Input Devices

Abstract

The input device comprises: an operation area, which is arranged on an operation surface; a first detection electrode, which is arranged corresponding to the operation area; and a plurality of electrodes, which are arranged around the first detection electrode; and a control unit, which, when contact of an operating body with the operation area is detected by the corresponding first detection electrode, controls the contact operation based on the operation area differently according to the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of a plurality of peripheral electrodes among the plurality of electrodes that exist around the operation area where contact of the operating body is detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to input devices. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses the following technology: a capacitive button includes a plurality of reused electrodes (an inner second sensor element and an outer first sensor element), and in a case where only the capacitance of the second sensor element indicates the approach of a conductive object, and in a case where both the capacitance of the second sensor element and the capacitance of the first sensor element indicate the approach of a conductive object, the conductive object in contact with the capacitive button is handled in a manner that is different in size.

[0003] Prior Art Literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-139436 Summary of the invention

[0006] -Problems to be solved by the invention-

[0007] However, in order to prevent erroneous operation by children, FMVSS118 of the US regulations requires that a roof cover or blinds installed on the roof of a car will not close when a switch is operated by a sphere with a diameter of 40 mm equivalent to a child's hand.

[0008] However, in the technology of the above-mentioned patent document 1, when a plurality of electrostatic capacitance buttons are arranged close to each other, it is not possible to apply a structure in which electrodes are reused for each of the plurality of electrostatic capacitance buttons, and therefore, it is not possible to detect the size of the conductive object. Therefore, in the technology of the above-mentioned patent document 1, it is not possible to make the control when the contact operation is performed by an operating body having a size larger than the size of the assumed operating body different from the control when the contact operation is performed by the assumed operating body.

[0009] -Methods for solving problems-

[0010] An input device of one embodiment comprises: an operation area, which is arranged on an operation surface; a first detection electrode, which is arranged corresponding to the operation area; and a plurality of electrodes, which are arranged around the first detection electrode; and a control unit, which, when contact of an operating body with the operation area is detected by the corresponding first detection electrode, controls the contact operation based on the operation area differently according to the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of a plurality of peripheral electrodes among the plurality of electrodes that are present around the operation area where contact of the operating body is detected.

[0011] -Effects of the Invention-

[0012] According to one embodiment, control when a contact operation is performed with an operating body having a size larger than the assumed size of the operating body is performed can be made different from control when a contact operation is performed with the assumed operating body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is a plan view showing the structure of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing a device configuration of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a control device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing a functional structure of a control device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of weight values ​​stored in a storage unit according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing the steps of processing performed by a control device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the structure of an operation area in an input device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing measurement points of an operation area in an input device according to an embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing the measurement results of the electrostatic capacitance value and the calculation results of the total value of the input device according to one embodiment (first embodiment).

[0022] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing the measurement results of the electrostatic capacitance value and the calculation results of the total value of the input device according to one embodiment (second embodiment).

[0023] Fig.11 : is a graph showing the calculation result of the total value of the electrostatic capacitance value according to the first comparative example.

[0024] Fig.12 : is a graph showing the calculation result of the total value of the electrostatic capacitance value according to the second comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Hereinafter, one embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0026] (Structure of Input Device 100)

[0027] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a top view showing the structure of an input device 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the input device 100 includes an operation panel 110 , a first detection electrode 121 , a first detection electrode 122 , a first detection electrode 123 , a second detection electrode 131 , and a second detection electrode 132 .

[0028] The operation panel 110 is a plate-shaped member made of resin. The operation panel 110 is installed at a predetermined installation location by, for example, being embedded in the predetermined installation location. Figure 1 In the example shown, the operation panel 110 has a horizontally long rectangular shape. However, this is not limiting, and the operation panel 110 can have a variety of shapes corresponding to the installation location. The operation panel 110 has a rectangular and approximately flat operation surface 110A. On the operation surface 110A, three operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C are close to each other and arranged in a row in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C are areas where the operator performs contact operations. Different functions are assigned to the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C. Figure 1 In the example shown, the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C are all circular. However, this is not limiting, and the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C may be other shapes (e.g., square). In addition, in this embodiment, for convenience, the long side direction of the operation surface 110A (the X-axis direction in the figure) is set as the left-right direction, the short side direction of the operation surface 110A (the Y-axis direction in the figure) is set as the front-back direction, and the vertical line direction of the operation surface 110A (the Z-axis direction in the figure) is set as the up-down direction.

