Input devices

Abstract

This invention prevents noise from appearing in the voice data acquired by the microphone due to the operation of the input stick. An input device (10) includes: an upper housing portion (41) having an opening formed therein; an input stick (31) movable within the opening; and a buffer member (46) disposed on the inner edge of the opening of the upper housing portion (41) and made of a material different from the material of the inner edge of the opening and the material of the outer peripheral surface of the input stick (31).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to input devices used for game control, etc. Background Technology

[0002] Examples of input devices for video games are given in PCT patent publications WO2005 / 022951 and WO2014 / 061322. Input devices such as those disclosed in these patent documents include input components, such as joysticks, input buttons, and directional pads, on their right and left sides. Furthermore, the input device may include a microphone, as in the case of PCT patent publication WO2005 / 022951. Summary of the Invention

[0003] When a user operates the input component, in some cases, the input component may collide with another part of the input device and produce sound. In cases where the input device includes a microphone, this sound can cause noise.

[0004] As an example of the input device proposed in this disclosure, an input device is provided, comprising: an external member having an opening formed therein; an input rod movable within the opening; and a buffer member disposed on one of the inner edge of the opening and the outer peripheral surface of the input rod, and made of a material different from the material of the inner edge of the opening and the material of the outer peripheral surface of the input rod. Using such an input device, noise generation can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1A This is a plan view illustrating an example of an input device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The side view of the input device shown.

[0007] Figure 1C This is the front view of the input device.

[0008] Figure 1D This is the rear view of the input device.

[0009] Figure 1E Includes a bottom view of the input device and enlarged views of part of the bottom view.

[0010] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the input device.

[0011] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the input device.

[0012] Figure 4A It is along Figure 1CA sectional view taken from line IVa-IVa.

[0013] Figure 4B It is along Figure 1D A cross-sectional view taken from line IVb-IVb.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a bottom view showing the circuit board and frame.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the upper casing.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the handle.

[0017] Figure 8A It is along Figure 1A A sectional view taken from line VIIIa-VIIIa.

[0018] Figure 8B It is along Figure 1A A sectional view taken from line VIIIb-VIIIb.

[0019] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1D A cross-sectional view taken from line IX-IX.

[0020] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 A sectional view taken from line XX.

[0021] Figure 11A This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a modified tone hole, which is similar to... Figure 9 The cross section is obtained.

[0022] Figure 11B It is along Figure 11A A cross-sectional view taken from the XI-XI line.

[0023] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the cushioning component attached to the upper housing.

[0024] Figure 13A This is a perspective view of the buffer component shown in an enlarged manner.

[0025] Figure 13B This is a side view of the buffer component.

[0026] Figure 14A It is along Figure 13B The image shows a cross-sectional view of the input device taken by line XIVa-XIVa.

[0027] Figure 14B It is along Figure 13B The image shows a cross-sectional view of the input device taken by line XIVb-XIVb.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a modified example of a buffer component.

[0029] Figure 16A It is an exploded perspective view showing the input button, upper housing, and buffer components.

[0030] Figure 16B yes Figure 16A A magnified view.

[0031] Figure 17 It is along Figure 1A The sectional view shown is taken along line XVII-XVII.

[0032] Figure 18 It is along Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the circuit board and frame taken along line XVIII-XVIII.

[0033] Figure 19 It is a plan view of the input component.

[0034] Figure 20 It is along Figure 1A The sectional view shown is taken by line XX-XX.

[0035] Figure 21A It is along Figure 1A The sectional view shown is taken from line XXI-XXI.

[0036] Figure 21B yes Figure 21A A magnified view.

[0037] Figure 22A This is a block diagram showing a system including an information processing device and an input device.

[0038] Figure 22B It is a block diagram illustrating the functions of an information processing device. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1, etc., illustrates an input device 10 as an example of an embodiment. In the following description, in Figures 1A to 1D In the diagram, X1 and X2 represent the rightward and leftward directions, respectively; Y1 and Y2 represent the forward and backward directions, respectively; and Z1 and Z2 represent the upward and downward directions, respectively. Note that these directions are defined to describe the shape and relative positional relationships of the elements (components, parts, and segments) of the input device 10, and are not intended to restrict the orientation of the input device 10.

[0040] Input device 10 is used as an input device for information processing apparatus 90 (see [link]). Figure 22AFor example, a video game console), the information processing device 90 has functions such as game program execution, motion picture reproduction, and communication via the Internet. The input device 10 can communicate with the information processing device 90 via wired or wireless means and sends signals to the information processing device 90 based on user operations on the input device 10. The input device 10 includes various sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc.) for detecting the posture or movement of the input device 10, a battery, etc.

[0041] In addition, the input device 10 includes a first microphone 8A and a second microphone 8B for acquiring the user's voice (see...). Figure 9 ) and speaker 4 (see Figure 1A Voice data acquired through microphones 8A and 8B is sent to information processing device 90 for voice recognition processing or voice chat (voice communication) with other users. Voice data from other users is output from the built-in speaker 4 of the speaker or input device 10 connected to information processing device 90.

[0042] [Input Component]

[0043] like Figure 1A As shown, the input device 10 includes a left grip portion 10L and a right grip portion 10R on its left and right sides, respectively, for the user to hold with his / her hands. The grip portions 10L and 10R are separated from each other in the left-right direction, and a device center portion 10M is formed between the front portions of the grip portions 10L and 10R. The grip portions 10L and 10R may each include a handle 12 extending rearward beyond the rear edge of the device center portion 10M. The dimensions of the device center portion 10M in the front-back direction may be the same as the dimensions of the grip portions 10L and 10R. In this case, the grip portions 10L and 10R may not include the rearward-extending handle 12.

[0044] like Figure 1A As shown, multiple input components operated by the user's fingers are provided on the upper surface of the front portion of the grip portions 10L and 10R. Specifically, multiple input buttons 35 are provided on the upper surface of the front portion of the right grip portion 10R. For example, four input buttons 35 are provided at the ends of the cross. Furthermore, a cross-shaped directional pad (cross button) 19 is provided on the upper surface of the front portion of the left grip portion 10L. Figure 1A As shown, the input device 10 may include input buttons 17 located on the left and right sides of the front portion of the input member 20. Furthermore, the grip portions 10L and 10R may each include input buttons 15 and 16 on their front surfaces (see Figure 10). Figure 1CInput buttons 15 and 16 are arranged vertically. For example, the lower input button 16 is a trigger button supported so that it can move about an axis in the front-back direction. An actuator 6 (see [link to actuator 16]) can be located behind the input button 16. Figure 1B The actuator 6 is configured to generate a reaction force on the movement of the input button 16.

[0045] like Figure 1A As shown, the input device 10 may include input levers 31. For example, the input levers 31 are located on the left and right sides of the rear of the central portion 10M of the device. Each input lever 31 may be tilted radially or tilted and pivoted about a centerline of its initial position. Each input lever 31 may be supported to move in the vertical direction, thereby serving as a button. Each input lever 31 may slide in the radial direction instead of tilting in the radial direction. In addition, the input device 10 may include a button 18 located at the center in the left-right direction on the rear side of the input member 20. The button 18 serves as a power button for the information processing device 90 to which the input device 10 is connected, or as a start button for indicating the start of a wireless connection between the information processing device 90 and the input device 10.

[0046] Note that the position of the input lever 31 and the arrangement of the direction pad 19 and the input button 35 are not limited to the example in the input device 10. For example, the positions of the input button 35 and the input lever 31 can be interchanged. Furthermore, the positions of the direction pad 19 and the input lever 31 can be interchanged.

[0047] like Figure 1A As shown, the input device 10 includes a plate-shaped input member 20 on the upper surface of the central portion 10M of the device. For example, the input member 20 is positioned in front of the left input lever 31 and the right input lever 32. The input member 20 includes a touch sensor. The touch sensor outputs a signal based on the position of a finger touch on the upper surface of the input member 20. For example, the touch sensor is a capacitive sensor. The input member 20 can be supported to move in the vertical direction based on a user's pressing operation. The input device 10 includes a switch 23 ( Figure 20 It is configured to detect that the input member 20 has been pressed, and the input member 20 is used as a button to support the on / off operation.

[0048] like Figure 1A As shown, in the example of input device 10, the width of input member 20 gradually increases towards the front in the left-right direction. Therefore, it is easy for the user to touch the front of input member 20 with his / her thumb while holding the grip portions 10L and 10R with his / her hand.

