Input devices

Abstract

An input device is provided, comprising: an operation button pressed in a first direction; a switch located in the first direction relative to the operation button and pushed by the operation button; a circuit board including a conductor pad located outside the outer shape of the operation button when the operation button is viewed in the first direction; and a detection conductor provided on the operation button, wherein the detection conductor includes a movable part connected to the operation button, an elastic part extending from the movable part in a direction intersecting the first direction, and a fixed part connected to the elastic part and fixed to the conductor pad, and movement of the movable part in the first direction is allowed by elastic deformation of the elastic part.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority from Japanese Priority Patent Application JP 2021-052375 filed on Mar. 25, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an input device.

[0004] PCT Patent Publication No. WO2014 / 061322 discloses an input device for game operation. The input device includes an operation panel having a touch sensor in the middle portion thereof. The touch sensor inputs information about the position of the user's finger on the surface of the operation panel to the input device. The operation panel is supported to be movable up and down, and a switch for detecting that the user presses the operation panel is provided below the operation panel. The input device includes a plurality of operation buttons (including a button portion located at the end of a cross key) located at the left and right positions of the operation panel. Summary of the invention

[0005] If a button is provided with a touch sensor function that detects the touch of a finger on the surface of an operation button before the user presses the operation button, the number of types of input methods can be increased without increasing the number of operation buttons. Therefore, the user can instruct the operation target (e.g., game character) in the game to perform more complex operations.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an input device is provided, which includes: an operation button pressed in a first direction; a switch located in the first direction relative to the operation button and pushed by the operation button; a circuit board including a conductor pad located outside the outer shape of the operation button when the operation button is viewed in the first direction; and a detection conductor provided on the operation button. The detection conductor includes a movable part connected to the operation button, an elastic part extending from the movable part in a direction intersecting the first direction, and a fixed part connected to the elastic part and fixed to the conductor pad, and the movement of the movable part in the first direction is allowed by the elastic deformation of the elastic part. According to the input device, it is possible to detect a finger that is touching or approaching the surface of the operation button, and the height of the operation button can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system using an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0008] Figure 2A is a top view showing an example of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 2B is the left view of the input device;

[0010] Figure 2C is the right view of the input device;

[0011] Figure 2D is a front view of the input device;

[0012] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an input device;

[0013] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a frame and a flexible board provided in a ring portion of an input device;

[0014] Figure 5A is a left side view of the internal structure housed in the main body of the input device, wherein the Figure 7 The operating lever shown;

[0015] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A Magnified view of the plate depicted in;

[0016] Fig. 6A is a top view of the internal structure housed in the main body;

[0017] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A An enlarged view of the action button depicted in ;

[0018] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the internal structure; and

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A bottom view of the second circuit board, frame and flexible board is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The following describes an example of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this specification, Figure 2A The directions indicated by Y1 and Y2 in the figure represent the forward and backward directions, respectively. Figure 2A The directions indicated by X1 and X2 in the figure represent right and left directions, respectively. Figure 2B The directions indicated by Z1 and Z2 in respectively represent upward and downward directions. The directions correspond to the directions viewed from the user holding the input device 100. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In FIG. 1 , a black circular mark indicates a light emitting portion H described later.

[0021] [System Overview]

[0022] like Figure 1As shown, the input device 100 is used, for example, with a head-mounted display (HMD) 2. The user wears the HMD 2 and holds the input device 100 in the right hand and / or left hand. The HMD 2 includes a forward-facing camera. On the outer surface of the input device 100, a plurality of light-emitting portions H for tracking are provided. The light-emitting portions H are detected by the camera of the HMD 2. The position and posture of the input device 100 (i.e., the position and direction of the user's hand) are calculated based on the position of the detected light-emitting portions H (tracking). As described below, the input device 100 has a plurality of operating components (e.g., operating buttons, operating levers, etc.) operated by the user's fingers. On the display unit of the HMD 2, a motion image (e.g., a game image) generated based on the position and posture of the input device 100 and the operations performed on the operating components is displayed.

[0023] The calculation of the position and posture of the input device 100 may be performed by an information processing device integrated in the HMD 2, or may be performed by an external information processing device (for example, a game device or a personal computer separated from the HMD 2). The input device 100 may include a motion sensor (for example, an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor). The information processing device may calculate the position and posture of the input device 100 based not only on the position of the light emitting portion H but also on the output of the motion sensor. In addition, the generation of the motion image may be performed by the information processing device integrated in the HMD 2, or may be performed by an external information processing device. In the case where the calculation of the position of the input device 100, etc. and the generation of the motion image are performed by an external information processing device, the image information captured by the camera is transmitted to the external information processing device by wireless or wired transmission. The motion image information generated by the external information processing device is transmitted from the external information processing device to the HMD 2 by wireless or wired transmission.

[0024] The input device 100 may include a microphone, a speaker, etc. In addition, the input device 100 may have a light emitting portion on its outer surface that is not used for tracking a position or posture, for example, a light emitting portion indicating an operation state of the input device 100 and a light emitting portion for identifying a plurality of input devices 100 .

[0025] [General configuration of input devices]

[0026] In the following, an input device 100 for the right hand is described as an example. The external shape of the input device 100 for the right hand and the external shape of the input device 100 for the left hand may be substantially bilaterally symmetrical to each other. Therefore, the description of the relative positions of the elements (components and parts) of the right-hand input device 100 is also applicable to the left-hand input device 100 by reversing the "right", "right side", "left side" and "left side" used in the description. The number and type of operating components operated by the user's fingers may be different between the left-hand input device 100 and the right-hand input device 100. In addition, the arrangement of the operating components may not be bilaterally symmetrical between the input device 100 for the right hand and the input device 100 for the left hand.