[0029] The first detection electrode 121 is provided at a position overlapping the operation area 112A on the back side of the operation surface 110A. The first detection electrode 121 has a square shape that includes the entire operation area 112A in a plan view. The first detection electrode 121 can detect contact of the operating body with the operation area 112A by changes in its own electrostatic capacitance value.

[0030] The first detection electrode 122 is provided at a position overlapping the operation area 112B on the back side of the operation surface 110A. The first detection electrode 122 has a square shape that includes the entire operation area 112B in a plan view. The first detection electrode 122 can detect the contact of the operating body with the operation area 112B by changing its electrostatic capacitance value.

[0031] First detection electrode 123 is provided at a position overlapping operation area 112C on the back side of operation surface 110A. First detection electrode 123 has a square shape that includes the entire operation area 112C in a plan view. First detection electrode 123 can detect contact of the operating body with operation area 112C by changes in its own electrostatic capacitance value.

[0032] The second detection electrodes 131 and the second detection electrodes 132 are arranged around the first detection electrodes 121 to 123. In the present embodiment, the second detection electrodes 131 and the second detection electrodes 132 are used only as "peripheral electrodes" described later, and are not used as areas for performing contact operations. However, this is only one embodiment, and the second detection electrodes 131 and the second detection electrodes 132 can also be used as areas for performing contact operations. The second detection electrodes 131 and the second detection electrodes 132 form a rectangular frame portion surrounding the periphery of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123. The second detection electrodes 131 and the second detection electrodes 132 are separated from each other in the center portion in the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction).

[0033] The second detection electrode 131 constitutes the front part (the positive part of the Y axis) of the rectangular frame. Specifically, the second detection electrode 131 has: a straight portion 131A extending straightly in the left-right direction (X axis direction) in front of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123; and end portions 131B and 131C extending straightly from both ends of the straight portion 131A to the rear (negative direction of the Y axis) to a separation position from the second detection electrode 132.

[0034] The second detection electrode 132 constitutes the rear part (the negative part of the Y axis) of the rectangular frame. Specifically, the second detection electrode 132 has: a straight portion 132A extending in a straight line in the left-right direction (X axis direction) behind the first detection electrodes 121 to 123; and end portions 132B and 132C extending in a straight line from both ends of the straight portion 132A to the front (positive direction of the Y axis) to a separation position from the second detection electrode 131.

[0035] When the operating body contacts any one of the operating regions 112A to 112C, the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the second detecting electrodes 131 and 132 change according to the contact position and the contact area (the size of the operating body).

[0036] In addition, the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 are all formed using a metal film (for example, a copper film), ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), or other conductive materials.

[0037] For example, the input device 100 is an overhead console provided on the ceiling surface of the vehicle interior, and is used to operate the roof and blinds provided on the roof of the vehicle. For example, when only the roof is closed, the operation area 112A is contact-operated by the operator's finger. In addition, for example, when only the blinds are closed, the operation area 112B is contact-operated by the operator's finger. In addition, for example, when both the roof and blinds are closed, the operation area 112C is contact-operated by the operator's finger.

[0038] (Device Structure of Input Device 100)

[0039] Figure 2 1 is a block diagram showing the device structure of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, the input device 100 includes a first detection electrode 121 , a first detection electrode 122 , a first detection electrode 123 , a second detection electrode 131 , a second detection electrode 132 , a driver 140 , and a control device 150 .

[0040] The driver 140 is connected to the wiring pattern 160 (see Figure 1 ) are connected to the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132, respectively. The driver 140 drives the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 to detect the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132, respectively. Then, the driver 140 outputs the electrostatic capacitance detection signal indicating the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132, respectively, to the control device 150.

[0041] The control device 150 controls the entire input device 100. For example, the control device 150 determines whether a contact operation has been performed on each of the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C based on the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 determined based on the electrostatic capacitance detection signal obtained from the driver 140. In addition, for example, when it is determined that a contact operation has been performed on any one of the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C, when it is determined that the contact operation has been validated, a control signal corresponding to the operation area is output to the operation object device. As the control device 150, for example, a microcomputer or the like is used.

[0042] (Hardware Configuration of Control Device 150)

[0043] Figure 3 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a control device 150 according to an embodiment. Figure 3As shown, the control device 150 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 151 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 152 , a RAM (Random Access Memory) 153 , and an external I / F (Interface) 155 . The hardware components are connected to each other via a bus 156 .

[0044] CPU151 controls the operation of control device 150 by executing various programs stored in ROM152. ROM152 is a non-volatile memory. For example, ROM152 stores programs executed by CPU151, data required for CPU151 to execute programs, etc. RAM153 is a main storage device such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory). For example, RAM153 functions as a work area used when CPU151 executes a program. External I / F155 controls the input and output of data to the outside (for example, drive 140, device controlled by input device 100, etc.).

