input device

Abstract

The input device of the present disclosure includes a first fixed electrode, a second fixed electrode electrically insulated from the first fixed electrode, an elastic body having electrical conductivity located above the first fixed electrode and the second fixed electrode, a movable member located above the elastic body to press the elastic body against the first fixed electrode, and an insulating layer located between the first fixed electrode and the elastic body to insulate the first fixed electrode and the elastic body from each other, with the second fixed electrode and the elastic body in contact with each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to input devices, and more specifically, to input devices used as pressure sensors. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an input device comprising an operating part (movable member) and multiple capacitive pressure sensors. Each pressure sensor includes an electrode, a pressing part, an insulator, and an elastic body. The insulator and the elastic body are disposed between the electrode and the pressing part. When the elastic body is pressed by the pressing part, the capacitive capacitance of the multiple pressure sensors increases with the increase of the pressing amount.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 230517 Summary of the Invention

[0006] In the structure of the input device described in Patent Document 1, the size of the electrostatic capacitance formed in the pressure sensor is sometimes insufficient. If the electrostatic capacitance is small, the change in electrostatic capacitance when the elastic body is pressed also becomes small, making it difficult to capture the change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0007] An input device according to one aspect of this disclosure includes: a first fixed electrode; a second fixed electrode electrically insulated from the first fixed electrode; an elastomer having conductivity and located above the first fixed electrode and the second fixed electrode; a movable member located above the elastomer and pressing the elastomer toward the first fixed electrode; and an insulating layer located between the first fixed electrode and the elastomer, insulating the first fixed electrode and the elastomer from each other, wherein the second fixed electrode and the elastomer are in contact with each other.

[0008] The input device disclosed herein is easy to capture changes in electrostatic capacitance. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 Is with Figure 1 The cross-sectional diagram corresponding to section II-II shows the state before force is applied to the input device as described above.

[0011] Figure 3 Is with Figure 1 The cross-sectional diagram corresponding to section II-II shows the state of the force applied to the input device as described above.

[0012] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view taken from the top of the input device.

[0013] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view taken from the lower side of the main part of the input device.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the input device involved in Variation Example 1.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the input device involved in Variation Example 2. Detailed Implementation

[0016] (Implementation Method)

[0017] The following description uses the accompanying drawings to illustrate the input device 1 according to the embodiments. However, the following embodiments are only one of the various embodiments of this disclosure. Various changes can be made to the design, etc., as long as the purpose of this disclosure is achieved. Furthermore, the figures described in the following embodiments are schematic figures, and the size and thickness ratios of the constituent elements in the figures do not necessarily reflect the actual size ratios.

[0018] Furthermore, in this disclosure, terms such as "up," "down," "above," and "below" are used to indicate direction, but these only indicate relative positional relationships and do not limit this disclosure.

[0019] (1) Summary

[0020] Input device 1 functions as a pressure sensor. Input device 1 outputs a signal corresponding to the magnitude of the pressure applied to it. Input device 1 can be used, for example, as an input device to various electronic devices. Specifically, for example, input device 1 is held in electronic device 100 (reference...). Figure 2 The control unit 101 of the electronic device 100 outputs input signals to the control unit 101 housed within the housing of the electronic device 100 based on the input signals from the input device 1. The control unit 101, as described here, uses a computer system with one or more processors and one or more memories as its main structure. In the control unit 101, the functions of each part of the control unit 101 are realized by executing programs recorded in memory through one or more processors. The programs can be pre-recorded in memory, provided via electrical communication lines such as the Internet, or recorded on non-temporary recording media such as memory cards.

[0021] like Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, the input device 1 of this embodiment includes a first fixed electrode 7, a second fixed electrode 8, an elastic body 5, and a movable member 2. The second fixed electrode 8 and the first fixed electrode 7 are electrically insulated from each other. The elastic body 5 is conductive. Viewed from above, the elastic body 5 is arranged to overlap with the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8. Furthermore, the term "above" in this disclosure refers to... Figure 4 Above the movable member 2, the movable member 2 includes a pressure-receiving portion 311 to which force is applied. When force is applied to the pressure-receiving portion 311, the movable member 2 pushes the elastic body 5 towards the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8. The first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 are electrically insulated from each other by an insulating layer. In this embodiment, the input device 1 includes an insulating sheet 6, which functions as an insulating layer. The second fixed electrode 8 is in contact with the elastic body 5.

