Electronic pen and electronic pen main body

Abstract

The present invention provides an electronic pen and a main body for the electronic pen, and the problem is that when using a slimmed-down main body for the electronic pen, a side switch can function more stably without reducing its advantages. An electronic pen (1) is formed by accommodating an electronic pen main body (3) equipped with an electronic pen function in a first housing (2). The main body for the electronic pen (3) is provided with a side switch (35) having an operating member exposed on the side of a housing of the main body for the electronic pen (3), i.e., a second housing (33). The operating member can be directly operated via an operating opening (2h2) provided in the first housing (2), so that the side switch can function stably.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic pen that inputs information by indicating coordinates to a position detection sensor, for example. Background Art

[0002] A position detection sensor (coordinate detection sensor) of an electromagnetic induction type or an electrostatic capacitance type, and a position input device (coordinate input device) for receiving an input of a coordinate position indicated by an electronic pen are used as an input device for an information processing device such as a personal computer. In addition, an example of an electromagnetic induction type coordinate detection sensor is disclosed in Patent Document 1 described later, and an example of an electrostatic capacitance type coordinate detection sensor is disclosed in Patent Document 2 described later.

[0003] In recent years, position detection sensors have been installed in high-performance mobile phone terminals such as smartphones and portable information terminals such as tablet PCs (Personal Computers), and electronic pens are also used when inputting information by indicating coordinate positions with respect to these devices. As electronic pens are widely and generally used, they are required to be as easy to use as commercially available ballpoint pens.

[0004] Thus, the electronic pen main body equipped with the electronic pen function can be assembled in the outer cover of the ballpoint pen for use, so that an electronic pen that is easy to carry and can be used freely like a ballpoint pen can be realized. In addition, when the function as an electronic pen is not used, the core of the electronic pen main body exposed from the front end of the outer cover can be stored in the outer cover, so that the core of the electronic pen main body that is weak in strength to external loads due to the thinning can be properly protected. In addition, by adopting the technology disclosed in the above-mentioned patent document 4, a side switch can also be used, so the advantage of using the electronic pen main body equipped with the electronic pen function and after the thinning is greater.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 07-044304

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 07-295722

[0009] Patent Document 3: International Publication No. 2016 / 143498

[0010] Patent Document 4: International Publication No. 2017 / 043214 Summary of the invention

[0011] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0012] In the case of the invention disclosed in Patent Document 4, there is a structure in which the electrical contacts provided in the electronic pen main body are connected by operating the operating member provided in the outer cover. Therefore, in the case of an electronic pen having a structure in which the pen tip is extended and retracted from the front end of the outer cover, as in a knock-type ballpoint pen, there is a possibility that the position of the operating member provided in the outer cover and the contacts provided in the electronic pen main body may be offset due to some reason. In this case, there is a possibility that the connection between the contacts becomes unstable. Therefore, in the case of using a thinned electronic pen main body, it is required to realize a side switch that can be operated more stably.

[0013] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to enable a side switch to function more stably without reducing its advantages when using a slimmer electronic pen main body.

[0014] Means for solving problems

[0015] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an electronic pen is provided, wherein an electronic pen main body having an electronic pen function is assembled in a first housing, and the electronic pen is characterized in that:

[0016] The electronic pen main body is provided with a side switch unit having an operating element exposed on a side surface of a second housing, which is a housing of the electronic pen main body.

[0017] An operation opening for allowing the operation element exposed on the side surface of the second housing to be operated is provided on the side surface of the first housing.

[0018] According to the electronic pen, the electronic pen is constituted by assembling an electronic pen main body equipped with an electronic pen function in a first housing. A side switch having an operating member exposed on a side thereof is provided in a second housing, which is a housing of the electronic pen main body. The operating member can be directly operated via an operating opening provided in the first housing. Thus, when a slim electronic pen main body is used, the side switch can function stably. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 It is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the electronic pen according to the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 It is a diagram for explaining the appearance of the electronic pen main body according to the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 It is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of a side switch portion provided in a digital pen main body according to an embodiment and an equivalent circuit of the digital pen main body.

[0022] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining another configuration example of the side switch section provided in the electronic pen main body according to the embodiment and an equivalent circuit of the electronic pen main body.

[0023] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining another example of the operating tool provided in the side switch portion of the electronic pen body according to the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 It is a diagram for explaining another configuration example of the electronic pen according to the embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of a capacitive-type electronic pen main body to which an embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of a modified example of the electronic pen main body according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The electronic pen 1 of this embodiment is composed of an electronic pen main body 3 equipped with an electromagnetic induction electronic pen function mounted inside a first housing (outer housing) 2. Figure 1 1 is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the electronic pen 1. Figure 1 middle, Figure 1 (A) and (B) are diagrams showing the internal structure of the first housing 2 cut in half along the longitudinal direction and removing the front portion thereof. Figure 1 (C) is an external view of the electronic pen 1 .

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown in (A), (B), and (C), the first housing 2 is formed into a cylindrical shape. The front end of the first housing 2 on the pen tip side is an end opening 2h1, and the rear end on the opposite side is closed. Three openings 2h2, 2h3, and 2h4 are provided on the side surface of the first housing 2. In addition, an extension 21 extending annularly in the direction of the central axis is provided on the inner wall surface on the rear end side of the first housing 2.

[0029] Figure 2 1 is a diagram for explaining the appearance of the electronic pen main body 3 of the embodiment, and is a diagram for comparison with a commercially available replacement core of a knock-type ballpoint pen. Figure 2 (A) shows a commercially available ballpoint pen refill 5. Figure 2 (B) shows an example of the configuration of the electronic pen main body 3 of this embodiment. A commercially available ballpoint pen refill 5 is shown in FIG. Figure 2As shown in (A), it has a well-known structure in which a pen tip 51 provided with a ball at the front end and an ink container 52 are connected by a connecting portion 53 to form an integrated whole.

