Manipulation input device

Abstract

In a manipulation input device having a haptic function, sliding between a button driving member and a manipulation button is reduced. A manipulation button (20R, 20L) has a contact portion (20b) on a side opposite to a side to be pressed by a user, and is movable about a rotation center line (Ax1). An actuator (30R, 30L, 230) has a button driving member (31, 231) which is in contact with the contact portion (20b) of the manipulation button (20L, 20R), and which applies a force to the manipulation button (20L, 20R) in a direction opposite to pressing the manipulation button (20L, 20R). In addition, the actuator (30R, 30L, 230) has a guide (34a, 234a) which defines a direction in which the button driving member (31, 231) moves, and the button driving member (31, 231) is slidable along the guide (34a, 234a).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a manipulation input device having a function of providing a user with a tactile sensation. BACKGROUND

[0002] PTL1 described below discloses a manipulation input device having a function of providing a user with a tactile sensation. The input device has a manipulation button manipulated by the user and an actuator that moves the manipulation button. When the manipulation button is pressed, the actuator applies a reaction force to the manipulation button to provide the user with a tactile sensation.

[0003] [LIST OF CITATIONS]

[0004] [PATENT LITERATURE]

[0005] [PTL 1]

[0006] WO2017 / 150128 SUMMARY

[0007] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0008] The actuator has a member (hereinafter, referred to as a button driving member) that comes into contact with the manipulation button and applies a reaction force to the manipulation button. Depending on the direction of the relative movement of the button driving member with respect to the manipulation button, the button driving member slides with respect to the outer surface of the manipulation button when the button driving member moves together with the manipulation button. Such a sliding movement causes abrasion of the outer surface of the manipulation button and the outer surface of the button driving member, and resists the movement of the manipulation button and the button driving member.

[0009] One of the objects of the present disclosure is to reduce the sliding between the button driving member and the manipulation button in the manipulation input device having the function of providing a tactile sensation.

[0010] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0011] One example of the manipulation input device according to the present disclosure includes a manipulation button that is movable about a rotation center line by being pressed by a user, and has a contact portion on a side opposite to a side to be pressed by the user; an actuator having a button driving member that comes into contact with the contact portion of the manipulation button, and applies a force in a direction opposite to the direction in which the manipulation button is pressed; and a guide that defines the direction in which the button driving member moves. In the manipulation input device, the button driving member is slidable along the guide. In the manipulation input device, the button driving member is slidable along the guide, and the direction in which the button driving member moves is defined by the guide. Therefore, the sliding movement between the button driving member and the contact portion of the manipulation button can be reduced.

[0012] Another example of a manipulation input device according to this disclosure includes: a manipulation button movable about a rotation center line by being pressed by a user, and having a contact portion on a side of the manipulation button opposite to the side to be pressed by the user; and an actuator having a button driving member that contacts the contact portion of the manipulation button and applies a force to the manipulation button in the opposite direction to the direction of pressing the manipulation button. The contact portion moves along an arc-shaped trajectory centered on the rotation center line, and the button driving member is movable about a rotation center line located inside the arc containing the trajectory. In this manipulation input device, the button driving member moves about a rotation center line located inside the circle containing the trajectory of the contact portion. Therefore, sliding movement between the button driving member and the contact portion of the manipulation button can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0013] [ FIG. 1A [ ] is a floor plan showing an example of manipulating an input device.

[0014] [ FIG. 1B [] is a perspective view showing an example of manipulating an input device.

[0015] [ FIG. 2 This is a bottom view showing the lower housing of the control input device removed. The control buttons and the actuator for moving them are shown in the figure.

[0016] [ FIG. 3 ] is along FIG. 2 The figure shows a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III. The left control button and left actuator are shown in this figure.

[0017] [ FIG. 4 This is a bottom view of the control button and actuator. In this figure, the actuator housing has been removed, and its internal mechanism is shown.

[0018] [ FIG. 5A ] indicates along FIG. 4 The diagram shows the actuator viewed from the direction of arrow V. The diagram illustrates... FIG. 2 The interior of the actuator housing shown.

[0019] [ FIG. 5B ]yes FIG. 5A An enlarged view of the control buttons shown.

[0020] [ FIG. 6 [ ] is a side view showing a variant of the actuator.

[0021] [ FIG. 7 ]yes FIG. 6 The figure shows a bottom view of the actuator. In this figure, the actuator housing has been removed, and its internal mechanisms are shown.

[0022] [ FIG. 8 ] is a view of the actuator as viewed in the direction of the arrow VII in FIG. 7 . In this view, the inside of the housing of the actuator is shown.

[0023] [ FIG. 9A ] is a view of another modification of the actuator shown in FIG. 6 .

[0024] [ FIG. 9B ] is a view of another modification of the actuator shown in FIG. 6 . This view shows the appearance when the manipulation button and the button drive member are moved in the actuator shown in FIG. 9A .

[0025] [ FIG. 10 ] is a perspective view of the button drive member and the housing that accommodates the button drive member shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B .

[0026] [ FIG. 11 ] is a view showing a modification of the button drive member shown in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present disclosure are explained. In this specification, as one example of the embodiments, a manipulation input device 100 for manipulation of a game machine (hereinafter, the manipulation input device is simply referred to as an input device) is described. Note that the present disclosure can be applied to input devices for manipulation of different information processing devices from the game machine (for example, input devices for manipulation of simulation devices, input devices for manipulation of vehicles, and the like).

[0028] In the following description, the directions indicated by X1 and X2 in Fig. 1 are referred to as rightward and leftward directions, respectively, the directions indicated by Y1 and Y2 in Fig. 1 are referred to as forward and rearward directions, respectively, and the directions indicated by Z1 and Z2 in FIG. 2 are referred to as upward and downward directions, respectively (the upper side in FIG. 3 , FIG. 5A , FIG. 6 and FIG. 8 corresponds to the lower side of the input device 100). These directions are used to describe the relative positional relationship between the elements (parts, members, and portions) of the input device 100, and do not specify the posture of the input device 100 when the input device 100 is used.

[0029] Note that, in FIG. 3 , FIG. 4 , FIG. 5A andFIG. 5B The diagram shows the left control button 20L, one of the left and right control buttons 20R and 20L described later, and the left actuator 30L, one of the left and right actuators 30R and 30L described later. The structures of the left and right control buttons 20R and 20L are, for example, symmetrical about the center line C1 in the forward / backward direction. Alternatively, the left and right actuators 30R and 30L may also be symmetrical about the center line C1 in the forward / backward direction. Unlike the example of input device 100, the left and right actuators 30R and 30L may not have a symmetrical structure. For example, the left and right actuators 30R and 30L may have the same structure. In yet another example, one of the actuators 30R and 30L may have a structure according to the following... FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 The structure of any variant actuator shown in the figure.

