Capacitive sensor

Abstract

The present invention provides a capacitive sensor that can be manufactured without using a volatile adhesive and an organic solvent. It includes: a first electrode plate having a plurality of first through holes; a dielectric layer with its first surface disposed on the side of the first electrode plate; and a first welding layer formed of a welding material, which joins the boundary portion between the main body portion of the dielectric layer and the first inner surface of the first electrode plate by welding the welding material, and joins the boundary portion between the main body portion of the dielectric layer and the first inner peripheral surface of at least a part of the plurality of first through holes. The dielectric layer is formed of a thermoplastic material. The first welding layer uses a part of the dielectric layer as the welding material and joins each boundary portion by welding a part of the dielectric layer. The first welding layer is composed of the same material composition as the dielectric layer, and the first welding layer performs welding in the entire range where the main body portion of the dielectric layer faces the first inner surface of the first electrode plate.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a patent application with an application date of September 28, 2018, application number 201880049101.4, and invention name “Transducer and its manufacturing method”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an electrostatic capacitance type sensor. Background Art

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a piezoelectric element in which a porous sheet-shaped electrode is embedded in a polymer piezoelectric body. This piezoelectric element is manufactured by treating the surface of a polymer piezoelectric film or sheet with an organic solvent such as acetone, then laminating and crimping the porous sheet-shaped electrode onto the treated surface.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a piezoelectric vibration sensor including a piezoelectric film, two mesh-shaped electrodes arranged on both sides of the piezoelectric film, and two support plates formed of plate-shaped rigid bodies on both sides of the electrodes.

[0005] Furthermore, in recent years, the automatic driving of automobiles has become widespread. As one of the levels of the automatic driving state, there is a level that requires the driver to put his hands on the steering wheel. Therefore, research is being conducted on providing a sensor on the steering wheel. There is a means of wrapping the sensor around the surface side of the steering wheel and covering it by sewing. However, when sewing the steering wheel, the manufacturing cost becomes very high. Therefore, in order to reduce the manufacturing cost, a method that does not use sewing, such as a method of configuring the sensor by injection molding, is desired. In addition, in order to perform injection molding, it is necessary to fix the sensor on the steering wheel. Furthermore, in recent years, as an environmental measure, it is required to suppress the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Therefore, it is required not to use volatile adhesives or organic solvents for fixing the sensor.

[0006] Patent Document 3 discloses a technology that uses a capacitive sensor or piezoelectric element on the surface of a steering wheel to detect contact between the driver's hand and the steering wheel. Specifically, the steering wheel equipped with the capacitive sensor comprises an annular metal core, a synthetic resin cover surrounding the core, a conductive metal fabric disposed within a foam material surrounding the synthetic resin cover, and leather covering the foam material. The metal fabric and the annular metal core together form a capacitance.

[0007] Patent Document 4 discloses that a heating element is provided around a ring-shaped metal core of a steering wheel. The heating element includes a heat insulating sheet, a foaming sheet, and a linear heater disposed between the heat insulating sheet and the foaming sheet in a sandwiched manner. The heating element is adhered to the core by an adhesive layer formed on the surface of the heat insulating sheet. Then, the core with the heating element wound thereon is set in an injection molding machine, and an injection molding is performed to form a coating layer for covering the periphery of the heating element.

[0008] Patent Document 5 discloses a technique in which a heating element is provided on the surface side of a steering wheel. The heating element includes a support frame and an electric heating wire mounted on the support frame. Then, the support frame with the electric heating wire mounted thereon is inserted into a mold in a state of being supported by a metal core, and a molding material is injected to foam-mold a coating layer for covering the periphery of the heating element.

[0009] Prior Art Documents

[0010] Patent Documents

[0011] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3105645 Gazette

[0012] Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 5-172839

[0013] Patent Document 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-537992

[0014] Patent Document 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2017-178135

[0015] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent No. 6085356 Gazette Summary of the Invention

[0016] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0017] As described above, in recent years, in response to environmental measures, it has been required to suppress the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Therefore, it is required not to use volatile adhesives and also not to use organic solvents.

[0018] In addition, transducers that utilize the electrostatic capacitance between electrodes, different from the structure using the piezoelectric effect, have received attention. The electrostatic capacitance of an electrostatic transducer varies depending on the dielectric material. Assuming that the surface of a polymer dielectric is treated with an organic solvent and electrodes are pressed, the components of the organic solvent remain at the pressed portion. The remaining components of the organic solvent may affect the electrostatic capacitance. As a result, due to the influence of the remaining components of the organic solvent, it may not be possible to obtain the designed electrostatic capacitance.

[0019] Furthermore, in order to be able to mount electrostatic transducers in a variety of locations, they must be both flexible and stretchable. For example, when mounting a flat transducer along a surface with various shapes, such as a free-form surface, flexibility and stretchability become crucial factors. Without these properties, the transducer cannot be aesthetically mounted on the free-form surface.

[0020] Furthermore, as mentioned above, when using volatile adhesives or organic solvents, the components of the volatile adhesives or organic solvents may affect the flexibility and elasticity of the transducer. Therefore, from the perspective of flexibility and elasticity, it is also required to avoid using volatile adhesives or organic solvents.

[0021] Furthermore, using a support frame as a separate component from the sensor or actuator to attach the sensor or actuator to the object (such as the core of a steering wheel) increases costs. Therefore, it is desired to attach the sensor or actuator to the object without using a support frame.

[0022] One object of the present invention is to provide a capacitance type sensor that can be manufactured without using a volatile adhesive or an organic solvent. Another object of the present invention is to provide a capacitance type sensor that is flexible and stretchable.

[0023] Means used to solve problems

[0024] A capacitance type sensor comprises: a first electrode sheet having a plurality of first through-holes; a dielectric layer having a first surface disposed on a side of the first electrode sheet; and a first welding layer formed of a welding material and welding the welding material to bond a boundary portion between a main portion of the dielectric layer and a first inner surface of the first electrode sheet, and to bond a boundary portion between the main portion of the dielectric layer and at least a portion of a first inner peripheral surface of the plurality of first through-holes. The dielectric layer is formed of a thermoplastic material, and the first welding layer uses a portion of the dielectric layer as the welding material and welds the boundary portions to each other by welding the portion of the dielectric layer. The first welding layer is composed of the same material composition as the dielectric layer, and the first welding layer welds the entire area where the main portion of the dielectric layer and the first inner surface of the first electrode sheet face each other.

[0025] According to the capacitance-type sensor, the main part of the dielectric layer is joined to the first electrode piece by welding of the welding material. Since the welding material is not a volatile adhesive or an organic solvent, the capacitance-type sensor can be manufactured without using a volatile adhesive or an organic solvent. Thus, in the manufacture of the capacitance-type sensor, suppression of the emission of VOCs can be achieved. Here, the first welding layer includes a case where a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer is configured as the welding material, and a case where a welding material different from the dielectric layer is used.

[0026] A capacitance-type sensor includes a conductive member and a static piece provided in the normal direction of the surface of the conductive member. The static piece includes: a first electrode piece having a plurality of first through holes; and a dielectric layer, the first surface of which is disposed on the first electrode piece side and the second surface of which is disposed on the conductive member side. The first surface side of the dielectric layer is directly joined to the first electrode piece by either welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer or mechanical engagement of the dielectric layer itself. The second surface side of the dielectric layer is directly or indirectly joined to the conductive member by welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer.

[0027] The static piece includes a first electrode piece and a dielectric layer, and joins the two. The first electrode piece and the dielectric layer are joined by any one of the following examples. In any of the above examples, a volatile adhesive and an organic solvent are not used to join the dielectric layer and the first electrode piece. Therefore, emission of VOCs can be suppressed.

[0028] Further, the static piece is directly or indirectly joined to the conductive member. Here, the meaning of "directly" is that the static piece is in direct contact with the conductive member, and the meaning of "indirectly" is that another member is interposed between the static piece and the conductive member. And the dielectric layer and the conductive member are joined by any one of the following two examples. In any of the above examples, a volatile adhesive and an organic solvent are not used to join the dielectric layer and the conductive member or a member mounted on the conductive member. Therefore, emission of VOCs can also be suppressed at this part.

[0029] Moreover, as described above, since the static piece is joined to the conductive member or a member mounted on the conductive member, injection molding or the like can be applied in the forming of the outer layer material. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the capacitance-type sensor is reduced compared with the case of sewing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an outline of the structure of the transducer.

[0031] Figure 2 is a top view of the transducer of the first example.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Sectional view III-III.

[0033] Figure 4 1 and 2 are diagrams showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a first example.

[0034] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a second example.

[0035] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a third example.

[0036] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a fourth example.

[0037] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a fifth example.

[0038] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a fifth modified embodiment.

[0039] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a sixth example.

[0040] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to a seventh example.

[0041] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing a method for manufacturing a transducer according to an eighth example.

[0042] Fig.13 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the transducer of the ninth example.

[0043] Figure 14 It is a perspective view showing the raw material of the transducer of the ninth example.

[0044] Figure 15 It is a perspective view showing a raw material of a transducer according to a first modification of the ninth example.

[0045] Figure 16 It is a top view of a transducer showing a second modified embodiment of the ninth example.

[0046] Figure 17 It is a top view of a transducer showing a third modified form of the ninth example.

[0047] Fig.18 It is a top view of a transducer showing a fourth modified form of the ninth example.

[0048] Figure 19 It is a perspective view showing a transducer of the tenth example.

[0049] Figure 20 It is a cross-sectional view of the raw material of the transducer representing the tenth example.

[0050] Fig.21 It is a cross-sectional view of the transducer representing the tenth example.

[0051] Figure 22 It is a cross-sectional view of the transducer representing the first modification method of the tenth example.

[0052] Figure 23 It is a cross-sectional view of the transducer representing the second modification method of the tenth example.

[0053] Fig.24 It is a front view of the steering wheel.

[0054] Figure 25 It is a view of the steering wheel representing the first example, Fig.24 an enlarged view of the II-II cross-section (cross-section perpendicular to the axis) and a detection block diagram.

[0055] Fig.26 It is a flowchart showing the manufacturing method of the steering wheel representing the first example.

[0056] Figure 27 It is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the axis of the electrostatic sheet formed into a preliminary shape.

[0057] Figure 28 It is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the axis of the state where the electrostatic sheet in the preliminary shape is arranged on the outer surface side of the core body and the resin inner layer material.

[0058] Fig.29 It is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the axis of the state where the electrostatic sheet is joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material.

[0059] Figure 30 It is a cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheet of the first example.

[0060] Figure 31 It is a cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheet of the second example.

[0061] Fig.32 It is a cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheets of the third and fourth examples.

[0062] Fig.33 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the first example.

[0063] Figure 34 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the second example.

[0064] Fig.35 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the third example.

[0065] Figure 36 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the fourth example.

[0066] Figure 37 It is an enlarged view and a detection block diagram of the II-II cross-section (axial right-angle cross-section) of the steering wheel representing the second example. Fig.24 It is an axial right-angle cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheet formed into a preliminary shape.

[0067] Figure 38 It is an axial right-angle cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheet formed into a preliminary shape.

[0068] Figure 39 It is a cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheet of the first example.

[0069] Fig.40 It is a cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheet of the second example.

[0070] Figure 41 It is a cross-sectional view of the electrostatic sheets of the third and fourth examples.

[0071] Figure 42 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the first example.

[0072] Fig.43 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the second example.

[0073] Fig.44 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the third example.

[0074] Fig.45 It is a cross-sectional view of the intermediate formed body of the fourth example.

[0075] Explanation of reference numerals

[0076] 1 - 17: Transducer; 21, 121, 221, 321, 421: First electrode plate; 21a: First through - hole; 21b: First inner surface; 21c: First outer surface; 22, 122, 222, 322, 422: Second electrode plate; 22a: Second through - hole; 22b: Second inner surface; 22c: Second outer surface; 23, 53, 63, 73, 323: Dielectric layer; 23a, 63a, 73a: Dielectric raw material; 24, 86, 96, 108, 118: First protective layer; 25, 65, 75, 87, 97, 109, 119: Second protective layer; 26, 56, 66, 76: First welding layer; 27, 57: Second welding layer; 56a, 76a: First welding material; 57a: Second welding material; 83, 93, 103, 113: First dielectric layer; 83a, 93a, 103a, 113a: First dielectric raw material; 84, 94, 104, 114: Second dielectric layer; 84a, 94a, 104a, 114a: Second dielectric raw material; 85, 95: Intermediate welding layer; 95a: Intermediate welding material; 105, 115: Intermediate dielectric layer; 105a: Intermediate dielectric raw material; 106, 116: First intermediate welding layer; 107, 117: Second intermediate welding layer; 116a: First intermediate welding material; 117a: Second intermediate welding material; 121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d2, 421d3: First slit; 122d, 222d, 322d: Second slit; 526: First lead wire; 527: Second lead wire; 728: First fixing layer; 729: Second fixing layer; 18: Steering wheel (transducer); 811: Core part; 812, 912: Holding part; 813: Connecting part; 821, 921: Core body (conductive member); 822: Inner resin layer material; 823, 823a, 823b, 823c, 823d, 923, 923a, 923b, 923c, 923d: Electrostatic sheet; 824: Outer resin layer material; 825: Detection circuit; 826: Power supply; 831: First electrode plate; 832, 832a, 832b, 832c, 832d, 832c1, 832c2, 832d1, 832d2: Dielectric layer; 833: First welding material; 834, 939: Second welding material; 936: Second electrode plate; 937: Third welding material; 840, 840a, 840b, 840c, 840d, 940, 940a, 940b, 940c, 940d: Intermediate formed body. Detailed implementation mode

[0077] (1. Basic structure of transducer T)

[0078] The transducer T is an electrostatic type. That is, the transducer T can function as an actuator that generates vibration, sound, etc. by utilizing changes in the electrostatic capacitance between electrodes. Furthermore, the transducer T can function as a sensor that detects external indentation force, etc., by utilizing changes in the electrostatic capacitance between electrodes (external force detection sensor), or as a sensor that detects the contact or proximity of a conductive body with a potential (contact proximity sensor).

[0079] When the transducer T functions as an actuator, applying a voltage to the electrodes causes the dielectric to deform according to the potential between the electrodes, and vibrations are generated along with the dielectric deformation. When the transducer T functions as an external force detection sensor, the dielectric deforms in response to external input such as indentation force, vibration, or sound, causing the capacitance between the electrodes to change. External indentation force, etc., is detected by detecting the voltage corresponding to the capacitance between the electrodes. Furthermore, when the transducer T functions as a contact proximity sensor, the capacitance between the electrodes changes due to contact or proximity of a conductive body with a potential. Contact or proximity of the conductive body is detected by detecting the voltage corresponding to the changed capacitance between the electrodes.

[0080] Regarding the structure of the transducer T, the first to eighth examples are given below as examples. First, the outline of the basic structure common to the transducers T of each example is described. In the description of the outline of the structure of the transducer T, refer to Figure 1 .