[0030] like Figure 1 (A), (B), Figure 2 As shown in (B), the electronic pen main body 3 has a coil 31 wound around a cylindrical ferrite core 32, and is provided with a core 34 inserted through the ferrite core 32, and the front end 34A of the core 34 functions as a pen tip. The housing of the electronic pen main body 3, i.e., the second housing (inner housing) 33, is connected to the rear end side of these pen tips. Although not shown in the figure, a circuit unit composed of various circuit parts such as a pen pressure detection unit for detecting the pen pressure applied to the core 34 and a capacitor is mounted inside the second housing 33. The core 34 penetrates the ferrite core 32, can move in the axial direction, and presses the pen pressure detection unit provided in the second housing 33 according to the pen pressure applied by the user. As a result, the pen pressure applied to the core 34 can be detected by the pen pressure detection unit.

[0031] Furthermore, the second housing 33 of the electronic pen main body 3 is provided with a side switch 35 including an operating element that is exposed from the side of the second housing 33 and operated by the user. The side switch 35 is an important part of the structure of the electronic pen in order to realize the same functions as the left and right buttons of a so-called mouse as a pointing device. Figure 1 As shown, the operating element of the side switch 35 is operated by the user through the opening 2h2 provided on the side of the first housing 2. In addition, a fitting hole 36 for fitting the electronic pen body 3 into the first housing 2 is provided at the rear end of the second housing 33.

[0032] like Figure 2 (A) and Figure 2 As shown in (B), the size of the electronic pen main body 3 is configured to be substantially equal to the size of the ballpoint pen replacement core 5. That is, the total length L1 of the electronic pen main body 3 is the same as the total length L1 of the ballpoint pen replacement core 5, and the diameter R1 of the second shell 33 of the electronic pen main body 3 is the same as the diameter R1 of the ballpoint pen replacement core 5. To give a specific example, the total length L1 of the electronic pen main body is, for example, 11.2 mm, and the diameter R1 is, for example, 6 mm. In addition, the specific example given here is only an example, and the total length L1 and the diameter R1 can also take various values.

[0033] The state holding mechanism 4, which is a mechanism for mounting the electronic pen main body 3 thus configured in the first housing 2, is provided in the first housing 2. The state holding mechanism 4 is configured to include a holding portion 41, an insertion portion 42, a spring stopper 43, and a coil spring 44. In the present embodiment, the holding portion 41, the insertion portion 42, and the spring stopper 43 are made of, for example, a hard resin and are configured to be less likely to deform.

[0034] The holding portion 41 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the inside of which is hollow, and a fitting protrusion 41a is provided on the end surface on the pen tip side. The electronic pen main body 3 is mounted on the state holding mechanism 4 by fitting the fitting protrusion 41a with the fitting hole 36 located on the rear end surface of the second shell 33 of the electronic pen main body 3. On the side surface of the holding portion 41, a locking protrusion 41b and a release protrusion 41c protruding outward (on the first shell 2 side) are arranged in a straight line in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the locking protrusion 41b and the release protrusion 41C have the same lateral width (the width of these protrusions in the direction intersecting the arrangement direction).

[0035] exist Figure 1 In (C), as indicated by the dotted lines around the opening 2h3, the rectangular portion 41p provided with the locking protrusion 41b and the release protrusion 41c of the holding portion 41 is cut at the rear end side opposite to the pen tip side and at the left and right sides along the axial direction. That is, the rectangular portion 41p provided with the locking protrusion 41b and the release protrusion 41c is cut along the three sides indicated by the dotted lines and has a predetermined thickness, thereby functioning as a so-called leaf spring. As a result, as shown in Figure 1 As shown by arrow a in (A) and (B), the locking protrusion 41b is pressed inwardly of the holding portion 41 by application of an inward force, and returns to its original position when the inward force is released.

[0036] The insertion portion 42 is a rod-shaped portion extending from the holding portion 41 toward the rear end side opposite to the pen tip, and has a smaller diameter than the holding portion 41. Figure 1 As shown in (A) and (B), the coil spring 44 is inserted through the insertion portion 42. The spring stopper 43 is a disc-shaped portion provided at the rear end of the insertion portion 42, and restricts the coil spring 44 from being located on the rear end side of the spring stopper 43. In this embodiment, the insertion portion 42 and the spring stopper 43 are formed as one body, and after the coil spring 44 is inserted through the insertion portion 42, the insertion portion 42 is fixed to the rear end of the holding portion 41 to form the state holding mechanism portion 4.

[0037] like Figure 1As shown in (A) and (B), the state holding mechanism 4 is installed in the first housing 2 by sandwiching the annular extension 21 provided on the inner side of the first housing 2 between the rear end surface of the holding portion 41 and the coil spring 44 inserted by the insertion portion 42. In this embodiment, the first housing 2 can be Figure 1 As shown in (A) and (B), the electronic pen can be separated into two parts in the longitudinal direction and then reassembled, or it can be separated into two parts on the pen tip side and the rear end side and then reassembled in the same way as a commercially available ballpoint pen. Therefore, if the electronic pen main body 3 is installed on the first shell 2, the first shell 2 separated into two parts is reassembled to form a Figure 1 (C) shows the electronic pen 1.

[0038] In the electronic pen 1 constructed in this way, when no load is applied to the coil spring 44 and the coil spring 44 is at its natural length, Figure 1 As shown in (A), the entire electronic pen main body 3 assembled in the holding portion 41 is stored in the first housing 2. This state is a non-use state of the electronic pen 1. In this case, the coil spring 44 locked by the extension portion 21 also acts on the spring stopper 43, and the entire electronic pen main body 3 assembled in the holding portion 41 is held in the first housing 2, and this state is maintained.