[0049] [External Components]

[0050] like Figure 2As shown, the input device 10 includes a housing 40 that serves as an external component of the input device 10. The housing 40 forms the outer surface of the input device 10 and houses various components of the input device 10 (circuit board 61, vibration motors 5L and 5R, etc.). The housing 40 includes an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42 that are joined together in the vertical direction.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, the input device 10 includes a frame 51. Various components of the input device 10 are fixed to the frame 51. For example, a vibration motor 5R is held on the right side of the frame 51, and a vibration motor 5L is held on its left side. The vibration motors 5L and 5R vibrate the handle 12 based on a scenario in a video game executed by the information processing device 90. An actuator 6, configured to move a trigger button 16, is disposed in front of each vibration motor 5L and 5R. A circuit board 61 is fixed to the underside of the central portion of the frame 51. An upper housing portion 41 covers the upper side of the frame 51 to form the upper part of the grip portions 10L and 10R and the central portion 10M of the device. A lower housing portion 42 covers the lower side of the frame 51 to form the lower part of the grip portions 10L and 10R and the central portion 10M of the device.

[0052] The upper housing portion 41 is connected to the frame 51 using fastening devices such as screws or bolts. For example, the upper housing portion 41 is directly fixed to the frame 51 by screws inserted from the lower side of the frame 51. The lower side of the frame 51 is covered by the lower housing portion 42. Therefore, the fastening devices (screws) that fix the upper housing portion 41 to the frame 51 are not exposed on the outer surface of the input device 10.

[0053] For example, the lower housing portion 42 (see Figure 2 It is fixed to the upper housing portion 41. For example, its attachment points are provided on the front and rear edges of the lower housing portion 42. More specifically, the lower housing portion 42 has an opening 42b (see...) on its front edge (the front edges of the left and right grip portions 10L and 10R). Figure 2 Each opening is for surrounding input buttons 15 and 16, which are arranged vertically. A portion 42a, which is the upper edge of opening 42b and extends along the upper side of input button 15, has a fixed portion 42c (see [link to documentation]). Figure 4A The fixing part 42c is attached by screws 49a to, for example, the fixing part 41a formed on the front edge of the upper housing part 41 (see...). Figure 4A ).

[0054] The fixing portions 42c and 41a are formed such that the screw 49a is inserted in a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction. This prevents the screw 49a from interfering with the trigger button 16 when inserted. The input button 15 covers the fixing portions 42c and 41a and the front side of the screw 49a to prevent these components from being exposed. The input button 15 can be attached to the housing 40 via a joint (e.g., a claw) formed on the input button 15.

[0055] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4B As shown, the lower housing portion 42 has a fixing portion 42e at its rear edge (the rear edges of the left and right grip portions 10L and 10R). Each fixing portion 42e is secured to a fixing portion 41f formed on the rear edge of the upper housing portion 41 by a screw 49b. The frame 51 has a rearwardly projecting fixing portion 51a at its rear edge. Each fixing portion 51a is secured together with the fixing portion 42e of the lower housing portion 42 to the fixing portion 41f of the upper housing portion 41.

[0056] The attachment structures of housing portions 41 and 42 are not limited to the example in input device 10. For example, frame 51 can be fixed to lower housing portion 42 with screws, and upper housing portion 41 can be fixed to lower housing portion 42 with screws. In another example, housing portions 41 and 42 can each be attached to frame 51, such that the two housing portions 41 and 42 are indirectly fixed to each other via frame 51. In yet another example, input device 10 may not include frame 51. In this case, upper housing portion 41 and lower housing portion 42 can be directly fixed to each other.

[0057] like Figure 1A and Figure 2 As shown, the input device 10 includes a cover 45 attached to the outer surface of the housing 40 as one of its external components. The cover 45 has a right cover side 45R that serves as part of the outer surface of the right grip portion 10R, a left cover side 45L that serves as part of the outer surface of the left grip portion 10L, and a cover center portion 45M that connects the left cover side 45L and the right cover side 45R and serves as part of the outer surface of the device center portion 10M.

[0058] like Figure 4B As shown, cover 45 includes a retaining device cover 45a that covers and secures the lower housing portion 42 (specifically, screw 49b) and the securing portions 42e and 41f. The retaining device cover 45a is located behind the screw 49b and the securing portions 42e, 41f, and 41a to cover these components. The retaining device cover 45a is provided for each of the left cover side 45L and the right cover side 45R. Figure 1D and Figure 4BAs shown, the fixing device cover 45a is located on the rear side of the left or right grip portion 10L or 10R and is attached to the rear edge of the grip portion 10L or 10R (i.e., the rear edge of the left or right handle 12).

[0059] Screw 49b is not exposed on the outer surface of the input device 10, thereby enhancing the appearance of the input device 10. In addition, since the left screw 49b and the right screw 49b are covered by a single cap 45, the number of parts can be reduced, and thus the assembly of the input device 10 can be simplified.

[0060] Screw 49b is inserted vertically into the fixing portion 42e of the lower housing portion 42 and the fixing portion 41f of the upper housing portion 41. A portion (lower part) of the fixing device cover 45a is located below the fixing portions 42e and 41f. That is, this portion (lower part) of the fixing device cover 45a is located in the direction in which the screw 49b is pulled out from the fixing portions 42e and 41f. The other portion (upper part) of the fixing device cover 45a is located behind the fixing portions 42e and 41f.

[0061] like Figure 1A As shown, cover sides 45L and 45R are attached to the inner surfaces of the left and right handles 12. The right retaining device cover 45a is bent at the rear edge of the right cover side 45R to be positioned on the rear side of the right handle 12. The left retaining device cover 45a is bent at the rear edge of the left cover side 45L to be positioned on the rear side of the left handle 12.

[0062] The central portion 45M of the cover is located at the rear of the central portion 10M of the equipment. The central portion 45M of the cover is located on the rear side of the input member 20. The central portion 45M of the cover has an opening 45c, in which the left input rod 31 and the right input rod 31 are disposed.

[0063] Note that in the example of input device 10, the handle 12 and the cover sides 45L and 45R are symmetrical in the left-right direction. Unlike the example of input device 10, these components may be asymmetrical in the left-right direction. In this case, the cover 45 may have only either the left cover side 45L or the right cover side 45R.

[0064] like Figure 6 As shown, the upper housing portion 41 has a covered area 41n covered by a cover 45. A plurality of engagement holes 41e are formed in the covered area 41n, and the engagement portion (e.g., claw portion) of the cover 45 engages with the engagement holes 41e.

[0065] In addition to the covered area 41n, the outer surface of the upper housing portion 41 also has an area adjacent to the covered area 41n but not covered by the cover 45 (exposed area) (see Figure 1A and Figure 6 ).like Figure 7 and Figure 8A As shown, a step N is formed between the exposed area of ​​the outer surface of the upper housing portion 41 and the outer surface of the cover 45. Using step N, the outer surface of the cover 45 is recessed from the exposed area of ​​the outer surface of the upper housing portion 41.

[0066] In the example of input device 10, step N is formed between the outer surfaces of the cover sides 45L and 45R and the outer surface of the upper housing portion 41 that serves as handle 12. Step N can extend from the front of the grip portions 10L and 10R to their rear edge (the rear edge of handle 12).

[0067] When a cover is attached to a housing, typically the outer surface of the cover is flush with the outer surface of the housing, or the cover is positioned higher than the outer surface of the housing. Conversely, in the example of input device 10, the outer surface of the cover 45 is positioned lower (recessed) than the outer surface of the housing 40, making it almost impossible for an observer viewing the input device 10 to recognize the cover 45 as a cover. This enhances the appearance of the input device 10.

[0068] like Figure 7 and 8A As shown, a step M can be formed between the outer surfaces of the cover sides 45L and 45R and the outer surface of the lower housing portion 42, which serves as the handle 12. This structure makes it more difficult for an observer viewing the input device 10 to identify the cover 45, thereby further enhancing the appearance of the input device 10.

[0069] The left and right cover sides 45L and 45R are attached to the inner surfaces of the left and right handles 12. That is, the cover sides 45L or 45R are attached to the approximate central area in the left-right direction of the outer surface of the handle 12 (the outer surface of the housing 40). Therefore, for example, the position of the thenar eminence (the ball of the thumb) of the user gripping the handle 12 can be guided by the step N. Furthermore, the likelihood of the user's palm contacting the step N when gripping the handle 12 can be reduced, which means that a comfortable grip can be achieved. In the example of the input device 10, the boundary (step N) between the cover sides 45R or 45L and the exposed area of ​​the upper housing portion 41 is located inside the centerline C1 of the handle 12 (see...). Figure 1A ).