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the transducer T is of electrostatic type as described above. Figure 1 As shown, the transducer T includes a first electrode layer T1, a second electrode layer T2, and a dielectric layer T3 disposed between the first electrode layer T1 and the second electrode layer T2 (between the first inner surface of the first electrode layer T1 and the second inner surface of the second electrode layer T2). However, depending on the type, the transducer T may further include a first protective layer T4 covering the first outer surface of the first electrode layer T1 and a second protective layer T5 covering the second outer surface of the second electrode layer T2.

[0082] Here, the first electrode layer T1 and the second electrode layer T2 can both be formed into a deformable sheet shape. In this case, the portion including the first electrode layer T1 and the second electrode layer T2 constitutes a deformable electrostatic sheet. Alternatively, the first electrode layer T1 can be formed into a deformable sheet shape, while the second electrode layer T2 is a conductive member formed into an arbitrary, non-deformable shape rather than a sheet shape. The non-deformable conductive member can be a rigid metal, for example. In this case, the portion including the first electrode layer T1, excluding the second electrode layer T2, constitutes the deformable electrostatic sheet.

[0083] In the following description, an example is given in which both the first electrode layer T1 and the second electrode layer T2 are formed as deformable sheets. In addition, the boundary portion between the first electrode layer T1 and the dielectric layer T3 is referred to as the first boundary portion T6, and the boundary portion between the second electrode layer T2 and the dielectric layer T3 is referred to as the second boundary portion T7.

[0084] (2. Summary of Each Example)

[0085] The structure outlines of the transducer T in each example are shown in Tables 1 and 2. In any of the examples, the transducer T is joined with any structural member by welding of a welding material. Moreover, the portion formed by the welding material, that is, the portion where the member to be joined is welded, is referred to as the welding layer. Here, the welding material is a material that exerts a bonding force with other members after being melted by heat and then solidified. However, the welding material is a material different from the volatile adhesive, and is a material that can be melted by heat without using an organic solvent. That is, the welding material is a thermoplastic material. In particular, hereinafter, the molten material preferably uses a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0086] As shown in Tables 1 and 2, the transducers T of the first to fourth examples have a first welding layer as the first boundary portion T6, and the first electrode piece as the first electrode layer T1 is joined to the dielectric layer T3 by welding. The transducers T of the first and second examples also have a second welding layer as the second boundary portion T7, and the second electrode piece as the second electrode layer T2 is joined to the dielectric layer T3 by welding.

[0087] The transducers T of the fifth and sixth examples have an intermediate welding layer that joins the first dielectric layer and the second dielectric layer as the internal structure of the dielectric layer T3. In addition, the transducers T of the seventh and eighth examples have a first intermediate welding layer that joins the first dielectric layer and the intermediate dielectric layer and have a second intermediate welding layer that joins the second dielectric layer and the intermediate dielectric layer as the internal structure of the dielectric layer T3.

[0088] [Table 1]

[0089]

[0090] [Table 2]

[0091]

[0092] (3. First Example)

[0093] Refer to Figures 2 to 4 to describe the transducer 1 of the first example. As Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown in FIG. 1 , the transducer 1 includes an electrostatic sheet composed of a first electrode sheet 21, a second electrode sheet 22, a dielectric layer 23, a first protective layer 24, and a second protective layer 25. In addition, the transducer 1 of the first example may also have the following structure, that is, without the second electrode sheet 22 and the second protective layer 25, but with an electrostatic sheet composed of the first electrode sheet 21, the dielectric layer 23, and the first protective layer 24, and with a second electrode layer T2 ( Figure 1 a non-deformable conductive member (not shown) of FIG.

[0094] The first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 are conductive fabrics. The first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 are conductive, flexible, and stretchable in the surface direction. The first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 are fabrics or non-woven fabrics made of conductive fibers. The conductive fibers are formed by coating the surface of flexible fibers with a conductive material. For example, the conductive fibers are formed by plating copper, nickel, or the like on the surface of a resin fiber such as polyethylene.

[0095] The first electrode sheet 21 is formed of a cloth made of fibers, and thus has a plurality of first through-holes 21a. It is flexible and can be deformed in the planar direction. Similar to the first electrode sheet 21, the second electrode sheet 22 has a plurality of second through-holes 22a.

[0096] Hereinafter, the case where the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 are conductive fabrics is taken as an example, but conductive non-woven fabrics can also be applied. Figure 2 As shown, when the first electrode sheet 21 is a conductive fabric, it is formed by weaving conductive fibers as warp and weft. The area surrounded by the warp and weft becomes the first through hole 21a. The same applies to the second through hole 22a.

[0097] In addition, when the first electrode sheet 21 is a conductive non-woven fabric, the first through-holes 21a are formed irregularly. In addition, in addition to the conductive cloth, the first electrode sheet 21 can also be made of a thin film-shaped punching metal that is flexible and can stretch in the surface direction. In this case, the first through-holes 21a are the parts to be punched out. In addition, the first electrode sheet 21 can also be made of an elastomer sheet (including a rubber sheet) containing a conductive material and having a plurality of through-holes. In addition, in this example, the elastomer refers to a polymer material having elasticity, and is used to include a rubber elastomer and a rubber-like elastomer other than a rubber elastomer.

[0098] The minimum opening length of the first through hole 21a is set to be greater than 150 μm and less than 15 mm. The minimum opening length refers to the length of the smallest line segment among the line segments connecting any two points on the inner circumference of the first through hole 21a. Figure 2As shown, when the first electrode sheet 21 is a conductive fabric, the minimum opening length is either the interval La between adjacent warp threads or the interval Lb between adjacent weft threads (also shown in Figure 14 ). That is, when the first electrode sheet 21 is a conductive fabric, for example, the intervals La and Lb between adjacent threads are 150 μm or more and 15 mm or less. Here, the minimum opening length of the second through-hole 22a is also the same as that of the first through-hole 21a. Further, the opening area of the first through-hole 21a is set to be 6400 μm 2 or more and 225 mm 2 or less. The opening area of the second through-hole 22a is also the same as the opening area of the first through-hole 21a.

[0099] As described above, by setting the minimum opening length of the first through-hole 21a to 150 μm or more, when covering the surface of a three-dimensional object, the first through-hole 21a opens (extends) and it is easy to perform the covering. In addition, by setting the minimum value of the opening area of the first through-hole 21a to 6400 μm 2 or more, the same effect is also achieved. In these aspects, the second through-hole 22a is also the same as the first through-hole 21a.

[0100] In addition, the maximum value of the minimum opening length of the first through-hole 21a, which is 15 mm, corresponds to the width that a human finger can touch. In this way, the transducer 1 can be reliably used as a sensor for detecting the contact of a human finger. In addition, by setting the maximum value of the opening area of the first through-hole 21a to 225 mm 2 or less, the transducer 1 can be reliably used as a sensor for detecting the contact of a human finger. In these aspects, the second through-hole 22a is also the same as the first through-hole 21a.

[0101] The first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 are formed to be of the same size and are arranged opposite to each other. Here, in the first electrode sheet 21, the surface on the side facing the second electrode sheet 22 is the first inner surface 21b, and the surface on the side opposite to the second electrode sheet 22 is the first outer surface 21c. In addition, in the second electrode sheet 22, the surface on the side facing the first electrode sheet 21 is the second inner surface 22b, and the surface on the side opposite to the first electrode sheet 21 is the second outer surface 22c.

[0102] The dielectric layer 23 is formed of a dielectric material that can be elastically deformed. Specifically, the dielectric layer 23 is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer. The dielectric layer 23 is in a sheet shape and is formed to have the same outer shape as that of the first electrode sheet 21. The dielectric layer 23 has a structure that can expand and contract in the thickness direction and can also expand and contract in the plane direction. On the first surface of the dielectric layer 23 ( Figure 3The first electrode sheet 21 is arranged on the upper surface of the dielectric layer 23. Figure 3 The second electrode sheet 22 is arranged on the lower surface (the back side of the first surface). The main body (main part) of the dielectric layer 23 is arranged between the first inner surface 21b of the first electrode sheet 21 and the second inner surface 22b of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0103] However, the raw material 23a of the dielectric layer 23 (referred to as dielectric raw material. Figure 4 The first side (shown) Figure 3 The first electrode sheet 21 is embedded in the dielectric sheet 21 (on the upper side). Specifically, a portion of the first surface side of the dielectric material 23a serves as a first welding layer 26, present on the first inner peripheral surfaces of the plurality of first through-holes 21a and the first inner surface 21b in the first electrode sheet 21. The first welding layer 26 utilizes a portion of the dielectric material 23a as a welding material. By fusing a portion of the dielectric material 23a, the first welding layer 26 joins the boundary between the first inner peripheral surfaces of the first through-holes 21a and the main body of the dielectric layer 23, and also joins the boundary between the first inner surface 21b and the main body of the dielectric layer 23. Here, the main body of the dielectric layer 23 refers to the portion between the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22.

[0104] More specifically, the first welding layer 26 is welded to the entire first inner surface 21b. Specifically, the first welding layer 26 is welded to the entire area where the main portion of the dielectric layer 23 faces the first inner surface 21b. Furthermore, because the first welding layer 26 fills the entire first through-hole 21a, it seals the first through-hole 21a. In other words, the first welding layer 26 is welded to the entire first inner circumference of the first through-hole 21a. Consequently, the bonding strength between the first electrode sheet 21 and the dielectric layer 23 is very high.

[0105] Furthermore, the dielectric material 23a ( Figure 4 A portion of the first surface side (shown in FIG. 2 ) is present on the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21 as a first protective layer 24. The presence of the first protective layer 24 prevents the first electrode sheet 21 from being exposed, thereby improving the operability of the transducer 1. Furthermore, because a portion of the dielectric material 23a surrounds the entire circumference of the first electrode sheet 21, the bonding strength between the first electrode sheet 21 and the dielectric layer 23 is very high.

[0106] Similar to the first electrode sheet 21, the second surface side ( Figure 3A second electrode sheet 22 is embedded in the lower side (of...). That is, a part on the second surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a exists as a second welding layer 27 on the second inner peripheral surface and the second inner surface 22b of a plurality of second through holes 22a in the second electrode sheet 22. The second welding layer 27 applies a part of the dielectric raw material 23a as a welding material, and joins the boundary part between the second inner peripheral surface of the second through hole 22a and the main body part of the dielectric layer 23, and joins the boundary part between the second inner surface 22b and the main body part of the dielectric layer 23 by welding a part of the dielectric raw material 23a.

[0107] More specifically, the second welding layer 27 is welded to the entire surface of the second inner surface 22b. That is, the second welding layer 27 is welded in the entire range where the main body part of the dielectric layer 23 faces the second inner surface 22b. Further, since the second welding layer 27 fills the entire second through hole 22a, the second through hole 22a is blocked. That is, the second welding layer 27 is welded to the entire surface of the second inner peripheral surface of the second through hole 22a. Thus, the bonding force between the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric layer 23 is very high.

[0108] Further, a part on the second surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a exists as a second protective layer 25 on the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. Since the second electrode sheet 22 is not exposed due to the presence of the second protective layer 25, the operability of the transducer 1 is good. Further, since a part of the dielectric raw material 23a exists in a manner that surrounds the entire circumference of the wire of the second electrode sheet 22, the bonding force between the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric layer 23 is very high.

[0109] In addition, the first welding layer 26 and the second welding layer 27 are composed of the same material composition as the dielectric layer 23. The first welding layer 26 and the second welding layer 27 are formed by heating a part of the dielectric raw material 23a formed of a thermoplastic elastomer. That is, the first welding layer 26 and the second welding layer 27 are formed without substantial change in the material composition of the dielectric raw material 23a. This means that the first welding layer 26 and the second welding layer 27 do not contain volatile adhesives, organic solvents, etc.

[0110] Next, with reference to Figure 4 The manufacturing method of the transducer 1 will be described. The manufacturing of the transducer 1 includes a pair of rollers 41, 42 (pressing and heating members) for pressing and heating. When transporting the raw material 1a, the pair of rollers 41, 42 are used to press and heat at the same time, thereby manufacturing the transducer 1 as a product. In addition, a pair of pressing plates (not shown) can be used instead of the pair of rollers 41, 42 for pressing and heating. Assuming that the transducer 1 does not have the second electrode sheet 22, Figure 4 the lower roller 42 only needs to apply pressure and does not need to be heated.

[0111] As shown on the left side of Figure 4 , as the raw material 1a of the transducer 1, (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (b) the second electrode sheet 22, and (c) the dielectric raw material 23a are prepared. A laminate is formed by sequentially laminating (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (c) the dielectric raw material 23a, and (b) the second electrode sheet 22. The laminated raw material 1a (laminate) is conveyed to the Figure 4 right side of and is made to enter between a pair of rollers 41 and 42.

[0112] That is, the pair of rollers 41 and 42 apply pressure and heat from the side of the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21 and also apply pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. As a result, the heat of the first roller 41 is transferred to the first surface of the dielectric raw material 23a ( Figure 4 the upper side of ), and the portion where the heat is transferred melts. Similarly to the first roller 41, the heat of the second roller 42 is transferred to the second surface of the dielectric raw material 23a ( Figure 4 the lower side of ), and the portion where the heat is transferred melts.

[0113] In this way, the first electrode sheet 21 is embedded on the first surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a, and the second electrode sheet 22 is embedded on the second surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a. Then, as the molten dielectric raw material 23a solidifies, a part of the first surface side and a part of the second surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a are welded to the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22.

[0114] In this manner, a part of the first surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a forms a first welding layer 26, which joins the boundary portion between the first inner peripheral surface of the first through hole 21a of the first electrode sheet 21 and the dielectric layer 23, and also joins the boundary portion between the first inner surface 21b and the dielectric layer 23. Further, a part of the first surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a forms a first protective layer 24 that covers the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. Similarly to the first surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a, a part of the second surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a forms a second welding layer 27, which joins the boundary portion between the first inner peripheral surface of the second through hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric layer 23, and also joins the boundary portion between the second inner surface 22b and the dielectric layer 23. Further, a part of the second surface side of the dielectric raw material 23a forms a second protective layer 25 that covers the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0115] The transducer 1 according to the first example joins the main body portion of the dielectric layer 23 and the first electrode piece 21 by welding of a welding material. Since the welding material is not an adhesive or an organic solvent, the transducer 1 can be manufactured without using an adhesive or an organic solvent. Thus, in the manufacture of the transducer 1, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the emission of VOC can be suppressed.

[0116] Here, in the transducer 1, the first electrode piece 21 and the second electrode piece 22 have flexibility and stretchability in the plane direction. Further, the dielectric layer 23, the first welding layer 26, the second welding layer 27, the first protective layer 24, and the second protective layer 25 are formed of an elastomer. Thus, the transducer 1 has flexibility as a whole and has stretchability in the plane direction and the normal direction. Therefore, the transducer 1 can be beautifully mounted on an installation object of any shape.