[0039] In this state, the locking protrusion 41b of the holding portion 41 is in a state of being fitted into the opening 2h4 of the first housing 2, and the releasing protrusion 41C is in a state of being fitted into the opening 2h3 of the first housing 2. Therefore, no load is applied to the rectangular leaf spring portion provided with the locking protrusion 41b and the releasing protrusion 41C. In this case, no large load is applied to the coil spring 44, so that the entire electronic pen main body 3 can be kept (maintained) stably accommodated in the first housing 2. In this state, the entire electronic pen main body 3 is located in the first housing 2, so even if the electronic pen 1 is dropped or bumped, the tip of the electronic pen main body 3 will not be damaged.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown in (C), the opening 2h2 of the first housing 2 is a structure for sliding and pressing the side switch 35 of the electronic pen main body 3 of the state holding mechanism 4 installed in the first housing 2. For this reason, the length of the opening 2h2 in the axial direction (longitudinal direction) is longer than the length (longitudinal width) of the side switch 35 in the axial direction, and the length (lateral width) in the direction intersecting the axial direction is also longer than the length in the direction intersecting the axial direction of the side switch 35.

[0041] like Figure 1As shown in (A), when the entire electronic pen body 3 is stored in the first housing 2, the operating element of the side switch 35 of the electronic pen body 3 is located at the rear end side of the opening 2h2 (the opposite side of the pen tip). Figure 1 In (C), the position indicated by the dotted line in the opening 2h2 is the position of the rear end side of the operating element of the side switch 35 when the entire electronic pen body 3 is stored in the first housing 2.

[0042] Therefore, when the entire electronic pen body 3 is stored in the first housing 2, Figure 1 In (A), as shown by the arrow b next to the side switch 35, the operation is performed so that the operating element of the side switch 35 of the electronic pen body 3 slides toward the pen tip. Figure 1 As shown in (B) and (C), the electronic pen main body 3 in the first housing 2 slides toward the pen tip side, and the pen tip including the front end 34A of the core 34 protrudes from the first housing. This state is the use state of the electronic pen 1. Therefore, the operating element of the side switch 35 functions as a so-called slide bar.

[0043] In this case, if Figure 1 As shown in (A) and (B), the locking protrusion 41b has a structure in which a slope is provided on the pen tip side and an end face is orthogonal to the axial direction on the opposite side of the pen tip side. Therefore, the locking protrusion 41b abuts against the end of the pen tip side of the opening 2h4, and if it is pressed inward as shown by arrow a, it will move toward the pen tip direction. Figure 1 The state shown in (A) in which the opening 2h4 is fitted is as shown in Figure 1 (B) moves into the opening 2h3 shown in FIG. As a result, the end surface of the locking protrusion 41b on the opposite side of the pen tip side abuts against the end of the opening 2h3 on the opposite side of the pen tip side. In addition, although the release protrusion 41C is still located in the opening 2h3, its position changes (moves) toward the pen tip side.

[0044] Therefore, in the Figure 1 In the states shown in (B) and (C), the coil spring 44 is pressed toward the pen tip by the spring stopper 43, so that a load is applied to the coil spring 44, the spring length is shortened, and the force to restore the original state increases. However, the end surface of the rear end side of the locking protrusion 41b abuts against the end of the rear end side of the opening 2h3 and is locked, thereby maintaining the position of the state holding mechanism 4 in the first housing 2. In this way, the use state in which the pen tip of the electronic pen main body 3 protrudes from the end opening 2h1 of the first housing 2 can be stably maintained.

[0045] Then, the electronic pen 1 is used and released. Figure 1In the states (B) and (C), i.e., in the use state, the release protrusion 41C is pressed in the axial direction (inward of the electronic pen 1). As a result, the locking protrusion 41b is also pressed in the axial direction again, and the locking state with the end of the rear end side of the opening 2h3 is released. Therefore, the state holding mechanism 4 to which the electronic pen main body 3 is mounted returns to the rear end side position by the restoring force of the coil spring 44.

[0046] As a result, the state holding mechanism unit 4 returns to Figure 1 In the non-use state shown in (A), the entire electronic pen body 3 is stored in the first housing 2. In this way, in the case of the electronic pen 1 of this embodiment, the operating element of the side switch 35 of the electronic pen body 3 is slid toward the pen tip side through the opening 2h2 provided on the side of the first housing 2, so that the electronic pen 1 can be in the use state. In this use state, the operating element of the side switch 35 is pressed, so that the function of the side switch in the electronic pen 1 can be used.

[0047] Furthermore, when in the use state, the release protrusion 41C is pressed down to release the engagement with the rear end of the opening 2h3 of the locking protrusion 41b. In this case, the entire electronic pen body 3 is stored in the first housing 2 by the restoring force of the coil spring 44, and the locking protrusion 41b is engaged with the opening 2h4 to stably maintain the non-use state. In this way, the electronic pen 1 of this embodiment can be changed from the non-use state to the use state by sliding the operating member of the side switch part 35 provided on the side of the electronic pen body 3 through the opening 2h2 toward the pen tip side. Furthermore, by pressing down the release protrusion 41C, the use state can be changed from the non-use state by using the coil spring 44.

[0048] Furthermore, as can be seen from the above description, the opening 2h2 provided on the side of the first housing 2 is an operation opening for operating the operating member of the side switch section 35 provided on the side of the electronic pen main body 3. Furthermore, the opening 2h3 provided on the first housing 2 is a locking opening for engaging the locking protrusion 41b of the state holding mechanism section 4 to maintain the use state and for operating the release protrusion 41C to release the use state. Furthermore, the opening 2h4 provided on the first housing 2 is a storage opening for engaging the locking protrusion 41b of the state holding mechanism section 4 to stably maintain the storage state when the entire electronic pen main body 3 is stored inside the first housing 2.

[0049] [Configuration Example of Side Switch Section and Equivalent Circuit of Electronic Pen Main Body Section]

[0050] Figure 3This is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of the side switch section 35 provided in the electronic pen main body 3. Figure 3 (A)) and an equivalent circuit of the electronic pen main body 3 including the side switch unit 35 ( Figure 3 (B))Figure.

