensor 50;Cover 100;CPU 200: Approach detection unit 300 Control section

Claims

1. An operation panel; an approach detection unit that detects the approach of a finger to the operation panel; A switch section provided on the operation panel for inputting operations; A symbol mark provided on the switch portion; A light source for illuminating the symbol mark; a control unit that turns on the light source when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit; and Equipped with the switch unit is a first switch unit in which the symbol mark is lit when in an on state and the symbol mark is turned off when in an off state, The control unit, when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, lights up the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the off state, and, when the detection of the approach of the finger is released by the approach detection unit, keeps the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the on state lit and turns off the symbol mark of the first switch unit in the off state.

2. The switch unit is a second switch unit in which the symbol mark is lit when in an off state and the symbol mark is turned off when in an on state, The operation input device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, the control unit lights up the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state, and when the detection of the approach of the finger is released by the approach detection unit, the control unit keeps the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the off state lit and turns off the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state.

3. An operation panel, an approach detection unit that detects the approach of a finger to the operation panel; A switch section provided on the operation panel for inputting operations; A symbol mark provided on the switch portion; A light source for illuminating the symbol mark; a control unit that turns on the light source when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit; and Equipped with the switch unit is a second switch unit in which the symbol mark is lit when in an off state and the symbol mark is turned off when in an on state, The control unit, when the approach of the finger is detected by the approach detection unit, lights up the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state, and, when the detection of the approach of the finger is released by the approach detection unit, keeps the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the off state lit and turns off the symbol mark of the second switch unit in the on state.

4. The operation input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the light source includes a first light source that emits a first color and a second light source that emits a second color, and the control unit turns on the first light source when the approach detection unit detects the approach of the finger, and when the switch unit is operated with the first light source turned on to change the state (on, off) of the switch unit, turns on the second light source instead of the first light source, or turns on the second light source together with the first light source.

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