[0117] Further, the first welding layer 26 and the second welding layer 27 are composed of a part of the dielectric raw material 23a, so that the material composition is the same as that of the dielectric layer 23. Thus, the first welding layer 26 and the second welding layer 27 do not hinder the deformation of the dielectric layer 23.

[0118] (4. Second example)

[0119] Refer to Figure 5 The transducer 2 of the second example and its manufacturing method will be described. The same reference numerals are given to the same structures as those in the first example, and the detailed description is omitted.

[0120] As Figure 5 shown on the left side of, as the raw material 2a of the transducer 2, (a) the first electrode piece 21, (b) the second electrode piece 22, (c) the dielectric layer 53, (d) the first welding material 56a, and (e) the second welding material 57a are prepared. The dielectric layer 53 is formed of a non-thermoplastic material. In particular, in this example, the dielectric layer 53 is formed of an elastomer of a non-thermoplastic material. Further, the dielectric layer 53 uses a foamed material of an elastomer of a non-thermoplastic material. That is, the dielectric layer 53 has holes communicating in the normal direction of the sheet, that is, the stacking direction of the stacked body of the structural members of the transducer 2.

[0121] That is, even if heat is transferred from the pair of rollers 41 and 42, the dielectric layer 53 will not melt. In addition, for the dielectric layer 53, in addition to the elastomer, a material with good air permeability such as a non-woven fabric of a non-thermoplastic material can also be applied.

[0122] The first welding material 56a and the second welding material 57a are formed of a thermoplastic elastomer. In other words, the first welding material 56a and the second welding material 57a are made of a different material from the dielectric layer 53. However, the elastic modulus of the first welding material 56a and the second welding material 57a in the cured state can be approximately the same as that of the dielectric layer 53. The first welding material 56a and the second welding material 57a are formed into, for example, granules and melt when heated.

[0123] Then, (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (d) the first welding material 56a, (c) the dielectric layer 53, (e) the second welding material 57a, and (b) the second electrode sheet 22 are stacked in sequence to form a stacked body composed of the raw material 2a. In this example, the state of manufacturing both sides of the transducer 2 at the same time is described, but it is also possible to manufacture each side one by one. In this case, (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (d) the first welding material 56a, and (c) the dielectric layer 53 are stacked in sequence to manufacture a single side, and then (f) the single-sided manufactured body, (e) the second welding material 57a, and (b) the second electrode sheet 22 are stacked in sequence to manufacture the other side.

[0124] return Figure 5 Continue to explain. Figure 5 The laminated raw material 2a (laminated body) is conveyed to the right side of the roller 41 and placed between the pair of rollers 41 and 42. Specifically, the first roller 41 applies pressure and heat from the first outer surface 21c side of the first electrode sheet 21. As a result, the heat from the first roller 41 is transferred to the first welding material 56a, causing it to melt. The molten first welding material 56a forms the first welding layer 56 that joins the first inner circumferential surface of at least a portion of the first through-hole 21a of the first electrode sheet 21 to the boundary between the dielectric layer 53.

[0125] The first welding layer 56 also joins at least a portion of the first inner surface 21b of the first electrode sheet 21 to the boundary portion between the dielectric layer 53. The first welding layer 56 can also be welded over the entire range where the dielectric layer 53 and the first inner surface 21b are opposed to each other. In this case, a higher bonding force is achieved. On the other hand, the first welding layer 56 can also be welded in a manner that has a gap in a local area in the surface direction within the opposing range. In this case, for example, when the first electrode sheet 21 is joined to the lead using a conductive bonding material such as solder and a conductive resin, a state can be formed in which the conductive bonding material is bonded over a large range of the first electrode sheet 21.

[0126] Here, the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21 is exposed due to the absence of the first welding material 56a. However, the first protective layer covering the first outer surface 21c may be formed by adjusting the amount of the first welding material 56a.

[0127] Similar to the first roller 41, the second roller 42 applies pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. As a result, the heat of the second roller 42 is transferred to the second welding material 57a, causing the second welding material 57a to melt. In this way, the molten second welding material 57a forms a second welding layer 57 that joins the boundary portion between at least a part of the second inner peripheral surface of the second through-hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric layer 53, and the boundary portion between at least a part of the second inner surface 22b of the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric layer 53. Here, the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22 is exposed because there is no second welding material 57a. However, a second protective layer covering the second outer surface 22c can also be formed by adjusting the amount of the second welding material 57a.

[0128] The transducer 2 manufactured as described above includes the first electrode sheet 21, the second electrode sheet 22, the dielectric layer 53, the first welding layer 56 formed of a material different from that of the dielectric layer 53, and the second welding layer 57 formed of a material different from that of the dielectric layer 53. In this manufacturing method, similar to the first example, it is also possible to suppress the emission of VOCs. In addition, the same effects are achieved for other effects.

[0129] Furthermore, since the dielectric layer 53 is formed of a foamed material or non-woven fabric, etc., it has holes communicating in the normal direction (lamination direction) of the transducer 2. In addition, the first welding layer 56 is welded to the first inner peripheral surface while maintaining the first through-hole 21a of the first electrode sheet 21 in a through state. Further, the first welding layer 56 is welded to a part of the first inner surface 21b of the first electrode sheet 21, and a gap is formed between the other parts and the dielectric layer 53. In addition, the second welding layer 57 is welded to a part of the second inner surface 22b of the second electrode sheet 22, and a gap is formed between the other parts and the dielectric layer 53.

[0130] Therefore, the transducer 2 communicates between both surfaces of the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 2 by using the plurality of first through-holes 21a, the plurality of second through-holes 22a, and the holes of the dielectric layer 53. That is, the electrostatic sheet communicates from the first surface to the second surface of the electrostatic sheet. Thus, since the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 2 has air permeability as a whole, the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 2 can be provided in a place where air permeability is required. In addition, when it is provided in a place where air permeability is not required, a thermoplastic material or a non-thermoplastic material can be used for the dielectric layer.

[0131] (5. Third Example)

[0132] Refer to Figure 6The transducer 3 of the third example and its manufacturing method will be described. The same reference numerals as those in the first example are given to the same structures, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0133] As shown Figure 6 on the left side of, as the raw material 3a of the transducer 3, (a) the first electrode sheet 21 and (b) a member integrally formed by the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric raw material 63a are prepared. Here, the dielectric raw material 63a is the same as the dielectric raw material 23a of the first example and is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0134] The dielectric raw material 63a is attached to the entire surface of the conductive fibers of the second electrode sheet 22 by impregnation, spraying, coating, etc., and is thus integrally and mechanically engaged with the second electrode sheet 22. Accordingly, the dielectric raw material 63a is attached to the entire second inner peripheral surface, second inner surface 22b, and second outer surface 22c of the second through hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 22. Here, in the state where the dielectric raw material 63a is attached, it is integrally and mechanically engaged with the second electrode sheet 22 while maintaining the second through hole 22a in a through state. Moreover, it can be said that the dielectric raw material 63a has holes in the same directions (plane normal direction and lamination direction) as the second through hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 22. That is, the member formed by attaching the dielectric raw material 63a to the surface of the second electrode sheet 22 maintains the fabric shape.

[0135] Next, as shown Figure 6 on the left side of, (a) the first electrode sheet 21 and (b) the member integrally formed by the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric raw material 63a are sequentially laminated to form a laminate composed of the raw material 3a. The laminated raw material 3a (laminate) is conveyed to Figure 6 the right side of and is made to enter between a pair of rollers 41 and 42. That is, the pair of rollers 41 and 42 apply pressure and heat from the side of the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21 and apply pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. Thereby, the heat of the first roller 41 is mainly transferred to the surface ([[]] Figure 6 the upper side of) on the first electrode sheet 21 side of the dielectric raw material 63a, and the portion to which the heat is transferred is melted.

[0136] In this way, a part of the first electrode piece 21 enters the dielectric raw material 63a. Then, as the molten dielectric raw material 63a solidifies, a part of the dielectric raw material 63a is welded to the first electrode piece 21. In this way, a first welding layer 66 is formed using a part of the dielectric raw material 63a as a welding material. That is, the first welding layer 66 is composed of the same material composition as the main body part of the dielectric layer 63. The first welding layer 66 joins the boundary part between at least a part of the first inner peripheral surface of the first through-hole 21a of the first electrode piece 21 and the main body part of the dielectric layer 63, and joins the boundary part between the first inner surface 21b and the main body part of the dielectric layer 63. At this time, a part of the dielectric raw material 63a forming the first welding layer 66 welds the first inner peripheral surface of the first through-hole 21a while maintaining the first through-hole 21a in a through state.

[0137] In addition, the dielectric raw material 63a preforms a second protective layer 65 that covers the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode piece 22. In addition, the second roller 42 may not be heated.

[0138] The transducer 3 manufactured as described above includes a first electrode piece 21, a second electrode piece 22, a dielectric layer 63, a first welding layer 66 formed from a part of the dielectric raw material 63a, and a second protective layer 65 formed from the dielectric raw material 63a. In this manufacturing method, as in the first example, the manufacturing cost can also be reduced and the emission of VOC can be suppressed. In addition, the same effects are achieved for other effects.

[0139] Furthermore, the dielectric raw material 63a maintains the second through-hole 22a of the second electrode piece 22 in a through state. In addition, the first welding layer 66 is welded to the first inner peripheral surface while maintaining the first through-hole 21a of the first electrode piece 21 in a through state. Therefore, the transducer 3 communicates between the two sides of the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 3 by using the plurality of first through-holes 21a and the plurality of second through-holes 22a. Thus, since the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 3 has air permeability as a whole, the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 3 can be provided in a place where air permeability is required.

[0140] (6. Modified form of the third example)

[0141] In the third example, the dielectric raw material 63a adheres to the second electrode piece 22 by impregnation, spraying, coating, etc. In addition to this, in order to manufacture a member formed by integrating the second electrode piece 22 and the dielectric raw material 63a, known co-extrusion can also be applied. However, in this case, since the dielectric raw material 63a blocks the second through-hole 22a of the second electrode piece 22, the transducer 3 does not have air permeability.

[0142] (7. Fourth example)

[0143] Refer to Figure 7 The transducer 4 of the fourth example and its manufacturing method will be described. The same reference numerals are assigned to the same structures as those of the first example, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0144] As Figure 7 shown on the left side of, as the raw material 4a of the transducer 4, (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (b) a member integrally formed by the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric raw material 73a, and (c) the first welding material 76a are prepared. The dielectric raw material 73a is formed of an elastomer that is a non-thermoplastic material. That is, it will not melt even if heat is transferred from the pair of rollers 41 and 42.

[0145] The dielectric raw material 73a is attached to the entire surface of the conductive fibers of the second electrode sheet 22 by impregnation, spraying, coating, etc. in the same manner as in the third example, and thus is integrally mechanically engaged with the second electrode sheet 22. Here, in the state where the dielectric raw material 73a is attached, it is integrally mechanically engaged with the second electrode sheet 22 while maintaining the second through-hole 22a in a through state. Moreover, it can be said that the dielectric raw material 73a has holes in the same directions (the surface normal direction and the stacking direction) as the second through-hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0146] The first welding material 76a is formed of an elastomer that is a thermoplastic material. That is, the first welding material 76a is a material different from the dielectric raw material 73a. However, the elastic modulus of the first welding material 76a in the solidified state can be of the same degree as that of the dielectric raw material 73a. The first welding material 76a is formed in a granular shape and melts when heated.

[0147] Then, (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (c) the first welding material 76a, and (b) the member integrally formed by the second electrode sheet 22 and the dielectric raw material 73a are sequentially stacked, thereby forming a laminate composed of the raw material 4a. The stacked raw material 4a (laminate) is conveyed to the right side of Figure 7 and is made to enter between the pair of rollers 41 and 42. That is, the pair of rollers 41 and 42 apply pressure and heat from the side of the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21 and also apply pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. As a result, the heat of mainly the first roller 41 is transferred to the first welding material 76a, and thus the first welding material 76a melts.

[0148] As a result, the molten first welding material 76a forms a first welding layer 76 that joins the boundary portion between at least a part of the first inner peripheral surface of the first through-hole 21a of the first electrode piece 21 and the dielectric layer 73, and the boundary portion between at least a part of the first inner surface 21b of the first electrode piece 21 and the dielectric layer 73. Here, the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode piece 21 is exposed because there is no first welding material 76a. However, a first protective layer covering the first outer surface 21c may be formed by adjusting the amount of the first welding material 76a.

[0149] In addition, the dielectric raw material 73a pre-forms a second protective layer 75 that covers the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode piece 22. In addition, the second roller 42 may not be heated.

[0150] The transducer 4 manufactured as described above includes the first electrode piece 21, the second electrode piece 22, the dielectric layer 73, the first welding layer 76 formed of a material different from the dielectric layer 73, and the second protective layer 75 formed of the dielectric raw material 73a. In this manufacturing method, as in the first example, it is also possible to suppress the discharge of VOCs. Further, as in the third example, the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 4 are breathable as a whole, so the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 4 can be provided in places where breathability is required.

[0151] (8. Fifth example)

[0152] Refer to Figure 8 The transducer 5 of the fifth example and its manufacturing method will be described. The same reference numerals are given to the same structures as in the first example, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0153] As Figure 8 shown on the left side of, as the raw material 5a of the transducer 5, a member (a) in which the first electrode piece 21 and the first dielectric raw material 83a are integrated, and a member (b) in which the second electrode piece 22 and the second dielectric raw material 84a are integrated are prepared. Here, the first dielectric raw material 83a and the second dielectric raw material 84a are the same as the dielectric raw material 23a of the first example and are formed of a thermoplastic elastomer. In addition, the first dielectric raw material 83a and the second dielectric raw material 84a are integrated with the first electrode piece 21 and the second electrode piece 22 by the same method as in the third example.

[0154] Next, as Figure 8 shown on the left side of, the member (a) in which the first electrode piece 21 and the first dielectric raw material 83a are integrated and the member (b) in which the second electrode piece 22 and the second dielectric raw material 84a are integrated are sequentially laminated. To Figure 8The raw material 5a (laminated body) stacked on the right side is conveyed so as to enter between a pair of rollers 41 and 42. That is, the pair of rollers 41 and 42 apply pressure and heat from the side of the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21, and apply pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. As a result, the heat of the pair of rollers 41 and 42 is transferred to the part on the side of the second dielectric raw material 84a in the first dielectric raw material 83a and the part on the side of the first dielectric raw material 83a in the second dielectric raw material 84a, and the part to which the heat is transferred melts.