[0051] The operating member 35a is formed of, for example, synthetic resin, and has a certain degree of elasticity in a hardened state. Therefore, when no force is applied, the operating member 35a maintains its shape, but when a certain degree of force is applied to the feet ft1 and ft2, the feet ft1 and ft2 can be biased in the direction of the force. Figure 3 As shown in (A), protrusions pr1 and pr2 extending outward are provided on the side surfaces of the two legs ft1 and ft2 of the operating member 35a.

[0052] A hole HL for mounting the operating member 35a is provided at the mounting position of the operating member 35a of the second housing 33. The hole HL is an opening slightly larger in both the longitudinal and transverse directions than the pressing portion (upper surface) 35au of the operating member 35a. If the front ends of the feet ft1 and ft2 are inserted into the hole HL and the pressing portion 35au of the operating member 35a is pressed, the feet ft1 and ft2 are biased inwards, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in (A), the legs ft1 and ft2 including the protrusions pr1 and pr2 can be press-fitted into the hole HL.

[0053] The protrusions pr1 and pr2 of the feet ft1 and ft2 are located between the second housing 33 and the biasing members x1 and x2 such as leaf springs, and the operating member 35a is mounted on the second housing 33. When the pressing portion 35au of the operating member 35a mounted on the second housing 33 is pressed, the operating member 35a can be pressed into the second housing 33. Then, by releasing the pressing portion 35au of the operating member 35a, the feet ft1 and ft2 are lifted up by the biasing members x1 and x2, and the operating member 35a returns to its original state.

[0054] In this way, the operating member 35a is mounted in a manner that does not easily come off the second housing 33 by the biasing members x1 and x2. By pressing the pressing portion 35au, the mounted operating member 35a can be pressed in a direction intersecting the length direction of the electronic pen main body 3. In addition, by releasing the pressure on the operating member 35a, the operating member 35a can be lifted up and returned to its original state by the biasing members x1 and x2.

[0055] Thus, when the operating member 35a is not pressed by the user, Figure 3As shown in (A), the protrusions pr1 and pr2 stay at a predetermined position abutting against the inner wall surface of the second housing 33. In contrast, when the operating member 35a is pressed by the user, the operating member 35a is pressed, so that the contact parts T1 and T2 connected by the wire 35b come into contact with the terminals BT1 and BT2 of the electronic pen main body 3. The contact parts T1 and T2 and the terminals BT1 and BT2 are both made of conductors.

[0056] Thus, in the electronic pen main body 3 of the present embodiment, the side switch unit 35 is constituted by the operating member 35a, the biasing members x1, x2, and the terminals BT1, BT2 of the electronic pen main body 3. The equivalent circuit of the electronic pen main body 3 of the present embodiment having the side switch unit 35 is: Figure 3 (B) The circuit shown.

[0057] That is, the electronic pen main body 3 of this embodiment has a structure of a resonance circuit in which a coil (inductor) 31, a capacitor (capacitance) Cf, a variable capacitor Cv constituting a writing pressure detection unit, and a capacitor C1 for frequency change are connected in parallel. In addition, a circuit unit constituting a side switch unit 35 for switching whether to connect the capacitor C1 to the resonance circuit is provided. The circuit unit is a part composed of contact parts T1 and T2 provided on the feet ft1 and ft2 of the operating member 35a and electrically connected by the wire 35b, and terminals BT1 and BT2 provided inside the second shell 33 of the electronic pen main body 3.

[0058] Thus, the connection / disconnection of the capacitor C1 to the resonance circuit can be switched by turning on / off the side switch unit 35. Therefore, the frequency of the signal generated by the resonance circuit can be changed when the capacitor C1 is connected to the resonance circuit and when it is not connected, and the two states of the capacitor C1 being connected to the resonance circuit and being not connected to the resonance circuit can be notified to the position detection device side.

[0059] Therefore, by assembling the electronic pen main body 3 in the first housing 2 and sliding the side switch 35 through the operation opening 2h2, it is possible to change the non-use state to the use state. In this way, by assembling the electronic pen main body 3 in the first housing 2, the electronic pen 1 can be configured and used. In addition, when the electronic pen 1 is in the use state, by pressing the operating member 35a of the side switch 35, the use state (two values ​​of on / off) of the side switch 35 can be notified to the position detection device.

[0060] [Other Configuration Examples of the Side Switch Section and Equivalent Circuit of the Electronic Pen Main Body Section]

[0061] Figure 4The side switch unit 35A ( Figure 4 (A)) and an equivalent circuit ( Figure 4 (B)). In addition, except for the side switch portion 35A, the other parts of the electronic pen main body 3A of this example, including the appearance and size, are the same as those of the user. Figure 1 , Figure 2 The electronic pen main body 3 described above is similarly configured. Figure 3 In the present invention, the same reference numerals are given to parts having the same configuration as those of the above-described electronic pen main body 3 , and descriptions of these parts are omitted.

[0062] The operating member 35Aa has three legs ft3, ft4, and ft5, and the ends of the three legs ft3, ft4, and ft5 are provided with contact portions T3, T4, and T5 made of conductors, and they are connected by a wire 35Ab. The operating member 35Aa is also formed of a synthetic resin or the like, and has a certain degree of elastic force in a hardened state. Therefore, although its shape is maintained in a state where no force is applied, for example, when a certain degree of force is applied to the legs ft3 and ft5, the legs ft3 and ft5 can be biased in the direction of the force applied.