[0070] The height of step N may not be constant in its extending direction. In the example of input device 10, the height Hn2 of step N at the rear of handle 12 (see...) Figure 8B The height Hn1 of the step N at the front of handle 12 is less than that of the handle 12 (see...). Figure 8A The user's palm tends to contact the rear of the handle 12. Therefore, the structure in which the height Hn2 of the rear step N is less than the height Hn1 of the front step N allows the user to grip the handle 12 in a more comfortable manner.

[0071] [Microphone placement]

[0072] like Figure 9 As shown, the input device 10 may include two microphones 8A and 8B. The two microphones 8A and 8B are positioned at different distances from the mouth of the user holding the input device 10. For example, the first microphone 8A is positioned below the circuit board 61, and the second microphone 8B is positioned above the circuit board 61. A connector 67 (e.g., a headphone jack) mounted on the circuit board 61 is located between the first microphone 8A and the second microphone 8B.

[0073] To enable speech recognition processing and voice chat, input device 10 includes a voice input / output circuit configured to perform directional beamforming processing that shapes the sensitivity of microphones 8A and 8B. The voice input / output circuit generates directional microphone speech data. Specifically, it uses the phase difference between the microphone speech data obtained from microphones 8A and 8B to generate data with emphasis data (signals) representing the user's speech.

[0074] like Figure 9 As shown, for example, the second microphone 8B is supported by the upper housing portion 41 and is disposed along the inner surface of the cover 45. For example, the second microphone 8B is tilted backward and upward.

[0075] The cover 45 has a second sound hole V2 at a position corresponding to the second microphone 8B. The second microphone 8B is held by a microphone holder 9B, for example, made of an elastic material. The microphone holder 9B has a hole at a position corresponding to the second microphone 8B. The second sound hole V2 of the cover 45 is connected to the second microphone 8B through the hole in the microphone holder 9B. The input device 10 may not include the cover 45. In this case, the second sound hole V2 may be formed in the upper housing portion 41, and the second microphone 8B may be supported by the frame 51.

[0076] like Figure 9 As shown, for example, the first microphone 8A is disposed along the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42. The first microphone 8A is supported by a microphone support portion 55a, which is formed on, for example, a battery 62 disposed below the circuit board 61 (see...). Figure 20 The microphone 8A is held by the microphone holder 9A. The microphone holder 9A abuts against the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42. For example, the first microphone 8A is tilted rearward and downward.

[0077] [Tone hole]

[0078] like Figure 9As shown, the lower housing portion 42 has a first sound hole V1 passing through it. The microphone retainer 9A has a sealing portion 9b located between the first microphone 8A and the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42. The sealing portion 9b abuts against the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42. The sealing portion 9b has a hole 9a at a position corresponding to the first microphone 8A. The first sound hole V1 of the lower housing portion 42 is connected to the first microphone 8A through the hole 9A of the microphone retainer 9a. The edge of the hole 9a formed in the sealing portion 9b abuts against the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42, such that the first sound hole V1 is sealed from its inlet to the first microphone 8A.

[0079] Note that "the first sound hole V1 is connected to the first microphone 8A" means that a channel is formed to transmit sound from the hole in the lower housing portion 42 to the first microphone 8A. This channel does not necessarily need to be sealed. Furthermore, the first microphone 8A can be separated from the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42. For example, the first microphone 8A can be mounted on a circuit board 61. In this case, a sound hole can be formed extending from the edge of the opening formed in the lower housing portion 42 to the first microphone 8A.

[0080] like Figure 1E and Figure 10 As shown, a recess 42f is formed in the outer surface of the lower housing portion 42. The recess 42f does not penetrate the lower housing portion 42. A first tone hole V1 is formed in the bottom surface 42k of the recess 42f. The lower housing portion 42 has a bottom surface 42k extending from the opening edge (inlet) of the first tone hole V1 within the recess 42f. The inner surface 42g of the recess 42f serves as a wall surrounding the first tone hole V1. The recess 42f is hereinafter referred to as the "protective recess".

[0081] If a user chatting with another user via voice chat moves their finger along the outer surface of the input device 10 to cover the first tone hole V1, the air pressure in the first tone hole V1 changes suddenly, resulting in noise in the voice transmitted to the other user via voice chat. In the example of the input device 10, since the wall of the inner surface 42g, which serves as a protective recess 42f, surrounds the first tone hole V1, it is unlikely that the entrance to the first tone hole V1 will be completely covered by a finger. As a result, the aforementioned noise can be suppressed.

[0082] like Figure 10 As shown, the protective recess 42f is a groove, and the length of the inner region of the protective recess 42f (width W1 in one of the two orthogonal directions; see Figure 1) is greater than the width W2 of the same region in the other direction (width W1 is referred to as the "large width" below, and width W2 is referred to as the "small width" below). In the example of input device 10, width W1 is the dimension in the left-right direction, and width W2 is the dimension in the front-back direction.

[0083] When a user touches the outer surface of the input device 10 with their finger, the smaller width W2 is smaller than the width of the area where the finger contacts. Simultaneously, the larger width W1 is larger than the width of the area where the finger contacts. By designing the protective recess 42f to have such dimensions, it is possible to prevent the protective recess 42f from being completely covered by the user's finger, thereby effectively suppressing sudden changes in air pressure in the first tone hole V1. For example, the smaller width W2 can be less than 3 mm. The smaller width W2 can be less than 2 mm. For example, the larger width W1 can be greater than 7 mm. The larger width W1 can be greater than 9 mm.

[0084] like Figure 10 As shown, the larger width W1 is greater than twice the size of the first tone hole V1 (in the same direction as the larger width W1). The larger width W1 can be greater than three times the size of the first tone hole V1. Meanwhile, the smaller width W2 can be the same as the size of the first tone hole V1, or less than twice the size of the first tone hole V1. For example, the entrance shape of the first tone hole V1 is circular.

[0085] like Figure 10 As shown, the larger width W1 is greater than the size of the first microphone 8A (the size in the same direction as the larger width W1). Meanwhile, the smaller width W2 is smaller than the size of the first microphone 8A. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the narrow width W2 can be the same as or larger than the inlet size of the first tone hole V1 (the hole formed in the lower housing portion 42).

[0086] like Figure 1E As shown, a first tone hole V1 is formed on the lower surface of the central portion 10M of the device. More specifically, the first tone hole V1 is formed near the rear edge of the central portion 10M of the device. The first tone hole V1 is located at the center of the input device 10 in the left-right direction. The fingers of a user holding the input device 10 extend obliquely from the side surface of the input device 10 to the center of the input device 10 in the left-right direction. When the user moves their fingers along the lower surface of the input device 10, the fingers move in a direction obliquely relative to the front-back direction and the left-right direction. At the same time, the protective recess 42f (in other words, the area inside the protective recess 42f) is elongated in the left-right direction. With the protective recess 42f having this shape, it is possible to effectively prevent the protective recess 42f from being completely covered by fingers that are obliquely moving on the lower surface side of the input device.

[0087] Note that the shape of the protective recess 42f is not limited to the example in the input device 10. For example, the protective recess 42f can be an elongated groove in the front-to-back direction. In another example, the protective recess 42f can have an elliptical shape. In yet another example, the protective recess 42f can be cross-shaped, H-shaped, or T-shaped. In this case, the first tone hole V1 is preferably formed in a narrow groove portion of the protective recess 42f. This prevents the first tone hole V1 from being completely covered by the user's finger.

[0088] As described above, the upper housing portion 41 has a second sound hole V2 connected to the second microphone 8B. The greater width W1 of the opening portion of the first sound hole V1 in the left-right direction is greater than the width of the opening portion of the second sound hole V2 in the left-right direction. At the same time, the smaller width W2 of the first sound hole V1 in the direction orthogonal to the left-right direction can be the same as the width of the second sound hole V2 in the direction orthogonal to the left-right direction.

[0089] Note that, instead of the recess 42f, one or more protrusions may be formed around the first tone hole V1. Figure 11A and Figure 11B This is a cross-sectional view illustrating this example of modification. Figure 11A From similar Figure 9 A cross-sectional view obtained from the cross section. Figure 11B It is along Figure 11A The cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI is shown.