[0155] In this way, a part of the first dielectric raw material 83a and a part of the second dielectric raw material 84a are welded to each other. Thus, an intermediate welding layer 85 is formed using a part of the first dielectric raw material 83a and a part of the second dielectric raw material 84a as welding materials. That is, the intermediate welding layer 85 is composed of the same material components as the first dielectric layer 83 and the second dielectric layer 84. The intermediate welding layer 85 directly joins the first dielectric layer 83 and the second dielectric layer 84.

[0156] In addition, the first dielectric raw material 83a pre - forms a first protective layer 86 that covers the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. In addition, the second dielectric raw material 84a pre - forms a second protective layer 87 that covers the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0157] The transducer 5 manufactured as described above includes a first electrode sheet 21, a second electrode sheet 22, a first dielectric layer 83, a second dielectric layer 84, an intermediate welding layer 85, a first protective layer 86, and a second protective layer 87. In this manufacturing method, similar to the first example, the manufacturing cost can also be reduced, and the emission of VOC can be suppressed. Further, since the transducer 5 has air permeability as a whole, the transducer 5 can be installed in places where air permeability is required.

[0158] (9. Modified form of the fifth example)

[0159] Refer to Fig. 9 A transducer 6 of the modified form of the fifth example and its manufacturing method will be described. The differences from the fifth example will be described. As Fig. 9 shown, the first dielectric raw material 83a does not cover the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. Further, the second dielectric raw material 84a does not cover the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. Then, the raw material 6a of the transducer 6 is prepared and manufactured in the same manner as in the fifth example. The transducer 6 manufactured in this way is substantially the same as the transducer 5 of the fifth example. However, the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21 and the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22 are exposed. If the exposure of the electrodes is allowed, the transducer 6 can fully exhibit its effects.

[0160] (10. Sixth embodiment)

[0161] Reference Figure 10 A sixth example of a transducer 7 and a method for manufacturing the same will be described. Components identical to those of the first example are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0162] like Figure 10 As shown on the left side of FIG, as the raw material 7a for transducer 7, (a) a member formed by integrating first electrode sheet 21 and first dielectric material 93a, (b) a member formed by integrating second electrode sheet 22 and second dielectric material 94a, and (c) an intermediate welding material 95a are prepared. First dielectric material 93a and second dielectric material 94a are formed from an elastomer that is not a thermoplastic material. In other words, they will not melt even when heat is transferred from the pair of rollers 41 and 42.

[0163] The first dielectric material 93 a and the second dielectric material 94 a are attached to the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 by dipping, spraying, coating, etc., similarly to the fifth example, and are mechanically engaged with the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 as a whole.

[0164] The intermediate welding material 95a is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. Specifically, the intermediate welding material 95a is a different material from the first dielectric material 93a and the second dielectric material 94a. However, the elastic modulus of the intermediate welding material 95a after solidification can be approximately the same as that of the first dielectric material 93a and the second dielectric material 94a. The intermediate welding material 95a is formed into granules and melts when heated.

[0165] Then, (a) a member formed by integrating the first electrode sheet 21 and the first dielectric material 93a, (c) an intermediate welding material 95a, and (b) a member formed by integrating the second electrode sheet 22 and the second dielectric material 94a are sequentially stacked to form a stacked body. Figure 10 The laminated raw materials 7a (laminated body) are fed to the right side of the rollers 41 and 42 and placed between the pair of rollers 41 and 42. Specifically, the rollers 41 and 42 apply pressure and heat from the first outer surface 21c side of the first electrode sheet 21, and from the second outer surface 22c side of the second electrode sheet 22. Consequently, heat from the rollers 41 and 42 is primarily transferred to the intermediate welding material 95a, causing it to melt. This melted intermediate welding material 95a forms the intermediate welding layer 95, which directly bonds the first dielectric raw material 93a to the second dielectric raw material 94a.

[0166] The first dielectric material 93a previously forms a first protective layer 96 covering the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. The second dielectric material 94a previously forms a second protective layer 97 covering the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0167] The transducer 7 manufactured as described above includes a first electrode sheet 21, a second electrode sheet 22, a first dielectric layer 93, a second dielectric layer 94, an intermediate welding layer 95, a first protective layer 96, and a second protective layer 97. This manufacturing method, as in the first example, can also suppress VOC emissions. Furthermore, because the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 7 is generally air-permeable, it can be installed in locations where air permeability is required.

[0168] (11. Seventh Example)

[0169] Reference Fig.11 A seventh example of a transducer 8 and a method for manufacturing the same will be described. Components identical to those of the first example are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0170] like Fig.11 As shown on the left side of the figure, as the raw material 8a of the transducer 8, (a) a component formed by integrating the first electrode sheet 21 and the first dielectric material 103a, (b) a component formed by integrating the second electrode sheet 22 and the second dielectric material 104a, and (c) an intermediate dielectric material 105a are prepared. Here, the first dielectric material 103a and the second dielectric material 104a are formed from a non-thermoplastic elastomer. On the other hand, the intermediate dielectric material 105a is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. The intermediate dielectric material 105a uses a foamed material of a thermoplastic elastomer. In other words, the intermediate dielectric material 105a has holes that are connected in the stacking direction. In addition, the first dielectric material 103a and the second dielectric material 104a are integrated with the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 by the same method as the third example.

[0171] Then, if Fig.11 As shown on the left side of the figure, (a) a member formed by integrating the first electrode sheet 21 and the first dielectric material 103a, (c) an intermediate dielectric material 105a, and (b) a member formed by integrating the second electrode sheet 22 and the second dielectric material 104a are stacked in this order to form a stacked body. Fig.11The stacked raw material 8a (stack) on the right side of the conveyor is fed between a pair of rollers 41 and 42. That is, the pair of rollers 41 and 42 apply pressure and heat from the side of the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21, and apply pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. As a result, the heat of the pair of rollers 41 and 42 is transferred to the portion of the first dielectric raw material 103a side in the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a and the portion of the second dielectric raw material 104a side in the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a, so that the portion where the heat is transferred melts.

[0172] In this way, a part of the first dielectric raw material 103a enters the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a. Then, as the molten intermediate dielectric raw material 105a solidifies, a part of the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a is welded to the first dielectric raw material 103a. In this way, a first intermediate welding layer 106 is formed using a part of the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a as the first intermediate welding material. That is, the first intermediate welding layer 106 is composed of the same material composition as the main body part of the intermediate dielectric layer 105.

[0173] Similar to the first dielectric raw material 103a, a part of the second dielectric raw material 104a enters the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a. Then, as the molten intermediate dielectric raw material 105a solidifies, a part of the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a is welded to the second dielectric raw material 104a. In this way, a second intermediate welding layer 107 is formed using a part of the intermediate dielectric raw material 105a as the second intermediate welding material. That is, the second intermediate welding layer 107 is composed of the same material composition as the main body part of the intermediate dielectric layer 105.

[0174] In this way, the first dielectric raw material 103a and the second dielectric raw material 104a are indirectly joined via the intermediate dielectric layer 105, the first intermediate welding layer 106, and the second intermediate welding layer 107.

[0175] In addition, the first dielectric raw material 103a forms a first protective layer 108 that pre-covers the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. In addition, the second dielectric raw material 104a pre-forms a second protective layer 109 that covers the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0176] The transducer 8 manufactured as described above includes a first electrode sheet 21, a second electrode sheet 22, a first dielectric layer 103, a second dielectric layer 104, an intermediate dielectric layer 105, a first intermediate welding layer 106, a second intermediate welding layer 107, a first protective layer 108, and a second protective layer 109. In this manufacturing method, similar to the first example, it is also possible to suppress the discharge of VOCs. Further, since the transducer 8 is breathable as a whole, the transducer 5 can be provided in a place where breathability is required.

[0177] (12. Eighth Example)

[0178] Refer to Figure 12 The transducer 9 of the eighth example and its manufacturing method will be described. The same reference numerals are given to the same structures as in the first example, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0179] As Figure 12 shown on the left side of [], as the raw material 9a of the transducer 9, prepare (a) a member formed by integrating the first electrode piece 21 and the first dielectric raw material 113a, (b) a member formed by integrating the second electrode piece 22 and the second dielectric raw material 114a, (c) the intermediate dielectric layer 115, (d) the first intermediate welding material 116a, and (e) the second intermediate welding material 117a.

[0180] The first dielectric raw material 113a, the second dielectric raw material 114a, and the intermediate dielectric layer 115 are formed of an elastomer of a non-thermoplastic material. That is, they will not melt even when heat is transferred from the pair of rollers 41 and 42.

[0181] The first dielectric raw material 113a and the second dielectric raw material 114a are attached to the first electrode piece 21 and the second electrode piece 22 by impregnation, spraying, coating, etc., in the same manner as in the fifth example, and are integrally mechanically engaged with the first electrode piece 21 and the second electrode piece 22.

[0182] The first intermediate welding material 116a and the second intermediate welding material 117a are formed of an elastomer of a thermoplastic material. That is, the first intermediate welding material 116a and the second intermediate welding material 117a are materials different from the first dielectric raw material 113a, the second dielectric raw material 114a, and the intermediate dielectric layer 115. However, the elastic modulus in the solidified state of the first intermediate welding material 116a and the second intermediate welding material 117a can be of the same degree as that of the first dielectric raw material 113a, the second dielectric raw material 114a, and the intermediate dielectric layer 115. The intermediate welding material 95a is formed in a granular shape and melts when heated.

[0183] Then, the components (a) formed by integrating the first electrode sheet 21 and the first dielectric raw material 113a, (d) the first intermediate welding material 116a, (c) the intermediate dielectric layer 115, (e) the second intermediate welding material 117a, and (b) the components formed by integrating the second electrode sheet 22 and the second dielectric raw material 114a are stacked in sequence to form a laminate. However, in this example, the description is made in a state where both sides of the transducer 9 are manufactured simultaneously, but it is also possible to manufacture one side at a time. In this case, the components (a) formed by integrating the first electrode sheet 21 and the first dielectric raw material 113a, (d) the first intermediate welding material 116a, and (c) the intermediate dielectric layer 115 are stacked in sequence, and one side is manufactured using them. After that, the components (f) the single-sided manufactured body, (e) the second intermediate welding material 117a, and (b) the components formed by integrating the second electrode sheet 22 and the second dielectric raw material 114a are stacked in sequence to manufacture the other side.

[0184] Return Figure 12 Continue the description. Feed the stacked raw material 9a (laminate) to the Figure 12 right side and make it enter between a pair of rollers 41 and 42. That is, the first roller 41 applies pressure and heat from the side of the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. As a result, the heat of the first roller 41 is transferred to the first intermediate welding material 116a, and thus the first intermediate welding material 116a melts. In this way, the molten first intermediate welding material 116a forms the first intermediate welding layer 116 that joins the first dielectric raw material 113a and the intermediate dielectric layer 115.

[0185] Similar to the first roller 41, the second roller 42 applies pressure and heat from the side of the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22. As a result, the heat of the second roller 42 is transferred to the second intermediate welding material 117a, and thus the second intermediate welding material 117a melts. In this way, the molten second intermediate welding material 117a forms the second intermediate welding layer 117 that joins the second dielectric raw material 114a and the intermediate dielectric layer 115.

[0186] In addition, the first dielectric raw material 113a pre - forms the first protective layer 118 that covers the first outer surface 21c of the first electrode sheet 21. In addition, the second dielectric raw material 114a pre - forms the second protective layer 119 that covers the second outer surface 22c of the second electrode sheet 22.

[0187] The transducer 9 manufactured as described above includes a first electrode sheet 21, a second electrode sheet 22, a first dielectric layer 113, a second dielectric layer 114, an intermediate dielectric layer 115, a first intermediate welding layer 116, a second intermediate welding layer 117, a first protective layer 118, and a second protective layer 119. In this manufacturing method, similar to the first example, it is also possible to achieve suppression of VOC emissions. Further, since the transducer 9 is breathable as a whole, the transducer 9 can be installed in places where breathability is required.

[0188] (13. Ninth Example)

[0189] Refer to Fig.13 and Figure 14 The electrostatic sheet of the transducer 10 constituting the ninth example and its manufacturing method will be described. The same reference numerals are given to the same structures as in the first example, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Here, the transducer 10 of the ninth example will be described as a modified form of the transducer 2 of the first example. However, the unique structures of the transducer 10 of the ninth example, namely the first electrode sheet 121 and the second electrode sheet 122, can also be replaced with the first electrode sheet 21 and the second electrode sheet 22 in other examples.

[0190] As Fig.13 shown, the transducer 10 includes an electrostatic sheet composed of a first electrode sheet 121, a second electrode sheet 122, a dielectric layer 23, a first protective layer 24, and a second protective layer 25. As Figure 14 shown, similar to the first example, a laminate is formed by sequentially laminating (a) the first electrode sheet 121, (b) the dielectric raw material 23a, and (c) the second electrode sheet 22. Then, by applying pressure and heat using a pair of rollers 41, 42 ( Figure 4 shown), the first electrode sheet 121 and the second electrode sheet 122 are embedded in the dielectric raw material 23a as Fig.13 shown. In this way, the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 10 is manufactured.

[0191] Here, the first electrode sheet 121 is a conductive cloth that is substantially the same as the first electrode sheet 21 in the first example. However, as Fig.13 and Figure 14 shown, the first electrode sheet 121 is different from the first electrode sheet 21 in the first example in that it has a plurality of first slits 121d.

[0192] The first electrode sheet 121 has a plurality of first slits 121d arranged along the main direction. Here, the main direction refers to a specified direction of the first electrode sheet 121. In Fig.13 it is exemplified that the main direction is the long side direction of the first electrode sheet 121. That is, the main direction is Fig.13The A direction shown. In addition, the sub-direction is a direction having an angle with respect to the main direction, such as a direction orthogonal to the main direction, etc. For example, in Fig.13 the sub-direction is set to the short side direction of the first electrode sheet 121, that is, Fig.13 the B direction shown.

[0193] As Fig.13 and Figure 14 shown, the first slit 121d can be formed to have a region when the first electrode sheet 121 is in a non-stretched state. The shape of this region can be various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, a parallelogram, a trapezoid, a triangle, other polygons, a shape surrounded by arbitrary lines, etc. In addition, the first slit 121d can be formed to be linear when the first electrode sheet 121 is in a non-stretched state.

[0194] In Fig.13 and Figure 14 the first slit 121d is formed in an elliptical shape extending along the sub-direction. That is, the first slit 121d is formed to be longer than the opening length of the first through hole 21a in the sub-direction. Further, the first slit 121d is formed at the central portion in the sub-direction of the first electrode sheet 121. That is, the first slit 121d is not formed at the both ends in the sub-direction of the first electrode sheet 121 and has a distance from the both ends in the sub-direction. Moreover, through the expansion deformation of the first slit 121d in the main direction, the first slit 121d at least allows the first electrode sheet 121 to stretch in the main direction.

[0195] Here, the first slit 121d is also formed to be longer than the opening length of the first through hole 21a in the main direction. Thus, through the expansion deformation of the first slit 121d in the sub-direction, the first slit 121d also allows the first electrode sheet 121 to stretch in the sub-direction.