[0030] like FIG. 1A As shown, the input device 100 has multiple operating members on its upper surface. For example, four operating buttons 3a to 3d are provided on the right side of the upper surface of the input device 100. Additionally, a crosshair 4 with four protruding portions 4a is provided on the left side of the upper surface of the input device 100. Furthermore, a flat control panel 5 is provided between the operating buttons 3a to 3d and the crosshair 4. For example, the control panel 5 has a touch sensor for sensing the position of a user's finger touching the surface of the control panel 5. Furthermore, the control panel 5 is configured so that the user can press the control panel 5. Two joysticks 6R and 6L are provided behind the control panel 5. The joysticks 6R and 6L can tilt in the forward / backward direction, the left / right direction, and in directions deflected relative to the forward / backward and left / right directions. Additionally, the input device 100 has a grip portion GR extending rearward from its right side and a left grip portion GL extending rearward from its left side.

[0031] When using input device 100, the user manipulates the control components while holding the handles GL and GR with their left and right hands respectively. Input device 100 is a device used by the user while playing the game and sends signals corresponding to the manipulations performed on the control components to the game console. The number and type of control components and the shape of the input device are not limited to these. FIG. 1A The examples shown are examples of this. For instance, input device 100 can be configured so that the user holds it with one hand. In this case, the number of joysticks and the number of handles can each be one. Alternatively, input device 100 may not have a control panel 5.

[0032] The input device 100 has a casing 2 that constitutes the exterior thereof. The casing 2 has, for example, a lower casing 2A that constitutes the lower portion of the casing 2, and an upper casing 2B that constitutes the upper portion of the casing 2 and is combined with the lower casing 2A in the upward / downward direction. The above-mentioned manipulation members, such as the manipulation buttons 3a to 3d, the cross key 4, and the joysticks 6R and 6L, protrude upward through openings formed in the upper casing 2B. The manipulation plate 5 is disposed within the openings formed in the upper casing 2B.

[0033] [Manipulation Buttons]

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, the input device 100 also has a plurality of manipulation members on the front surface thereof. Specifically, the manipulation buttons 8R and 8L are provided on the right and left portions of the front surface, respectively. The manipulation buttons 8R and 8L are so-called push buttons, and are movable in the forward / backward direction about the rotation center lines Ax2 (see FIG. 2) located at the upper portions thereof. FIG. 1B FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 ) in the forward / backward direction.

[0035] In the example of the input device 100, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L each have two supported portions 21 (see FIG. 3) protruding from the right and left surfaces thereof and positioned at the upper portions of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L. The supported portions 21 are rotatably held, and serve as the rotation center lines of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L. In the example of the input device 100, the frame 11 is disposed inside the casing 2, and the supported portions 21 are held by the holding portions 11a provided at the foremost portions of the frame 11 (see FIG. 3). When the user presses the front surfaces 20a of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L are moved rearward about the rotation center lines Ax1 passing through the supported portions 21. FIG. 4 FIG. 3

[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, in the example of the input device 100, the stoppers 11c are formed in the frame 11. The stoppers 11c define the maximum pressing positions of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L. That is, the movement of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L beyond the positions of the stoppers 11c is restricted. FIG. 3

[0037] ​​​​The input device 100 has elastic members (e.g., springs) that push the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L forward. Thus, when the user moves his / her finger from the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L after pressing the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L move forward around the rotation center line Ax1 due to the force of the elastic members, and return to their initial positions. In the example of the input device 100, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L have engagement portions 23 (see FIG. 3 ) that engage with stoppers 11b (see FIG. 4 ) formed behind the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L. The stoppers 11b engage with the engagement portions 23, and prevent the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L from protruding forward due to the elastic force of the elastic members.

[0038] The structures and arrangements of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L are not limited to those in the example of the input device 100. For example, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L can be provided on the lower surface or the upper surface of the input device. In this case, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L can move in the upward / downward direction around their rotation centers, or can move in a direction that is skewed from both the upward / downward direction and the forward / backward direction. As yet another example, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L can have holes or recesses as the supported portions 21. Then, protruding portions that cooperate with the supported portions 21 and support the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L can be formed on the casing 2 or the frame 11.

[0039] The number and types of the manipulation buttons on which the actuators 30R and 30L are provided are not limited to those in the example of the input device 100. That is, in the case where the input device is a stick-shaped input device (e.g., a joystick), the number of manipulation buttons (trigger buttons) that move around the rotation centers can be one. In this case, the number of actuators for providing the haptics that the input device has can be one.

[0040] As FIG. 5AAs shown, a sensor 22 for sensing user pressure on operation buttons 20L and 20R is arranged behind operation button 20L (i.e., on the side opposite to the side the user presses). Sensor 22 is, for example, a sensor capable of sensing the amount of pressure applied to operation button 20L (the amount of movement of operation button 20L). Sensor 22 has, for example, a sensor substrate 22a on which a resistor is formed, and conductive rubber 22b opposite to the resistor. When the user presses operation button 20L, the conductive rubber 22b is pressed down by operation button 20L. Then, the contact area between the conductive rubber 22b and the resistor changes according to the amount of pressure applied, and the resistance value of the resistor changes with the change in contact area. Therefore, based on the resistance value, and more specifically, based on the voltage acting on the resistor, the amount of pressure applied to operation button 20L can be sensed. Sensor 22 is also provided behind the right operation button 20R. Note that the type of sensor 22 is not limited to the type using conductive rubber 22b. A rotary encoder can be used as another example of sensor 22. In this configuration, the sensor (rotary encoder) includes a connecting member and can be connected to the control buttons 20L and 20R via the connecting member. The rotational movement of the control buttons 20R and 20L can then be transmitted to the encoder via the connecting member. As another example, instead of sensor 22 for sensing user pressure on control button 20R, a sensor for sensing the ON / OFF state of control button 20L (ON / OFF switch) can be positioned behind control buttons 20L and 20R.

[0041] [Actuator]

[0042] As described above, the input device 100 has actuators 30R and 30L for providing tactile feedback to the user (see [link to relevant documentation]). FIG. 2 Actuators 30R and 30L are respectively provided for the operation buttons 20R and 20L. In the example of the input device 100, the actuators 30R and 30L are arranged below the operating members arranged on the upper surface of the input device 100. Specifically, the actuator 30L is arranged below the cross key 4, which is arranged on the left side of the upper surface of the input device 100, and the actuator 30R is arranged below the operation buttons 3a to 3d, which are arranged on the right side of the upper surface of the input device 100. The frame 11 housed in the housing 2 (see FIG. 3 The actuators 30R and 30L are arranged below the cross key 4 and the control buttons 3a to 3d, and are further arranged below the frame 11. The frame 11 can support a substrate on which switches for sensing the operation of the cross key 4 and the control buttons 3a to 3d are formed. The actuators 30R and 30L are arranged separately in a left / right direction, and the circuit board 13 and the battery 14 are arranged between the actuators 30R and 30L.