[0045] (Functional Structure of Control Device 150)

[0046] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional structure of a control device 150 according to an embodiment. Figure 4 As shown, the control device 150 includes a storage unit 400 , an acquisition unit 401 , a detection unit 402 , a determination unit 403 , a weighting unit 404 , a total value calculation unit 405 , a control unit 406 , and an output unit 407 .

[0047] The storage unit 400 stores the weight values ​​of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 .

[0048] The acquisition unit 401 acquires the electrostatic capacitance value of each of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132. Specifically, the acquisition unit 401 acquires the electrostatic capacitance value of each of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 by acquiring the electrostatic capacitance detection signal output from the driver 140.

[0049] The detection unit 402 detects that the operating body has touched any one of the operating areas 112A to 112C based on the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 obtained by the acquisition unit 401. For example, when the electrostatic capacitance value of the first detection electrode 121 is higher than a given threshold, the detection unit 402 detects that the operating body has touched the operating area 112A overlapping with the first detection electrode 121. In addition, for example, when the electrostatic capacitance value of the first detection electrode 122 is higher than a given threshold, the detection unit 402 detects that the operating body has touched the operating area 112B overlapping with the first detection electrode 122. In addition, for example, when the electrostatic capacitance value of the first detection electrode 123 is higher than a given threshold, the detection unit 402 detects that the operating body has touched the operating area 112C overlapping with the first detection electrode 123. In addition, when the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of two or more detection electrodes simultaneously become higher than a given threshold, the detection unit 402 regards that the operating body has touched an operating area overlapping with a detection electrode with the highest electrostatic capacitance value.

[0050] The determination unit 403 determines a plurality of detection electrodes, among the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 , that are present around an operation area where contact of the operating body is detected by the detection unit 402 as “plurality of peripheral electrodes” for determining whether a contact operation has been performed.

[0051] For example, when detection unit 402 detects contact of the operating body with operation area 112A, determination unit 403 determines first detection electrode 122 , second detection electrode 131 , and second detection electrode 132 that exist around operation area 112A as “plurality of peripheral electrodes”.

[0052] In addition, for example, when the contact of the operating body with the operating area 112B is detected by the detection unit 402, the determination unit 403 determines the first detection electrode 121, the first detection electrode 123, the second detection electrode 131 and the second detection electrode 132 existing around the operating area 112B as "multiple peripheral electrodes".

[0053] For example, when detection unit 402 detects contact of the operating body with operation area 112C, determination unit 403 determines first detection electrode 122 , second detection electrode 131 , and second detection electrode 132 that exist around operation area 112C as “plurality of peripheral electrodes”.

[0054] The weighting unit 404 weights the capacitance value of each of the “plurality of peripheral electrodes” acquired by the acquisition unit 401 using the weight value stored in the storage unit 400 .

[0055] The total value calculation unit 405 calculates the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​weighted by the weighting unit 404 for each of the “plurality of peripheral electrodes”.

[0056] The control unit 406 determines whether to validate the contact operation of an operation area where the contact of the operating body is detected by the detection unit 402 based on the total value calculated by the total value calculation unit 405. For example, when the total value calculated by the total value calculation unit 405 is lower than a given threshold value, the control unit 406 determines to validate the contact operation of an operation area where the contact of the operating body is detected by the detection unit 402. On the other hand, for example, when the total value calculated by the total value calculation unit 405 is higher than a given threshold value, the control unit 406 determines to invalidate the contact operation of an operation area where the contact of the operating body is detected by the detection unit 402. That is, when the contact operation of an operation area where the contact of the operating body is detected has a large impact on the "multiple peripheral electrodes", the contact operation of the operation area is set to be invalid. Specifically, it is assumed that: the contact position of the operating body is the end of an operation area, and it cannot be clearly regarded as an operation; or the operating body itself is large, in other words, it is an accidental contact of a child's hand or a part of an adult's body.

[0057] When the control unit 406 determines that the contact operation on one operation area is to be validated, the output unit 407 outputs a control signal corresponding to the operation area to the operation target device. The output unit 407 may output the control signal via wireless communication or wired communication.

[0058] in addition, Figure 4 Each function of the control device 150 shown is realized, for example, by the CPU 151 in the control device 150 executing a program stored in the ROM 152. The program may be provided in a state of being pre-imported into the control device 150, or may be provided from the outside and imported into the control device 150. In the latter case, the program may be provided by an external storage medium (e.g., a USB memory, a memory card, a CD-ROM, etc.), or may be provided by downloading from a server on a network (e.g., the Internet, etc.).