[0090] exist Figure 11A and Figure 11B In the example shown, a protrusion 42h is formed around the first tone hole V1. The protrusion 42h is referred to below as the "protective protrusion". The first tone hole V1 is located within the area surrounded by the protective protrusion 42h. The inner surface 42i of the protective protrusion 42h serves as a wall surrounding the first tone hole V1. Using the protective protrusion 42h formed in this way, it is possible to prevent the entrance to the first tone hole V1 from being completely covered by a finger, and thus to suppress sudden changes in air pressure within the first tone hole V1.

[0091] The size of the area formed within the protective protrusion 42h can be the same as the size of the area formed within the aforementioned protective recess 42f. Specifically, the width in one of the two orthogonal directions can be smaller than the width in the other direction. Specifically, the width W5 in the left-right direction (see...) Figure 11B ) is greater than the width W6 in the front-to-back direction (see Figure 11A For example, a small width W6 is less than 3mm. A small width W6 can be less than 2mm. A large width W5 is greater than 7mm. A large width W5 can be greater than 9mm.

[0092] In another example, multiple protrusions can be formed around the first tone hole V1. Such protrusions can completely surround the first tone hole V1. In this case, the length (width in the left-right direction) of the area surrounded by the multiple protrusions can be greater than its width in the front-back direction. Using this structure, it is possible to prevent the entrance to the first tone hole V1 from being completely covered by fingers, and thus suppress sudden changes in air pressure within the first tone hole V1.

[0093] [Reduce the sound of the input stick operation]

[0094] The input device 10 includes the aforementioned upper housing portion 41 and cover 45 as its external components. The upper housing portion 41 has an opening 43a (see...). Figure 6 The cover 45 has an opening 45c (see...) Figure 7 Within openings 43a and 45c, the input rod 31 can each tilt radially, or tilt and pivot about the centerline of its initial position. Figure 14A As shown, the input rod 31 has a support portion 31a and a contact portion 31b located above the support portion 31a. The lower part of the support portion 31a is supported by a support mechanism (not shown).

[0095] like Figure 14A As shown, a buffer member 46 is disposed on the inner edges of openings 43a and 45c. The buffer member 46 is made of a material different from the material of the inner edges of openings 43a and 45c (i.e., the material of the upper housing portion 41 and the cover 45) and also different from the material of the input rod 31 (more specifically, the material of the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 31a). The buffer member 46 protrudes inward from the inner edges of openings 43a and 45c. Therefore, when the input rod 31 is tilted, the support portion 31a does not collide with the inner edges of openings 43a and 45c, but rather with the buffer member 46. By utilizing the buffer member 46, sound generation due to collision between the support portion 31a of the input rod 31 and the inner edges of openings 43a and 45c can be prevented, and thus noise generation in the speech data obtained from microphones 8A and 8B can be suppressed.

[0096] The material of the buffer member 46 may be a material with lower rigidity than the material of the inner edges of the openings 43a and 45c and the material of the input rod 31. The materials of the inner edges of the openings 43a and 45c, i.e., the material of the upper housing portion 41, the material of the cover 45, and the material of the support portion 31a of the input rod 31, are, for example, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin or polycarbonate resin. The material of the buffer member 46 may be, for example, a material containing a resin mixed with additives (e.g., a sliding material).

[0097] like Figure 13A and 13BAs shown, the buffer member 46 is annular. The buffer member 46 has a contact surface 46a that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 31a of the input rod 31. The contact surface 46a is continuously formed over the entire circumference of the openings 43a and 45c. This allows the tilted input rod 31 to be smoothly operated for pivoting when it is tilted to contact the contact surface 46a.

[0098] In the example of input device 10, the buffer member 46 is a member molded separately from the upper housing portion 41 and the cover 45. That is, the molding steps for molding the buffer member 46, the molding steps for molding the upper housing portion 41, and the molding steps for molding the cover 45 are performed separately. Furthermore, the buffer member 46 is attached to the inner edges of the openings 43a and 45c. By molding the buffer member 46 separately from the upper housing portion 41 and the cover 45, the steps for molding the buffer member 46 and the upper housing portion 41 can be simplified.

[0099] In the example of input device 10, buffer member 46 is attached to the inner edge of opening 43a of upper housing portion 41. For example... Figure 13A and 13B As shown, the buffer member 46 has an upper joint 46b and a lower joint 46c, which clamp the inner edge of the opening 43a in the vertical direction. The upper joint 46b and the lower joint 46c are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The upper joint 46b is located above the inner edge of the opening 43a, and the lower joint 46c is located below the inner edge of the opening 43a.

[0100] Each upper joint 46b protrudes radially outward from the annular portion 46e of the buffer member 46. Multiple upwardly protruding joints 43b are formed on the inner edge of the opening 43a of the upper housing portion 41 (see...). Figure 12 The joints 43b are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the opening 43a. The upper joint 46b is fitted between two adjacent joints 43b. This engagement structure between the buffer member 46 and the inner edge of the opening 43a regulates the rotation of the buffer member 46. For example, when the input rod 31 abutting the buffer member 46 moves circumferentially, the upper joint 46b of the buffer member 46 collides with the joint 43b of the opening 43a, thereby preventing displacement of the buffer member 46. The spacing between two adjacent joints 43b ideally matches the width of the upper joint 46b of the buffer member 46.

[0101] Note that the engagement structure of the buffer member 46 and the inner edge of the opening 43a is not limited to the example in the input device 10. For example, multiple inwardly protruding engagements may be formed at the inner edge of the opening 43a. The engagements may be fitted into the annular portion 46e of the buffer member 46. Using the same structure, displacement of the buffer member 46 can be prevented when the radially inclined input rod 31 pivots.

[0102] The cover 45 has an opening 45c, in which the input lever 31 is disposed. With this structure, the engagement structure between the buffer member 46 and the inner edge of the opening 43a of the upper housing portion 41 (between the upper engagement portion 46b and the engagement portion 43b) can be covered by the cover 45. As a result, the appearance of the input device 10 can be further enhanced.

[0103] like Figure 14A and Figure 14B As shown, the edge of the opening 45c of the cover 45 is located above the upper joint 46b of the buffer member 46 and the joint 43b of the upper housing portion 41. Meanwhile, the annular portion 46e of the buffer member 46 is located inside the inner edge of the opening 45c of the cover 45. With this structure, the joint structure between the inner edge of the opening 43a of the upper housing portion 41 and the buffer member 46 can be prevented from being exposed by the cover 45.

[0104] Unlike the example of input device 10, the buffer member 46 may be attached to the inner edge of the opening 45c of the cover 45. In this case, the contact surface 46a, which is the inner surface of the annular portion 46e of the buffer member 46, preferably protrudes inward from the inner edge of the opening 43a of the upper housing portion 41.

[0105] In yet another example, a buffer member can be provided to input lever 31. More specifically, as... Figure 15 As shown, the buffer member 33 can be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 31a of the input rod 31. The buffer member 33 can be made of a material different from the material of the support portion 31a, the upper housing portion 41, and the cover 45. For example, the material of the buffer member 33 can be a material with lower rigidity than the materials of these components. The buffer member 33 can be formed together with the support portion 31a by two-color molding. Two-color molding is a method of obtaining a molded article by sequentially injecting two different resins into a mold as materials. In contrast, the buffer member 33 can be molded separately from the support portion 31a and attached to the outer peripheral surface of the support portion 31a.

[0106] [Reduce button operation sound]

[0107] The upper housing portion 41 has multiple openings 44a (see Figure 6 Input buttons 35 are located within corresponding openings 44a. All input buttons 35 can move in the direction intersecting with the upper housing portion 41, that is, in the vertical direction. Figure 17 As shown, switch 36a is positioned below input button 35. Switch 36a is made of an elastic material (e.g., rubber) and biases input button 35 upward toward its initial position.

[0108] The input button 35 has stops 35b and 35c at its base (see...) Figure 16B ( ), used to prevent the input button 35 from popping out of the opening 44a. For example, the stops 35b and 35c are protrusions that protrude radially from the lower edge of the input button 35.

[0109] like Figure 16A As shown, the input device 10 includes a buffer member 37. The material of the buffer member 37 is different from the material of the upper housing portion 41 and the input button 35. Preferably, the material of the buffer member 37 is a material with lower rigidity than the materials of the upper housing portion 41 and the input button 35. The materials of the upper housing portion 41 and the input button 35 can be engineering plastics, such as polycarbonate resin, while the material of the buffer member 37 can be rubber, elastomer, etc. The buffer member 37 has stop portions 37a and 37b located between the edge of the opening 44a and the stop portions 35b and 35c of the input button 35 (see...). Figure 16B ).