[0043] As described above, since the operating buttons 20R and 20L and the actuators 30R and 30L have the same structure or a structure symmetrical about the center line C1, the following mainly refers to... FIG. 3 to FIG. 5B Explanation of the left control button 20L and actuator 30L.

[0044] The control button 20L has a contact portion 20b on the side opposite to the side the user wants to press (the rear side in the example of input device 100). The actuator 30L provides tactile feedback to the user by contacting the contact portion 20b and applying force to the control button 20L in the direction opposite to the user pressing the control button 20L. The input device 100 drives the actuator 30L, for example, based on signals (instructions) received from the game console.

[0045] For example, when a user presses control button 20L, actuator 30L restricts the movement of control button 20L (i.e., actuator 30L acts as a stop for the movement of control button 20L). Thus, when a character controlled by the user in the virtual space provided by the game console touches a hard object, the user can feel the touch of the hard object. In another example, when a user presses control button 20L, actuator 30L can apply a reaction force (a force in the opposite direction to the direction in which the user presses control button 20L) to control button 20L corresponding to the amount of movement (depression) of control button 20L. Accordingly, when a character controlled by the user in the virtual space touches an elastic object, the user can feel the touch of the elastic object. In yet another example, when a user presses control button 20L, actuator 30L can cause control button 20L to vibrate in a forward / backward direction.

[0046] like FIG. 5A As shown, the actuator 30L has a motor 32 that serves as the drive source for the actuator 30L. The motor 32 is, for example, a stepper motor, a servo motor, etc. The motor 32 may be a geared motor with a built-in reduction gear. The control device that controls the actuator 30L (set to the input device 100 or the control device of the game console) performs torque control, position control, and / or speed control on the motor 32.

[0047] [Button driver component]

[0048] like FIG. 5A As shown, the actuator 30L has a button drive member 31 that contacts the contact portion 20b of the operating button 20L and moves the operating button 20L. Additionally, the actuator 30L has a motor 32 that serves as a drive source for moving the button drive member 31, a transmission mechanism M3 that transmits power from the motor 32 to the button drive member 31, and a mechanism that holds the motor 32, the transmission mechanism M3, and the button drive member 31 housing 34 (see reference). FIG. 2 ).

[0049] The button driving member 31 applies a force to the manipulation button 20L in a direction opposite to the direction in which the user presses the manipulation button 20L, i.e., in a direction in which the manipulation button 20L is returned to its initial position. When the manipulation button 20L is in its initial position, a gap can be provided between the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L and the button driving member 31, or the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L and the button driving member 31 can be in contact with each other.

[0050] The contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L is formed at a position away from the rotational center line Ax1 of the manipulation button 20L. In the example of the input device 100, as shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5A shown, the contact portion 20b is formed at an edge (rear edge) of the lower wall portion 20c of the manipulation button 20L. As described above, the sensor 22 is arranged behind the manipulation button 20L. As FIG. 5A shown, when the manipulation button 20L is viewed in the direction of the rotational center line Ax1, the contact portion 20b is located at a position opposite to the rotational center line Ax1, and the sensor 22 is sandwiched between the contact portion 20b and the rotational center line Ax1. With this arrangement, it is possible to ensure that a sufficient distance is left between the contact portion 20b and the rotational center line Ax1, and it is possible to make the force (i.e., the moment) applied by the button driving member 31 to the manipulation button 20L sufficiently large. As FIG. 4 shown, in the example of the input device 100, a recess is formed at the rear edge of the lower wall portion 20c of the manipulation button 20L, and the recess serves as the contact portion 20b. The contact portion 20b can be a protruding portion protruding from the rear edge of the lower wall portion 20c, or can be the rear edge of the lower wall portion 20c itself. Note that, as described above, a rotary encoder can be used as the sensor 22. In this case, the contact portion 20b can be formed at a position radially further away from Ax1 than the rotary encoder. Further, in a structure in which the sensor includes a rotary encoder and a coupling member coupling the rotary encoder with the manipulation button 20R or 20L, the contact portion 20b can be positioned opposite to the rotational center line Ax1, with the coupling member being sandwiched between the contact portion 20b and the rotational center line Ax1.

[0051] As FIG. 5A shown, the actuator 30L has a guide 34a defining a direction of movement of the button driving member 31. The button driving member 31 is slidable along the guide 34a while maintaining contact with the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L. As described above, the actuator 30L has a housing 34 (see FIG. 2), the housing 34 holds the button driving member 31, the transmission mechanism M3, and the motor 32. In the example of the input device 100, a guide 34a is formed on the housing 34. In this way, by causing the button driving member 31 to slide along the guide 34a, it is possible to reduce the sliding motion between the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L and the tip end of the button driving member 31. As a result, it is possible to prevent wear of the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L and the tip end of the button driving member 31, and it is possible to achieve smooth motion of the manipulation button 20L and the button driving member 31.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 5A , the guide 34a is formed so that the button driving member 31 linearly slides. In other words, the guide 34a is a groove that linearly extends in the direction of the arrow D1. The guide 34a is formed so that the button driving member 31 slides in the same direction as the direction in which the contact portion 20b moves. Specifically, since the position of the contact portion 20b moves around the rotation center line Ax1 as the manipulation button 20L moves, the contact portion 20b moves along an arc-shaped trajectory P1 centered on the rotation center line Ax1, as shown in FIG. 5B . (In FIG. 5B , the manipulation button 20L at its initial position is shown by a solid line, the manipulation button 20L at its maximum pressed position is shown by a two-dot chain line, and the manipulation button 20L at an intermediate position between the initial position and the maximum pressed position is shown by alternate long and short dashes. In FIG. 5B , the trajectory of the point on the contact portion 20b at which the button driving member 31 contacts the contact portion 20b is denoted as the trajectory P1. The length of the trajectory P1 corresponds to the movable range of the contact portion 20b, but an arc that includes the trajectory P1 and is longer than the trajectory P1 is shown in FIG. 5B . The guide 34a is formed so that the button driving member 31 linearly slides in the direction along the tangent line L1 of the trajectory P1. With such a guide 34a and the button driving member 31, it is possible to reduce the sliding motion between the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L and the tip end of the button driving member 31.

[0053] As described above, in FIG. 5B , the manipulation button 20L at an intermediate position between the initial position and the maximum pressed position is shown by alternate long and short dashes (here, the intermediate position is a position equidistant from the initial position and the maximum pressed position). The sliding direction of the button driving member 31, that is, the extension direction of the guide 34a (the direction of the arrow D1) is the same as the direction in which the contact portion 20b moves together with the manipulation button 20L at the intermediate position. In other words, the sliding direction of the button driving member 31 is parallel to the tangent line L1 at the intermediate position of the arc-shaped trajectory P1 of the contact portion 20b (the intermediate position of the trajectory is a position equidistant from both ends of the trajectory).