[0059] (An example of weight values ​​stored in the storage unit 400)

[0060] Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of weight values ​​stored in the storage unit 400 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 , among the weight values ​​stored in storage unit 400, the weight values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes (first detection electrode 122, second detection electrode 131, and second detection electrode 132) applied when the operating body contacts operation area 112A are represented. Figure 5In the example shown in FIG. 4 , “0.7” is stored as the weight value for the first detection electrode 122 in the storage unit 400 . Figure 5 In the example shown in FIG. 4 , “1.0” is stored in the storage unit 400 as the weight value of the second detection electrode 131. Figure 5 In the illustrated example, “1.9” is stored in the storage unit 400 as the weight value of the second detection electrode 132 .

[0061] In addition, the weight value of each peripheral electrode is set to an appropriate value derived through simulation, actual device testing, etc., based on the distance from the operation area 112A (and the first detection electrode 121). The distance mentioned here may consider not only the distance between electrodes but also the distance between the centers of gravity of each electrode.

[0062] For example, in Figure 5 In the example shown, for the first detection electrode 122 that is relatively close to the operation area 112A (and the first detection electrode 121), the weight value is reduced to "0.7" because the influence on the electrostatic capacitance value of the first detection electrode 122 when the operation area 112A is operated is relatively high.

[0063] On the other hand, Figure 5 In the example shown, with respect to the second detection electrodes 131 and 132 which are relatively far from the operating area 112A (and the first detection electrode 121), when the operating area 112A is operated, since the influence of the electrostatic capacitance value of the second detection electrodes 131 and 132 is lower than the influence on the first detection electrode 122, weight values ​​"1.0" and "1.9" which are higher than those of the first detection electrode 122 are set.

[0064] In addition, each weight value is not limited to the distance from the operation area 112A (and the first detection electrode 121), and can also be set based on other parameters that affect the electrostatic capacitance value (for example, the area of ​​the peripheral electrode, the shape of the peripheral electrode, the layout of the wiring pattern 160 connected to the peripheral electrode, the operation direction from the operator, etc.). At this time, in the case where the area of ​​the peripheral electrode is much larger than the operation area 112A, the shape of the peripheral electrode is configured to surround the operation area 112A, the wiring pattern 160 connected to the peripheral electrode exists near the operation area 112A, and the operation direction from the operator is from the front (positive side of the Y axis), etc., when the operation of the operation area 112A has a large impact on the peripheral electrode, a low weight value is set for the peripheral electrode. As the main reason why the weight value "1.9" of the second detection electrode 132 is larger than the weight value "1.0" of the second detection electrode 131 mentioned above, the main reasons based on the operation direction from the operator, the layout of the wiring pattern 160, etc. can be listed.

[0065] (Processing steps of control device 150)

[0066] Figure 6 It is a flowchart showing the procedure of the processing of the control device 150 involved in one embodiment.

[0067] First, the acquisition unit 401 acquires the electrostatic capacitance value of each of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 to 132 (step S601).

[0068] Next, the detection unit 402 determines whether the operating body has touched any one of the operation areas 112A to 112C based on the electrostatic capacitance value of each of the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 acquired in step S601 (step S602 ).

[0069] In step S602 , when it is determined that the operating body is not in contact with any of the operation areas 112A to 112C (step S602 : No), the control device 150 returns the process to step S601 .

[0070] On the other hand, in step S602, when it is determined that the operating body is in contact with any one of the operating areas 112A to 112C (step S602: yes), the determination unit 403 determines a plurality of electrodes among the first detection electrodes 121 to 123 and the second detection electrodes 131 and 132 that are present around an operating area where contact of the operating body is detected as “plurality of peripheral electrodes” (step S603).

[0071] Then, the weighting unit 404 weights the electrostatic capacitance value of each of the “plurality of peripheral electrodes” obtained in step S601 using the weight value stored in the storage unit 400 (step S604 ). Here, as an example of weighting, the weighting unit 404 multiplies the electrostatic capacitance value by the weight value.

[0072] Furthermore, the total value calculation unit 405 calculates the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of each of the “plurality of peripheral electrodes” weighted by the weighting unit 404 (step S605 ).

[0073] Next, the control unit 406 determines whether the total value calculated in step S605 is higher than a given threshold value (step S606 ).