[0027] like Figure 2A and 2B As shown, the main body 10 of the input device 100 includes a handle 11B for the user to grasp and an operating portion 11A, and a plurality of operating components are arranged on the operating portion 11A. The operating portion 11A is located at the upper portion of the main body 10. As described below, a light emitting portion H (refer to Figure 2D ). The handle 11B extends obliquely downward and rearward from the operating portion 11A.

[0028] [Operation parts]

[0029] For example, Figure 2A As shown, operation buttons 51A and 51B are arranged on the operation part 11A. The two operation buttons 51A and 51B of the operation part 11A are buttons for selecting and operating, for example, a character or an object of a game. The operation buttons 51A and 51B are arranged on the upper surface 11a of the operation part 11A and are operated, for example, by a thumb. The structure of the operation buttons 51A and 51B is described in detail below.

[0030] like Figure 2A As shown, on the operation portion 11A, an operation lever 15 and operation buttons 16 and 17 may also be arranged. The operation lever 15 is an operation member that can be tilted in the diameter direction or can be slidably moved in the diameter direction. The operation button 16 is a function button for sharing a game with different users, for capturing a game screen image during the game, or for capturing a still image during the reproduction of a moving image, and then storing the captured image in the HMD 2 or a server device connected to the HMD 2. The operation button 17 is a button for displaying, for example, various functions that the user can select. For example, operating the operation button 17 allows the user to select a game application to be played from a plurality of game applications in the middle of the process.

[0031] like Figure 2B As shown, the trigger button 18 may be arranged below the front surface 11b of the operating portion 11A. The main body 10 may include a trigger driving device 45 for moving the trigger button 18 (see Figure 5A ). For example, when the trigger button 18 is pressed, the trigger drive device 45 generates a reaction force that opposes the movement of the trigger button 18.

[0032] like Figure 2B As shown, the main body 10 may include an operation button 19 on the handle 11B. The operation button 19 may be provided on the left side 11c of the handle 11B. The input device 100 is a device for the right hand, and the operation button 19 may be provided, for example, on the left side 11c of the handle 11B. According to this arrangement of the operation button 19, the user can operate the operation button 19 with the middle finger.

[0033] like Figure 2A As shown, the operation buttons 51A and 51B and the operation button 16 may be arranged on opposite sides of the operation rod 15. For example, the operation buttons 51A and 51B may be arranged on the left side relative to the operation rod 15, and the operation button 16 may be arranged on the right side relative to the operation rod 15. According to this arrangement, the user can set the initial position of the thumb on the operation rod 15, and can smoothly move the thumb from the operation rod 15 to any one of the operation buttons 51A and 51B and the operation button 16 as needed. The operation button 17 may be arranged at the rear of the operation rod 15.

[0034] [Annular Section Overview]

[0035] like Figure 2A and 2D As shown in FIG. 1 , the input device 100 may have a ring portion 20 at its rear. A plurality of light emitting portions H are also provided on the ring portion 20. The ring portion 20 is provided to surround the body 10 as viewed from the rear elevation of the input device 100. The ring portion 20 is connected at its lowest portion to the lowest portion (the rearmost portion) of the handle 11B. The ring portion 20 has a ring shape ( Figure 2A and 2C ).exist Figures 2A to 2D In the example shown, the ring portion 20 is formed over an angle of 360 degrees along the circumferential direction centered on the center line Pc. When the input device 100 is to be used, the user passes his hand through the ring portion 20 and grasps the handle 11B.

[0036] It should be noted that the input device 100 may have a curved portion (arcuate portion) at the rear thereof, which replaces the annular portion 20 and covers only the upper portion of the body 10 as viewed from the rear elevation of the input device 100. Furthermore, as another example, the input device 100 may have a portion at the rear thereof, which is in a polygonal shape surrounding the body 10 as viewed from the rear elevation of the input device 100, instead of the annular portion 20.

[0037] [Side view]

[0038] like Figure 2A As shown in FIG. 1 , the input device 100 may have a side portion 30. The side portion 30 extends from the operation portion 11A toward the annular portion 20 and is connected to the annular portion 20. Specifically, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A As shown in FIG. 1 , the side portion 30 extends rightward from the operating portion 11A and is bent to further extend rearward. In addition, the side portion 30 is connected to the side portion of the annular portion 20 (at Figure 2A In the example shown, it is connected to the right side of the annular portion 20 . A light emitting portion H is also provided on the front surface 30 b of the side portion 30 .

[0039] like Figure 2D As shown, the upper surface 30a of the front portion of the side portion 30 and the upper surface 11a of the operating portion 11A can extend substantially in parallel to the horizontal plane P4. Therefore, the user can easily move his finger leftward and rightward on the upper surface 11a of the operating portion 11A. For example, the horizontal plane P4 is a plane perpendicular to the center line Pv3 of the operating rod 15.

[0040] [Internal structure of the main body]

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the main body 10 (operating portion 11A and handle 11B) has an internal structure S1. The internal structure S1 is accommodated in external members 61 and 62 constituting the outer surface of the main body 10. The external member 61 covers the lower side of the internal structure S1, and the external member 62 covers the upper side of the internal structure S1.

[0042] like Figure 7 As shown, the internal structure S1 includes a first circuit board 41, a second circuit board 42 arranged at the rear of the first circuit board 41, and a main frame 43 to which the circuit boards 41 and 42 are connected. The circuit boards 41 and 42 are both rigid boards. For example, the substrate of the rigid board is glass epoxy resin. The first circuit board 41 is arranged on the operating part 11A. A switch and a sensor for detecting the movement of the operating part of the input device 100 (user's operation) are installed on the first circuit board 41. The second circuit board 42 is located on the handle 11B.