[0054] By limiting the sliding direction of the button driving member 31 in the above-described manner, the sliding movement range between the tip end of the button driving member 31 and the contact portion 20b can be more effectively reduced. That is, in the example of the input device 100, since the button driving member 31 moves linearly while the manipulation button 20L rotates with the rotation center line Axl as the center, the sliding movement between the tip end of the button driving member 31 and the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L cannot be completely eliminated. However, since the sliding direction of the button driving member 31 is parallel to the tangent line Ll at the middle position of the locus Pl of the contact portion 20b, the sliding movement range can be reduced as compared to a case where the sliding direction of the button driving member 31 is parallel to the tangent line at the end portion of the locus Pl, for example.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B , in the example of the input device 100, the contact portion 20b is located behind the rotation center line Axl. Therefore, as the manipulation button 20L moves, the contact portion 20b moves in a direction that is skewed with respect to both the forward / backward direction and the upward / downward direction. Therefore, similarly to the contact portion 20b, the button driving member 31 is able to slide in a direction that is skewed with respect to both the forward / backward direction and the upward / downward direction.

[0056] The movable range of the button driving member 31 is larger than the movable range of the manipulation button 20L. The maximum pressing position of the manipulation button 20L is defined by the stopper 11c ( FIG. 3 ) described above. In a state where the manipulation button 20L is at its maximum pressing position, the button driving member 31 can further slide in a direction away from the contact portion 20b. (Hereinafter, the position where the button driving member 31 is separated from the contact portion 20b is referred to as an "on standby position.") By keeping the button driving member 31 at its on standby position, the manipulation button 20L can be manipulated as a button that does not receive a reaction force from the actuator 30L. In addition, the manipulation button 20L can be surely moved to its maximum pressing position without being affected by the tolerance of the button driving member 31. In addition, in a state where the manipulation button 20L is at its maximum pressing position, after the button driving member 31 is accelerated by the motor 32, the button driving member 31 can be made to strike the manipulation button 20L. As a result, an impact can be more easily transmitted to the manipulation button 20L, and the impact can provide a tactile sensation to the user.

[0057] The manipulation button 20L is arranged on the front surface of the input device 100, and can be pressed rearward. As shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5BAs shown, the button drive member 31 is arranged behind the operating button 20L. The button drive member 31 is a rod-shaped member and is arranged such that its posture is tilted relative to both the forward / reverse and upward / downward directions. Specifically, in the front view of the operating button 20L, the button drive member 31 extends from the lower end side of the operating button 20L to the upper part side where the rotation center line Ax1 is located. This arrangement of the button drive member 31, for example, makes it easier to leave the space required for its arrangement compared to the case where the button drive member 31 is parallel to the forward / reverse direction or parallel to the upward / downward direction. The end of the rod-shaped button drive member 31 strikes the operating button 20L at the contact portion 20b.

[0058] The sliding direction of the button driving member 31 is not limited to the sliding direction in the example of the input device 100. For example, the sliding direction of the button driving member 31 may be parallel to the tangent at a position deviating from the midpoint of the trajectory P1 of the contact portion 20b. That is, the sliding direction of the button driving member 31 may be parallel to the movement direction of the contact portion 20b as the actuated button 20L moves between a position defined as the initial position and the maximum pressing position, and which is different from the midpoint position. In addition, the shape of the button driving member 31 is not limited to the shape in the example of the input device 100.

[0059] [Other parts of the actuator]

[0060] like FIG. 5A As shown, the actuator 30 has a transmission mechanism M3 that transmits the prime mover power of the motor 32 to the button drive member 31. The transmission mechanism M3 includes a gear 33. The rotation center of the gear 33 is arranged in the left / right direction (parallel to the rotation center line Ax1 of the operating button 20L). The gear 33 includes a large-diameter gear 33a and a small-diameter gear 33b with a diameter smaller than that of the large-diameter gear 33a. A rack 31b is formed on the button drive member 31, and the small-diameter gear 33b serves as a pinion that meshes with the rack 31b. Additionally, a warm gear 32a is attached to the rotation axis of the motor 32. The warm gear 32a meshes with the large-diameter gear 33a.

[0061] In this way, in the example of input device 100, the warm gear 32a, gear 33, and rack 31b constitute the transmission mechanism M3. The rack 31b and small-diameter gear 33b of the button drive member 31 convert the rotational force obtained from the motor 32 into a linear force. Furthermore, due to the presence of the warm gear 32a, it is easier to obtain the force that counteracts the force associated with pressing the operation button 20L. That is, when the operation button 20L is pressed, the rotation of the motor 32 due to the pressing force can be suppressed. Additionally, the large-diameter gear 33a, small-diameter gear 33b, and warm gear 32a constitute a reduction mechanism that slows down the rotation of the motor 32. The structure of the transmission mechanism M3 is not limited to the structure in the example of input device 100. For example, the warm gear 32a attached to the motor 32 can directly mesh with the gear of the button drive member 31.

[0062] like FIG. 5A As shown, the motor 32 is located opposite the operation button 20L, and the button drive member 31 and the transmission mechanism M3 (gear 33) are sandwiched between the motor 32 and the operation button 20L. In the example of the input device 100, the button drive member 31 is located behind the operation button 20L, and the gear 33 is located behind the button drive member 31. Then, the motor 32 is located behind the gear 33. Therefore, in the front view of the input device 100 (when the input device 100 is viewed along the direction of pressing the operation button 20L), the button drive member 31, the gear 33, and the motor 32 overlap with the operation button 20L. With this arrangement, the space formed in the housing 2 of the input device 100 and which is relatively long in the forward / backward direction can be effectively utilized.

[0063] like FIG. 5A As shown, the motor 32 is arranged such that its axis of rotation is along a plane perpendicular to the rotation center line Ax1 of the control button 20L. This arrangement of the motor 32 reduces the width of the actuator 30 in the left / right direction and makes it easier to house the actuator 30 within the housing 2. The arrangement of the motor 32 is not limited to the arrangement shown in the example of the input device 100. The motor 32 can be arranged such that its axis of rotation becomes parallel to the rotation center line Ax1 of the control button 20L.

[0064] In the example of the input device 100, similarly to the button driving member 31, the rotation axis of the motor 32 is obliquely arranged so as to extend forward and downward. Then, when the actuator 30 is viewed in the upward / downward direction, the rotation axis of the (warm gear 32a) of the motor 32 overlaps with a portion of the button driving member 31. More specifically, when the button driving member 31 has moved to the last portion of the movable range thereof, the rotation axis of the (warm gear 32a) of the motor 32 and a portion of the button driving member 31 overlap in the plan view of the actuator 30. With this arrangement of the motor 32, the width of the actuator 30 in the forward / backward direction can be reduced. The gear 33 constituting the transmission mechanism M3 is arranged between the rotation axis of the (warm gear 32a) of the motor 32 and the button driving member 31.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 3 , the actuator 30 has a sensor 35 for sensing the position of the button driving member 31 (the rotation position of the motor 32). The sensor 35 is attached to a member located on the downstream side of the rotation axis of the motor 32 in the path of transmission of the power of the motor 32. That is, the sensor 35 is attached to a member located downstream of the warm gear 32a attached to the rotation axis of the motor 32. In the example of the input device 100, the sensor 35 is attached to the rotation axis of the gear 33. The sensor 35 is, for example, a potentiometer that can sense the rotation position of the rotation axis of the gear 33 or an encoder that can sense the rotation of the gear 33. The position of the sensor 35 is not limited to the position in the example of the actuator 30. The actuator 30 can have a sensor attached to the button driving member 31 or can have a sensor attached to the rotation axis of the motor 32.