[0063] In addition, projections pr3 and pr4 extending outward are provided on the side of the feet ft3 and ft5 of the operating member 35Aa. A hole portion HA for installing the operating member 35Aa is provided at the installation position of the operating member 35Aa of the second shell 33. The hole portion HA has an opening portion that is slightly larger in both the longitudinal and transverse directions than the pressing portion Aau of the operating member 35Aa. For this reason, the feet ft3, ft4, and ft5 of the operating member 35Aa are pressed in a manner of being inserted into the hole portion HA, so that the feet ft3 and ft5 are biased inwardly and pressed into the hole portion HA. As a result, the projections pr3 and pr4 of the feet ft3 and ft5 are pressed into the interior of the second shell 33 and are located between the second shell 33 and the biasing components x3 and x4, and the feet ft3 and ft5 biased inwardly return to their original state. In this way, the operating member 35Aa can be installed in a manner that does not easily detach from the second shell 33.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 2A , biasing members x3 and x4 such as leaf springs provided on the left and right sides of the hole HA of the second housing 33 abut against the protrusions pr3 and pr4, and the operating member 35Aa is moved toward the outside of the second housing 33. Figure 4 (A) The upper side of the figure is lifted. Therefore, when the user is not pressing the operation state, Figure 4As shown in (A), the operation member 35Aa stays at a predetermined position where the protrusions pr3 and pr4 abut against the inner wall surface of the second housing 33 .

[0065] By pressing the pressing portion Aau with the operating member 35Aa, a so-called seesaw operation can be performed. Thus, if the contact portions T3 and T4 of the operating member 35Aa are brought into contact with the terminals BT3 and BT4 of the electronic pen main body 3A, the terminal BT3 and the terminal BT4 can be electrically connected. Conversely, if the contact portions T4 and T5 of the operating member 35Aa are brought into contact with the terminals BT4 and BT5 of the electronic pen main body 3A, the terminal BT4 and the terminal BT5 can be electrically connected.

[0066] When the terminal BT3 is connected to the terminal BT4, the frequency-changing capacitor C2 is connected to the resonance circuit, and when the terminal BT4 is connected to the terminal BT5, the frequency-changing capacitor C3 is connected to the resonance circuit. Thus, it is possible to form a state in which the capacitor C2 is connected in parallel with the resonance circuit mounted on the electronic pen main body 3A, a state in which the capacitor C3 is connected in parallel, and a state in which neither the capacitor C2 nor the capacitor C3 is connected.

[0067] Thus, in the electronic pen main body 3A of this example, the side switch 35A is constituted by the operating member 35Aa, the biasing members x3 and x4, and the terminals BT3, BT4, and BT5 of the electronic pen main body 3A. The equivalent circuit of the electronic pen main body 3A of this example having the side switch 35A is as follows: Figure 4 (B) shows the circuit.

[0068] The electronic pen main body 3A of this example has a structure in which a coil (inductor) 31, a capacitor (capacitance) Cf, a variable capacitor Cv constituting a writing pressure detection unit, and capacitors C2 and C3 for frequency change are connected in parallel. In addition, an operating member 35Aa and terminals BT3, BT4, and BT5 provided inside the second housing 33 of the electronic pen main body 3A constitute a side switch.

[0069] Furthermore, when the operating member 35Aa is not operated, the terminals BT3, BT4, and BT5 of the electronic pen main body 3A can be set to a state where none of them is electrically connected. In addition, by operating the operating member 35Aa, the case where the capacitor C2 is connected in parallel to the resonance circuit and the case where the capacitor C3 is connected in parallel to the resonance circuit can be switched. Therefore, the frequency of the signal generated by the resonance circuit can be changed by the case where neither the capacitors C2 nor C3 are connected to the resonance circuit, the case where the capacitor C2 is connected to the resonance circuit, and the case where the capacitor C3 is connected to the resonance circuit, and these three states can be notified to the position detection device.

[0070] The electronic pen main body 3A of this example is also similar to the electronic pen main body 3 described above. By being assembled in the first housing 2, and by sliding the side switch 35A through the operation opening 2h2, it is possible to change from a non-use state to a use state. In this way, by assembling the electronic pen main body 3A in the first housing 2, the electronic pen 1A is configured and can be used as an electronic pen. In addition, when the electronic pen 1A is in use, by pressing the operating member 35Aa of the side switch 35A, the use state of the side switch 35A (three values ​​of off / capacitor C2 on / capacitor C3 on) can be notified to the position detection device.

[0071] [Configuration Example of the Operating Tool of the Side Switch Section]

[0072] In the side switch section 35, 35A, an operating member 35a, 35Aa is provided on the side of the second housing 33 of the electronic pen main body 3, 3A. Therefore, in order to facilitate operation through the operating opening 2h2 of the first housing 2, it is desirable that the operating member 35a, 35Aa is configured to protrude toward the first housing 2. Figure 5 This is a diagram for explaining a configuration example of an operating element of a side switch portion provided in a main body of the electronic pen according to the embodiment.

[0073] The first housing 2 is as follows Figure 1 In the case of the structure that can be separated into two parts in the length direction and reassembled as shown in (A) and (B), even if the operating members 35a and 35Aa extend toward the first housing 2, they will not become obstacles when being assembled to the first housing 2. Figure 5 As shown in (A), an operating member 35B is configured to protrude toward the first housing 2 side and can be used.

[0074] However, if the first housing 2 is a structure that can be separated into two parts, the pen tip side and the rear end side, and reassembled like a commercially available ballpoint pen, if the operating members 35a and 35Aa extend toward the first housing 2, it will become an obstacle when assembling the first housing 2. Figure 5 As shown in (B), the operation piece 35C is formed so as not to protrude toward the first housing 2, but a recess is provided in advance on its upper surface.

[0075] After the electronic pen main body including the operating member 35C is mounted on the first housing 2, the subsequent operating member 35D is mounted through the operating opening 2h2 so that the convex portion provided on the bottom surface thereof fits into the concave portion of the operating member 35C. Figure 5 As shown in (B), the operating member 35C integrated with the operating member 35D can be operated by the operating member 35D extending toward the first housing 2 so as to be easily operated from the operating opening 2h2.