[0043] like Figure 5A As shown, the first circuit board 41 can be arranged along the horizontal plane P4. Figure 5A For example, the horizontal plane P4 is parallel to the center line Pv3 (reference Figure 2D ) is a horizontal plane orthogonal to the horizontal plane. On the other hand, the second circuit board 42 is arranged obliquely relative to the horizontal plane P4. Figure 5A In FIG. 4 , the second circuit board 42 is also indicated by hatching. ). The front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42 is lower than the rear edge 41a of the first circuit board 41. Figure 5AIn the example shown, the front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42 is located at a position lower than the support shaft 45b of the trigger button 18. In this layout, since the front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42 is located at a lower position, the space formed on the upper side of the second circuit board 42 and the inner side of the handle 11B can be as large as possible. In this space, relatively large components such as the battery 48 and the vibration motor 47 can be arranged.

[0044] like Figure 5A As shown, preferably, the battery 48 and the vibration motor 47 are arranged on opposite sides across the second circuit board 42. This arrangement is convenient for reserving dimensions for the battery 48 and the vibration motor 47. Figure 5A In the example shown, the vibration motor 47 is arranged on the upper side of the second circuit board 42. Therefore, it becomes easy to adopt a high-output motor as the vibration motor 47. As the vibration motor 47, for example, a voice coil motor, a DC motor whose center of gravity is offset from the motor rotation center, etc. can be used.

[0045] The vibration motor 47 is formed on the main frame 43 and is located inside the handle 11B by a holder 43d (see Figure 7 ) is maintained. The vibration motor 47 can be connected to the external member 62 (reference Figure 3 ) is in contact with the inner surface of the second circuit board 42, and the outer member 62 is configured with a cushion (not shown) inserted between it and the handle 11B. This configuration allows the vibration generated by driving the vibration motor 47 to be easily transmitted to the palm of the user. The rear portion 43b of the main frame 43 is located on the upper side of the second circuit board 42. The retaining frame 43d is formed at the rear portion 43b of the main frame 43.

[0046] like Figure 5A As shown, the battery 48 is arranged at the lower side of the second circuit board 42. The internal structure S1 may include a battery box 48A. The battery box 48A is fixed to the rear portion 43b of the main frame 43 and the second circuit board 42, and the battery 48 may be fixed by the battery box 48A.

[0047] like Figure 5A As shown, the battery 48 is perpendicular to the direction of the second circuit board 42 ( Figure 5A The size of the battery 48 in the direction indicated by the arrow mark D1 in the middle is smaller than the size of the vibration motor 47. Figure 5A The size in the direction indicated by the middle arrow mark D2) is larger than the size of the vibration motor 47. According to the arrangement of the second circuit board 42, the battery 48 and the vibration motor 47 as described above, a large-capacity battery can also be used for the battery 48 while using the large-sized vibration motor 47.

[0048] It should be noted that the arrangement of the battery 48 and the vibration motor 47 may be different from Figure 5AArrangement in the example shown. For example, the battery 48 can be arranged on the upper side of the second circuit board 42, and the vibration motor 47 can be arranged on the lower side of the second circuit board 42. As another example, both the battery 48 and the vibration motor 47 can be arranged on the upper side of the second circuit board 42.

[0049] In addition, the arrangement of the circuit boards 41 and 42 is not limited to Figure 5A Arrangement in the example shown. For example, the first circuit board 41 can be tilted so that its front side is higher. In this case, the second circuit board 42 can be tilted more steeply than the first circuit board 41.

[0050] like Figure 2B and 2D As shown, the connector 49a is arranged at the lowest part of the handle 11b so that it faces forward. An opening 61a is formed in the outer member 61 so that it opens forward. The connector 49a is exposed forward through the opening 61a. The input device 100 may include a cover for closing the opening 61a. The connector 49a is, for example, a connector for charging the battery 48. The user can use the input device 100 with a charging cable connected to the connector 49a. Figure 3 As shown, the input device 100 may include a board 49 having a connector 49a mounted thereon.

[0051] like Figure 5A As shown, the front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42 is located rearward relative to the rear edge 41a of the first circuit board 41. This enables relatively large components to be arranged in front of the front edge 42a of the second circuit board 42.

[0052] exist Figure 5A In the example shown, the trigger button (operation button) 18 and the trigger driving device 45 are arranged below the first circuit board 41. The trigger device 45 has a movable portion 45a located at the rear side of the trigger button 18, and can move forward and backward relative to the support shaft 45b. The trigger driving device 45 moves the trigger button 18 via the movable portion 45a.

[0053] For example, when the trigger button 18 is pressed, the trigger drive device 45 applies a reaction force to the trigger button 18 through its movable part 45a. For example, this makes it possible for the user to feel that the character operated by the user in the game space pushes or pulls a hard object. The trigger button 18 and the trigger drive 45 are located in front of the front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42. The operating component arranged below the first circuit board 41 may not be the trigger button 18 that moves around the support shaft 45b, but an operating button that moves forward and backward. In this case as well, a drive device for applying a reaction force to the operating button may be provided at the rear of the operating button.

[0054] like Figure 5AAs shown, the trigger driver 45 is located below the front portion 43a of the main body frame 43. The trigger driver 45 can be connected to the main body frame 43. The main body frame 43 may have an opening, a notch, or a recessed portion formed therein to avoid interference with components of the trigger driver 45. In the example shown in the figure, the main body frame 43 has an opening 43c (refer to Figure 7 The last part of the trigger driving device 45 has a driving source 45c. The driving source 45c is installed in the opening 43c so as to be exposed to the upper side of the main body frame 43 (refer to Fig. 6A ). According to this structure, a driving source with high output power can be used for the driving source 45c.