[0074] In step S606, when it is determined that the total value calculated in step S605 is higher than the given threshold value (step S606: No), the control unit 406 determines to invalidate the contact operation on an operation area where the contact of the operating body was detected in step S602 (step S607). Figure 6 A series of processing is shown.

[0075] On the other hand, in step S606, when it is determined that the total value calculated in step S605 is lower than the given threshold (step S606: yes), the control unit 406 determines that the contact operation on an operating area where the contact of the operating body was detected in step S602 is validated (step S608).

[0076] Then, the output unit 407 outputs a control signal corresponding to an operation area where the operating body is detected to be in contact in step S602 to the operation object device (step S609). Figure 6 A series of processing is shown.

[0077] (Example)

[0078] Below, refer to Figure 7 to Figure 10 Next, an example of an input device 100 according to an embodiment will be described.

[0079] (Structure of Operation Area 112)

[0080] Figure 7 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the structure of the operation area 112 in the input device 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 7 As shown, the operation area 112 (operation areas 112A, 112B, 112C) has a square shape with one side having a first length L1. In addition, the operation area 112 is a recessed surface 112a that is recessed relative to the operation surface 110A as a whole, and a portion of the recessed surface 112a has a square-shaped inner bottom surface 112b with a side having a second length L2 that is shorter than the first length L1. When the operator's finger contacts the operation area 112 having the recessed surface 112a and the inner bottom surface 112b, the recessed surface 112a and the inner bottom surface 112b function as a guide to guide the operator's finger to contact the vicinity of the center of the operation area 112. In addition, as Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, as an example of an operating body that performs a contact operation on the operating area 112, a conductive cylinder 12 and a conductive sphere 14 that simulates a child's hand are used. The cylinder 12 is used as a simulated operator's finger, and the diameter of the cross section along the end surface of the cylinder is 13 mm. The sphere 14 is used as a simulated child's hand, and the diameter is 40 mm. In FMVSS118 of the US regulations, when a switch operation is performed with a sphere with a diameter of 40 mm, it is required that the top cover and the shutter are not closed.

[0081] (Measurement Points in Operation Area 112)

[0082] Figure 8FIG. 1 is a diagram showing measurement points of the operation area 112 in the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, a plurality of measurement points 20 arranged in a matrix of 11 columns × 13 rows are set on the operation area 112. In addition, in this embodiment, the interval between two adjacent measurement points 20 is set to 2 mm in both the column direction (Y-axis direction) and the row direction (X-axis direction).

[0083] (Implementation steps)

[0084] In this embodiment, through the following steps (1) to (5), it is verified how the input device 100 makes a judgment when the operating body is brought into contact with each measuring point 20 of the operating area 112A. In addition, in the first embodiment, a cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm (an example of the "given second size") is used as the operating body. In addition, in the second embodiment, a sphere 14 with a diameter of 40 mm (an example of the "given first size") is used as the operating body. The purpose of this verification is to verify that when the operator's finger contacts the central part of the operating area 112A, in order to make the contact operation on the operating area 112A effective, the change in the electrostatic capacitance value generated with respect to the plurality of peripheral electrodes becomes less than a given threshold value. In addition, it is verified that when the operator's finger contacts the operating area 112A other than the central part, or when an object larger than the operator's finger contacts the operating area 112A, in order to make the contact operation on the operating area 112A invalid, the change in the electrostatic capacitance value generated with respect to the plurality of peripheral electrodes becomes more than a given threshold value.

[0085] (1) The operating body is aligned with the plurality of measuring points 20 (see Figure 8 ) contacts a measuring point 20.

[0086] (2) With the operating body in contact with one measurement point 20 of operation region 112A, the electrostatic capacitance value of each of three peripheral electrodes (first detection electrode 122 , second detection electrode 131 , and second detection electrode 132 ) present around operation region 112A is measured.

[0087] (3) The electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the plurality of peripheral electrodes (the first detection electrode 122, the second detection electrode 131, and the second detection electrode 132) measured in (2) above are weighted using the weight values ​​stored in the storage unit 400 (see Figure 5 ). That is, the electrostatic capacitance value of the first detection electrode 122 is weighted using the weight value "0.7". In addition, the electrostatic capacitance value of the second detection electrode 131 is weighted using the weight value "1.0". In addition, the electrostatic capacitance value of the second detection electrode 132 is weighted using the weight value "1.9".

[0088] (4) Calculate the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes after weighting in (3) above.

[0089] (5) The above-mentioned (1) to (4) are executed for all the measurement points 20 set in the operation area 112A.