[0196] The second electrode sheet 122 is the same as the first electrode sheet 121. That is, as Figure 14 shown, the second electrode sheet 122 is different from the second electrode sheet 22 in the first example in that it has a plurality of second slits 122d. Moreover, the second slit 122d is the same as the first slit 121d.

[0197] Moreover, the dielectric layer 23 formed of an elastomer is filled in the portion corresponding to the first slit 121d and the portion corresponding to the second slit 122d. The portion corresponding to the first slit 121d includes the inside of the first slit 121d and the region in the normal direction with respect to the first slit 121d.

[0198] Therefore, when the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 10 extend in the main direction, the first slit 121d expands and deforms, and the dielectric layer 23 in the portion corresponding to the first slit 121d extends. Further, the second slit 122d expands and deforms, and the dielectric layer 23 in the portion corresponding to the second slit 122d extends. In this way, the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 10 can extend significantly in the main direction. Further, the electrostatic sheets can also extend in the sub direction. However, the amount of extension in the sub direction is smaller than the amount of extension in the main direction.

[0199] The electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 10 in this example are useful when covering the surface of a three-dimensional object. That is, by arranging the electrostatic sheets on the surface of the object while extending them, the electrostatic sheets are arranged along the surface of the object. That is, since the electrostatic sheets can be arranged beautifully and easily, the appearance design of the object can be made good in the state covered with the electrostatic sheets. The transducer 10 can be applied to, for example, the surface of a mouse as a pointing device, the surface of a vehicle steering wheel, a vehicle door handle, a vehicle shift lever, etc.

[0200] (14. The first modification of the ninth example)

[0201] Refer to Figure 15 The electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 11 of the first modification of the ninth example will be described. In the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 10 of the above ninth example, the first electrode sheet 121 has the first slit 121d, and the second electrode sheet 122 has the second slit 122d. In addition, it may be that, as Figure 15 shown, in the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 11, the first electrode sheet 121 has the first slit 121d, and the second electrode sheet 22 does not have the second slit.

[0202] In this case, in the electrostatic sheets, a difference in rigidity between the first surface side and the second surface side can be made. For example, assume a case where the surface of the object is a convex shape when the electrostatic sheets are arranged on the surface of a three-dimensional object. In this case, the first electrode sheet 121 having the first slit 121d is located on the surface side of the object, and the second electrode sheet 22 not having the second slit is located on the inner side of the object. Thereby, the electrostatic sheets can be arranged beautifully and easily.

[0203] (15. The second modification of the ninth example)

[0204] Refer to Figure 16 The electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 12 of the second modification of the ninth example will be described. In the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 10 of the above ninth example, the first slit 121d and the second slit 122d are formed in the central portion in the sub direction. In contrast, in the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 12, as Figure 16As shown, the first slit 221d of the first electrode sheet 221 and the second slit 222d of the second electrode sheet 222 are formed at both ends in the sub-direction, and not formed at the center in the sub-direction. In this case, the same effect as the transducer 10 of the ninth example is also achieved.

[0205] (16. Third modification of the ninth example)

[0206] Refer to Figure 17 The electrostatic sheets of the transducer 13 constituting the third modification of the ninth example will be described. In the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 13, notches 323a and 323b are formed at both ends in the sub-direction of the dielectric layer 323.

[0207] In the first electrode sheet 321, the first slit 321d is formed in a linear shape. In the second electrode sheet 322, the second slit 322d is also formed in a linear shape. At positions away from the notches 323a and 323b, the first slit 321d and the second slit 322d are formed in a linear shape extending along the sub-direction. On the other hand, at positions close to the notches 323a and 323b, the first slit 321d and the second slit 322d are formed to extend in a direction having an angle (a direction inclined with respect to the main direction) with respect to the main direction and the sub-direction.

[0208] The first slit 321d and the second slit 322d extending along the sub-direction function in substantially the same manner as the first slit 121d and the second slit 122d in the ninth example. On the other hand, the first slit 321d and the second slit 322d extending in the inclined direction function to suppress stress concentration in the notches 323a and 323b. Therefore, the positions and extension directions of the first slit 321d and the second slit 322d can be set according to the shape of the dielectric layer 323.

[0209] (17. Fourth modification of the ninth example)

[0210] Refer to Fig.18 The electrostatic sheets of the transducer 14 constituting the fourth modification of the ninth example will be described. In the electrostatic sheets constituting the transducer 14, the first electrode sheet 421 has a plurality of first slits 421d1, 421d2, and 421d3. The first slit 421d1 is formed to connect two positions (both end positions) on the outer edge of the first electrode sheet 421 in the sub-direction. The first slit 421d2 is formed to connect two positions (both end positions) on the outer edge of the first electrode sheet 421 in the main direction. That is, the two first slits 421d1 and 421d2 divide the detection area based on the first electrode sheet 421 into a plurality of (four) parts. Here, the two first slits 421d1 and 421d2 are shown as linear, but any linear shape such as a curve or a bent line can also be adopted.

[0211] Furthermore, the first slit 421d3 is formed into an elliptical shape extending in the minor direction in each divided region. However, as described in the ninth example, the first slit 421d3 can be formed into any shape. Furthermore, the second electrode sheet 422 is formed similarly to the first electrode sheet 421.

[0212] According to this embodiment, the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 14 is effective when the detection area is divided into multiple parts. Even if the detection area is divided in this way, the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 14 is a single piece, thus achieving various effects of single componentization.

[0213] (18. Example 10)

[0214] Reference Figure 19 The transducer 15 of the tenth example will be described. Components identical to those of the first example are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. The transducer 15 of the tenth example will be described herein as a modified form of the transducer 2 of the first example. However, the unique structure of the transducer 15 of the tenth example, namely, the addition of the first lead 526 and the second lead 527, can also be applied to the other examples.

[0215] like Figure 19 As shown, the transducer 15 includes an electrostatic sheet composed of a first electrode sheet 21 , a second electrode sheet 22 , a dielectric layer 23 , a first protective layer 24 , a second protective layer 25 , a first lead 526 , and a second lead 527 .

[0216] The first lead 526 includes a main body 526a in which a conductive wire is covered with an insulating material and a conductive portion 526b in which the conductive wire is exposed. The front end side of the main body 526a of the first lead 526 is arranged on the first inner surface 21b side of the first electrode sheet 21. The conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 is also arranged on the first inner surface 21b side of the first electrode sheet 21. In other words, the front end side of the main body 526a of the first lead 526 and the conductive portion 526b are both sandwiched between the first electrode sheet 21 and the main body of the dielectric layer 23. The main body 526a of the first lead 526 extends outward from between the first electrode sheet 21 and the main body of the dielectric layer 23. Moreover, the conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 is electrically connected to the first electrode sheet 21.

[0217] The second lead 527 includes a main body 527a of a conductive wire covered with an insulating material and a conductive portion 527b of the conductive wire exposed. The front end side of the main body 527a of the second lead 527 is arranged on the second inner surface 22b side of the second electrode sheet 22. The conductive portion 527b of the second lead 527 is also arranged on the second inner surface 22b side of the second electrode sheet 22. In other words, the front end side of the main body 527a of the second lead 527 and the conductive portion 527b are both sandwiched between the second electrode sheet 22 and the main body of the dielectric layer 23. The main body 527a of the second lead 527 extends outward from between the second electrode sheet 22 and the main body of the dielectric layer 23. Moreover, the conductive portion 527b of the second lead 527 is electrically connected to the second electrode sheet 22.

[0218] Reference Figure 20 and Fig.21 The manufacturing method of the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 15 is described. Figure 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , (a) the first electrode sheet 21, (b) the first lead 526, (c) the dielectric material 23a, (d) the second lead 527, and (e) the second electrode sheet 22 are sequentially stacked to form a stack. Figure 4 As shown) pressurize and heat, so as to Fig.21 As shown, the first electrode sheet 21 and the first lead 526 are embedded in the first surface of the dielectric material 23a. Furthermore, the second electrode sheet 22 and the second lead 527 are embedded in the second surface of the dielectric material 23a. In this way, the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 15 is manufactured.

[0219] like Fig.21 As shown, even in the area where the first lead 526 and the second lead 527 are present, the thickness of the electrostatic sheet constituting the transducer 15 can be prevented from becoming extremely thick compared to other areas. Thus, the electrostatic sheet can have a good design. Furthermore, conductive bonding materials such as solder and conductive resin are no longer required to electrically connect the first electrode sheet 21 to the first lead 526. As a result, cost reduction can be achieved.

[0220] (19. First Variation of the Tenth Example)

[0221] Reference Figure 22 The electrostatic sheet that constitutes the first variation of the tenth example, transducer 16, will now be described. In transducer 16, the conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 passes through the first through-hole 21a and wraps around the first electrode sheet 21. This ensures a reliable electrical connection between the two. During manufacturing, the conductive portion 526b and the first electrode sheet 21 are pre-wound. Subsequently, the conductive portion 526b and the first electrode sheet 21 are pressurized and heated by a pair of rollers 41 and 42, fusing them to the main body of the dielectric layer 23.

[0222] Furthermore, the conductive portion 527b of the second lead 527 also passes through the second through-hole 22a and is wound around the second electrode sheet 22. This ensures a reliable electrical connection between the two. Furthermore, during manufacturing, the conductive portion 527b and the second electrode sheet 22 are pre-entangled. Subsequently, the conductive portion 527b and the second electrode sheet 22 are pressurized and heated by a pair of rollers 41 and 42, thereby fusing the two to the main body of the dielectric layer 23.

[0223] (20. Second Variation of the Tenth Example)

[0224] Reference Figure 23 The electrostatic sheet of the transducer 17 constituting the second variant of the tenth example is described. The transducer 17 further includes a first fixing layer 728, which fixes the conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 to the first electrode sheet 21 so that they are electrically connected. The first fixing layer 728 is made of a conductive bonding material such as solder or a conductive resin. Before the pair of rollers 41 and 42 are pressed and heated, the conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 can be fixed to the first electrode sheet 21 in advance using the first fixing layer 728. Alternatively, after the pair of rollers 41 and 42 are pressed and heated, the conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 can be fixed to the first electrode sheet 21 using the first fixing layer 728. This ensures that the electrical connection between the first electrode sheet 21 and the conductive portion 526b of the first lead 526 is reliable.

[0225] The transducer 17 further includes a second fixing layer 729 that fixes the conductive portion 527b of the second lead 527 and the second electrode sheet 22 in an electrically connected state. The second fixing layer 729 is similar to the first fixing layer 728.

[0226] (21. Basic structure of steering wheel 18)

[0227] As another example of a transducer, the steering wheel 18 is cited as an example. In this example, the steering wheel 18 is cited as an example, which has the function of a sensor capable of detecting contact by a human hand. However, the transducer is not limited to the steering wheel 18, and various structures can be applied. Below, the steering wheel 18 is cited as an example of a case where it functions only as a sensor. However, in addition to being a sensor, it can also have the function of an actuator, for example, to impart vibration to the driver. In this case, the steering wheel 18 has both a sensor and an actuator. In addition, the steering wheel 18 can also have the function of an actuator only instead of a sensor.

[0228] The steering wheel 18, acting as a sensor, detects when the driver's hand contacts the steering wheel 18 over a predetermined range (predetermined area). The predetermined range can be arbitrarily set. For example, in an autonomous driving state, the predetermined range can be set to a range (area) within which the driver can steer.

[0229] Reference Fig.24 The structure of the steering wheel 18 will be described. Fig.24 As shown, the steering wheel 18 includes a core 811, a grip 812, and a plurality of connecting portions 813, 813, 813 connecting the core 811 and the grip 812. The grip 812 is a portion for the driver to grip when steering. The grip 812 has the function of a sensor that detects human hand contact.

[0230] In this example, the grip portion 812 functions as a sensor throughout its entire circumference. That is, no matter where the driver touches the grip portion 812, the steering wheel 18 can detect contact. However, the sensor function can also be limited to a portion of the grip portion 812. Furthermore, in addition to the grip portion 812, the core portion 811 and the connecting portion 813 can also detect contact by the driver's hand.

[0231] like Fig.24 As shown, the gripping portion 812 is formed into a circular ring shape when viewed from the front. However, the gripping portion 812 is not limited to a circular shape and can be formed into any shape. In addition, the gripping portion 812 is not limited to a shape that is continuous around the entire circumference. For example, the gripping portion 812 can be formed into a shape that exists only in a portion on the left or right side with the core portion 811 as the center.

[0232] (22. Steering wheel 18 of the first example)

[0233] (22-1. Detailed Structure of Steering Wheel 18)

[0234] Reference Figure 24-25 The detailed structure of the steering wheel 18 of the first example will be described. In particular, the detailed structure of the grip portion 812 will be described.

[0235] The gripping portion 812 includes a core 821 as a conductive member, a resin inner layer material 822, an electrostatic sheet 823, and a resin outer layer material 824. The core 821 constitutes the center of the gripping portion 812 and is formed into a shape corresponding to the shape of the gripping portion 812. Fig.24 As shown, the front shape of the core 821 is formed into a circular ring. Figure 25 As shown, the cross-section of the core 821 at right angles to the axis is formed into an elliptical shape. Therefore, the surface of the core 821 is not a shape consisting of only flat parts, but also has curved parts. In particular, in this example, most of the surface of the grip 812 is formed by a curved surface.

[0236] Here, the shape of the axial right-angle cross-section of the core body 821 is not limited to an elliptical shape, and can be any shape such as a U-shape, a C-shape, a polygonal shape, etc. In order for the core body 821 to function as a conductive member, the core body 821 is formed of a conductive metal such as aluminum. As long as the material of the core body 821 has the rigidity of the core body 821 and is conductive, materials other than metals can be applied. That is, the core body 821 functions as one of the electrodes constituting the electrostatic capacitance of the electrostatic capacitance type sensor. Further, in this example, the core body 821 is connected to the ground potential. However, as long as the core body 821 is at a certain potential, it does not have to be the ground potential.

[0237] The resin inner layer material 822 covers the outer surface of the core body 821 over the entire circumference of the annular front shape of the core body 821 and over the entire circumference of the elliptical cross-sectional shape of the core body 821. Assuming that the core body 821 has a U-shaped axial right-angle cross-section, the resin inner layer material 822 fills the concave portion of the U-shape of the core body 821 in addition to the radially outer side in the axial right-angle cross-section of the core body 821. The resin inner layer material 822 is formed on the outer surface side of the core body 821 by injection molding and is directly joined to the outer surface of the core body 821. The resin inner layer material 822 is formed of, for example, a foamed resin. The resin inner layer material 822 uses, for example, a foamed polyurethane resin. In addition, the resin inner layer material 822 can also use a non-foamed resin.