[0055] As described above, the operation button 19 (refer to Figure 2B ) is provided on the left side 11c of the handle 11B. Figure 5A As shown, the switch 44a for detecting the movement of the operation button 19 and the plate 44 on which the switch 44a is mounted are arranged in front of the front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42. Since the second circuit board 42 and the plate 44 do not overlap in a side view in this way, it is possible to avoid making the handle 11B thicker than necessary. The position of the plate 44 is not limited to Figure 5A For example, the plate 44 may overlap the second circuit board 42 when viewed from the side elevation of the internal structure S1.

[0056] [Structure of operation buttons]

[0057] like Figure 5B As shown, the user can press the operation buttons 51A and 51B downward. Switches 41m and 41n for detecting the pressing operation of the operation buttons 51A and 51B, respectively, are mounted on the upper surface of the first circuit board 41. The switches 41m and 41n are respectively located below the operation buttons 51A and 51B. If the user presses any of the operation buttons 51A or 51B, it moves downward and presses the switch 41m or 41n. Each of the switches 41m and 41n may be, for example, a tactile switch or a membrane switch.

[0058] In addition, the operation buttons 51A and 51B provide a touch sensor function for detecting that a finger has touched (or is close to) the operation buttons 51A and 51B. Before the user presses the operation button 51A or 51B, the input device 100 detects that the finger is placed on the upper surface of the operation button 51A or 51B, and sends a signal indicating such a touch to the information processing device (for example, an information processing device built into the HMD 2). If the information processing device detects that the finger is placed on the upper surface of the operation button 51A or 51B, it reflects this on the progress of the game. For example, the information processing device makes the game character take a predetermined posture for preparation.

[0059] In order to realize the touch sensor function, the operation buttons 51A and 51B are provided with detection conductors 53A and 53B, respectively (refer to Figure 5B and 6B ). At the same time, the conductor pads 41s and 41t (refer to Figure 6B ) is formed on the first circuit board 41. Detection conductors 53A and 53B are electrically connected to conductor pads 41s and 41t, respectively. A touch sensor integrated circuit (IC) (not shown) is mounted on the first circuit board 41. If the user's finger touches the operation button 51A or 51B, the capacitance of the detection conductor 53A or 53B and the circuit pattern connected thereto (including the conductor pad 41s or 41t) will change. The touch sensor IC detects the change in capacitance and outputs a signal showing that the user's finger has touched or approached the operation button 51A or 51B.

[0060] like Figure 6B As shown, when the operation buttons 51A and 51B are viewed in a top view, the conductor pads 41s and 41t are located outside the outer shape of the operation buttons 51A and 51B, respectively. In other words, the conductor pads 41s and 41t are not located below the operation buttons 51A and 51B, respectively. Figure 6B In the example shown, the conductor pad 41s is located away from the right side and the front side of the operation button 51A, and the conductor pad 41t is located away from the rear side of the operation button 51B. Each of the detection conductors 53A and 53B has a movable portion 53a (refer to FIG. 1 ) connected to the operation button 51A or 51B. Figure 5B ) and from the movable portion 53a (reference Figure 6B ) An elastic portion 53b extending in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. In addition, each of the detection conductors 53A and 53B has a fixing portion 53c (refer to Figure 6B ). The elastic deformation of the elastic portion 53b allows the movable portion 53a to move upward and downward.

[0061] In this structure, since the conductor pads 41s and 41t are not located below the operation buttons 51A and 51B, the distance between the operation buttons 51A and 51B and the first circuit board 41 can be reduced. In addition, the elastic portion 53b acts as a spring so that its elastic force can compensate for the reaction force generated when the operation button 51A or 51B is pressed. The reaction force against the pressing operation of the operation button 51A or 51B can be the sum of the elastic force of the elastic portion 53b, the elastic force of the buffer shape portion 54 described below, and the reaction force of the switch 41m or 41n.

[0062] The fixing portion 53c may be connected to the first circuit board 41, for example, by screws (not shown). Figure 6B In the example shown, Figure 6BAs shown, a hole 53d for mounting a screw is formed in the fixing portion 53c. By connecting the fixing portion 53c to the first circuit board 41 using a screw, the electrical connection between the fixing portion 53c and the conductor pad 41s or 41t can be ensured, and the mechanical strength when they are connected can also be ensured. The screw can be inserted into the hole 53d of the fixing portion 53c and the hole formed in the first circuit board 41, and fixed to the threaded hole formed in the main frame 43.

[0063] The outer member 62 (refer to Figure 3 ) may have a column portion (not shown) on its inner surface that supports the external member 62. The lower end of the column portion may be located on the fixing portion 53c and assembled with the fixing portion 53c. This can suppress the deflection or pressing of the external member 62 when the input device 100 is used.

[0064] Operation buttons 51A and 51B are insulators, and are made of resin materials, such as polycarbonate, polyamide, polybutylene terephthalate or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin, for example. The material for detecting conductors 53A and 53B can be, for example, conductive resin. Specifically, the material for detecting conductors 53A and 53B can be nylon resin containing conductive material, polyetheretherketone resin (PEEK resin) containing conductive material or polyacetal resin (POM resin) containing conductive material. The material for detecting conductors 53A and 53B can be metals such as copper, copper alloy, stainless steel or aluminum. The movable part 53a, the elastic part 53b and the fixed part 53c can be formed integrally with each other by conductive resin or metal. In the case where the material for detecting conductors 53A and 53B is metal, the fixed part 53c can be welded to each of the conductor pads 41s and 41t.