[0110] When input button 35 is pressed, switch 36a is pressed, thus establishing an on state. When the force pressing input button 35 is released, input button 35 is pushed upward by the spring force of switch 36a, resulting in the stops 35b and 35c colliding with their corresponding stops 37a and 37b. The buffer member 37 prevents sound from being generated due to collisions between the stops 35b and 35c and the edge of opening 44a. Consequently, noise is prevented from being generated in the voice data acquired by microphones 8A and 8B.

[0111] like Figure 16B As shown, the stop portions 35b and 35c are distributed in a circumferential manner on the input button 35. Therefore, when the stop portions 35b and 35c strike the stop portions 37a and 37b, the input button 35 can be prevented from tilting. For example, multiple stop portions 35b and 35c are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0112] Multiple input buttons 35 are disposed on the upper surface of the grip portion 10R. Specifically, four input buttons 35 are disposed at the ends of the cross. The input device 10 includes a buffer member 37 shared by the four input buttons 35. That is, a single buffer member 37 has stop portions 37a and 37b corresponding to each of the four input buttons 35. With this structure, the number of parts can be reduced, and thus the assembly of the input device 10 can be simplified. In addition, the space used for arranging the buffer member 37 can be reduced.

[0113] The upper housing portion 41 may have a guide cylinder 44b extending downward at the edge of the opening 44a. The input button 35 is movable vertically within the guide cylinder 44b. The guide cylinder 44b has a groove 44c (see...). Figure 16AThe radially projecting stops 35b and 35c from the input button 35 are fitted into the groove 44c. The stops 35b and 35c can move vertically along the groove 44c. This structure regulates the rotation of the input button 35 within the guide cylinder 44b. Therefore, the stops 35b and 35c function to regulate the rotation of the input button 35 and to reduce noise by colliding with the buffer member 37.

[0114] The buffer member 37 has a central portion 37g located at the center of the four input buttons 35 (the center of the four guide cylinders 44b) (see... Figure 16B The stop portions 35b of the four input buttons 35 protrude toward the center of the four input buttons 35. The buffer member 37 has four stop portions 37a corresponding to the respective four input buttons 35 in its central portion 37g. The stop portions 35b of the four input buttons 35 collide with the corresponding four stop portions 37a.

[0115] Furthermore, the buffer member 37 has annular portions 37i and 37j surrounding the outer side of the guide cylinder 44b. For example... Figure 16B As shown, the stop portion 37b is formed on the annular portions 37i and 37j. The stop portion 37b is formed in the central portion 37g at a position away from the stop portion 37a.

[0116] Note that the arrangement of the input buttons 35 with the buffer member 37 is not limited to the example in the input device 10. For example, the number of input buttons 35 may be two or three. When there are two input buttons 35, the buffer member 37 may have a central portion between the two input buttons 35, and the stop portion 37a may be formed in the central portion.

[0117] [Circuit board damper]

[0118] Input device 10 includes vibration motors 5L and 5R disposed on the left grip portion 10L and the right grip portion 10R (more specifically, on the handle 12). Vibration motors 5L and 5R are driven in response to commands from an information processing device (video game console), for example, to vibrate the handle 12. Vibration motors 5L and 5R can be linear motors (e.g., voice coil motors) or rotary motors (e.g., direct current (DC) motors). Figure 2 As shown, the vibration motors 5L and 5R are held by the frame 51. The frame 51 has a motor holding part 51c in the portion housed in the left and right handles 12.

[0119] like Figure 2 As shown, circuit board 61 is located below frame 51 (first support member) and is attached to frame 51 in the vertical direction. For example, circuit board 61 is secured with a fixing device (specifically, screw 69 (see...)). Figure 5It is attached to frame 51. In the example of input device 10, screw 69 is covered by battery 62 located below circuit board 61.

[0120] like Figure 18 As shown, dampers 68 are disposed between circuit board 61 and frame 51. Dampers 68 are all made of elastic material, such as rubber or elastomer. Dampers 68 are disposed at a location (fixed position) away from where screw 69 is located (damper position). Figure 5 As shown, dampers 68 are located at multiple locations around screws 69. In the example of input device 10, dampers 68 are located at the four corners of circuit board 61.

[0121] As described above, the input device 10 includes vibration motors 5L and 5R and microphones 8A and 8B. When vibration motors 5L and 5R are driven to vibrate circuit board 61 and generate contact sound between circuit board 61 and frame 51, microphones 8A and 8B capture the contact sound as noise in the speech data. Even when circuit board 61 is fixed to frame 51 with screws at multiple locations, a small gap may form between circuit board 61 and frame 51 due to the difference between the coefficients of thermal expansion of circuit board 61 and frame 51. When vibration motors 5L and 5R are driven with such a gap, contact sound, i.e., noise, is generated between circuit board 61 and frame 51.

[0122] In the example of input device 10, the generation of this noise can be suppressed because the damper 68 is disposed between the circuit board 61 and the frame 51. Specifically, in the example of input device 10, the damper 68 is positioned around a fixed location (the location of the screw 69), thereby effectively suppressing the generation of contact noise that occurs when the circuit board 61 contacts the frame 51 due to the vibration of the vibration motors 5L and 5R. For example, contact noise generated between the circuit board 61 and the frame 51 when the corner of the circuit board 61 vibrates can be effectively suppressed.

[0123] Note that a single screw 69 is sufficient as the screw provided to the circuit board 61. This prevents the screw 69 from loosening due to thermal expansion, even in the event of thermal expansion of the circuit board 61 and the frame 51. Note that the damper 68 may not be located at the position where the screw 69 is located, i.e., in a fixed position. In the fixed position, the circuit board 61 can be in direct contact with the frame 51. Furthermore, the circuit board 61 may have a hole into which a positioning protrusion 51d formed on the frame 51 is fitted.

[0124] Circuit board 61 has hole 61b (see Figure 3 For example, a hole 61b can be formed on the outer edge of the circuit board 61. That is, the edge of each hole 61b can be partially open. Figure 18As shown, the damper 68 has a cylindrical body portion 68a that is fitted into a hole 61b in the circuit board 61. In addition, the damper 68 has an upper flange portion 68b formed on an edge portion (upper edge) of the body portion 68a, and a lower flange portion 68c formed on another edge portion (lower edge) of the body portion 68a.

[0125] like Figure 18 As shown, the frame 51 has a protrusion 51e that is fitted into the cylindrical body portion 68a. When the vibration motors 5L and 5R are driven to vibrate the circuit board 61 and the frame 51 relative to each other in the direction along the circuit board 61, the protrusion 51e of the frame 51 collides with the damper 68 in the direction along the circuit board 61.

[0126] In addition, such as Figure 18 As shown, the upper flange portion 68b is sandwiched between the circuit board 61 and the frame 51 in the vertical direction. In other words, the upper flange portion 68b is sandwiched between the circuit board 61 and the frame 51 in the attachment direction. Therefore, noise generated by collisions between components of the circuit board 61, specifically the corners of the circuit board 61 and the frame 51 in the attachment direction can be suppressed.

[0127] Thus, in the example of input device 10, damper 68 has a portion (upper flange portion 68b) that is clamped in the attachment direction of circuit board 61 and frame 51, and a portion (body portion 68a) that is clamped in a direction orthogonal to the attachment direction (along the direction of circuit board 61). As a result, collisions between circuit board 61 and frame 51 can be effectively suppressed.

[0128] Note that the shape of the damper 68 is not limited to the example in the input device 10. For example, the frame 51 may not have the protrusion 51e. In this case, the body portion 68a of the damper 68 may not be cylindrical. For example, the body portion 68a may be columnar. Flange portions 68b and 68c may be formed at the edge portions of the columnar body portion 68a.

[0129] The input device 10 includes a lower housing portion 42 (second support member) on the side of the circuit board 61 opposite to the frame 51. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the damper 68 has a portion sandwiched between the lower housing portion 42 and the circuit board 61. Specifically, the lower flange portion 68c is sandwiched between the lower housing portion 42 and the circuit board 61. Therefore, contact noise generated between the circuit board 61 and the lower housing portion 42 due to vibration of the circuit board 61 can be suppressed.

[0130] like Figure 18As shown, frame 51 has a contact portion 51f that contacts the upper flange portion 68b of damper 68. Lower housing portion 42 has a contact portion 42j that contacts the lower flange portion 68c of damper 68. The contact portions 51f of frame 51 and 42j of lower housing portion 42 face each other in the vertical direction. Therefore, sufficient contact pressure can be ensured between frame 51 and damper 68, and between lower housing portion 42 and damper 68. In the example of input device 10, the contact portion 42j of lower housing portion 42 is an upwardly projecting cylindrical portion, and the upper edge of contact portion 42j contacts the lower flange portion 68c of damper 68.