[0238] The electrostatic sheet 823 functions as the other electrode constituting the electrostatic capacitance of the electrostatic capacitance type sensor (transducer) and functions as the dielectric layer of the electrostatic capacitance. The electrostatic sheet 823 covers the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 over the entire circumference of the annular front shape of the resin inner layer material 822 and over the entire circumference of the elliptical cross-sectional shape of the resin inner layer material 822. That is, the electrostatic sheet 823 is provided in the normal direction of the surface of the core body 821 that is a conductive member and is provided in the normal direction of the surface of the resin inner layer material 822. However, in the case where the range having the function of the sensor is set in a part of the grip portion 812, the electrostatic sheet 823 only needs to cover a part of the annular front shape of the resin inner layer material 822.

[0239] The static electricity sheet 823 is formed separately from the core body 821 and the resin inner layer material 822, and is flexible and stretchable as a whole. The static electricity sheet 823 is joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of a welding material. Since the static electricity sheet 823 has flexibility and stretchability, it can be easily deformed into a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822. Here, in this example, a structure in which the steering wheel 18 includes the resin inner layer material 822 is illustrated, so the static electricity sheet 823 is joined to the outer surface side of the resin inner layer material 822 and indirectly joined to the core body 821 as a conductive member. However, the steering wheel 18 may also have a structure that does not include the resin inner layer material 822. In this case, the static electricity sheet 823 is directly joined to the outer surface of the core body 821 as a conductive member.

[0240] The static electricity sheet 823 is formed in a sheet shape. The static electricity sheet 823 is arranged such that, when viewed from the front of the grip portion 812 ( Fig.24 ), the static electricity sheet 823 is wound around the outer surfaces of the core body 821 and the resin inner layer material 822 from the outer side in the radial direction of the grip portion 812 ( Fig.24 the outer side in the radial direction of, Figure 25 above) toward the inner side in the radial direction ( Fig.24 the inner side in the radial direction of, Figure 25 below). Therefore, both edges in the width direction of the static electricity sheet 823 are in a state of butting at a portion on the inner side in the radial direction in the grip portion 812 ( Fig.24 the inner side in the radial direction of, Figure 25 below). Alternatively, both edges in the width direction of the static electricity sheet 823 are in a state of facing each other with a slight gap at a portion on the inner side in the radial direction in the grip portion 812 ( Fig.24 the inner side in the radial direction of, Figure 25 below).

[0241] The static electricity sheet 823 includes a first electrode sheet 831 and a dielectric layer 832. That is, the core body 821 and the first electrode sheet 831 function as a pair of electrodes of the electrostatic capacitance of the electrostatic capacitance type sensor (transducer). The dielectric layer 832 functions as the dielectric layer of the electrostatic capacitance of the electrostatic capacitance type sensor (transducer).

[0242] The first electrode sheet 831 is the same as the first electrode sheet 21 described above Figure 2 . That is, the first electrode sheet 831 is, for example, a conductive cloth or the like. In addition, the detailed description of the first electrode sheet 831 is omitted. The symbols of the respective portions of the first electrode sheet 21 described above are used to describe the respective portions of the first electrode sheet 831.

[0243] The dielectric layer 832 is formed of a dielectric material capable of elastic deformation. Specifically, the dielectric layer 832 may be formed of a thermoplastic material, particularly a thermoplastic elastomer, or a non-thermoplastic material, particularly a non-thermoplastic elastomer. The dielectric layer 832 is formed into a desired outer shape such as a rectangle, for example. The dielectric layer 832 has a structure that expands and contracts in the thickness direction and expands and contracts in the plane direction as it expands and contracts in the thickness direction.

[0244] The first surface ( Figure 25 the outer surface in) of the dielectric layer 832 is the surface on the opposite side of the core 821 as a conductive member, and is disposed on the side of the first electrode sheet 831. The first surface side of the dielectric layer 832 is directly or indirectly joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by any one of (a) welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832, (b) welding of a first welding material 833 (described later) different from the dielectric layer 832, and (c) engagement of the dielectric layer 832 itself.

[0245] The second surface ( Figure 25 the inner surface in) of the dielectric layer 832 is disposed on the side of the core 821 as a conductive member. The second surface of the dielectric layer 832 is located on the back side of the first surface of the dielectric layer 832. The second surface side of the dielectric layer 832 is directly or indirectly joined to the core 821 as a conductive member by any one of (d) welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832 and (e) welding of a second welding material 834 (described later) different from the dielectric layer 832. Here, in this example, since the outer surface of the core 821 is coated with the resin inner layer material 822, the second surface of the dielectric layer 832 is directly or indirectly joined to the outer surface side of the resin inner layer material 822.

[0246] The resin outer layer material 824 covers the entire circumference of the annular front shape of the electrostatic sheet 823 ( Fig.24 the entire circumferential direction in) and the entire circumference of the elliptical cross-sectional shape of the electrostatic sheet 823 ( Figure 25 the entire circumferential direction in) on the outer surface of the electrostatic sheet 823 (the surface of the electrostatic sheet 823 on the opposite side of the core 821). That is, when the first electrode sheet 831 is exposed on the first surface side of the dielectric layer 832, the resin outer layer material 824 also functions as a covering material for the first electrode sheet 831. The resin outer layer material 824 is formed on the outer surface side of the electrostatic sheet 823 by injection molding and is directly joined to the outer surface of the electrostatic sheet 823. The resin outer layer material 824 is formed of, for example, a polyurethane resin. The outer surface of the resin outer layer material 824 constitutes the appearance surface. Therefore, it is preferable to use a non-foamed polyurethane resin or a slightly foamed polyurethane resin for the resin outer layer material 824.

[0247] As Figure 25As shown, the steering wheel 18 is provided with a detection circuit 825. The detection circuit 825 operates by being powered by a power supply 826. The detection circuit 825 is electrically connected to the core body 821 and the first electrode plate 831, and detects the contact or approach of the driver's hand based on the change in the capacitance between the core body 821 and the first electrode plate 831. Since the details of the capacitance detection method in the detection circuit 825 are well known, the description thereof is omitted.

[0248] (22-2. Manufacturing method of the steering wheel 18)

[0249] Next, refer to Figure 26-Figure 29 to describe the manufacturing method of the steering wheel 18, particularly the grip portion 812. As Fig.26 shown, an inner resin layer 822 is injection-molded on the outer surface of the core body 821 (S1: inner layer forming process). That is, the core body 821 is disposed in an injection molding die (not shown), and a molding material is injected into the die to form the inner resin layer 822. In this way, the core body 821 and the inner resin layer 822 are integrated.

[0250] In parallel with S1, an electrostatic sheet 823 is formed (S2: electrostatic sheet forming process). As described above, the electrostatic sheet 823 is a member including the first electrode plate 831 and the dielectric layer 832 and integrated by them. Here, as Figure 27 shown, the electrostatic sheet 823 is formed into a preliminary shape corresponding to the curved surface shape of the outer surface of the core body 821. That is, the electrostatic sheet 823 is formed such that the axial right-angle section becomes a C shape as Figure 27 shown, and is formed into a shape corresponding to the annular front shape of the core body 821 as Fig.24 shown. In addition, the electrostatic sheet 823 is not limited to Figure 27 the shape, and may also be a planar shape.

[0251] Next, the electrostatic sheet 823 formed by S2 is joined to the core body 821 and the inner resin layer 822 formed by S1 (S3: electrostatic sheet joining process). That is, as Figure 28 shown, the electrostatic sheet in the preliminary shape is disposed at a position corresponding to the core body 821 and the inner resin layer 822 which are conductive members. In this state, by heating the electrostatic sheet 823, as Fig.29As shown, the thermoplastic welding material (a portion of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832 or the second welding material) is melted. While the welding material (a portion of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832 or the second welding material) is being melted, the electrostatic sheet 823 is bonded to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822. In this way, an intermediate molded body 840 is formed, which is formed by integrating the core 821, the resin inner layer material 822, and the electrostatic sheet 823. Furthermore, if the electrostatic sheet 823 is flat, the electrostatic sheet 823 can be heated while being wound around the core 821 or the resin inner layer material 822, or after being wound.

[0252] Next, the resin outer layer material 824 is injection molded (S4: outer layer material molding step). That is, the integrated core 821, the resin inner layer material 822, and the electrostatic sheet 823 are placed in an injection molding mold (not shown), and the molding material is injected into the mold to mold the resin outer layer material 824. Figure 25 As shown, the core 821, the resin inner layer 822, the electrostatic sheet 823, and the resin outer layer 824 are integrated to complete the grip portion 812 of the steering wheel 18.

[0253] (22-3. Detailed Structure of Electrostatic Sheet 823)

[0254] Next, the structure of the electrostatic sheet 823 is described in detail. Fig.26 The electrostatic sheet 823 is formed in the electrostatic sheet forming step of S2 and is formed by bonding the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832. As described below, the electrostatic sheet 823 can be any of the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example, the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example, the electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example, and the electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example.

[0255] (22-3-1. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example)

[0256] Reference Figure 30 The first example of the electrostatic sheet 823a is described below. The first example of the electrostatic sheet 823a includes a first electrode sheet 831 and a first example of the dielectric layer 832a. The dielectric layer 832a is formed of a thermoplastic material, particularly a thermoplastic elastomer, and is formed into a planar shape without through holes. Since the dielectric layer 832a is formed of a thermoplastic material, it becomes molten by heating. In addition, the first surface ( Figure 30 The inner surface of the first electrode sheet 831 is directly bonded to the first electrode sheet 831 by welding a portion of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a. Figure 30 the lower surface) side, the first through hole 21a ( Figure 2the inner circumferential surface of the hole (as shown) and the outer surface of the first electrode sheet 831 Figure 30 The upper surface side) is all welded to the dielectric layer 832a.

[0257] The electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example is formed in the following manner. Prepare the raw materials of the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832a. Stack the first electrode sheet 831 on the first surface side of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a. In this state, insert the laminate between a pair of pressure heating rollers (not shown). That is, the heat of the pair of pressure heating rollers is transferred to the first surface of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a to melt it. In this way, the first electrode sheet 831 is buried inward from the first surface of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a. Then, as the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a solidifies, the first surface side of the dielectric layer 832a is welded to the first electrode sheet 831. In this way, the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example is formed.

[0258] (22-3-2. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example)

[0259] Refer to Figure 31 The electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example will be described. The electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example includes a first electrode sheet 831 and a dielectric layer 832b of the second example. The dielectric layer 832b is formed of a non-thermoplastic material, particularly a non-thermoplastic elastomer, and is formed in a planar shape. The first surface ( Figure 31 The upper surface) side is indirectly joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by welding of the first welding material 833. That is, the first welding material 833 is interposed between the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832b. Moreover, the first welding material 833 is welded to at least a part of the inner surface ( Figure 31 The lower surface) side of the first electrode sheet 831 and the inner circumferential surface of the first through hole 21a of the first electrode sheet 831, and is welded to the first surface of the dielectric layer 832b. In addition, the dielectric layer 832b may be a non-thermoplastic resin without through holes, or a non-thermoplastic foamed resin with through holes. When the dielectric layer 832b is a foamed resin, the air permeability of the electrostatic sheet 823b can be improved.

[0260] The electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example is formed in the following manner. Prepare the first electrode sheet 831, the dielectric layer 832b, and the first welding material 833. The first welding material 833 is formed, for example, into fine granular, fine flaky shapes, etc. Then, stack the first electrode sheet 831 on the first surface side of the dielectric layer 832b, and further, dispose the first welding material 833 between the first surface of the dielectric layer 832b and the first electrode sheet 831. In this state, insert the laminate between a pair of pressure heating rollers (not shown). That is, the heat of the pair of pressure heating rollers is transferred to the first welding material 833 to melt it. In this way, the melted first welding material 833 joins the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832b. Thus, the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example is formed.

[0261] (22 - 3 - 3. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example)

[0262] Refer to Fig.32 The electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example will be described. The electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example includes the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832c of the third example. The dielectric layer 832c is formed of a thermoplastic material, particularly a thermoplastic elastomer. Further, the dielectric layer 832c is coated on the surface of the first electrode sheet 831 in such a manner as to maintain a plurality of first through - holes 21a ( Figure 2 shown) of the first electrode sheet 831. For example, by impregnation, spraying, coating, etc., the molten thermoplastic material is attached to the entire surface of the conductive fibers of the first electrode sheet 831, so that the dielectric layer 832c and the first electrode sheet 831 are formed as one body. That is, on the inner surface ( Fig.32 the lower surface) side of the first electrode sheet 831, the inner peripheral surface of the first through - holes 21a of the first electrode sheet 831, and the outer surface ( Fig.32 the upper surface) side of the first electrode sheet 831 are all attached with the dielectric layer 832c. Here, in the state where the dielectric layer 832c is attached, the first through - holes 21a of the first electrode sheet 831 are maintained in a through state.

[0263] Since the dielectric layer 832c is formed of a thermoplastic material, it is directly joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by the welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832c. Further, the dielectric layer 832c is directly joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by the mechanical engagement of the dielectric layer 832c itself. Here, the mechanical engagement means mechanical catching.

[0264] (22 - 3 - 4. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example)

[0265] Refer to Fig.32The electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example will be described. The electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example includes a first electrode sheet 831 and a dielectric layer 832d of the fourth example. The dielectric layer 832d is formed of a non-thermoplastic material, particularly a non-thermoplastic elastomer. The dielectric layer 832d of the fourth example is the same as the dielectric layer 832c of the third example except that it is a non-thermoplastic material.

[0266] (22-4. Structure of the intermediate formed body 840 of the grip portion 812)

[0267] Next, the structure of the intermediate formed body 840 of the grip portion 812 ( Fig.29 as shown) will be described in detail. As described above, the intermediate formed body 840 of the grip portion 812 is a member integrally formed by a core body 821, a resin inner layer material 822, and an electrostatic sheet 823 in the Fig.26 electrostatic sheet bonding process of S3.

[0268] As will be described below, any one of the intermediate formed body 840a of the first example, the intermediate formed body 840b of the second example, the intermediate formed body 840c of the third example, and the intermediate formed body 840d of the fourth example can be applied as the intermediate formed body 840. Here, as described above, the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example ( Figure 30 ), the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example ( Figure 31 ), the electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example ( Fig.32 ), and the electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example ( Fig.32 ) can be applied as the electrostatic sheet 823. The intermediate formed bodies 840a, 840b, 840c, and 840d respectively correspond to the cases where the electrostatic sheets 823a, 823b, 823c, and 823d are applied.

[0269] (22-4-1. Structure of the intermediate formed body 840a of the first example)

[0270] Refer to Fig.33 to describe the intermediate formed body 840a of the first example. The intermediate formed body 840a of the first example includes the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example. The dielectric layer 832a in the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example is formed of a thermoplastic material. Moreover, the second surface ( Fig.33 the lower surface) side of the dielectric layer 832a is directly bonded to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 by welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a.