[0066] As described above, the housing 34 (see FIG. 2 ) is a member that holds a plurality of members constituting the actuator 30, that is, the button driving member 31, the transmission mechanism M3, and the motor 32. The aforementioned guide 34a (see FIG. 4 ) that defines the moving direction of the button driving member 31 is a groove formed on the inner surface of the housing 34. Due to having such a structure, at the time of assembly of the input device 100, the button driving member 31 and the like can be handled as one whole, and thus the assembly steps can be easily performed.

[0067] In the example of the input device 100, the housing 34 has a first housing 34n and a second housing 34m that are combined with each other in the leftward / rightward direction by a fixing member (for example, a screw) (see FIG. 2 ). The housings 34m and 34n are formed of, for example, resin. On the second housing 34m and the first housing 34n, grooves that serve as the guide 34a are formed. As FIG. 5AAs shown, the button drive member 31 has multiple protruding contact portions 31a on its left and right surfaces. These contact portions 31a are arranged in a groove that serves as a guide 34a and contact the inner surface of the groove. Thus, the contact area between the button drive member 31 and the guide 34a is reduced, and smooth sliding of the button drive member 31 can be achieved more easily.

[0068] The housing 34 is fixed to the frame 11 arranged inside the housing 2, for example, by fastening members such as screws. The method of attaching the housing 34 is not limited to this. For example, the housing 34 may be attached to the inner surface of the housing 2. In yet another example, the input device 100 may not have a housing 34. In this case, for example, a guide defining the direction of movement of the button drive member 31 or a portion holding the motor 32 may be formed on the frame 11.

[0069] [Actuator Variation]

[0070] Note that this disclosure is not limited to the examples of actuators 30R and 30L described above, but may be modified as appropriate.

[0071] The following is for reference FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 Explain the variant of the actuator (actuator 230). FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 Actuator 230 is shown, which is one of the left and right actuators 230 and is configured for operating the left actuation button 20L. Because the left and right actuators 230 have a forward / backward orientation about the centerline C1 ( FIG. 2 The structure is symmetrical, or the left and right actuators 230 have the same structure, so the main reference is... FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 Explanation of left actuator 230.

[0072] like FIG. 6 As shown, the actuator 230 has a button drive member 231 that contacts the contact portion 20b of the control button 20L and moves the control button 20L. Additionally, the actuator 230 has a motor 232 as a drive source for moving the button drive member 231, a transmission mechanism M3 that transmits power from the motor 232 to the button drive member 231, and a housing 234 that holds the motor 232, the transmission mechanism M3, and the button drive member 231.

[0073] The main difference of the actuator 230 from the actuators 30R and 30L is the sliding direction of the button driving member 231. Specifically, while the button driving member 31 of the actuators 30R and 30L is linearly slidable, the button driving member 231 of the actuator 230 is movable along an arc centered on the rotation center. Hereinafter, mainly the difference of the actuator 230 from the actuators 30R and 30L will be described. As for the unexplained matters regarding the actuator 230, for example, the arrangement of the actuator 230 in the input device 100, the same as the actuator 30.

[0074] [Button driving member]

[0075] Similar to the button driving member 31, the button driving member 231 applies a force to the manipulation button 20L in a direction opposite to the direction in which the user presses the manipulation button 20L, i.e., in a direction in which the manipulation button 20L is returned to its initial position. When the manipulation button 20L is in its initial position, a gap can be provided between the contact portion 20b of the button driving member 231 and the manipulation button 20L, or the button driving member 231 and the contact portion 20b can be in contact with each other. As shown in FIG. 8 When the manipulation button 20L is viewed in the direction of the rotation center line Ax1, the contact portion 20b is located at a position opposite to the rotation center line Ax1, and the sensor 22 is sandwiched between the contact portion 20b and the rotation center line Ax1. In the example shown in FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 The manipulation button 20L has a protruding portion protruding downward from the edge (rear edge) of the lower wall portion 20c, and the rear surface of the protruding portion serves as the contact portion 20b. The shape and position of the contact portion 20b are not limited to those shown in these drawings.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 8 The actuator 230 has a guide 234a that defines the moving direction of the button driving member 231. The button driving member 231 is slidable along the guide 234a while maintaining contact with the manipulation button 20L. Similar to the guide 34a of the actuator 30, the guide 234a is formed on the housing 234 that holds the button driving member 231, the transmission mechanism M3, and the motor 232.

[0077] The position of the contact portion 20b moves around the rotation center line Ax1 with the movement of the manipulation button 20L. That is, as shown in FIG. 8 The contact portion 20b moves along an arc-shaped trajectory P1 (refer to FIG. 5B ) centered on the rotation center line Ax1. The guide 234a is formed so that the button driving member 231 slides along the arc. The center of the arc is located at an arc C2 (see FIG. 8The interior of the button 20L is used to effectively reduce the sliding motion between the contact portion 20b of the control button 20L and the end of the button drive member 231. Here, the center located within the arc C2 of the trajectory P1 including the contact portion 20b refers to the center located on the same side as the rotation center line Ax1 of the control button 20L relative to arc C2. In the example of actuator 230, the button drive member 231 can slide about a rotation center that coincides with the rotation center line Ax1 of the control button 20L. That is, the button drive member 231 can slide along the direction of the arc C2 including the trajectory P1 of the contact portion 20b. Therefore, the button drive member 231 slides in the same direction as the direction of movement of the contact portion 20b.

[0078] The structure of the button drive member 231 and the guide 234a is not limited to those in the examples of actuator 230. For example, the button drive member 231 may slide about a rotation center different from the rotation center line Ax1 of the actuating button 20L. For example, the button drive member 231 may slide about a rotation center farther away from the button drive member 231 than the rotation center line Ax1, or about a rotation center closer to the button drive member 231 than the rotation center line Ax1.