[0022] In the input device 1, the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 constitute a capacitor. In other words, a static capacitance C1 is formed between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5. That is, a static capacitance C1 corresponding to the thickness L1 of the insulating layer (insulating sheet 6) is formed between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5. Furthermore, the elastic body 5 is electrically connected to the second fixed electrode 8, for example, by contacting it. That is, the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 are connected via the capacitor of the static capacitance C1.

[0023] When a force is applied to the pressure-bearing portion 311 of the movable member 2, the elastic body 5 deforms, thereby changing the static capacitance C1. The static capacitance C1 can be measured by using the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 as terminals for measurement. Since the static capacitance C1 is a value corresponding to the force (pressure) applied to the pressure-bearing portion 311, the force applied to the pressure-bearing portion 311 can be determined based on the static capacitance C1.

[0024] Various methods known in the past can be used to measure the electrostatic capacitance C1. For example, a switched capacitor method can be used. In the switched capacitor method, the electrostatic capacitance (change) of the target capacitor is measured based on the amount of charge accumulated in the target capacitor (here, a capacitor with the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 as opposing electrodes). For example, the switched capacitor method alternately performs a charging process to charge the target capacitor and a discharging process to discharge the target capacitor and charge the determination capacitor with the charge accumulated in the target capacitor during a given time period. The charging and discharging are performed via the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 of the input device 1. If the voltage across the determination capacitor reaches a predetermined value, the discharging process ends and the charging process begins. That is, the larger the electrostatic capacitance of the target capacitor, the more times the voltage across the determination capacitor reaches the predetermined value within a given time. Therefore, the electrostatic capacitance of the target capacitor can be measured based on the number of times the voltage across the determination capacitor reaches the predetermined value within a given time.

[0025] As a comparative example of the input device with respect to the input device 1 of this embodiment, consider the structure in which the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 are electrically insulated from each other by an insulating layer. In the comparative example's input device, the electrostatic capacitance C measured by using the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 as terminals for measurement is characterized by [Mathematical Formula 1].

[0026] [Mathematical Expression 1] C = C1 × C2 / (C1 + C2)

[0027] Here, C1 is the electrostatic capacitance between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5, and C2 is the electrostatic capacitance between the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastic body 5. When C1 and C2 > 0, the relationship C < C1 holds.

[0028] In the input device 1 of this embodiment, the electrostatic capacitance C1 measured by using the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 as terminals for measurement is larger than the electrostatic capacitance in the input device of the comparative example. Therefore, in the input device 1 of this embodiment, it becomes easier to capture changes in electrostatic capacitance.

[0029] Furthermore, in the comparative example input device, increasing the electrostatic capacitance by increasing the area of ​​the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the elastic body 5 can sometimes be difficult to achieve due to the size limitations of the input device. In the structure of the input device 1 of this embodiment, the electrostatic capacitance can be increased without increasing the size compared to the comparative example input device.

[0030] Furthermore, it is sufficient for the second fixed electrode 8 to be in contact with the elastomer 5; an electrical connection between the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 is not necessary. For example, if an oxide film is formed on the surface of the second fixed electrode 8 by oxygen in the air (i.e., if the second fixed electrode 8 contains an oxide film), the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 are electrically insulated by the oxide film. In this case, a capacitance C2 is formed between the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5. The thickness of the oxide film is typically several nm, extremely thin, and the capacitance C2 becomes a very large value. In the case of an oxide film, the capacitance C measured by using the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 as terminals for measurement is characterized by [Mathematical Formula 1]. However, in this case, compared to the case where an insulating layer separate from the second fixed electrode 8 is provided between the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5, the capacitance C2 becomes very large. Therefore, according to [Mathematical Formula 1], the capacitance C is larger than the capacitance in the input device of the comparative example. Therefore, since an oxide film can be formed on the surface of the second fixed electrode 8, it is not necessary to provide an oxidation suppression plating or the like on the second fixed electrode 8, which can reduce costs.

[0031] Furthermore, there is a possibility that contact resistance may form between the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5. However, since the measurement of electrostatic capacitance, such as in switched capacitor methods, is generally performed using AC signals, the measurement is less susceptible to the influence of contact resistance. Therefore, since the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 do not necessarily need to be conductive, it is not necessary to provide plating or other methods to improve conductivity on the second fixed electrode 8, thus reducing costs. In addition, since the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 do not necessarily need to be conductive, the magnitude of the voltage applied to the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 can be reduced.