[0271] The intermediate formed body 840a of the first example is formed, for example, in the following manner. As Figure 28 shown, the electrostatic sheet 823a having a C-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axis is arranged around the core body 821 and the resin inner layer material 822. Then, by blowing hot air from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 823a, as Fig.29 As shown, the dielectric layer 832a is deformed to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822. At the same time, the dielectric layer 832a is melted by hot air, and the dielectric layer 832a is directly joined to the resin inner layer 822 by welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a. Thus, the intermediate molded body 840a is formed.

[0272] (22-4-2. Structure of the intermediate molded body 840b of the second example)

[0273] Refer to Figure 34 The intermediate molded body 840b of the second example will be described. The intermediate molded body 840b of the second example includes the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example. The dielectric layer 832b in the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example is formed of a non-thermoplastic material. The second surface ( Figure 34 the lower surface) side of the dielectric layer 832b is indirectly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 by welding of the second welding material 834. That is, the second welding material 834 is interposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 and the second surface of the dielectric layer 832b.

[0274] The intermediate molded body 840b of the second example is formed, for example, in the following manner. As Figure 28 shown, the electrostatic sheet 823b having a C-shaped cross section perpendicular to the axis is disposed around the core 821 and the resin inner layer 822. At this time, the second welding material 834 is disposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 and the second surface of the dielectric layer 832b. The second welding material 834 is formed, for example, in the form of fine particles, fine flakes, or the like. In this state, by blowing hot air from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 823b, the second welding material 834 is melted, and by welding of the second welding material 834, as Fig.29 shown, the dielectric layer 832b is indirectly joined to the resin inner layer 822. Thus, the intermediate molded body 840b is formed.

[0275] (22-4-3. Structure of the intermediate molded body 840c of the third example)

[0276] Refer to Fig.35 The intermediate molded body 840c of the third example will be described. The intermediate molded body 840c of the third example includes the electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example. The dielectric layer 832c in the electrostatic sheet 823c of the third example is formed of a thermoplastic material. Moreover, the second surface ( Fig.35 the lower surface) side of the dielectric layer 832c is directly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 by welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832c.

[0277] The intermediate molded body 840c of the third example is formed, for example, in the following manner. As Figure 28As shown, an electrostatic sheet 823c having a C-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axis is disposed around the core 821 and the resin inner layer 822. Then, by blowing hot air from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 823c, as Fig.29 shown, the dielectric layer 832c is deformed to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822. At the same time, the dielectric layer 832c is melted by the hot air, and the dielectric layer 832c is directly joined to the resin inner layer 822 by welding of the dielectric layer 832c. Thus, the intermediate formed body 840c is formed.

[0278] (22-4-4. Structure of the intermediate formed body 840d of the fourth example)

[0279] Refer to Figure 36 to describe the intermediate formed body 840d of the fourth example. The intermediate formed body 840d of the fourth example includes the electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example. The dielectric layer 832d in the electrostatic sheet 823d of the fourth example is formed of a non-thermoplastic material. The second surface ( Figure 36 lower surface) side of the dielectric layer 832d is indirectly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 by welding of the second welding material 834. That is, the second welding material 834 is interposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 and the second surface of the dielectric layer 832d.

[0280] The intermediate formed body 840d of the fourth example is formed, for example, in the following manner. As Figure 28 [[ID==17]]shown, an electrostatic sheet 823d having a C-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axis is disposed around the core 821 and the resin inner layer 822. At this time, the second welding material 834 is disposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 and the second surface of the dielectric layer 832d. The second welding material 834 is formed, for example, in the form of fine particles, fine flakes, or the like. In this state, by blowing hot air from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 823d, the second welding material 834 is melted, and by welding of the second welding material 834, as Fig.29 shown, the dielectric layer 832d is indirectly joined to the resin inner layer 822. Thus, the intermediate formed body 840d is formed.

[0281] (23. Effects)

[0282] As described above, the electrostatic sheet 823 includes the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832. The electrostatic sheet 823 is formed by any one of the first to fourth examples. That is, as Figure 30 and Fig.32 shown, in the electrostatic sheets 823a and 823c of the first and third examples, the dielectric layers 832a and 832c are joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by welding of a part of the raw materials of the dielectric layers 832a and 832c. As Figure 31As shown, in the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example, the dielectric layer 832b is joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by welding with a first welding material 833 different from the dielectric layer 832b. Additionally, as Fig.32 shown, in the electrostatic sheets 823c and 823d of the third and fourth examples, the dielectric layers 832c and 832d are joined to the first electrode sheet 831 by engagement of the dielectric layers 832c and 832d. In any of the above examples, the dielectric layer 832 is joined to the first electrode sheet 831 without using a volatile adhesive or an organic solvent. Therefore, the emission of VOC can be suppressed.

[0283] Furthermore, the electrostatic sheet 823 is directly or indirectly joined to the core 821. The dielectric layer 832 and the core 821 are joined by any one of the first to fourth examples. That is, as Fig.33 and Fig.35 shown, in the intermediate molded bodies 840a and 840c of the first and third examples, the dielectric layers 832a and 832c are joined to the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core 821 by welding a part of the raw materials of the dielectric layers 832a and 832c. As Figure 34 and Figure 36 shown, in the intermediate molded bodies 840b and 840d of the second and fourth examples, the dielectric layers 832b and 832d are joined to the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core 821 by welding with a second welding material 834 different from the dielectric layers 832b and 832d. In any of the above examples, the dielectric layer 832 is joined to the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core 821 without using a volatile adhesive or an organic solvent. Thus, the emission of VOC can also be suppressed at this part.

[0284] Moreover, as described above, since the electrostatic sheet 823 is joined to the core 821 or the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core 821, injection molding or the like can be applied in the molding of the resin outer layer material 824. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the steering wheel 18 is reduced compared with the case of sewing.

[0285] (24. Steering wheel 18 of the second example)

[0286] (24-1. Detailed structure of the steering wheel 18)

[0287] Refer to Figure 37 and Figure 38 to describe the detailed structure of the steering wheel 18 of the second example. In particular, the detailed structure of the grip portion 912 will be described.

[0288] The grip portion 912 includes a core body 921 as a conductive member, a resin inner layer 822, an electrostatic sheet 923, and a resin outer layer 824. Compared with the first example, in the second example, only the core body 921 and the electrostatic sheet 923 of the grip portion 912 are different, and other structures are the same. The core body 921 is connected to the ground potential. In this example, the core body 921 does not function as an electrode of the electrostatic capacitance constituting the electrostatic capacitance type sensor, but functions as a shielding electrode for the electrostatic sheet 923.

[0289] The electrostatic sheet 923 is formed in a sheet shape. The electrostatic sheet 923 is arranged such that, when viewed in the penetrating direction of the grip portion 912 ( Fig.24 in the direction), the electrostatic sheet 923 is wound around the outer surfaces of the core body 921 and the resin inner layer 822 from the radially outer side ( Fig.24 the radially outer side of Figure 37 the upper side) of the grip portion 912 toward the radially inner side ( Fig.24 the radially inner side of Figure 37 the lower side). Therefore, both edges in the width direction of the electrostatic sheet 923 are in a butted state at a portion on the radially inner side ( Fig.24 the radially inner side of Figure 37 the lower side) of the grip portion 912. Alternatively, both edges in the width direction of the electrostatic sheet 923 are in a state of being opposed with a slight gap at a portion on the radially inner side ( Fig.24 the radially inner side of Figure 37 the lower side) of the grip portion 912.

[0290] Moreover, during the manufacturing process of the steering wheel 18, the electrostatic sheet 923 is formed into a preliminary shape corresponding to the curved surface shape of the outer surface of the core body 921. That is, the electrostatic sheet 923 is formed into a C-shaped cross section perpendicular to the axis as shown in Figure 38 and is formed into a shape corresponding to the annular front shape of the core body 921 shown in Fig.24 .

[0291] The electrostatic sheet 923 includes a first electrode sheet 831, a dielectric layer 832, and a second electrode sheet 936. The first electrode sheet 831 and the second electrode sheet 936 function as a pair of electrodes of the electrostatic capacitance constituting the electrostatic capacitance type sensor (transducer). The dielectric layer 832 functions as the dielectric layer of the electrostatic capacitance of the electrostatic capacitance type sensor (transducer).

[0292] The second electrode sheet 936 is, for example, as shown in Figure 2 , the same conductive cloth as the first electrode sheet 831. The second electrode sheet 936 is formed of fibers into a cloth, so that as shown in Figure 2As shown, it has a plurality of second through holes 22a, is flexible, and can expand and contract. In addition to the conductive cloth, the second electrode sheet 936 can also be a flexible and stretchable thin-film punched metal. In this case, the second through holes 22a are the punched parts.

[0293] The second electrode sheet 936 is disposed on the second surface ( Figure 37 and Figure 38 the inner surface therein) side of the dielectric layer 832. The second surface side of the dielectric layer 832 is directly or indirectly joined to the second electrode sheet 936 by any one of (f) welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832, (g) welding a third welding material 937 (described later) different from the dielectric layer 832, and (h) engaging the dielectric layer 832 itself.

[0294] Furthermore, the second surface side of the dielectric layer 832 is directly or indirectly joined to the core 921 by any one of (d) welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832 and (e) welding a second welding material 939 (described later) different from the dielectric layer 832, in the same manner as in the first example. Here, in this example, since the outer surface of the core 921 is coated with the resin inner layer 822, the second surface of the dielectric layer 832 is directly or indirectly joined to the outer surface side of the resin inner layer 822.

[0295] As Figure 37 shown, the steering wheel 18 is provided with a detection circuit 925. The detection circuit 925 operates by being powered by the power supply 826. The detection circuit 925 is electrically connected to the first electrode sheet 831 and the second electrode sheet 936, and detects the contact or approach of the driver's hand based on the change in the capacitance between the first electrode sheet 831 and the second electrode sheet 936. Since the details of the capacitance detection method in the detection circuit 925 are well known, the description thereof is omitted.

[0296] Here, in an ideal case, the second electrode sheet 936 has the same potential regardless of the position, but in practice, a potential difference may occur depending on the position. Moreover, as Figure 38 shown, the second electrode sheet 936 is formed in a ring shape in the cross section perpendicular to the axis. Therefore, when the second electrode sheet 936 itself has a potential difference depending on the position, the capacitance caused by the potential difference of the second electrode sheet 936 itself may affect the detection value. In addition, the detection value may be affected by noise caused by electrostatic coupling from the core 921 side to the first electrode sheet 831 and the second electrode sheet 936. Therefore, by making the core 921 function as a shielding electrode, these effects can be suppressed.

[0297] (24-2. Detailed Structure of the Electrostatic Sheet 923)

[0298] Next, the structure of the electrostatic sheet 923 is described in detail. Fig.26 The electrostatic sheet 923 is formed in the electrostatic sheet forming step of S2 and is formed by combining the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832. As described below, the electrostatic sheet 923 can be any of the electrostatic sheet 923a of the first example, the electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example, the electrostatic sheet 923c of the third example, and the electrostatic sheet 923d of the fourth example.

[0299] (24-2-1. Structure of the Electrostatic Sheet 923a of the First Example)

[0300] Reference Figure 39 The electrostatic sheet 923a of the first example is described below. The electrostatic sheet 923a of the first example has the same structure as the electrostatic sheet 823a of the first example, and further includes a second electrode sheet 936. The same reference numerals are used to denote the same structures in the two examples.

[0301] The electrostatic sheet 923a of the first example includes a first electrode sheet 831, a dielectric layer 832a of the first example, and a second electrode sheet 936. The second surface ( Figure 39 The lower surface of the dielectric layer 832a is directly bonded to the second electrode sheet 936 by welding a portion of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a while the second electrode sheet 936 is embedded therein. Figure 39 the lower surface) side, the inner peripheral surface of the second through hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 936, and the outer surface ( Figure 39 The upper surface) side is completely welded to the main part of the dielectric layer 832a.

[0302] The electrostatic sheet 923a of the first example is formed, for example, in the following manner. A first electrode sheet 831, a raw material for a dielectric layer 832a, and a second electrode sheet 936 are prepared. The first electrode sheet 831 is stacked on the first surface of the raw material for the dielectric layer 832a. Furthermore, the second electrode sheet 936 is stacked on the second surface of the raw material for the dielectric layer 832a. In this state, the stacked body is placed between a pair of pressurizing and heating rollers (not shown). That is, the heat of the pair of pressurizing and heating rollers is transferred to the first and second surfaces of the raw material for the dielectric layer 832a, causing it to melt. In this way, the first electrode sheet 831 is buried from the first surface of the raw material for the dielectric layer 832a to the inside. Furthermore, the second electrode sheet 936 is buried from the second surface of the raw material for the dielectric layer 832a to the inside. Then, as the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a solidifies, the first surface of the dielectric layer 832a is welded to the first electrode sheet 831, and the second surface of the dielectric layer 832a is welded to the second electrode sheet 936. In this way, the electrostatic sheet 923a of the first example is formed.

[0303] (24-2-2. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example)

[0304] Reference Fig.40 The electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example is described below. The electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example has the same structure as the electrostatic sheet 823b of the second example in the first example, and further includes a second electrode sheet 936. The same reference numerals are used to denote the same structures in the two examples.

[0305] The electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example includes a first electrode sheet 831, a dielectric layer 832b of the second example, and a second electrode sheet 936. The second surface ( Fig.40 The side of the second electrode sheet 936 is indirectly bonded to the second electrode sheet 936 by welding with the third welding material 937. That is, the third welding material 937 is interposed between the second electrode sheet 936 and the dielectric layer 832b. Then, the third welding material 937 is welded to the inner surface ( Fig.40 The upper surface) side and at least a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the second through hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 936 are welded to the second surface side of the dielectric layer 832b.

[0306] The electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example is formed, for example, as follows. First, an integral component of the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832b is formed. That is, the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832b are bonded together using the first welding material 833. Next, the integral component of the first electrode sheet 831 and the dielectric layer 832b, the second electrode sheet 936, and the third welding material 937 are prepared. The third welding material 937 is formed into, for example, microgranular or microsheet shape. Then, the second electrode sheet 936 is stacked on the surface side of the second surface of the dielectric layer 832b, and further, the third welding material 937 is arranged between the surface of the second surface of the dielectric layer 832b and the second electrode sheet 936. In this state, the stacked body is placed between a pair of pressurizing and heating rollers (not shown). That is, the heat of the pair of pressurizing and heating rollers is transferred to the third welding material 937, causing it to melt. In this manner, the melted third welding material 937 bonds the second electrode sheet 936 to the dielectric layer 832b. Thus, the electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example is formed.