[0065] like Figure 5B As shown, the operation buttons 51A and 51B can be formed to cover the upper part of the movable part 53a. The detection conductors 53A and 53B and the operation buttons 51A and 51B can be formed by insert molding. Specifically, in the molding step of the operation buttons 51A and 51B, the movable part 53a can be placed inside the metal mold, and then, the molten resin material for the operation buttons 51A and 51B can be poured into the metal mold. The operation buttons 51A and 51B can be molded separately from the movable part 53a. In this case, a recessed portion can be formed on the inner side of each operation button 51A and 51B so that the movable part 53a is installed in the recessed portion to fix the operation button 51A or 51B and the movable part 53a to each other.

[0066] like Figure 5BAs shown, the lower portion of the movable portion 53a may protrude downward relative to each of the operation buttons 51A and 51B. A buffer-shaped portion 54 formed of an elastic material (eg, rubber) may be connected to the lower end of the movable portion 53a.

[0067] like Figure 6B As shown, each detection conductor 53A and 53B has only one elastic portion 53b, and the elastic portion 53b is connected to one side of the movable portion 53a. Each detection conductor 53A and 53B does not have a portion supporting the movable portion 53a on the side opposite to the elastic portion 53b. In other words, each detection conductor 53A and 53B has a cantilever structure. This can reduce the area for arranging the operation buttons 51A and 51B and the detection conductors 53A and 53B.

[0068] like Figure 6B As shown, the elastic portions 53b of the detection conductors 53A and 53B may be arranged on the same side relative to the operation buttons 51A and 51B. Figure 6B In the illustrated example, the operation buttons 51A and 51B are arranged on the leftmost side of the first circuit board 41 , and the elastic portions 53 b of the detection conductors 53A and 53B are arranged on the right side relative to the operation buttons 51A and 51B.

[0069] like Figure 6B As shown, the elastic part 53b is bent as shown in the top view. Specifically, the elastic part 53b has a first extension part 53e, a bent part 53f and a second extension part 53g. The first extension part 53e extends from the movable part 53a along the radial direction of each operation button 51A and 51B. The bent part 53f is connected to the first extension part 53e. The bent part 53f is bent and further extends from the first extension part 53e. The second extension part 53g further extends from the bent part 53f. By forming the elastic part 53b in a bent form in this way, it is helpful to retain the length of the elastic part 53b. Therefore, the movable range of the movable part 53a in the upward and downward directions is also guaranteed.

[0070] like Figure 6B As shown, the angle θ2 between the first extension portion 53e and the second extension portion 53g is less than 90 degrees. By forming the elastic portion 53b in a large bending state in this way, the linear distance between each operation button 51A and 51B and the fixed portion 53c can be reduced. Therefore, the area for arranging the detection conductors 53A and 53B and the operation buttons 51A and 51B can be reduced.

[0071] The shape of the elastic portion 53b is not limited to Figure 6BThe shape of the example shown. For example, the bent portion 53f and the second extension portion 53g may be generally bent so that they surround the periphery of the operation buttons 51A and 51B as seen from the top plan view. In other words, the elastic portion 53b may not have the second extension portion 53g. In addition, the angle θ2 between the first extension portion 53e and the second extension portion 53g may be 90 degrees or greater.

[0072] like Figure 6B As shown, the distance between the conductor pad 41s to which the detection conductor 53A is connected and the conductor pad 41t to which the detection conductor 53B is connected is greater than the distance L1 between the operation button 51A and the operation button 51B. According to this structure, while keeping the distance L1 between the operation buttons 51A and 51B appropriate, the length of the elastic portion 53b of the detection conductors 53A and 53B can be retained.

[0073] like Figure 6B As shown, the first extension portion 53e included in the two detection conductors 53A and 53B may extend in directions different from each other. Specifically, the first extension portion 53e included in the detection conductor 53A extends obliquely backward and rightward from the movable portion 53a. On the contrary, the first extension portion 53e included in the detection conductor 53B extends obliquely rightward and forward from the movable portion 53a.

[0074] In addition, if Figure 6B As shown, the second extension portion 53g included in the two detection conductors 53A and 53B can also extend in directions different from each other. Specifically, the second extension portion 53g included in the detection conductor 53A extends substantially forward. In contrast, the second extension portion 53g included in the detection conductor 53B extends substantially backward. By such a shape of the two detection conductors 53A and 53B, the distance between the conductor pads 41s and 41t (in other words, between the fixed portions 53c) can be increased. Therefore, the length of the elastic portion 53b can be retained.

[0075] In addition, a switch for detecting the pressing operation of the operation buttons 16 and 17 may be mounted on the upper surface of the first circuit board 41. The operation buttons 16 and 17 may also be provided with a touch sensor function. In this case, the operation buttons 16 and 17 are also provided with a detection conductor.

[0076] Furthermore, a support mechanism (not depicted) for supporting the operating lever 15 may be arranged on the upper surface of the first circuit board 41. Figure 7As shown, the operating rod 15 has a disc-shaped upper portion 15a that can be touched by the user's finger and a skirt 15b formed at the lower portion of the operating rod 15 and having an umbrella shape. The support mechanism is arranged on the lower side of the skirt 15b and is covered by the skirt 15b. In addition, the operating rod 15 may have a touch sensor function. In this case, a detection conductor may also be configured on the operating rod 15.

[0077] [Arrangement of front light source]

[0078] As described above, a plurality of light emitting portions H for tracking are provided on the outer surface of the input device 100. Figure 2D As shown, a plurality of light emitting portions H are provided on the front surface 11 b of the operation portion 11A and the front surface 30 b of the side portion 30 such that they are aligned in the leftward and rightward directions.

[0079] like Figures 2A to 2C As shown, a plurality of light emitting portions H are arranged on the annular portion 20 such that they are arranged along an arc or annular ring centered on the center line Pc. Figures 2A to 2C In the example shown, the light emitting portions H on the annular portion 20 are arranged 360 degrees in the circumferential direction centered on the center line Pc.