[0032] Furthermore, as detailed later, the input device 1 provides a click sensation (appropriate sensation) to the operating body U1 (operator) that applies force to the pressure-bearing part 311 by bending a portion of the movable member 2. The input device 1 also includes a third fixed electrode 9 as a structure for detecting the presence or absence of bending.

[0033] (2) Details

[0034] The following is for reference Figures 1-5 The input device 1 of this embodiment will be described in more detail. In addition to the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, the third fixed electrode 9, the insulating sheet 6, the elastic body 5, and the movable member 2, the input device 1 also includes an outer cover 10 and a pressing member 13.

[0035] In the following description, the side where the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 are arranged as viewed from the movable member 2 is designated as "bottom," and the side where the movable member 2 is arranged as viewed from the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 is designated as "top." However, this designation is not intended to limit the direction of use of the input device 1. The movable member 2 is arranged below the pressing member 13. The elastic body 5 is arranged below the movable member 2. The insulating sheet 6, the first fixed electrode 7, and the second fixed electrode 8 are arranged below the elastic body 5. The third fixed electrode 9 is arranged below the movable member 2 and opposite to the movable member 2.

[0036] (2.1) Outer cover

[0037] The outer cover 10 has a cover portion 11 and a main body 12. The cover portion 11 and the main body 12 are combined to form a receiving space. The outer cover 10 houses the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, the third fixed electrode 9, the insulating sheet 6, the elastic body 5, the movable member 2, and the pressing member 13 in the receiving space.

[0038] The main body 12 is rectangular in shape. The main body 12 has a recess 120 that opens onto one side (the upper surface). The cover 11 is membrane-like, resembling a quadrilateral (e.g., a rectangle) when viewed from above. The term "rectangle" encompasses both squares and rectangles. The cover 11 is mounted to the main body 12 such that it covers the opening of the recess 120 of the main body 12.

[0039] A blocking member 122 is provided on the side of the recess 120 of the main body 12. Viewed from above, the blocking member 122 is annular (rectangular frame). As will be described later, the blocking member 122 restricts the movement of the movable member 2.

[0040] The main body 12 also has a pedestal portion 123. The pedestal portion 123 protrudes from the bottom surface 121 of the recess 120. The pedestal portion 123 protrudes from the center of the bottom surface 121. The pedestal portion 123 is cylindrical in shape.

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, the cover 11 has a first surface 111 (upper surface) and a second surface 112 (lower surface). The second surface 112 is the surface opposite to the pressing member 13 and the movable member 2. The first surface 111 is the surface opposite to the second surface 112.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, the receiving recess 113 is formed by the cover portion 11. More specifically, the receiving recess 113 is formed near the center of the lower surface (second surface 112) of the cover portion 11. The receiving recess 113 accommodates the pressing member 13.

[0043] The cover 11 has an operating portion 114. The operating portion 114 is part of the upper surface (first surface 111) of the cover 11. More specifically, the operating portion 114 is located near the center of the first surface 111. The operating portion 114 is a protrusion. Operating body U1 (e.g., a human fingertip; see reference) Figure 3 The operating part 114 applies force to the cover part 11.

[0044] The cover 11 and the body 12 are electrically insulating. The cover 11 and the body 12 are formed, for example, from a synthetic resin.

[0045] The cover 11 is flexible. As a result, the operating body U1 can apply force to the pressing member 13 housed in the outer cover 10 via the cover 11. That is, if the operating body U1 applies force from above to the operating part 114 of the cover 11, the cover 11 deforms while the pressing member 13 moves downward.

[0046] Additionally, the input device 1 preferably includes an operation panel configured to cover the cover portion 11. Operation body U1 (reference) Figure 3 It is preferable that the force is applied to the cover 11 not in direct contact with the cover 11, but through the operating plate.

[0047] (2.2) Pressing element

[0048] The pressing member 13 is cylindrical in shape. The pressing member 13 is electrically insulating. The pressing member 13 is disposed between the cover 11 and the movable member 2. The pressing member 13 is fixed to the cover 11 or the movable member 2. The pressing member 13 is intended to be fixed to the cover 11. The pressing member 13 transmits the force applied to the cover 11 to the movable member 2.

[0049] (2.3) Movable components

[0050] The movable component 2 has a click component 3 and a movable electrode 4.