[0090] (Implementation results: first embodiment)

[0091] Fig. 9 1 is a diagram showing the measurement results of the electrostatic capacitance value and the calculation results of the total value of the input device 100 according to one embodiment (first embodiment). Fig. 9 (a) to (d) show the electrostatic capacitance values ​​measured and calculated by the input device 100 in the first embodiment using the cylinder 12 having a diameter of 13 mm.

[0092] Fig. 9 (a) shows the electrostatic total value of the first detection electrode 122 measured in the above step (2) for each measurement point 20. Fig. 9 (b) shows the electrostatic total value of the second detection electrode 131 measured in the above step (2) for each measurement point 20. Fig. 9 (c) shows the electrostatic total value of the second detection electrode 132 measured in the above step (2) for each measurement point 20. Fig. 9 (d) shows, for each measurement point 20, the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes (the first detection electrode 122, the second detection electrode 131, and the second detection electrode 132) measured in the above step (4).

[0093] like Fig. 9 As shown in (d), in the first embodiment, when using a cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm, it was confirmed that the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes was below the given threshold value of "33" at all measurement points 20 in the central part of the operating area 112A (the area within the frame in the figure, the area from the center to 4 mm in front, back, left and right respectively). This is because when an operating body with a relatively small size contacts the central part of the operating area 112A, the influence on the peripheral electrodes is relatively small. That is, in the first embodiment, it was confirmed that the input device 100 of this embodiment can make the contact operation effective when a correct contact operation is performed to make the operator's finger contact the central part of the operating area 112A.

[0094] On the other hand, Fig. 9As shown in (d), in the first embodiment, it was confirmed that when a cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm is used, the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes is greater than the given threshold value "33" at all measurement points 20 in the peripheral portion of the operating area 112A (the area outside the frame in the figure). This is because, in the case where an operating body with a relatively small size contacts the peripheral portion of the operating area 112A, the influence on the peripheral electrodes is relatively large. That is, in the first embodiment, it was confirmed that the input device 100 of this embodiment can invalidate the contact operation in the case of an erroneous operation that causes the operator's finger to contact the peripheral portion of the operating area 112A.

[0095] (Implementation results: Second embodiment)

[0096] Fig.10 1 is a diagram showing the measurement results of the electrostatic capacitance value and the calculation results of the total value of the input device 100 according to one embodiment (second embodiment). Fig.10 (a) to (d) show the electrostatic capacitance values ​​measured and calculated by the input device 100 in the second embodiment using the sphere 14 having a diameter of 40 mm.

[0097] Fig.10 (a) shows the electrostatic total value of the first detection electrode 122 measured in the above step (2) for each measurement point 20. Fig.10 (b) shows the electrostatic total value of the second detection electrode 131 measured in the above step (2) for each measurement point 20. Fig.10 (c) shows the electrostatic total value of the second detection electrode 132 measured in the above step (2) for each measurement point 20. Fig.10 (d) shows, for each measurement point 20, the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes (the first detection electrode 122, the second detection electrode 131, and the second detection electrode 132) measured in the above step (4).

[0098] like Fig.10 As shown in (d), in the second embodiment, it was confirmed that when a sphere 14 with a diameter of 40 mm was used, the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes was greater than the given threshold value of "33" at almost all the measuring points 20. This is because, when an operating body with a relatively large size contacts the operating area 112A, the influence on the peripheral electrodes is relatively large. That is, in the second embodiment, it was confirmed that the input device 100 of this embodiment can invalidate the contact as an erroneous operation even when a child's hand accidentally contacts the operating area 112A.

[0099] (First Comparative Example)

[0100] Fig.11 : is a graph showing the calculation result of the total value of the electrostatic capacitance value according to the first comparative example. Fig.11 As Fig. 9 In the comparative example of the first embodiment shown (first comparative example), when a cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm is used, the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes (the first detection electrode 122, the second detection electrode 131, and the second detection electrode 132) are not weighted separately, but the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes is represented for each measuring point 20.

[0101] like Fig.11 As shown in the figure, in the first comparative example, the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes when the cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm contacts the central portion of the operation area 112A is less than the given threshold value "33" as targeted. However, in the first comparative example, in a part of the peripheral portion of the operation area 112A, the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes when the cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm contacts the central portion of the operation area 112A is less than the given threshold value "33" contrary to the target.

[0102] Therefore, if Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the input device 100 of the present embodiment weights the capacitance value of each peripheral electrode using an appropriate weight value. Fig. 9 As shown, the input device 100 of this embodiment can make the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes when the cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm contacts the central part of the operating area 112A lower than the given threshold value "33", and can make the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes when the cylinder 12 with a diameter of 13 mm contacts the peripheral part of the operating area 112A higher than the given threshold value "33".