[0080] like Figure 2B As shown, the annular portion 20 has a rear inclined surface 20a located at the rear of the annular portion 20 and inclined toward the center line Pc, and a front inclined surface 20b located at the front of the annular portion 20 and inclined toward the center line Pc. The light-emitting portions H are arranged on the rear inclined surface 20a and the front inclined surface 20b along a circular ring centered on the center line Pc. In other words, the light-emitting portions H are arranged in two rows on the annular portion 20.

[0081] like Figures 2A to 2C As shown, the light emitting portion H arranged on the front surface 11b of the operation portion 11A and the front surface 30b of the side portion 30 and the light emitting portion H arranged along the rear inclined surface 20a can be located on the same virtual spherical surface Sr. According to such arrangement of the light emitting portion H, the load of the calculation process of calculating the position and posture of the input device 100 by the position of the light emitting portion H detected by the camera can be reduced. The front surface 11b of the operation portion 11A, the front surface 30b of the side portion 30, and the rear inclined surface 20a where the light emitting portion H is arranged can be a curved surface configuring a part of the virtual spherical surface Sr.

[0082] like Fig. 6AAs shown, a plurality of light sources Ls1 are mounted on the first circuit board 41. The light sources Ls1 are used as light sources of the light emitting portion H arranged on the front surface 11b of the operation portion 11A and the front surface 30b of the side portion 30. The positions of the light sources Ls1 correspond to the positions of the light emitting portion H. The light sources Ls1 are arranged along an arc Ar1 having a central angle θ1. Since the light sources Ls1 are mounted on the first circuit board 41 on which the switches 41m and 41n and the like are mounted, an increase in the number of parts of the light sources Ls1 can be prevented, and the assembling work of the input device 100 can be facilitated.

[0083] like Fig. 6A As shown, the front edge 41e of the first circuit board 41 is bent along an arc Ar1. The light sources Ls1 are arranged on the front edge 41e. Each light source Ls1 is, for example, a light emitting diode (LED). The light sources Ls1 are mounted on the first circuit board 41 in a posture in which they emit light forward.

[0084] The outer member 62 has a front wall 62a formed along the front edge 41e of the first circuit board 41 (see Figure 3 ). The front wall 62a may have an opening or a notch at a position thereof corresponding to the light source Ls1, through which the light of the light source Ls1 passes. According to this structure, the direction of the light emitted from each light source Ls1 can be controlled.

[0085] The input device 100 includes an external member 65 (refer to Figure 3 ), which configures the front side 11b of the operating part 11A and the front side 30b of the side part 30. The light source Ls1 is covered by the external member 65 at its front side. The external member 65 can be formed, for example, of a material having light transmittance as a whole. Alternatively, the external member 65 can be coated with a coating material for shading, and the coating material is not only applied to the position of the light source Ls1.

[0086] like Figure 5A As shown, the front edge 41e of the first circuit board 41 passes the position in front of the front surface of the trigger button 18. The frontmost one of the plurality of light sources Ls1 is located in front of the front surface of the trigger button 18. According to this arrangement of the light source Ls1 and the trigger button 18, the frequency of intercepting the light of the light source Ls1 by the finger placed on the trigger button 18 can be reduced. It should be noted that not only the frontmost light source Ls1 but also the plurality of light sources Ls1 arranged along the front edge 41e of the first circuit board 41 can be located in front of the front surface of the trigger button 18.

[0087] like Figure 2A and 6A As shown, the first circuit board 41 has a protrusion 41f that expands rightward further than the right side surface 11d of the handle 11B. The protrusion 41f is located on the inner side of the side portion 30. According to this shape of the first circuit board 41, the number of light sources Ls1 and the degree of freedom of arrangement can be increased. Figure 2A and 6A In the example shown, the rightmost light source Ls1 is mounted on the right end of the protruding portion 41f. Alternatively, a plurality of light sources Ls1 may be mounted on the protruding portion 41f.

[0088] A plurality of operating components (particularly operating buttons 51A, 51B, 16 and 17 and operating lever 15) are provided on the operating portion 11A. The protrusion 41f of the first circuit board 41 protrudes further to the right than the operating member located on the far right. In addition, the light source Ls1 located on the far right is further to the right relative to the operating member. Figure 2A and 6A In the example shown, the light source Ls1 is located on the right side relative to the operation button 16 .

[0089] The first circuit board 41 has a left side surface 11c (refer to Figure 2A ) The further portion 41g. This shape of the first circuit board 41 can further increase the number and arrangement freedom of the light sources Ls1. Figure 2A and 6A In the example shown, the leftmost light source Ls1 is mounted on the portion 41g. The leftmost light source Ls1 is located further to the left than the left side surface 11c of the handle 11B.

[0090] [Internal structure of the ring part and arrangement of light sources]

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, the input device 100 has an internal structure S2 arranged on the ring portion 20. The internal structure S2 is accommodated in the outer members 63 and 64 forming the ring portion 20. The internal structure S2 has flexible plates 21A and 21B. The light source Ls2 (refer to Figure 4 ) are also mounted on the flexible boards 21A and 21B. The light source Ls2 is a light source of the light emitting portion H arranged on the outer surface (the inclined surfaces 20a and 20b) of the annular portion 20, and the position of the light source Ls2 corresponds to the position of the light emitting portion H. Each light source Ls2 is an LED.

[0092] By using the flexible boards 21A and 21B at the rear of the input device 100, the degree of freedom in arrangement of the light source Ls2 can be increased. Specifically, the light source Ls2 of the flexible boards 21A and 21B is arranged along the arc Ar1 on which the central angle is greater than the central angle θ1 (refer to Fig. 6A ) is arranged in an arc or ring. In the example shown in the figure, the light source Ls2 is arranged at an angle of 360 degrees along a ring centered on the center line Pc (refer to Figure 2A and 2C ). The flexible plates 21A and 21B are bent along a circular ring.