[0079] Similar to button drive member 31, the movable range of button drive member 231 is greater than that of operation button 20L. Specifically, the maximum pressed position of operation button 20L is determined by the aforementioned stop member 11c (see...). FIG. 6 Limited by [specification missing]. When the operating button 20L is in its maximum pressed position, the button drive member 231 can slide further away from the contact portion 20b. That is, the button drive member 231 can be arranged in a standby position. By holding the button drive member 231 in the standby position, the operating button 20L can be operated as a button that does not receive a reaction force from the actuator 230L. Furthermore, the operating button 20L can be reliably moved to its maximum pressed position without being affected by the tolerances of the button drive member 231. Moreover, when the operating button 20L is in its maximum pressed position, after accelerating the button drive member 231 via the motor 232, the button drive member 231 can strike the operating button 20L. As a result, the impact can be more easily transmitted to the operating button 20L, and this impact can provide a tactile sensation to the user.

[0080] like FIG. 8 As shown, the button drive member 231 is arranged behind the operation button 20L. In the front view of the operation button 20L, the button drive member 231 extends from the lower end of the operation button 20L to the upper part where the rotation center line Ax1 is located.

[0081] like FIG. 8As shown, the button drive member 231 is an arc-shaped curved member. The button drive member 231 extends from the contact portion 20b and bends obliquely downward from the contact portion 20b. Due to this arrangement of the button drive member 231, its length in the forward / backward direction is shortened, thus ensuring that the space required to arrange the button drive member 231 can be more easily provided.

[0082] like FIG. 8 As shown, guide 234a is formed on housing 234. Guide 234a is, for example, a groove formed on the inner surface of housing 234. In the example of input device 100, similar to housing 34, housing 234 has a first housing 234n (see...). FIG. 8 The first housing 234n and the second housing are joined together in a left / right direction by a fixing member (e.g., a screw). Recesses serving as guides 234a are formed on the second housing and the first housing 234n. The button drive member 231 is slidable along the inner surface of the recess. A stop 234b (see [reference]) defines one end of the movable range of the button drive member 231. FIG. 8 It can be formed at the end of the guide 234a.

[0083] like FIG. 8 As shown, multiple protruding contact portions (guided portions) 231c are formed on the left and right surfaces of the button drive member 231. The contact portions 231c are arranged in a groove serving as a guide member 234a and contact the inner surface of the groove. The button drive member 231 can slide while the contact portions 231c are in contact with the inner surface of the groove. Due to this structure, the contact area between the button drive member 231 and the guide member 234a is reduced, thus allowing for smooth sliding motion of the button drive member 231.

[0084] [Other parts of the actuator]

[0085] like FIG. 8As shown, the actuator 230 has a transmission mechanism M3 that transmits a motive force of the motor 232 to the button driving member 231, as described above. The structure of the transmission mechanism M3 is similar to that of the transmission mechanisms M3 of the actuators 30R and 30L. That is, in the example of the actuator 230, the transmission mechanism M3 includes a gear 233. The rotation center of the gear 233 is arranged to coincide with the leftward / rightward direction (a direction parallel to the rotation center line Ax1 of the manipulation button 20L). The gear 233 includes a large-diameter gear 233a and a small-diameter gear 233b that is smaller in diameter than the large-diameter gear 233a. A rack 231b is formed on the button driving member 231, and the small-diameter gear 233b functions as a pinion that engages with the rack 231b. In addition, a warm gear 232a is attached to the rotation axis of the motor 232. The warm gear 232a engages with the large-diameter gear 233a. The structure of the transmission mechanism M3 is not limited to that in the example of the actuator 230. For example, the warm gear 232a attached to the motor 232 can directly engage with a gear of the button driving member 231.

[0086] As shown, the motor 232 is located opposite the manipulation button 20L, and the button driving member 231 and the transmission mechanism M3 (the gear 233) are sandwiched between the motor 232 and the manipulation button 20L. Specifically, the button driving member 231 is located behind the manipulation button 20L, and the gear 233 is located behind the button driving member 231. Then, the motor 232 is located behind the gear 233. Therefore, in the front view of the input device 100 (when the input device 100 is viewed in the direction in which the manipulation button 20L is pressed), the button driving member 231, the gear 233, and the motor 232 overlap the manipulation button 20L. With such an arrangement, it is possible to effectively utilize the space that is formed in the casing 2 and is long in the forward / backward direction. FIG. 8 In addition, the motor 232 is arranged so that its rotation axis is arranged along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotation center line Ax1 of the manipulation button 20L. With this arrangement of the motor 232, the width of the actuator 230 in the leftward / rightward direction can be reduced. In the example of the input device 100, the rotation axis of the motor 232 is obliquely arranged so as to extend forward and upward. Unlike the motor 32, the main body 232b of the motor 232 is arranged at a position lower than the rotation axis (the warm gear 232a). The gear 233 that constitutes the transmission mechanism M3 is arranged between the rotation axis of the motor 232 and the button driving member 231.

[0087]

[0088] ​The actuator 230 has a sensor 235 for sensing the position of the button driving member 231 (i.e., the rotational position of the motor 232). Similar to the sensors 35 of the actuators 30R and 30L, the sensor 235 is attached to the gear 233. Unlike the example of the actuator 230, the gear 233 can be attached to the button driving member 231 or can be attached to the motor 232.

[0089] [SUMMARY]

[0090] As described above, in the example of the input device 100, the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L have the contact portions 20b on the sides opposite to the sides to be pressed by the user, respectively, and are movable around the rotational center line Ax1. The actuators 30R, 30L, and 230 have the button driving members 31 and 231 that are in contact with the contact portions 20b of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R and apply forces in directions opposite to the directions in which the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R are pressed. In addition, the actuators 30R, 30L, and 230 have the guides 34a and 234a that define the directions in which the button driving members 31 and 231 move, and the button driving members 31 and 231 are slidable along the guides 34a and 234a. With this structure, it is possible to reduce the sliding motion between the contact portions 20b and 20b of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L and the tips of the button driving members 31 and 231. As a result, it is possible to prevent the contact portions 20b and 20b of the manipulation buttons 20L and the tips of the button driving members 31 and 231 from being worn, and it is possible to achieve smooth motion of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R and the button driving members 31 and 231.

[0091] In addition, the actuator 230 has the button driving member 231 that is in contact with the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20L and applies a force in a direction opposite to the direction in which the manipulation button 20L is pressed. The contact portion 20b moves along an arc-shaped locus Pl centered on the rotational center line Ax1, and the button driving member 231 is movable around a rotational center located inside an arc C2 that contains the locus Pl. Also with this structure, it is possible to reduce the sliding motion between the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20R and the tip of the button driving member 231. As a result, it is possible to prevent the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20R and the tip of the button driving member 231 from being worn, and it is possible to achieve smooth motion of the manipulation button 20R and the button driving member 231. Note that in the structure of the actuator 230, the button driving member 231 can not slide along the guide 234a. For example, the button driving member 231 can have an axis portion arranged coaxially with the rotational center line Ax1 and be supported by the axis portion. Also with this structure, it is possible to reduce the sliding motion between the contact portion 20b of the manipulation button 20R and the tip of the button driving member 231.