[0076] In addition, here, Figure 3 The side switch unit 35 of the structure shown in (A) is similarly described as a case where the side switch unit is constituted by an operating member having two legs, but the invention is not limited to this. Figure 4 Even when the side switch section is constituted by the operating member of the three legs of the structure shown in (A), the same structure can be achieved.

[0077] [Electronic pen with a knocking-type first housing]

[0078] Figure 6 1X is a diagram for explaining another configuration example of the electronic pen of the embodiment. The electronic pen 1X of this example is similar to the electronic pen 1 of the embodiment described above, in which the electronic pen main body 3 ( Figure 3 )、3A( Figure 4 However, the first housing 2X of this example is a so-called knocking type that switches between a use state and a non-use state by knocking the rear end, as in the case of most commercially available ballpoint pens.

[0079] like Figure 6 The electronic pen 1X shown in the figure has the following knocking structure: the electronic pen main body 3 is accommodated in the hollow part 2Xa of the first shell 2X, and the pen tip side of the electronic pen main body 3 is extended and retracted from the opening 2Xb side at one end in the length direction of the first shell 2X by the knocking cam mechanism 7. Figure 1 to Figure 3 However, the electronic pen main body 3 can be formed by appropriately adjusting the overall length L1 and the diameter R1 according to the size of the first housing 2X.

[0080] Figure 6 (A) shows a state where the entire electronic pen body 3 is accommodated in the hollow portion 2Xa of the first housing 2X. Figure 6 (B) shows a state where the pen tip side of the electronic pen main body 3 protrudes from the opening 2Xb of the first housing 2X by knocking the cam mechanism 7. Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 1 , the first housing 2X of the electronic pen 1X is cut in half in the longitudinal direction, and one half is removed to reveal the interior of the first housing 2X. The electronic pen 1X of this example is configured to be compatible with a commercially available knock-type ballpoint pen.

[0081] The first housing 2X and the knocking cam mechanism 7 disposed in the first housing 2X are constructed in the same manner as those of a well-known commercially available knocking ballpoint pen, and the dimensions are also constructed in the same manner. In other words, the first housing 2X and the knocking cam mechanism 7 can be used as is in the housing and the knocking cam mechanism of a commercially available knocking ballpoint pen. Figure 6 As shown in (A) and (B), an operation opening 2Xh is provided on the side surface of the first housing 2X.

[0082] like Figure 6 As shown, the knocking cam mechanism 7 is a well-known structure formed by combining a cam body 71, a knocking rod 72, and a rotor 73. The cam body 71 is formed on the inner wall surface of the cylindrical first housing 2X. The knocking rod 72 is configured to be able to receive the knocking operation of the user and the end 72a protrudes from the opening 2Xc on the opposite side of the pen tip side of the first housing 2X. The rotor 73 has a fitting portion 73a for fitting the end on the opposite side of the pen tip side of the electronic pen main body 3.

[0083] exist Figure 6 In the state (A), when the end 72A of the knocking rod 72 is pressed, the electronic pen main body 3 is moved in the first housing 2X by the knocking cam mechanism 7. Figure 6 (B) is locked. As a result, the pen tip side of the electronic pen main body 3 is in a state of protruding from the opening 2Xb of the first housing 2X. Figure 6 When the key is pressed again from the state (B), the locked state is released by knocking the cam mechanism 7, and the position of the electronic pen main body 3 in the first housing 2X returns to the original position under the action of the return spring 6. Figure 6 The detailed structure and operation of the knocking cam mechanism 7 are well known, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

[0084] like Figure 6 As shown in (A), when the entire electronic pen body 3 is stored in the first housing 2X (non-use state), the side switch 35 provided in the electronic pen body 3 is not exposed from the operation opening 2Xh of the first housing 2X. Figure 6 In the non-use state shown in (A), the side switch unit 35 cannot be operated. Figure 6 As shown in (B), when the pen tip side of the electronic pen main body 3 is in a state of protruding from the opening 2Xb of the first housing 2X (in use), the side switch 35 provided in the electronic pen main body 3 is exposed from the operation opening 2Xh of the first housing 2X. Figure 6 In the use state shown in (B), the side switch portion 35 can be operated.

[0085] In this way, the present invention can also be applied when the electronic pen 1X is configured using the first housing 2X including the tapping cam mechanism 7. Figure 6 In the case of the example shown, in the use state ( Figure 6 (B)) the side switch unit 35 can be operated, but in the non-use state ( Figure 6 Therefore, it can function as an electronic pen, and has the advantage that the side switch unit 35 can be operated only when the side switch unit 35 needs to be operated.

[0086] [Application to capacitive electronic pens]

[0087] In the above-mentioned embodiment, although the present invention is described by taking the case where the present invention is applied to an electromagnetic induction type electronic pen as an example, the present invention can also be applied to an electrostatic capacitance type electronic pen. That is, the appearance is configured to provide operation openings 2h2 and 2Xh on the first housing 2 and 2X. The side switch 35 and 35A are provided on the side of the second housing of the electrostatic capacitance type electronic pen main body 3B mounted on the first housing. The configuration is such that the electrostatic capacitance type electronic pen main body 3B is mounted on the first housing 2 and 2X, and when it is set to the use state, the side switch 35 and 35A can be pressed through the operation openings 2h2 and 2Xh.

[0088] Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of an electronic pen main body 3B having a function as an active electrostatic pen as an example of an electrostatic capacitance type electronic pen. Figure 7 The active electrostatic pen shown in FIG. 1 is charged by electromagnetic induction, and therefore has a coil 86. In the electronic pen main body 3B, the core 30X is an electrode core structure made of a conductor such as a hard resin mixed with a conductive metal or conductive powder. In the following description, the core 30X is referred to as the electrode core 30X. In this example, Figure 7 As shown, the electronic circuit formed on the printed circuit board has a circuit structure including a signal transmission circuit 81, a double-layer capacitor 82 as an example of a storage element that generates a driving voltage (power supply voltage) for driving the signal transmission circuit 81, a rectifying diode 83, and a voltage conversion circuit 84. In this example, the signal transmission circuit 81 is composed of an oscillation circuit.