[0051] Clickable component 3 includes a first plate 31 and a second plate 32. Both the first plate 31 and the second plate 32 are disc-shaped. The first plate 31 and the second plate 32 overlap and are mechanically connected to each other. Alternatively, clickable component 3 may contain only one of the first plate 31 or the second plate 32.

[0052] The click member 3 is conductive. In this embodiment, the click member 3 comprises an elastic plate. The click member 3 comprises, for example, a metal plate such as stainless steel (SUS). The click member 3 is disc-shaped. The click member 3 is a so-called metal dome. The click member 3 is formed with its central portion bent into a dome shape that convexes away from the movable electrode 4.

[0053] The area along the outer edge of the click member 3 contacts the movable electrode 4. Thus, the click member 3 is electrically connected to the movable electrode 4. Furthermore, the click member 3 is electrically connected to the elastic body 5 via the movable electrode 4. Subsequently, the click member 3 is positioned opposite the third fixed electrode 9.

[0054] The click member 3 has a pressure-receiving portion 311 that is subjected to force from the pressing member 13. The pressure-receiving portion 311 is the contact surface with the pressing member 13 and is the central portion of the click member 3. The click member 3 is sandwiched between the pressing member 13 and the movable electrode 4.

[0055] In this embodiment, the click member 3 is configured to perform a flipping action in response to the force applied to the pressing member 13. Specifically, the click member 3 has the following characteristics: as the load on the pressing member 13 increases from the click member 3, until the applied force reaches a given magnitude, if the applied force reaches the given magnitude, the click member 3 bends at the bending portion 301, and the load on the pressing member 13 from the click member 3 decreases. This provides the operating body U1 (operator) with a click sensation.

[0056] That is, the click member 3 has a bent portion 301. The term "bent portion" as used in this disclosure refers to the boundary between a convex and a concave portion that occurs when the click member 3 is bent (flipped) by applying a force greater than a given magnitude. The term "convex portion" here refers to... Figure 3The outer periphery (area far from the center) of the click component 3, the so-called "recess," contains... Figure 3 The area at the center of the click component 3. When no force is applied to the click component 3, the bent portion 301 can be indistinguishable from other portions of the click component 3 in appearance.

[0057] The bending portion 301 is located around the central part (compression portion 311) of the click member 3. When viewed from above and below, the area occupied by the bending portion 301 is an annular area. The bending portion 301 is located on both the first plate 31 and the second plate 32.

[0058] If the pressure-bearing part 311 is pushed by a force greater than a given magnitude, the clicked component 3 will deform (bend) at the bending portion 301, thereby causing the clicked component 3 to flex. As an example, the clicked component 3... Figure 3 As shown, the deformation is a dome shape in which the central part (pressure-bearing part 311) of the click member 3 protrudes in a direction away from the pressing member 13 (downward). This is achieved through... Figure 3 The bending part 301 deforms in this way, reducing the load on the pressing part 13 from the clicking component 3.

[0059] As the click member 3 bends at the bending portion 301, the distance between the pressure-bearing portion 311 of the click member 3 and the third fixed electrode 9 changes. More specifically, as the click member 3 bends at the bending portion 301, the pressure-bearing portion 311 moves closer to the third fixed electrode 9.

[0060] Furthermore, if the force applied to the pressure portion 311 is released, the click component 3 returns to its shape before the force was applied.

[0061] The movable electrode 4 is formed of metal. The movable electrode 4 is conductive. The movable electrode 4 is constructed of sheet metal. The movable electrode 4 is frame-shaped. The outer periphery of the movable electrode 4 is rectangular. The movable electrode 4 has a through hole 40 in its center. The through hole 40 is circular. The movable electrode 4 is sandwiched between the elastic body 5 and the click member 3.

[0062] The elastic modulus of the movable electrode 4 is greater than that of the elastic body 5. That is, the elastic modulus of the movable member 2 is greater than that of the elastic body 5, and the movable member 2 has a pressing member (movable electrode 4) that pushes the elastic body 5 if a force is applied to the pressure portion 311.

[0063] (2.4) Elastomer

[0064] The elastomer 5 is a conductive rubber. More specifically, the elastomer 5 is formed by uniformly dispersing conductive particles such as carbon particles in a rubber that serves as an insulator.

[0065] The elastomer 5 is integrally formed in a plate shape. Viewed in the thickness direction, the outer periphery of the elastomer 5 is rectangular. The elastomer 5 has a hole 50 at its center. The through hole 50 is circular in shape. A pedestal portion 123 of the main body 12 is disposed inside the through hole 50.