[0092] FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B An actuator 230A having such an axis portion is disclosed. In addition, FIG. 10 is FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B a perspective view of the button driving member 231 and a housing 234A that accommodates the button driving member 231. In these drawings, members and parts that are the same as their counterparts in the actuator 30 and 230 explained so far are given the same reference numerals. Hereinafter, the differences between the actuator 230A and the actuator 30 and 230 will be mainly explained. Matters not explained with respect to the actuator 230A can have counterparts in the actuator 30 and 230.

[0093] As FIG. 9A shown in the drawings, in this actuator 230A, the axis portion 236 is arranged on the rotation center line Ax1 about which the manipulation button 20L is rotatable. The axis portion 236 can be formed integrally with the manipulation button 20L or can be formed separately from the manipulation button 20L. In the example shown in FIG. 10 , the axis portion 236 is formed separately from the manipulation button 20L. Then, the axis portion 236 is fitted to the supported portion 21 in which a ring-like or hook-like shape is formed on the manipulation button 20L. The manipulation button 20L is rotatable about the axis portion 236. The button driving member 231A has a ring-shaped supported portion 231d at its front end. The axis portion 236 is fitted to the supported portion 231d, the button driving member 231A is supported by the axis portion 236, and is rotatable about the rotation center line Ax1 of the manipulation button 20L. Unlike the example in FIG. 10 , the axis portion 236 can be formed integrally with the supported portion 231d of the button driving member 231A.

[0094] As FIG. 9A shown in the drawings, the rack 231b is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the button driving member 231A. That is, the rack 231b is formed at the position farthest from the rotation center line Ax1. With this arrangement, the moment on the button driving member 231 by the drive of the motor 232 is increased; as a result, the force acting on the manipulation button 20L from the button driving member 231A can be increased.

[0095] In addition, as FIG. 9A shown in the drawings, the button driving member 231A is located behind the manipulation button 20L. By this, in the front view of the input device (when the input device is viewed in the direction of pressing the manipulation button 20L), the button driving member 231A, the gear 233, and the motor 232 overlap the manipulation button 20L.

[0096] As described above, the sensor 22 is arranged behind the manipulation button 20L. As shown in FIG. 9A When the manipulation button 20L is viewed in the direction of the rotation center line Ax1, the contact portion 20b is located at a position opposite to the rotation center line Ax1, and the sensor 22 is sandwiched between the contact portion 20b and the rotation center line Ax1. With this arrangement, it is possible to ensure that a sufficient distance is left between the contact portion 20b and the rotation center line Ax1, and it is possible to make the force (i.e., the moment) exerted by the button driving member 31 onto the manipulation button 20L sufficiently large.

[0097] The button driving member 231A has guided portions 231e and 231f guided on its side surfaces (see FIG. 10 ), so that the button driving member 231A is movable about the rotation center line Ax1. As shown in FIG. 10 , the guided portion 231e is, for example, a protruding portion extending along an arc centered on the rotation center line Ax1. On the other hand, the guided portion 231f is, for example, a groove extending along an arc centered on the rotation center line Ax1. The housing 234A has two side walls 234c positioned opposite to each other, with the button driving member 231A being sandwiched between the two side walls 234c in the direction along the rotation center line Ax1 (only one side wall 234c is shown in FIG. 10 ). The protruding portion to which the guided portion 231f is fitted is formed as a guide portion 234a on the side wall 234c of the housing 234 at which the housing 234 faces the side surface of the button driving member 231A on which the guided portion 231f is formed. On the opposite side wall, i.e., the side wall of the housing 234 at which the housing 234 faces the side surface on which the guided portion 231e is formed, the groove to which the guided portion 231e is fitted is formed as a guide portion. Note that, unlike the example of the button driving member 231A, the two guided portions 231e and 231f formed on the two side surfaces can be grooves or can be protruding portions.

[0098] In this way, the guided portions 231e and 231f are formed on the two side surfaces of the button driving member 231A, and the guide portions are formed on the two opposite side walls 234c of the housing 234. That is, the button driving member 231A is supported by the two side walls 234c separated from each other and opposite to each other in the direction along the rotation center line Ax1. With this arrangement, it is possible to effectively suppress the swing of the button driving member 231A, and it is possible to achieve smooth movement of the button driving member 231A.

[0099] In FIG. 9BIn this case, the manipulation button 20L is arranged at its maximum pressing position. The movable range of the button driving member 231A is larger than the movable range of the manipulation button 20L, and the tip of the button driving member 231A can be separated backward from the manipulation button 20L at the maximum pressing position. That is, the button driving member 231A can be arranged at a standby position. By holding the button driving member 231A, the manipulation button 20L can be used as a button that does not receive a reaction force. In addition, the manipulation button 20L can be reliably moved to its maximum pressing position without being affected by the tolerance of the manipulation button 20L or the like. Furthermore, in a state where the manipulation button 20L is at its maximum pressing position, after the button driving member 231A is accelerated by the motor 32, the button driving member 231A can be made to strike the manipulation button 20L. As a result, an impact can be more easily transmitted to the manipulation button 20L, and the impact can provide a user with a tactile sensation.

[0100] The support structure of the button driving member 231A is not limited to FIG. 10 the structure shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 is a view showing a modification of the support structure for the button driving member 231A. This view shows the appearance when the button driving member 231B is seen from the lower side.

[0101] The button driving member 231B has two leg portions 231g extending from the portion in which the rack 231b is formed toward the axis portion 236. The two leg portions 231g are separated from each other in the direction along the rotation center line Ax1. The supported portions 231d are formed at the tips of each of the leg portions 231g. Thus, the button driving member 231B is supported at two positions separated from each other in the direction along the rotation center line Ax1. With this arrangement, it is possible to effectively suppress the swing of the button driving member 231A, and it is possible to achieve smooth movement of the button driving member 231A.

[0102] In the button driving member 231B, the two supported portions 231d are positioned opposite to each other, and a plane P2 orthogonal to the rotation center line Axl is sandwiched between the two supported portions 231d. The plane P2 is a plane passing through the contact point of the manipulation button 20L and the button driving member 231B. Thus, the two supported portions 231d are positioned opposite to each other with the plane passing through the contact point of the manipulation button 20L and the button driving member 231B (the portion of the button driving member 231B to which a force is applied by the manipulation button 20L) being sandwiched between the two supported portions 231d. With this positional relationship between the two supported portions 231d and the contact point, the posture of the button driving member 231B can be stabilized when the button driving member 231B presses the manipulation button 20L. In addition, the plane P2 also passes through the position of the rack 231b. Thus, the two supported portions 231d are positioned opposite to each other with the plane passing through the rack 231b (the portion of the rack 231b to receive the torque of the motor 232) being sandwiched between the two supported portions 231d. With this positional relationship between the two supported portions 231d and the rack 231b, the posture of the button driving member 231B can be stabilized when the button driving member 231B receives the torque of the motor 232. The supported portion 21 of the manipulation button 20L (the portion of the holding shaft portion 236) can be positioned between the two supported portions 231d.