[0093] like Figure 3 As shown, the internal structure S2 may include a frame 22. The frame 22 is annular and is bent along a circle (or arc) centered at the center line Pc. Flexible plates 21A and 21B are connected to the outside of the frame 22. This structure facilitates the assembly work of the input device 100.

[0094] like Figure 3 As shown, the outer member 63 constitutes the inner surface 20c of the annular portion 20. The outer member 64 constitutes the outer circumferential surface (inclined surfaces 20a and 20b) of the annular portion 20. The frame 22 is arranged between the outer member 63 and the outer member 64. The outer member 64 can be formed, for example, by a material having light transmittance as a whole. Alternatively, the outer member 64 can be coated with a coating material for shading, and the coating material is not only applied to the position of the light source Ls2.

[0095] If the frame 22 is used, it helps to bring the light source Ls2 closer to the inner surface of the outer member 64 constituting the outer surface of the ring-shaped portion 20. In addition, the outer member 63 constituting the inner surface 20c of the ring-shaped portion 20 does not require a structure for fixing the flexible plates 21A and 21B. Therefore, the shape of the outer member 63 can be simplified, and the inner surface 20c of the ring-shaped portion 20 can be smooth.

[0096] like Figure 4 As shown, both the flexible boards 21A and 21B have a main extension 21a extending along an arc (or annular ring) centered on the center line Pc, a rear protrusion 21b protruding rearward from the main extension 21a, and a front protrusion 21c protruding forward from the main extension 21a. The light source Ls2 is mounted on the protrusions 21b and 21c. The light source Ls2 mounted on the rear protrusion 21b is a light source for the light emitting portion H on the rear bevel 20a, and the light source Ls2 mounted on the front protrusion 21c is a light source for the light emitting portion H on the front bevel 20b.

[0097] like Figure 4 and 8 As shown, the frame 22 has a light shielding wall 22a surrounding each light source Ls2. Accordingly, the diffusion range of the light of the light source Ls2 (the light of the light emitting part H) can be limited by the light shielding wall 22a. At the same time, when the light of the light emitting part H is to be captured by the camera of the HMD 2, the light of the two light emitting parts H adjacent to each other can be suppressed from overlapping each other. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the position and posture of the input device 100 can be improved. It should be noted that a plurality of recessed portions may be formed on the frame 22 instead of the light shielding wall 22a or together with the light shielding wall 22a. In addition, the light source Ls2 may be arranged on the inner side of the recessed portion. In this case, the diffusion range of the light of the light source Ls2 (the light of the light emitting part H) can be limited by the inner surface of the recessed portion.

[0098] like Figure 4 As shown, the frame 22 has a rear support surface 22b on which the rear protrusion 21b of the flexible plates 21A and 21B is formed, and a front support surface 22c on which the front protrusion 21c is formed. The angles of the rear support surface 22b and the front support surface 22c are different from each other. Specifically, the rear support surface 22b is inclined along the rear inclined surface 20a of the annular portion 20, and the front support surface 22c is inclined along the front inclined surface 20b of the annular portion 20. According to this structure of the frame 22, the emission direction of the light of each light source Ls2 can be controlled. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the position and posture of the input device 100 can be improved.

[0099] The internal structure S2 of the annular portion 20 includes a light shielding member 23 (refer to Figure 3 ). The light shielding member 23 is connected to the flexible plates 21A and 21B and the frame 22 so as to surround the outer side of the main extension portion 21a of the flexible plates 21A and 21B. In addition, the light shielding member 23 extends between the light source Ls2 mounted on the rear protrusion 21b and the light source Ls2 mounted on the front protrusion 21c. By the light shielding member 23, when the light of the light emitting portion H is to be captured by the camera of the HMD 2, the overlap of the light of the two light emitting portions H adjacent to each other (the light from the light source Ls2 of the rear protrusion 21b and the light source Ls2 of the front protrusion 21c) can be effectively suppressed. Therefore, the detection accuracy of the position and posture of the input device 100 can be further improved.

[0100] The light shielding member 23 may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber. In addition, the light shielding member 23 may be sandwiched between the inner surface of the outer member 64 and the main extension portion 21a of the flexible plates 21A and 21B. In other words, the light shielding member 23 may be kept in contact with the inner surface of the outer member 64. According to this structure, the overlap of the light of the two light emitting portions H adjacent to each other (the light of the light source Ls2 from the rear protrusion 21b and the light source Ls2 from the front protrusion 21c) may be more effectively suppressed.

[0101] The frame 22 has a 360-degree annular shape around the center line Pc. Thus, the strength of the frame 22 can be improved. Figure 8 As shown, the flexible boards 21A and 21B are connected to connectors 42e and 42f mounted on the rear (lower) of the second circuit board 42, respectively.

[0102] like Figure 8 As shown, a recessed portion 22d is formed at the lower portion of the frame 22. The rear portion (lower portion) of the second circuit board 42 is located inside the recessed portion 22d. Therefore, the relative positions of the annular portion 20 and the handle 11B can be made appropriate.

[0103] The input device 100 may have an arcuate portion (a portion having an angle less than 360 degrees around the center line Pc) at its rear portion instead of the 360-degree annular portion 20 around the center line Pc. In this case, the light emitting portion H (in other words, the light source Ls2) arranged on the arcuate portion may be arranged along an arc centered on the center line Pc. Also in this case, the central angle of the arc may be greater than the central angle of the arc Ar1 along which the light source Ls1 mounted on the first circuit board 41 is arranged.