[0131] Note that for each of the plurality of dampers 68 disposed on the circuit board 61, the input device 10 may include a reference. Figure 18 The described structure includes the main body portion 68a, flange portions 68b and 68c, and contact portions 42j and 51f.

[0132] As described above, vibration motors 5L and 5R are disposed in the handle 12 and positioned at the rear edges of the left grip portion 10L and the right grip portion 10R. A circuit board 61 is housed in the device center portion 10M located between the left grip portion 10L and the right grip portion 10R. When viewed from the bottom surface of the input device 10, the circuit board 61 is located in front of the vibration motors 5L and 5R (see...). Figure 5 The damper 68 is located at a corner of the circuit board 61. When viewed from the bottom surface of the input device 10, the damper 68 at each rear corner is positioned between the fixing position of the mounting screw 69 and the vibration motors 5L and 5R. In other words, the straight line connecting the screw 69 to the damper 68 intersects the vibration motors 5L and 5R. By arranging the damper 68 and the vibration motors 5L and 5R in this way, contact noise generated near the vibration motors 5L and 5R can be suppressed.

[0133] As described above, the vibration motors 5L and 5R are, for example, voice coil motors. In this case, the vibration direction of the vibrator (i.e., the movable part) of the vibration motors 5L and 5R can intersect with the attachment direction (vertical direction) of the circuit board 61 and the frame 51. In the example of the input device 10, the vibrator is configured to vibrate in the extension direction of the handle 12 and in the inclined front-back direction. Therefore, when the vibration motors 5L and 5R are driven, the large-amplitude vibration of the corner of the circuit board 61 in the attachment direction (vertical direction) of the circuit board 61 can be suppressed.

[0134] Input device 10 includes microphones 8A and 8B disposed in the central portion 10M of the device. Microphones 8A and 8B are positioned above or below circuit board 61 away from it and are supported by components different from circuit board 61 and frame 51. Specifically, as... Figure 9 As shown, the second microphone 8B is supported by the upper housing portion 41 rather than the frame 51, and contacts the inner surface of the cover 45 via the microphone holder 9B. Furthermore, the first microphone 8A is supported by a microphone support portion 55a formed at the rear edge of the battery holder 55 supporting the battery 62, and abuts against the inner surface of the lower housing portion 42 via the microphone holder 9A.

[0135] Note that the support structure of circuit board 61 is not limited to the example in input device 10. For example, input device 10 may not include frame 51. In this case, circuit board 61 may be attached to lower housing portion 42. Furthermore, one flange portion of damper 68 may be sandwiched between lower housing portion 42 and circuit board 61, and another flange portion of damper 68 may be sandwiched between upper housing portion 41 and circuit board 61.

[0136] [Light-emitting system]

[0137] The upper surface of the input device 10 has a right region (upper surface of the right grip portion 10R) where the input button 35 is disposed, a left region (upper surface of the left grip portion 10L) where the direction pad 19 is disposed, and a central region serving as the region between the right and left regions. In the example of the input device 10, the upper surface of the input member 20 forms the central region. The input member 20 is located at the front of the device center portion 10M, and the front edge of the input member 20 forms the front edge of the input device 10. The foremost part of the input member 20 curves downward to form the front surface of the input device 10. The upper housing portion 41 has an opening 41h (see...). Figure 6 The input component 20 is disposed within the opening 41h of the upper housing portion 41.

[0138] like Figure 20 As shown, the input component 20 includes a surface panel 21 forming the upper surface of the input device 10 and a circuit board 22 attached to the lower surface of the surface panel 21. A touch sensor is disposed between the circuit board 22 and the surface panel 21. The input component 20 may include a frame 24 attached to the panel 21 to cover the lower side of the circuit board 22.

[0139] Furthermore, the input member 20 is supported so as to be movable in the vertical direction, thereby functioning as a button. In the example of the input device 10, the switch 23 is mounted on the lower surface of the circuit board 22. Meanwhile, the frame 51 disposed below the input member 20 has a pressing portion 51g that protrudes upward at a position corresponding to the switch 23. When the input member 20 is pressed, the pressing portion 51g presses the switch 23. The switch 23 can be mounted on the circuit board 61. In this case, the input member 20 may have a pressing portion.

[0140] Note that the structure of input member 20 is not limited to the example in input device 10. For example, input member 20 may be configured with a touch sensor but without button functionality. Conversely, input member 20 may be configured with button functionality but without a touch sensor.

[0141] like Figure 19 As shown, the input device 10 has a light-emitting region Es formed along the outer edge of the input member 20. The light-emitting region Es has a plurality of first light-emitting portions E1 and second light-emitting portions E2. The plurality of first light-emitting portions E1 are light-emitting portions configured to indicate identification information assigned to a plurality of input devices connected to the information processing device. The second light-emitting portions E2 are light-emitting portions configured to emit light based on information different from the identification information. The light-emitting surface of the light-diffusing member 71 surrounding the outer edge of the input member 20 (see...) Figure 2 This forms the luminescent region Es, which will be described later.

[0142] exist Figure 22A In the example shown, multiple input devices 10 are connected to an information processing unit 90, which serves as a video game console. The information processing unit 90 includes a control unit 91 and a communication unit 92. The communication unit 92 is an interface configured to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with the input devices 10. Figure 22B As shown, the control device 91 includes a microprocessor and an identification information allocation unit 91a, which functions as such.

[0143] The identification information allocation unit 91a assigns identification numbers as identification information for each input device 10 to the plurality of input devices 10 according to predefined rules. The identification information can be assigned by the system software of the information processing device 90 based on information associated with the user using the input device 10, or based on information identifying the input device 10 itself. Furthermore, the identification information can be numbers, color information, strings, or a combination of two or more of these. The identification information can take any form, as long as it is unique information specifying the input device 10 or the user. The input device 10 receives the identification number assigned to it from the information processing device 90 and causes the first light-emitting portion e1 to emit light based on that identification number. For example, an input device 10 designated as identification number 1 causes one of the plurality of first light-emitting portions e1 (e.g., the first light-emitting portion E1 located at the center) to emit light. Furthermore, an input device 10 designated as identification number 2 causes two of the plurality of first light-emitting portions e1 (e.g., two first light-emitting portions E1 opposite each other across the center) to emit light. The input device 10 selectively drives a plurality of first light sources S1 (see [reference]) corresponding to each first light-emitting portion e1. Figure 19 ).

[0144] Simultaneously, the second light-emitting portion E2 is a light-emitting portion configured to emit light based on information different from the identification information (identification number) described above. This information, different from the identification information, is, for example, a command generated based on the situation in the currently running video game and sent from the information processing device 90 executing the game program. Figure 22B As shown, the control unit 91 of the information processing device 90 includes a game processing unit 91b as its function. When a game program is executed, the game processing unit 91b generates a motion image as a result of the execution, displays the motion image on a display device (not shown), and sends a light-emitting command for the second light-emitting part E2 to the input device 10. When the light-emitting command is received, the input device 10 causes the second light-emitting part E2 to emit light. The input device 10 drives a second light source S2 corresponding to the second light-emitting part E2 (see... Figure 20 The second light source S2 may include, for example, multiple light-emitting diodes of different colors, to be able to emit light of any color. That is, the illumination state of the second light-emitting portion E2 is controlled based on control information generated by the input device 10 from the application executed by the information processing device 90, according to the application's state. Therefore, the second light-emitting portion E2 of the input device 10 in the user's hand can emit light with colors and timings suitable for effects produced in applications executed synchronously with the state of images displayed or sounds output by the application. Furthermore, another example of information other than identification information is information associated with the state of the input device 10. The input device 10 may, for example, monitor the connection state between the input device 10 and the information processing device 90 or the battery charging state, and, based on the monitored state and control information generated by the input device 10 itself, cause the second light-emitting portion E2 to illuminate. Furthermore, the information associated with the state of the input device 10 may be illumination control information generated based on the state of the input device 10 monitored by the system software of the information processing device 90 and sent to the second light-emitting portion E2 of the input device 10.

[0145] like Figure 19 As shown, the first light-emitting portion E1 and the second light-emitting portion E2 are disposed in the light-emitting area Es along the outer edge (central region) of the input member 20. Therefore, the visibility of the first light-emitting portion E1, which is configured to indicate identification information, and the second light-emitting portion E2, which is configured to indicate information different from identification information, can be enhanced.