[0103] (Second Comparative Example)

[0104] Fig.12 : is a graph showing the calculation result of the total value of the electrostatic capacitance value according to the second comparative example. Fig.12 As Fig.10 In the comparative example of the second embodiment shown (second comparative example), when a sphere 14 with a diameter of 40 mm is used, the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes (the first detection electrode 122, the second detection electrode 131, and the second detection electrode 132) are not weighted separately, but the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes is represented for each measuring point 20.

[0105] like Fig.12 As shown, in the first comparative example, the total value when the sphere 14 having a diameter of 40 mm contacts a part of the operation area 112A is opposite to the target and is smaller than the given threshold value "33".

[0106] Therefore, if Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the input device 100 of the present embodiment weights the capacitance value of each peripheral electrode using an appropriate weight value. Fig.10 As shown, the input device 100 of this embodiment can make the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the three peripheral electrodes higher than the predetermined threshold value "33" regardless of where the sphere 14 with a diameter of 40 mm contacts the operation area 112A.

[0107] As described above, the input device 100 involved in this embodiment includes: operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C, which are arranged in parallel close to each other on the operation surface 110A; first detection electrodes 121, 122, and 123, which are arranged in a 1:1 correspondence in the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C respectively; second detection electrodes 131, 132, which are arranged around the first detection electrodes 121, 122, and 123; and a control unit 406, which, when the contact of the operating body with any one of the operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C is detected by the first detection electrode corresponding to the one operation area, controls the contact operation based on the one operation area differently according to the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the multiple peripheral electrodes existing around the one operation area.

[0108] Thus, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment can determine the size of the operating body that affects the plurality of peripheral electrodes based on the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of the plurality of peripheral electrodes, and control differently based on the size. Therefore, according to the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, the control when performing a contact operation with an operating body having a size larger than the size of the assumed operating body can be different from the control when performing a contact operation with the assumed operating body.

[0109] In addition, in the input device 100 involved in this embodiment, the control unit 406 validates the contact operation on an operating area when the above-mentioned total value is lower than a given threshold, and invalidates the contact operation on an operating area when the above-mentioned total value is higher than a given threshold.

[0110] Thus, input device 100 according to the present embodiment can make the total value higher than a given threshold value when a contact operation is performed with an operating body having a size larger than the assumed size of the operating body, thereby invalidating the contact operation.

[0111] In addition, the input device 100 involved in this embodiment also has a weighting unit 404 that weights the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of each of the multiple peripheral electrodes based on a given weight value, and the control unit 406 determines whether to validate the contact operation on an operation area based on the total value of the weighted electrostatic capacitance values ​​of each of the multiple peripheral electrodes.

[0112] Thus, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment can more accurately determine whether the operating body is larger than the assumed operating body by using an appropriate weight value for each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes according to the degree of influence on the above-mentioned total value of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes.

[0113] Furthermore, in the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, the weight value of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes is set according to the distance of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes from one operation area.

[0114] Thus, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment uses an appropriate weight value for each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes according to the distance from each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes to an operation area, thereby making it possible to more accurately determine whether the operating body is larger than the assumed size of the operating body.

[0115] In the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, the weight value of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes is also set based on at least one of the area and shape of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes, a wiring pattern connected to the peripheral electrode, and a direction in which the operator operates.

[0116] Therefore, the input device 100 involved in this embodiment uses an appropriate weight value for each of the multiple peripheral electrodes based on at least any one of the area, shape, wiring pattern connected to the peripheral electrode, and direction of operation by the operator, thereby more accurately determining whether the operating body has a size larger than the assumed size of the operating body.

[0117] In addition, in the input device 100 involved in the present embodiment, when the operating body has a given first size, the above-mentioned total value is higher than the given threshold value regardless of the position of the operating body in contact with an operating area, and when the operating body has a given second size smaller than the given first size, when the operating body is in contact with the central part of an operating area, the total value is lower than the given threshold value, and when the operating body is in contact with the peripheral part of an operating area, the total value is higher than the given threshold value.

[0118] Thus, input device 100 according to the present embodiment can invalidate, as erroneous operations, contact operations on one operation area by an operating body having a given first size and contact operations on the peripheral portion of one operation area by an operating body having a given second size.

[0119] Furthermore, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment can invalidate an operation by a child's hand as an erroneous operation. Furthermore, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment can invalidate a contact operation by an operator's finger on the periphery of one operation area as an erroneous operation.