[0307] (24-2-3. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 923c of the third example)

[0308] Reference Figure 41 The third example electrostatic sheet 923c is described below. The third example electrostatic sheet 923c has the same structure as the third example electrostatic sheet 823c in the first example, including the third example dielectric layers 832c1 and 832c2. Identical components in the two examples are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0309] The electrostatic sheet 923c of the third example includes a first electrode sheet 831, the dielectric layers 832c1 and 832c2 of the third example, and a second electrode sheet 936. The dielectric layer 832c1 is the same as the dielectric layer 832a in the first example. The dielectric layer 832c2 is coated on the surface of the second electrode sheet 936 in such a manner as to maintain a plurality of second through-holes 22a ( Figure 2 as shown). For example, the dielectric layer 832c2 attaches a molten thermoplastic material to the entire surface of the conductive fibers of the second electrode sheet 936 by impregnation, spraying, coating, etc., so as to be integrally formed with the second electrode sheet 936. That is, the inner surface ( Figure 41 upper surface) side of the second electrode sheet 936, the inner peripheral surface of the second through-hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 936, and the outer surface ( Figure 41 lower surface) side of the second electrode sheet 936 are all attached with the dielectric layer 832c2. Here, in the state where the dielectric layer 832c2 is attached, the second through-hole 22a of the second electrode sheet 936 is maintained in a through state.

[0310] Since the dielectric layer 832c2 is formed of a thermoplastic material, it is directly joined to the second electrode sheet 936 by welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832c2. Further, the dielectric layer 832c2 is directly joined to the second electrode sheet 936 by the engagement of the dielectric layer 832c2 itself. Here, the engagement means mechanical engagement.

[0311] Further, the dielectric layers 832c1 and 832c2 are joined to each other by welding a part of their own raw materials. In addition, in a state where the first electrode sheet 831 and the second electrode sheet 936 are arranged at a distance, the dielectric layers 832c1 and 832c2 can be integrally formed with the first electrode sheet 831 and the second electrode sheet 936 by methods such as impregnation, spraying, and coating a molten thermoplastic material.

[0312] (24-2-4. Structure of the electrostatic sheet 923d of the fourth example)

[0313] Refer to Figure 41 The electrostatic sheet 923d of the fourth example will be described. The electrostatic sheet 923d of the fourth example includes a first electrode sheet 831, the dielectric layers 832d1 and 832d2 of the fourth example, and a second electrode sheet 936. The dielectric layers 832d1 and 832d2 are formed of a non-thermoplastic material, particularly a non-thermoplastic elastomer. The dielectric layers 832d1 and 832d2 of the fourth example are the same as the dielectric layers 832c1 and 832c2 of the third example except that they are non-thermoplastic materials. In addition, the dielectric layers 832d1 and 832d2 can be joined to each other by welding a welding material (not shown).

[0314] (Structure of the intermediate formed body 940 of the holding part 912)

[0315] Next, the structure of the intermediate formed body 940 of the holding part 912 (the structure corresponding to that of the first example) Fig.29 will be described in detail. As described above, the intermediate formed body 940 of the holding part 912 is a member formed by integrating the core 921, the resin inner layer 822, and the static electricity sheet 923 in the static electricity sheet bonding process of S3 Fig.26 . As will be described below, any one of the intermediate formed bodies 940a of the first example, 940b of the second example, 940c of the third example, and 940d of the fourth example can be applied as the intermediate formed body. Here, as described above, any one of the static electricity sheets 923a of the first example (

[0316] ), 923b of the second example ( Figure 39 ), 923c of the third example ( Fig.40 ), and 923d of the fourth example ( Figure 41 ) can be applied as the static electricity sheet 923. The intermediate formed bodies 940a, 940b, 940c, and 940 respectively correspond to the cases where the static electricity sheets 923a, 923b, 923c, and 923d are respectively applied. Figure 41 )

[0317] (24-3-1. Structure of the intermediate formed body 940a of the first example)

[0318] Refer to Figure 42 to describe the intermediate formed body 940a of the first example. The intermediate formed body 940a of the first example includes the static electricity sheet 923a of the first example. The dielectric layer 832a in the static electricity sheet 923a of the first example is formed of a thermoplastic material. Moreover, the second surface ( Figure 42 the lower surface of

[0319] ) of the dielectric layer 832a is directly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822 by welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a. The intermediate formed body 940a of the first example is formed, for example, in the following manner. The static electricity sheet 923a having a C-shaped cross section perpendicular to the axis is arranged around the core 921 and the resin inner layer 822. Then, by blowing hot air from the outside of the static electricity sheet 923a, the dielectric layer 832a is deformed to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the resin inner layer 822. At the same time, a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a is melted by the hot air, and the dielectric layer 832a is directly joined to the resin inner layer 822 by welding a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832a. In this way, the intermediate formed body 940a is formed.

[0320] (Structure of the intermediate formed body 940b of the second example)

[0321] Refer to Fig.43 The intermediate formed body 940b of the second example will be described. The intermediate formed body 940b of the second example includes the electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example. The dielectric layer 832b in the electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example is formed of a non-thermoplastic material. The second surface (the surface on the side of the second electrode sheet 936) side of the electrostatic sheet 923b is indirectly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of the second welding material 939. That is, the second welding material 939 is interposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 and the second surface of the electrostatic sheet 923b.

[0322] The intermediate formed body 940b of the second example is formed, for example, in the following manner. The electrostatic sheet 923b having a C-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axis is disposed around the core 921 and the resin inner layer material 822. At this time, the second welding material 939 is disposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 and the second surface of the electrostatic sheet 923b. The second welding material 939 is formed, for example, in the form of fine particles, fine flakes, or the like. In this state, hot air is blown from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 923b, so that the second welding material 939 melts, and the electrostatic sheet 923b is indirectly joined to the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of the second welding material 939. Thus, the intermediate formed body 940b is formed.

[0323] (Structure of the intermediate formed body 940c of the third example)

[0324] Refer to Fig.44 The intermediate formed body 940c of the third example will be described. The intermediate formed body 940c of the third example includes the electrostatic sheet 923c of the third example. The dielectric layers 832c1, 832c2 in the electrostatic sheet 923c of the third example are formed of a thermoplastic material. Moreover, the second surface (the surface on the side of the dielectric layer 832c2) side of the electrostatic sheet 923c is directly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832c2.

[0325] The intermediate formed body 940c of the third example is formed, for example, in the following manner. The electrostatic sheet 923c having a C-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the axis is disposed around the core 921 and the resin inner layer material 822. Then, hot air is blown from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 923c to deform the dielectric layers 832c1, 832c2 to conform to the shape of the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822. At the same time, a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832c2 melts due to the hot air, and the dielectric layer 832c2 is directly joined to the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of a part of the raw material of the dielectric layer 832c2. Thus, the intermediate formed body 940c is formed.

[0326] (Structure of the intermediate formed body 940d of the fourth example)

[0327] Refer to Fig.45 The intermediate formed body 940d of the fourth example will be described. The intermediate formed body 940d of the fourth example includes the electrostatic sheet 923d of the fourth example. The dielectric layers 832d1 and 832d2 in the electrostatic sheet 923d of the fourth example are formed of a non-thermoplastic material. The second surface (the surface on the side of the dielectric layer 832d2) of the electrostatic sheet 923d is indirectly joined to the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of the second welding material 939. That is, the second welding material 939 is interposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 and the second surface of the electrostatic sheet 923d.

[0328] The intermediate formed body 940d of the fourth example is formed, for example, in the following manner. The electrostatic sheet 923d having a C-shaped cross section perpendicular to the axis is disposed around the core body 921 and the resin inner layer material 822. At this time, the second welding material 939 is disposed between the outer surface of the resin inner layer material 822 and the second surface of the electrostatic sheet 923d. The second welding material 939 is formed, for example, in the form of fine particles or fine flakes. In this state, by blowing hot air from the outside of the electrostatic sheet 923d, the second welding material 939 melts, and the dielectric layer 832d2 is indirectly joined to the resin inner layer material 822 by welding of the second welding material 939. In this way, the intermediate formed body 940d is formed.

[0329] (25. Effects)

[0330] Here, the steering wheel 18 in the second example exhibits the same effects as those in the first example, and further exhibits the following effects. The electrostatic sheet 923 in the second example includes the first electrode sheet 831, the dielectric layer 832, and the second electrode sheet 936. The electrostatic sheet 923 is formed by any one of the first to fourth examples. That is, as Figure 39 and Figure 41 shown, in the electrostatic sheets 923a and 923c of the first and third examples, the dielectric layers 832a and 832c2 are joined to the second electrode sheet 936 by welding of a part of the raw materials of the dielectric layers 832a and 832c2. As Fig.40 shown, in the electrostatic sheet 923b of the second example, the dielectric layer 832b is joined to the second electrode sheet 936 by welding of the third welding material 937 different from the dielectric layer 832b. Further, as Figure 41 shown, in the electrostatic sheets 923c and 923d of the third and fourth examples, the dielectric layers 832c2 and 832d2 are joined to the second electrode sheet 936 by engagement of the dielectric layers 832c2 and 832d2. In any of the above examples, the dielectric layer 832 and the second electrode sheet 936 are joined without using a volatile adhesive and an organic solvent. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the emission of VOCs.

[0331] Furthermore, the static electricity piece 923 is directly or indirectly joined to the core body 921. The dielectric layer 832 and the core body 921 are joined by any one of the first to fourth examples. That is, as Figure 42 and Fig.44 shown, in the intermediate formed bodies 940a and 940c of the first and third examples, the dielectric layers 832a and 832c2 are joined to the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core body 921 by welding a part of the raw materials of the dielectric layers 832a and 832c2. As Fig.43 and Fig.45 shown, in the intermediate formed bodies 940b and 940d of the second and fourth examples, the dielectric layers 832b and 832d2 are joined to the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core body 921 by welding a second welding material 939 different from the dielectric layers 832b and 832d2. In any of the above examples, the dielectric layer 832 and the resin inner layer material 822 mounted on the core body 921 are joined without using a volatile adhesive and an organic solvent. Therefore, the emission of VOC can also be suppressed at this part.

[0332] In the above second example, the static electricity piece 923 is a preform formed in a C shape in a cross section perpendicular to the axis, but its cross section perpendicular to the axis may also be a planar shape. In addition, the core body 921 is provided as a conductive member to be a shielding electrode, but when the influence on the detection value is small, the core body 921 may be provided as a non-conductive member. In addition, the core body 921 may be made a non-conductive member, and another conductive member may be interposed between the core body 921 and the second electrode piece 936.

Claims

1. An electrostatic capacitance type sensor (1, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17), wherein, the electrostatic capacitance type sensor (1, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) includes: a first electrode plate (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) having a plurality of first through holes (21a); a dielectric layer (23, 323) whose first surface is disposed on the side of the first electrode plate (21, 121, 221, 321, 421); and a first welding layer (26) formed of a welding material (23a), and joining the boundary portion between the main body portion of the dielectric layer (23, 323) and the first inner surface (21b) of the first electrode plate (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) by welding of the welding material (23a), and joining the boundary portion between the main body portion of the dielectric layer (23, 323) and at least a part of the first inner peripheral surface of the plurality of first through holes (21a), the dielectric layer (23, 323) is formed of a thermoplastic material, the first welding layer (26) uses a part of the dielectric layer (23, 323) as the welding material (23a), and joins each of the boundary portions by welding of the part of the dielectric layer (23, 323), the first welding layer (26) is composed of the same material composition as the dielectric layer (23, 323), the first welding layer (26) performs welding in the entire range where the main body portion of the dielectric layer (23, 323) faces the first inner surface (21b) of the first electrode plate (21), the first welding layer (26) seals the plurality of first through holes (21a).

2. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (1, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) according to claim 1, wherein, the first electrode plate (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) can expand and contract in the plane direction, the dielectric layer (23, 323) is formed of an elastomer, the electrostatic sheet composed of the first electrode plate (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) and the dielectric layer (23, 323) can expand and contract in the plane direction.

3. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (1, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The minimum opening length of the plurality of first through holes (21a) of the first electrode plate (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) is 150 μm or more.

4. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (1, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The opening areas of the plurality of the first through holes (21a) of the first electrode sheet (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) are 6400 μm 2 or more.

5. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first electrode sheets (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) further include slits (121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d2, 421d3), and the slits (121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d2, 421d3) are formed to be longer than the opening length of the first through hole (21a) and allow the first electrode sheets (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) to extend in the main direction through expansion deformation. The dielectric layers (23, 323) are filled in part of the slits (121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d2, 421d3) and extend in the main direction (A) as the slits (121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d2, 421d3) expand and deform in the main direction (A).

6. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) according to claim 5, wherein, The first electrode sheets (21, 121, 221, 321, 421) have a plurality of the slits (121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d3) in the main direction (A).

7. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) according to claim 5, wherein, The slits (121d, 221d, 321d, 421d1, 421d3) extend in a direction having an angle with respect to the main direction (A).

8. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (10, 11) according to claim 5, wherein, The slit (121d) is formed at the central portion in the sub-direction (B) orthogonal to the main direction (A) and is not formed at both end portions in the sub-direction (B).

9. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (12) according to claim 5, wherein, The slit (221d) is formed at both end portions in the sub-direction (B) orthogonal to the main direction (A) and is not formed at the central portion in the sub-direction (B).

10. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (14) according to claim 5, wherein, The slits (421d1, 421d2) are formed to connect two positions on the outer edge of the first electrode sheet (421) and divide the detection region based on the first electrode sheet (421) into a plurality of parts.

11. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (10, 11, 12, 14) according to claim 5, wherein, The slits (121d, 221d, 421d1, 421d2, 421d3) are formed to have regions when the first electrode sheets (21, 121, 221, 421) are in a non-extended state.

12. The electrostatic capacitance type sensor (13) according to claim 5, wherein, The slit (321d) is formed to be linear when the first electrode sheet (321) is in a non-extended state.

13. The capacitive sensor (10, 11) according to claim 5, wherein, The slit (121d) is formed to be longer than the opening length of the first through hole (21a) in the main direction and allows the first electrode sheet (121) to extend in the sub-direction (B) through expansion deformation in the sub-direction (B) orthogonal to the main direction (A). The dielectric layer (23) is filled in part of the slit (121d) and extends in the sub-direction (B) as the slit (121d) expands and deforms in the sub-direction (B).

14. The capacitive sensor (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The capacitive sensor (1) further includes: A second electrode plate (22) having a plurality of second through holes (22a) and disposed on the second surface side of the dielectric layer (23) which is the back side of the first surface; and A second welding layer (27) formed of a welding material (23a) and joining a boundary portion between a main body portion of the dielectric layer (23) and a second inner surface (22b) of the second electrode plate (22) by welding of the welding material (23a), and joining a boundary portion between the main body portion of the dielectric layer (23) and at least a part of a second inner peripheral surface of the plurality of second through holes (22a).

15. The capacitive sensor according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The capacitive sensor includes: An electrostatic sheet having at least the first electrode plate, the dielectric layer, and the first welding layer; and A conductive member disposed on the second surface side of the dielectric layer and constituting a core of the capacitive sensor.

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