[0103] With the structures of the actuators 30, 230, and 230A, advantages similar to those mentioned below are obtained. As described above, the actuators 30, 230, and 230A have the sensors 35 and 235 attached to the gears 33 and 233 constituting the transmission mechanism M3. The sensors 35 and 235 are, for example, rotary encoders or potentiometers. A control device (a control device provided to the input device 100 or a game machine) that controls the actuators 30 and 230 controls the motors 32 and 232 based on the outputs of the sensors 35 and 235. In the control of the actuators 30 and 230, data indicating the relationship between the positions of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R and the outputs of the sensors 35 and 235 is necessary, and this data is obtained in a calibration work performed on the sensors 35 and 235 at the time of manufacture of the input device 100. With the structures of the actuators 30, 230, and 230A described above, the movements of the actuators 30, 230, and 230A (specifically, the displacements of the button driving members 31, 231, and 231A and the rotations of the motors 32 and 232) are generally proportional to the displacements of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R. As a result, the calibration work of the sensors 35 and 235 can be made easier to perform.

[0104] That is, the operator who performs the calibration presses the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R to move the actuators 30, 230, and 230A and acquires the outputs of the sensors 35 and 235 at a plurality of positions within the movable range of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R. In the structure of the actuators 30, 230, and 230A described above, the movement of the actuators 30, 230, and 230A is generally proportional to the displacement of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R. Therefore, in the calibration work, it is sufficient to acquire the outputs of the sensors 35 and 235 at positions, for example, at both ends of the movable range of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R (the initial position and the maximum pressing position). The relationship between the outputs of the sensors 35 and 233 and the positions of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R between the initial position and the maximum pressing position is obtained by calculation (the positions of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R are obtained based on the outputs of the sensors 22 arranged behind them). In contrast to this, in a structure in which the relationship between the displacement of the button driving member and the displacement of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R is not a proportional relationship, the operator needs to acquire the outputs of the sensors 35 and 233 at many positions by gradually changing the rotational positions of the manipulation buttons 20L and 20R. Therefore, with the structure of the actuators 30, 230, and 230A described above, it is possible to reduce the number of times of sensing the outputs of the sensors 35 and 235 and to make the calibration work of the sensors 35 and 235 easier to perform.

[0105] Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the example of the input device 100 described above. For example, the button driving members 31 and 231 can be coupled with the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L. Also in this case, the coupled portions of the manipulation buttons 20R and 20L are equivalent to the contact portions at which the button driving members contact.

Claims

1. A control input device, comprising: An operating button that can be moved about a rotation centerline by being pressed by a user, and has a contact portion on the side of the operating button opposite to the side to be pressed by the user; An actuator having a button drive member that contacts a contact portion of an operating button and applies a force to the operating button in the opposite direction to the direction of pressing the operating button; the actuator includes an electric motor that can accelerate the button drive member to transmit an impact to the operating button. and A guide that limits the direction of movement of the button-driven component, wherein The button driving component can slide along the guide. Specifically, when the side of the control button that is pressed by the user is defined as the first side and the side opposite to the first side is defined as the second side, A sensor for sensing user pressure on the control button is located on the second side of the control button, and When viewed along the rotation center line, the control button and button drive component are positioned opposite the rotation center line, and the sensor is sandwiched between the contact portion and the rotation center line. When the control button is in its maximum pressed position, the button driving component slides further away from the contact portion, causing the button driving component to separate from the contact portion.

2. The control input device according to claim 1, wherein, The button driving component is capable of sliding in the same direction as the direction of movement of the contact portion.

3. The control input device according to claim 1, wherein, The button drive component can slide linearly along the guide.

4. The control input device according to claim 3, wherein, The control button moves between a first position and a second position, which serve as the initial position. As the control button moves to a third position, which is between the first and second positions, the button drive member can slide in the same direction as the direction of movement of the contact portion.

5. The control input device according to claim 4, wherein, The third position is the intermediate position between the first position and the second position.

6. The control input device according to claim 3, wherein, The control button can be pressed in the first direction. When viewed along the first direction, the button driving component and the operating button overlap, and The button driver component is arranged at an angle to the first direction.

7. The control input device according to claim 1, wherein, The contact portion moves along an arc-shaped trajectory centered on the rotation center line, and The button drive component is capable of sliding about a rotation center line, which is located within an arc including a trajectory.

8. The control input device according to claim 7, wherein, The button driving component is capable of sliding around a rotation center line that coincides with the rotation center line of the operating button.

9. The control input device according to claim 7, wherein, The control button can be pressed in a first direction, and When viewed along the first direction, the button driving component and the control button overlap.

10. The control input device according to claim 1, wherein, The actuator includes: a housing that holds the button-driven member; and a power source that moves the button-driven member. The guide is formed on the housing.

11. A control input device, comprising: An operating button that can be moved about a rotation centerline by being pressed by a user, and has a contact portion on the side of the operating button opposite to the side to be pressed by the user; as well as An actuator having a button-driven member that contacts a contact portion of an operating button and applies a force to the operating button in the opposite direction to the direction of pressing the operating button. The actuator includes a motor that accelerates the button-driven member, thereby transmitting an impact to the operating button. The contact portion moves along an arc-shaped trajectory centered on the rotation center line, and The button-driven component is movable about a rotation center line, which lies within an arc including a trajectory. Specifically, when the side of the control button that is pressed by the user is defined as the first side and the side opposite to the first side is defined as the second side, A sensor for sensing user pressure on the control button is located on the second side of the control button, and When viewed along the rotation center line, the control button and button drive component are positioned opposite the rotation center line, and the sensor is sandwiched between the contact portion and the rotation center line. When the control button is in its maximum pressed position, the button driving component slides further away from the contact portion, causing the button driving component to separate from the contact portion.

12. The control input device according to claim 11, wherein, The button driving component is capable of moving about the rotation center line of the operating button.

13. The control input device according to claim 11, wherein, The button drive component is supported at two positions that are separated from each other along the direction of the rotation center line of the button drive component.

14. The control input device according to claim 13, further comprising: Two wall portions are positioned opposite each other, and the button drive component is sandwiched between the two wall portions in a direction along the rotation center line, wherein... The button driving member has a first side surface and a second side surface that are opposite to each other in the direction along the rotation center line, and The first side surface and the second side surface are each supported by two wall portions.

15. The control input device according to claim 13, wherein, The button drive component has two supported parts that are separated from each other in the direction along the rotation center line of the button drive component, and are supported by an axial portion located on the rotation center line.

16. The control input device according to claim 11, wherein, The button driving member has a guided portion on its side surface, the guided portion being guided such that the button driving member can move about a rotation centerline.

17. The control input device according to claim 11, wherein, The control button can be pressed in a first direction, and When viewed along the first direction, the button driving component and the control button overlap.

Images