[0120] In addition, in the input device 100 involved in this embodiment, when the control unit 406 detects the contact of the operating body with any multiple of the operating areas 112A, 112B, and 112C, it determines whether to validate the contact operation on the operating area whose corresponding first detection electrode in the operating areas 112A, 112B, and 112C has the highest electrostatic capacitance value.

[0121] Thus, even when input device 100 according to the present embodiment detects contact of the operating body with any of operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C, it is possible to accurately determine which of operation areas 112A, 112B, and 112C has been contacted.

[0122] In addition, in the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, the second detection electrodes 131 and 132 are used only as peripheral electrodes.

[0123] Thus, input device 100 according to the present embodiment can increase the number of electrodes existing around one operation area by providing second detection electrodes 131 and 132 used only as peripheral electrodes, and can therefore more accurately determine the size of an operating body affecting a plurality of peripheral electrodes.

[0124] As mentioned above, although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or changes can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.

[0125] For example, in the input device 100 of the above embodiment, the operation area 112B may not be provided, and the first detection electrodes 122 may be used only as “peripheral electrodes”.

[0126] In addition, in the input device 100 of the above-mentioned embodiment, when a contact operation with a sphere of 40 mm in diameter is performed, the contact operation is invalidated, but it is not limited to this. For example, when a contact operation with a sphere of 40 mm in diameter is performed, other controls other than invalidation (for example, notifying that the contact operation is invalid, etc.) may be performed.

[0127] This international application claims the benefit of priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-011086, filed on January 27, 2020, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0128] -Description of Reference Numerals-

[0129] 12 Cylinder

[0130] 14 spheres

[0131] 100 Input device

[0132] 110 Operation panel

[0133] 110A operating surface

[0134] 112, 112A, 112B, 112C Operation area

[0135] 112a Concave surface

[0136] 112b Inner bottom

[0137] 121, 122, 123 first detection electrode

[0138] 131, 132 second detection electrode

[0139] 140 Driver

[0140] 150 Control Device

[0141] 160 Wiring Pattern

[0142] 400 Storage

[0143] 401 Acquisition

[0144] 402 Detection Department

[0145] 403 Decision Department

[0146] 404 Weighted Department

[0147] 405 Total value calculation unit

[0148] 406 Control Department

[0149] 407 Output

Claims

1. An input device, characterized in that: have: An operating area is provided on the operating surface; A first detection electrode is arranged corresponding to the operation area; and A plurality of electrodes are arranged around the first detection electrode; The control unit controls the contact operation of the operating area differently according to the total value of the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of a plurality of peripheral electrodes existing around the operating area where the contact of the operating body is detected, when the contact of the operating body to the operating area is detected by the first detection electrode. The control unit validates the contact operation on the operation area when the total value is lower than a given threshold value, and invalidates the contact operation on the operation area when the total value is higher than the given threshold value. The input device further includes: a weighting unit that weights the electrostatic capacitance values ​​of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes based on a given weight value, The control unit determines whether to validate the contact operation on the operation area based on the total value of the weighted electrostatic capacitance values ​​of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: The weight value of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes is set according to a distance of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes from the operation area.

3. The input device according to claim 2, wherein: The weight value of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes is further set based on at least any one of the area and shape of each of the plurality of peripheral electrodes, the layout of a wiring pattern connected to the peripheral electrode, and a direction in which an operator operates.

4. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: When the operating body has a given first size, the total value is higher than the given threshold value regardless of the position of the operating body in contact with the operating area. When the operating body has a given second size smaller than the given first size, when the operating body is in contact with the central portion of the operating area, the total value is lower than the given threshold value, and when the operating body is in contact with the peripheral portion of the operating area, the total value is higher than the given threshold value.

5. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The input device comprises: a plurality of said operating areas; a plurality of the first detection electrodes, arranged corresponding to the plurality of operation areas; and The plurality of electrodes are arranged around the respective peripheries of the plurality of first detection electrodes. When the control unit detects contact of the operating body with any of the plurality of operating areas, the control unit determines whether to validate the contact operation with respect to the one operating area having the highest electrostatic capacitance value of the corresponding first detection electrode among the plurality of operating areas.

6. The input device according to claim 5, wherein: The plurality of electrodes include only the other first detection electrodes corresponding to any one of the plurality of operation areas.

7. The input device according to claim 5, wherein: The plurality of electrodes include only second detection electrodes that do not correspond to any of the plurality of operation areas.

8. The input device according to claim 5, wherein: The plurality of electrodes include: other first detection electrodes corresponding to any one of the plurality of operation areas; and A second detection electrode corresponds to none of the plurality of operation areas.

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