[0104] [in conclusion]

[0105] As described above, the input device 100 includes: operation buttons 51A and 51B; switches 41m and 41n located below the operation buttons 51A and 51B and pressed by the operation buttons 51A and 51B; a first circuit board 41, which includes conductor pads 41s and 41t located outside the outer shape of the operation buttons 51A and 51B when the operation buttons 51A and 51B are viewed upward or downward; and detection conductors 53A and 53B provided on the operation buttons 51A and 51B. Each detection conductor 53A and 53B includes a movable portion 53a connected to the operation button 51A or 51B, an elastic portion 53b extending from the movable portion 53a in a direction intersecting the up and down direction, and a fixed portion 53c connected to the elastic portion 53b and connected to the conductor pad 41s or 41t, and the movable portion 53a is allowed to move downward by elastic deformation of the elastic portion 53b. According to this structure, it is possible to detect that a finger touches or approaches the surface of the operation button. Furthermore, since the conductor pads 41s and 41t are not located below the operation buttons 51A and 51B, the distance between the operation buttons 51A and 51B and the first circuit board 41 can be reduced. In addition, the elastic portion 53b serves as a spring, and the reaction force that will be generated when the operation button 51A or 51B is pressed can be compensated by its elastic force.

[0106] In addition, in the input device 100, the operation portion 11A has operation buttons 51A, 51B, 16 and 17 and a first circuit board 41 arranged along the plane P4. At the same time, the handle 11B includes a second circuit board 42, which is arranged obliquely relative to the plane P4 and extends obliquely backward from the operation portion 11A. The first circuit board 41 and the second circuit board 42 are connected to the main body frame 43. The trigger button 18 is arranged below the first circuit board 41 and is located in front of the upper part of the second circuit board 42.

[0107] In addition, in the input device 100, the front edge (upper edge) 42a of the second circuit board 42 is located at a position lower than the first circuit board 41. The vibration motor 47 is arranged on the upper side of the second circuit board 42 and accommodated in the handle 11B. With this structure, it is helpful to adopt a motor with high output power for the vibration motor 47. In addition, a large space is guaranteed below the first circuit board 41 and in front of the second circuit board 42, and various components can also be arranged in this space. In the input device 100, the trigger drive device 45 is arranged below the first circuit board 41 and in front of the second circuit board 42. Unlike the input device 100, the battery 48 can be arranged on the upper side of the second circuit board 42 and accommodated in the handle 11B. In this case, it is helpful to adopt a battery with a large charging capacity for the battery 48.

[0108] Furthermore, in the input device 100, the operation section 11A includes at least one operation member (51A, 51B, 16 or 17) and a first circuit board 41 on which a switch (41m or 41n) for detecting movement of the at least one operation member is arranged. A plurality of light sources Ls1 for tracking are mounted on the first circuit board 41 and are arranged along an arc Ar1 (referenced to FIG. 1 ) having a central angle θ1. Fig. 6A ) are arranged. A plurality of light sources Ls2 for tracking are arranged along an arc or a ring whose central angle is greater than the central angle θ1. The light source Ls2 is mounted on the flexible boards 21A and 21B bent along the arc or the ring. According to this structure, since the light source Ls1 is mounted on the first circuit board 41 on which the switch (41m or 41n) is mounted, an increase in the number of components can be avoided. In addition, since a plurality of light sources Ls2 arranged along a large arc (or a ring) are mounted on the flexible boards 21A and 21B, it is easy to optimize the position of the light source Ls2.

[0109] It should be noted that the input device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described input device 100. For example, the shape of the input device 100 is not limited to the shape of the example described above with reference to the drawings, and, for example, may not have the side portion 30. In addition, the annular portion 20 may not be provided at the rear of the input device 100, but may be provided at the front of the input device 100.

[0110] Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations and alterations according to design requirements and other factors are within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. An input device, comprising: an operation button pressed in a first direction; a switch, located in the first direction relative to the operation button and pushed by the operation button; a circuit board including a conductor pad located outside relative to an outer shape of the operation button when the operation button is viewed in the first direction; as well as A detection conductor is provided on the operating button, wherein The detection conductor includes a movable part connected to the operation button, an elastic part extending from the movable part in a direction intersecting the first direction, and a fixed part connected to the elastic part and fixed to the conductor pad, wherein the elastic part has a first extending part extending from the movable part, a bent part connected to the first extending part, and a second extending part further extending from the bent part, and movement of the movable part in the first direction is allowed by elastic deformation of the elastic part.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein The detection conductor has a cantilever structure.

3. The input device according to claim 2, wherein The elastic portion is curved.

4. The input device according to claim 2, wherein An angle between the first extending portion and the second extending portion is equal to or less than 90 degrees.

5. The input device according to claim 1, wherein The fixed portion of the detection conductor is fixed to the conductor pad by means of screws.

6. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: providing a first operation button and a second operation button as the operation buttons, The detection conductor is provided on each of the first operation button and the second operation button, and A first conductor pad connected to the detection conductor of the first operation button and a second conductor pad connected to the detection conductor of the second operation button are formed on the circuit board as the conductor pads.

7. The input device according to claim 6, wherein A distance between the first conductor pad and the second conductor pad is greater than a distance between the first operation button as the operation button and the second operation button as the operation button.

8. The input device according to claim 6, wherein providing the detection conductor of the first operation button and the detection conductor of the second operation button as the detection conductor, and The first extending portion of the detection conductor of the first operation button and the first extending portion of the detection conductor of the second operation button extend in directions different from each other.

9. The input device according to claim 6, wherein providing the detection conductor of the first operation button and the detection conductor of the second operation button as the detection conductor, and The second extending portion of the detection conductor of the first operation button and the second extending portion of the detection conductor of the second operation button extend in directions different from each other.

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