[0146] The luminescent area Es surrounds the outer edge of the input component 20. For example... Figure 19As shown, in the example of input device 10, the light-emitting area Es extends along the left, rear, and right edges of the input member 20. Therefore, the light-emitting portions E1 and E2 can be flexibly positioned. Unlike the example of input device 10, the light-emitting area Es can be formed along the left, front, and right edges of the input member 20, or it can be formed along all four edges (left, rear, right, and front edges) of the input member 20.

[0147] like Figure 19 As shown, multiple first light-emitting portions E1 can be arranged in a row along the rear edge of the input member 20. This allows the user to easily identify the identification number indicated by the first light-emitting portions E1. The width of the input member 20 in the left-right direction can be greater than its width in the front-back direction. Therefore, the rear edge of the input member 20 is longer than its left-right edges. This makes it easy to ensure the spacing between adjacent first light-emitting portions E1.

[0148] like Figure 19 As shown, the second light-emitting portion E2 can be disposed along the left and right edges of the input member 20. Thus, the outer edge of the input member 20 is surrounded by the light-emitting portions E1 and E2, thereby enhancing the visibility of the light-emitting portions E1 and E2 and also enhancing the appearance of the input device 10.

[0149] Note that the arrangement of the light-emitting portions E1 and E2 is not limited to the example in the input device 10. For example, a plurality of first light-emitting portions E1 may be arranged along each of the left and right edges of the input member 20, and a second light-emitting portion E2 may be arranged along the rear edge of the input member 20.

[0150] like Figure 20 As shown, a first light source S1, configured to emit light from the first light-emitting portion E1, is provided to the input member 20. More specifically, the first light source S1 is mounted on the circuit board 22 of the input member 20. A plurality of first light sources S1 are arranged along the rear edge of the circuit board 22 (see Figure 20). Figure 19 Each of the first light sources S1 includes an LED. The first light source S1 can be a monochromatic LED, or it can include multiple LEDs emitting different colors to be able to emit light of any color. The frame 24 of the input member 20 has a through-hole 24a at a position corresponding to the first light source S1. Light from the first light source S1 passes through the through-hole 24a into the light diffuser 71 to illuminate it. This illuminated portion is the first light-emitting portion E1.

[0151] At the same time, such as Figure 20As shown, a second light source S2, configured to emit light from the second light-emitting portion E2, is mounted on the circuit board 61, located below and away from the input member 20. Light from the second light source S2 is guided by the light guide member 72 to the left and right side portions 71b of the light diffuser member 71. The second light source S2 is positioned at the center of the circuit board 61 in the left-right direction. Figure 2 and Figure 20 As shown, the light guide member 72 has an incident surface 72a located in front of the second light source S2 at its rear edge. The light guide member 72 has a right light guide portion 72b extending forward and to the right from the incident surface 72a, and a left light guide portion 72c extending forward and to the left from the incident surface 72a. Figure 21A As shown, the front portions of the left and right light guide portions 72c and 72b are located below the left and right side portions 71b of the light diffuser member 71. Light from the left light guide portion 72c and the right light guide portion 72b enters the side portion 71b of the light diffuser member 71 to illuminate the side portion 71b. Therefore, the side portion 71b serves as the second light-emitting portion E2.

[0152] By using the light guide component 72, the second light-emitting portion E2, which is set along the left and right edges of the input component 20, can be made to emit light through a single second light source S2, thereby reducing the number of components in the input device 10.

[0153] like Figure 2 and Figure 21A As shown, the front portions of the left and right light guide portions 72c and 72b are supported by a reflective member 73. The reflective member 73 is disposed below the light guide portions 72c and 72b and reflects upward light from the lower side of the light guide portions 72c and 72b. The lower surfaces of the light guide portions 72c and 72b may have multiple recesses 21e (see...). Figure 21A ), used to reflect upward light traveling through the light guide sections 72c and 72b.

[0154] like Figure 21A As shown, frame 51 is disposed above light guide portions 72c and 72b. Frame 51 has through hole 51i. Light from the upper side of light guide portions 72c and 72b passes through through hole 51i and enters the side portion 71b of light diffuser member 71 disposed on the upper side of frame 51.

[0155] In this way, in the input device 10, light sources S1 and S2 are attached to circuit boards 22 and 61 of the input component 20, respectively. Therefore, light sources S1 and S2 can be positioned more flexibly, and consequently, the light-emitting parts E1 and E2 can be positioned flexibly as well.

[0156] Note that the arrangement of light sources S1 and S2 is not limited to the example in input device 10. For example, if the first light-emitting portion E1 is arranged along the left and right edges of the input member 20, the first light source S1 may be mounted on the left and right edges of the circuit board 22 of the input member 20. In this case, the second light source S2 may be arranged along the rear edge of the circuit board 22.

[0157] [Light Diffusing Components]

[0158] like Figure 2 As shown, the light diffuser 71 has a rectangular frame shape and surrounds the outer edge of the input member 20. The light diffuser 71 has a rear portion 71a disposed along the rear edge of the input member 20, side portions 71b disposed along the left and right edges of the input member 20, and a front portion 71c disposed along the front edge of the input member 20. The light diffuser 71 is integrally formed, for example, from resin. The light diffuser 71 is a component configured to internally diffuse incident light and emit light over a wide range.

[0159] The shape of the light-diffusing member 71 is not limited to the shape described above. For example, the light-diffusing member 71 may not have a front portion 71c. Furthermore, the light-diffusing member 71 may not be integrally formed. For example, the left and right side portions 71b of the light-diffusing member 71 may be molded separately.

[0160] like Figure 21B As shown, the side portion 71b of the light-diffusing member 71 has a light-emitting surface 71e. Both the left and right side portions 71b have a light-emitting surface 71e. The light-emitting surface 71e has a first region 71g exposed in the gap between the inner edge 41i of the opening 41h formed in the upper housing portion 41 and the outer edge of the input member 20, and a second region 71h located inside the outer edge of the input member 20 and below the peripheral portion 21a of the input member 20. With this structure, the area (width) of the light-emitting surface 71e can be increased without increasing the gap between the inner edge 41i of the opening 41h in the upper housing portion 41 and the outer edge of the input member 20. As a result, the light-emitting surface 71e can be made more prominent, further enhancing the appearance of the input device 10.

[0161] like Figure 21B As shown, the gap G1 is preferably formed in the vertical direction between the light-emitting surface 71e and the outer edge of the input member 20. This allows the user to easily see the lower edge 71i of the light-emitting surface 71e. Furthermore, the gap G1 allows the input member 20 to move in the vertical direction. Therefore, the input member 20 can be used as a push button.

[0162] like Figure 21BAs shown, the upper part 71k of the light-diffusing member 71 has a slope 71j on the inner edge of the opening 41h facing the upper housing part 41. The gap G1 between the light-emitting surface 71e and the outer edge of the input member 20 is greater than the gap between the slope 71j and the inner edge of the opening 41h.

[0163] like Figure 21B As shown, the top of the side portion 71b of the light-diffusing member 71 (the upper edge of the light-emitting surface 71e) is lower than the upper surface of the input member 20 (the upper surface of the surface panel 21). Furthermore, the top of the side portion 71b is lower than the upper surface of the upper housing portion 41. Therefore, a groove is formed between the outer edge of the input member 20 and the inner edge 41i of the opening 41h of the upper housing portion 41. The input member 20 is surrounded by this groove.

[0164] like Figure 21B As shown, the light-emitting surface 71e is tilted in the first region 71g and the second region 71h to extend downward toward the inner side of the outer edge of the input member 20. Therefore, the user can see the lower edge 71i of the light-emitting surface 71e by tilting the input device 10.

[0165] like Figure 21B As shown, the peripheral portion 21a of the input member 20 may have a slope 21B facing the inclined light-emitting surface 71e. This allows the user to easily see the lower edge 71i of the light-emitting surface 71e.

[0166] The light-diffusing member 71 has an upper portion 71k with a light-emitting surface 71e and a wall portion 71m extending downward from the upper portion 71k. The wall portion 71m extends downward beyond the lower surface of the frame 24 of the input member 20, reaching the frame 51 to which the circuit board 61 is attached. Light that has passed through the through-hole 51i of the frame 51 enters the wall portion 71m, thereby illuminating the light-emitting surface 71e of the light-diffusing member 71. Note that a light-shielding member 74 may be provided on the outer surface of the wall portion 71m. The light-shielding member 74 can prevent light from leaking unintentionally. A reflective member may be provided on the wall portion 71m instead of the light-shielding member 74, or a reflective member may be provided in addition to the light-shielding member 74.