[0089] The electrode core 30X is inserted through the through hole of the ferrite core and is engaged with the pressing component (pressure transmission component) of the pen pressure detection module in the same manner as the electronic pen main body 3 of the above-mentioned embodiment, so that the pen pressure is transmitted to the pressure sensing part via the pressing component. Thus, the electrode core 30X is electrically connected to the signal transmission circuit 81 of the printed circuit board through the connecting wire 85.

[0090] Moreover, if Figure 7As shown, the two terminal parts 91a and 91b of the pen pressure detection module are electrically connected to the signal transmission circuit 81 formed on the printed circuit board. The oscillation circuit constituting the signal transmission circuit 81 generates a signal with a frequency change according to the capacitance of the variable capacitor 91 of the pressure sensing part of the pen pressure detection module, and supplies the generated signal to the electrode core 30X.

[0091] Furthermore, the capacitor C1 and the side switch unit 35 are connected in parallel to the signal transmission circuit 81. The side switch unit 35 has a Figure 3 (A) Explanation of the structure. According to this, by turning on / off the side switch unit 35, the connection / disconnection of the capacitor C1 to the signal transmission circuit 81 can be switched, and the frequency of the signal generated from the signal transmission circuit 81 can be changed.

[0092] When the electronic pen main body 3B of this example is mounted on the first housing 2, 2X and mounted on a charger (not shown), an induced electromotive force is generated in the coil 86 due to the alternating magnetic field generated by the charger, and the double-layer capacitor 82 is charged via the diode 83. As described above, the coil 86 is used for charging. The voltage conversion circuit 84 converts the voltage stored in the double-layer capacitor 82 into a constant voltage and supplies it as a power source for the signal transmission circuit 81.

[0093] When the electronic pen main body 3B is in normal operation (not in charging operation), the coil 86 is at a fixed potential (ground potential (GND) in this example), and thus functions as a shielding electrode provided around the electrode core 30X. In addition, the fixed potential of the coil 86 when the electronic pen main body 3B is in normal operation is not limited to the ground potential, but may be the positive electrode side potential of the power supply, or may be a potential between the positive electrode side potential of the power supply and the ground potential.

[0094] The signal transmission circuit (oscillation circuit) 81 generates a signal with a frequency change based on the capacitance of the variable capacitor 91 formed by the pressure sensing part of the pen pressure detection module and the capacitance of the capacitor C1 when connected to the signal transmission circuit 81 through the side switch part 35, and supplies the generated signal to the electrode core 30X. The signal X from the signal transmission circuit 81 is radiated from the electrode core 30 as an electric field based on the signal. In the position detection device for detecting the indicated position (coordinate position) of the electronic pen main body 3B of this example, the pen pressure applied to the electrode core 30X and the on / off state of the side switch can be obtained from the frequency of the signal.

[0095] In addition, if Figure 1 (B), (C), Figure 6As shown in (B), the switch 92 is turned "on" when the tip of the electronic pen main body 3B of this example protrudes from the end opening 2h1, 2Xb of the first housing 2, 2X and the electronic pen is in use, and is turned "off" when the electronic pen is not in use. Thus, the pressing operation of the side switch 35, 35A becomes effective only when the electronic pen is in use.

[0096] In this way, it is possible to form Figure 7 The equivalent circuit shown in FIG. 1 is of the same configuration and has the same appearance as Figure 1 , Figure 6 In this case, the electronic pen can be switched between the use state and the non-use state like a commercially available ballpoint pen, and the side switch 35, 35A provided on the side of the electronic pen main body 3B can be operated through the operation opening 2h2, 2Xh of the first shell 2, 2X.

[0097] [Effects of Embodiment]

[0098] According to the electronic pen of the above-mentioned embodiment, the thinned electronic pen main body 3, 3A, 3B can be assembled in the first housing 2, 2X for use. In this case, the electronic pen main body 3, 3A, 3B can be switched between a use state in which the pen tip of the electronic pen main body 3, 3A, 3B protrudes from the front end of the first housing 2, 2X and a non-use state in which the entire electronic pen main body 3, 3A, 3B is stored in the first housing 2, 2X. That is, the electronic pen can be used in the same way as a commercially available ballpoint pen that can be replaced with a refill (pen refill). In addition, it is easy to carry.

[0099] Furthermore, the side switch 35, 35A provided in the electronic pen body 3, 3A, 3B can be directly operated through the operation opening 2h2, 2Xh provided in the side of the first housing 2, 2X. Thus, the side switch can be properly and reliably operated, and the side switch function can always function stably.

[0100] [Modifications]

[0101] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of a modified example of the electronic pen main body 3. Figure 8 As shown in (A), a switch SW1 that is "on" when in use and "off" when not in use is provided in the electronic pen body 3. This allows the side switch function to function only when the electronic pen 1 is in use.

[0102] In addition, if Figure 8As shown in (B), a switch SW2 that is "on" when in use and "off" when not in use is provided in the electronic pen main body 3. This allows the electronic pen function including the side switch function to function only when the electronic pen 1 is in use.

[0103] In this way, it is possible to control the on / off state of the side switch function and the activation / inactivation state of the electronic pen function according to the position of the switch, as in the case of switches SW1 and SW2. In addition, for switches SW1 and SW2, switches SW1 and SW2 are provided on the electronic pen main body 3, and protrusions that are pressed to open switches SW1 and SW2 when in use are provided on the inner wall surface of the first shell. Of course, switches SW1 and SW2 may be implemented by other structures. In addition, it is also possible to Figure 8 The same structure as shown in (A) and (B) applies to Figure 4 (B) shows a digital pen main body 3A having a structure shown in FIG.

[0104] In addition, the sizes of the electronic pen main body 3 , 3A, 3B and the sizes of the first housing 2 , 2X are not limited to those in the above-mentioned embodiment, and various sizes may be used.