[0167] As described above, the input member 20 is movable in the vertical direction and functions as a button. Meanwhile, the light-diffusing member 71 is fixed to the upper housing portion 41. Therefore, when the input member 20 is pressed, the light-emitting surface 71e does not move. Thus, for example, the effect of the input member 20 moving in the vertical direction of light can be provided.

[0168] like Figure 2As shown, for example, the light diffuser 71 has an attachment portion 71n extending laterally from the side portion 71b. The attachment portion 71n is attached to the lower surface of the upper housing portion 41 by a fixing device (e.g., a screw). The attachment structure of the light diffuser 71 is not limited to the example in the input device 10. The light diffuser 71 may be attached to the frame 51.

[0169] like Figure 21A As shown, the upper portion 71k of the side portion 71b of the light-diffusing member 71 has an inner wall portion 71p, which has a light-emitting surface 71e and extends downwardly from the top of the upper portion 71k. The frame 24 of the input member 20 has a laterally protruding stop portion 24b. The lower edge of the inner wall portion 71p is located above the stop portion 24b to serve as a stop portion, which is configured to prevent the input member 20 from dislodging upward. By using the light-diffusing member 71 as a stop portion in this way, the number of components can be reduced.

[0170] like Figure 20 As shown, the rear portion 71a of the light diffuser 71 may also have a protrusion 71r that serves as a stop. The protrusion 71r engages with the rear edge of the frame 24 to adjust the upward movement of the input member 20.

[0171] like Figure 20 As shown, the front portion 71c of the light diffuser 71 is located in front of the input element 20. More specifically, the front portion 71c is located in front of the frame 24 of the input member 20. Thus, the front portion 71c of the light diffuser 71 serves as a stop, which is configured to prevent the input member 20 from extending forward.

[0172] In the example of input device 10, the front portion 71c of the light diffuser 71 is exposed forward through the gap between the front edge 21f of the input member 20 and the edge of the housing 40 (the upper edge 42d of the lower housing portion 42). Light entering the side portion 71b of the light diffuser 71 can be diffused inside the light diffuser 71 to illuminate the front portion 71c.

[0173] [in conclusion]

[0174] As described above, the input device 10 includes a housing 40, which includes an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42 joined together in a vertical direction, a screw 49b securing the upper housing portion 41 to the lower housing portion 42, and a cover 45 attached to the outer surface of the housing 40 to cover the screw 49b. The outer surface of the housing 40 has an exposed area adjacent to the cover sides 45L and 45R that is not covered by the cover 45. A step N is formed between the exposed area of ​​the outer surface of the housing 40 and the outer surfaces of the cover sides 45L and 45R, and the outer surface of the cover 45 is recessed compared to the exposed area of ​​the outer surface of the housing 40. With this input device, the screw 49b is covered by the cover 45, thereby enhancing the appearance of the input device 10. Furthermore, since the outer surface of the cover 45 is recessed compared to the outer surface of the housing 40, it is difficult for an observer viewing the input device 10 to identify the cover 45 as a cover. Therefore, the appearance of the input device 10 can be further enhanced.

[0175] Furthermore, the input device 10 includes a left grip portion 10L serving as the left side of the input device 10, a right grip portion 10R serving as the right side of the input device 10, a housing 40 including an upper housing portion 41 and a lower housing portion 42 joined in the vertical direction, screws 49b fixing the upper housing portion 41 to the lower housing portion 42, and a cover 45 attached to the outer surface of the housing 40 to cover the screws (fixing devices) 49b. The screws 49b are provided on the respective left grip portion 10L and right grip portion 10R. The cover 45 includes a fixing device cover 45a covering the screws 49b in the right grip portion 10R, a fixing device cover 45a covering the screws 49b in the left grip portion 10L, and a central portion 45M connecting the left and right fixing device covers 45a. By using the input device 10, the screws 49b are covered by the cover 45, thereby enhancing the appearance of the input device 10. Furthermore, by using the input device 10, the number of components can be reduced.

[0176] Input device 10 includes a first microphone 8A, a housing 40 housing the first microphone 8A, a first sound hole V1 formed in the housing 40 and connected to the first microphone 8A, and input buttons 35, directional pads 19, etc., serving as input components operated by the user with his / her fingers. The outer surface of the housing 40 (the outer surface of the lower housing portion 42) has one or more walls surrounding the first sound hole V1 (the inner surface of the protective recess 42f or the side surface of the protective protrusion 42h). With input device 10, the possibility of the opening edge of the first sound hole V1 being completely covered by a finger is reduced, and noise caused by the contact of the finger with the first sound hole V1 can therefore be reduced.

[0177] Furthermore, the input device 10 includes a housing 40 having an opening 43a, an input rod 31 movable within the opening, and a buffer member 46. The buffer member 46 is respectively disposed on one of the inner edge of the opening 43a and the outer peripheral surface of the input rod 31, and is made of a material different from the material of the inner edge of the opening 43a and the material of the outer peripheral surface of the input rod 31. Using the input device 10, noise generation in the voice data acquired by microphones 8A and 8B can be suppressed.

[0178] Furthermore, the input device 10 includes an upper housing portion 41 with an opening, an input button 35 located inside the opening and movable in a vertical direction, a switch 36a made of an elastic material and configured to bias the input button 35 toward its initial position, and a buffer member 37. Each input button 35 has stops 35b and 35c configured to prevent the input button 35 from popping out of the opening. The buffer member 37 is made of a material different from that of the upper housing portion 41 and the input button 35, and has stops 37a and 37b located between the inner edge of the opening of the upper housing portion 41 and the stops 35b and 35c of the input button 35. Using the input device 10, noise generated in the voice data acquired by the microphones 8A and 8B due to the operation sound of the input button 35 can be effectively suppressed.

[0179] Furthermore, in the input device 10, a damper 68 is disposed between the circuit board 61 and the frame 51. Using the input device 10, noise generation in the voice data acquired by the microphones 8A and 8B can be suppressed.

[0180] The input member 20 is disposed in the central region of the upper surface of the input device 10. The upper surface of the input device 10 has a light-emitting region Es formed along the outer edge of the input member 20. The light-emitting region has a first light-emitting portion E1 configured to indicate identification information assigned to a plurality of input devices 10 connected to the information processing device, and a second light-emitting portion E2 configured to emit light based on information different from the identification information. This enhances the visibility of the first light-emitting portion E1 and the second light-emitting portion E2.

[0181] The input device 10 includes an upper housing portion 41 with an opening, an input member 20 disposed inside the opening and having an upper surface that can be touched by a user's fingers, and a light-diffusing member 71 disposed along the outer edge of the input member 20 and having a light-emitting surface 71e. The light-emitting surface 71e has a first region 71g exposed through the gap between the inner edge of the opening of the upper housing portion 41 and the outer edge of the input member 20, and a second region 71h located inside the outer edge of the input member 20 and below the peripheral portion 21a of the input member 20. Thus, the visibility of the light-emitting surface 71e can be enhanced without changing the gap between the outer edge of the input member 20 and the inner edge of the opening 41h, and the appearance of the input device 10 can be further enhanced.

Claims

1. An input device, comprising: A first external member having a first opening formed therein; The second outer member has a second opening formed therein, wherein the second outer member covers the first outer member; The input lever is movable within the first and second openings; and The buffer member is attached to the inner edge of the first opening and separated from the second outer member, and is made of a material different from the material of the inner edge of the first opening and the material of the outer peripheral surface of the input rod.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein, The material of the buffer member is a material with a rigidity lower than that of the inner edge of the opening of the outer member and the material of the outer peripheral surface of the input rod.

3. The input device according to claim 1, in, The buffer member is disposed on the inner edge of the opening and has a contact surface that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the input rod. The contact surface is continuously formed over the entire circumference of the inner edge of the opening.

4. The input device according to claim 1, in, The buffer member is attached to the inner edge of the opening, and The movement of the buffer member in the circumferential direction of the opening is restricted.

5. The input device according to claim 1, wherein, One of the buffer member and the inner edge of the opening has a plurality of joints arranged in the circumferential direction of the opening and fitted into the other of the buffer member and the inner edge of the opening.

6. The input device according to claim 1, wherein, The buffer member is made of a material with a rigidity lower than that of the outer peripheral surface of the input rod, and is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the input rod.

Images