[0105] In addition, the configuration of the side switch portion is not limited to using Figure 3 , Figure 4 The described configuration may be other various configurations that can at least realize opening / closing.

[0106] Description of symbols

[0107] 1. 1A, 1X…electronic pen

[0108] 2…First shell

[0109] 2h1…End opening

[0110] 2h2…Operation opening

[0111] 2h3…Opening for locking

[0112] 2h4…Storage opening

[0113] 21…Extension

[0114] 3, 3A, 3B… Main body for electronic pen

[0115] 31…Coil

[0116] 32…Ferrite core

[0117] 33…Second shell

[0118] 34…Core

[0119] 34A…Front end

[0120] 35, 35A…Side switch

[0121] 35A, 35Aa…operating parts

[0122] 35au, Aau…pressing part

[0123] HL, HA…Hole

[0124] 35B, 35Ab…wire

[0125] ft1~ft5…feet

[0126] T1~T5…Contact part

[0127] x1~x4…Biased components

[0128] BT1~BT5…terminals

[0129] C1~C3…capacitors.

Claims

1. An electronic pen, comprising: a first shell; a second housing disposed within the first housing; as well as an electronic pen main body provided in the second housing and equipped with an electronic pen function, wherein the electronic pen main body includes a side switch having an operating element exposed on a side surface of the second housing, in: An operation opening is provided on the side of the first housing, and the operation opening is used to expose the operation element of the side switch portion of the electronic pen main body exposed on the side of the second housing to the outside of the electronic pen. The length of the operation opening in the longitudinal direction of the first housing is greater than the length of the operation element of the side switch portion of the electronic pen body in the longitudinal direction of the first housing. The operating member of the side switch portion of the electronic pen body is capable of sliding between a first position and a second position in the operating opening in the length direction of the first housing. When the operating element of the electronic pen main body is at the first position in the length direction of the first housing, the pen tip of the electronic pen main body protrudes from the front end of the first housing. When the operating element of the electronic pen main body is at the second position in the length direction of the first housing, the pen tip of the electronic pen main body does not protrude from the front end of the first housing, and When the operating element of the electronic pen body is in both the first position and the second position, the operating element of the electronic pen body is exposed to the outside of the electronic pen through the operation opening.

2. The electronic pen according to claim 1, wherein: When the operating member of the electronic pen main body slides toward the front end of the first housing and moves to the first position in the length direction of the first housing, the pen tip of the electronic pen main body protrudes from the front end of the first housing, and When the operating element of the electronic pen body slides away from the front end of the first housing to the second position in the length direction of the first housing, the pen tip of the electronic pen body does not protrude from the front end of the first housing.

3. The electronic pen according to claim 2, further comprising: a state holding mechanism portion for holding the pen tip of the electronic pen main body in a state of protruding from the front end of the first housing, When a release operation is performed to release the state in which the pen tip protrudes from the front end of the first shell, the state maintaining mechanism causes the electronic pen body to slide in the rear end direction of the first shell opposite to the pen tip side of the first shell so that the pen tip is stored in the first shell.

4. The electronic pen according to claim 3, wherein: The state maintaining mechanism unit comprises: an elastic member that is biased to return the electronic pen body toward the rear end when the pen tip protrudes from the front end of the first housing; and The locking protrusion is provided on the second housing and acts to maintain the biased state of the elastic member by engaging with the locking opening provided on the first housing. The release operation is an operation of releasing the engagement of the locking protrusion with respect to the locking opening.

5. The electronic pen according to claim 2, wherein: A core body including the pen tip is provided on the pen tip side of the electronic pen main body, and a ferrite core is provided around a side surface of the core body.

6. The electronic pen according to claim 1, wherein: The operating member is configured to protrude from a side surface of the second housing.

7. The electronic pen according to claim 1, further comprising: a knocking mechanism that enables a state in which the entire electronic pen body is stored in the first housing and a state in which the tip of the electronic pen body protrudes out of the first housing, When the pen tip of the electronic pen body is protruded outside the first housing, the operating element can be operated through the operating opening of the first housing.

8. The electronic pen according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic pen main body includes a resonance circuit including an inductor and a capacitor in the second casing.

9. The electronic pen according to claim 8, wherein: The electronic pen main body includes a capacitor that changes the frequency of the oscillated signal and is provided so as to be connectable to the resonant circuit, and The capacitor is selectively connected to the resonance circuit according to the operation of the operating member.

10. The electronic pen according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic pen main body includes a transmitting circuit.

11. The electronic pen according to claim 10, wherein: The electronic pen main body includes a capacitor that changes the frequency of the output signal and is provided in a manner that can be connected to the transmission circuit, and The capacitor is selectively connected to the transmission circuit according to the operation of the operating member.

12. A main body for an electronic pen, which performs an electronic pen function of an electronic pen including a first housing, the main body for the electronic pen comprising: a second housing disposed within the first housing; as well as a side switch portion having an operating member exposed on the side surface of the second housing and operable through an operating opening provided on the side surface of the first housing, in: The operating element of the side switch portion exposed on the side surface of the second housing is configured to be exposed to the outside of the electronic pen through the operating opening of the first housing. The length of the operation opening in the longitudinal direction of the first housing is greater than the length of the operation element of the side switch portion of the electronic pen body in the longitudinal direction of the first housing. The operating member of the side switch portion of the electronic pen body is capable of sliding between a first position and a second position in the operating opening in the length direction of the first housing. When the operating element of the electronic pen main body is at the first position in the length direction of the first housing, the pen tip of the electronic pen main body protrudes from the front end of the first housing. When the operating element of the electronic pen main body is at the second position in the length direction of the first housing, the pen tip of the electronic pen main body does not protrude from the front end of the first housing, and When the operating element of the electronic pen body is in both the first position and the second position, the operating element of the electronic pen body is exposed to the outside of the electronic pen through the operation opening.

Images