[0066] The elastomer 5 has a base 51 and a plurality of ( Figure 5 There are 8 protrusions 52. The base 51 is plate-shaped. The outer periphery of the base 51 is rectangular. Multiple protrusions 52 protrude from one of the two surfaces of the base 51 in the thickness direction. The surface of the base 51 without multiple protrusions 52 is in contact with the movable electrode 4.

[0067] Multiple protrusions 52 are arranged circumferentially on the base 51. More specifically, protrusions 52 are provided at positions corresponding to the four sides of the rectangular base 51 and at positions corresponding to the four corners.

[0068] The elastomer 5 contacts the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 at multiple protrusions 52. Because the elastomer 5 does not contact the base 51, but contacts the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 at multiple protrusions 52, the contact state between the elastomer 5 and the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 is stable.

[0069] If a force is applied to the pressure portion 311 of the movable member 2, the elastic body 5 is compressed in the vertical direction due to the force exerted on the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4). If the force is released, the elastic body 5 returns to its shape before the force was applied.

[0070] (2.5) Insulating sheet

[0071] The insulating sheet 6 has electrical insulation properties. The general shape of the insulating sheet 6 is a rectangular plate. The insulating sheet 6 has a through hole 60 in its central portion. The through hole 60 is circular in shape. A pedestal portion 123 of the main body 12 is disposed inside the through hole 60. Furthermore, the insulating sheet 6 has a notch 61. The notch 61 is located at one of the four corners of the insulating sheet 6.

[0072] (2.6) Fixed electrode

[0073] The first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 each comprise a conductive metal plate. The first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 are electrically insulated from each other. The first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 output an electrical signal containing information related to the change in the electrostatic capacitance C1 between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastomer 5.

[0074] Furthermore, a static capacitance C3 corresponding to the distance L2 between the third fixed electrode 9 and the click member 3 is formed. As described later, the first fixed electrode 7 and the third fixed electrode 9 output an electrical signal containing information related to the change in the combined capacitance of the static capacitance C1 between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastomer 5 and the static capacitance C3 between the third fixed electrode 9 and the click member 3.

[0075] The first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 are integrated with the main body 12 by insert molding. That is, the main body 12 is molded with the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 as inserts. The first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 are located below the elastomer 5.

[0076] The first fixed electrode 7 has a first end 71, a second end 72, and a connecting portion 73. The connecting portion 73 is formed in an arc shape connecting the first end 71 and the second end 72. The first fixed electrode 7 is formed such that the structure including the first end 71, the second end 72, and the connecting portion 73 is C-shaped. In other words, the shape of the first fixed electrode 7 is such that a notch 75 and a through hole 76 are cut from a generally square shape. The first end 71, the second end 72, and the connecting portion 73 are disposed around the pedestal portion 123 of the main body 12. The first end 71, the second end 72, and the connecting portion 73 are exposed from the bottom surface 121 of the recess 120 of the main body 12.

[0077] Furthermore, the first fixed electrode 7 has multiple ( Figure 4 Two of them are first terminals 74. Each first terminal 74 passes through the main body 12 and is exposed on the outside of the main body 12.

[0078] The second fixed electrode 8 has a tongue 81 and a second terminal 82. The tongue 81 protrudes from the bottom surface 121 of the recess 120 of the body 12. The second terminal 82 penetrates the body 12 and protrudes from the outside of the body 12.

[0079] The first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 are disposed on the same plane. More specifically, the first end 71, the second end 72 and the connecting portion 73 of the first fixed electrode 7 and the tongue portion 81 of the second fixed electrode 8 are disposed on the same plane.

[0080] As viewed from above, the second fixed electrode 8 is positioned where it does not overlap with the first fixed electrode 7. The second fixed electrode 8 is positioned near the first end 71 and the second end 72. More specifically, the second fixed electrode 8 is positioned such that the tongue 81 is adjacent to the first end 71 and the second end 72. That is, the second fixed electrode 8 is positioned within the notch 75 of the first fixed electrode 7.

[0081] The area of ​​the region where the first fixed electrode 7 overlaps with the elastomer 5 (first end 71, second end 72 and connecting part 73) when viewed from above is larger than the area of ​​the region where the second fixed electrode 8 overlaps with the elastomer 5 (tongue part 81) when viewed from above.

[0082] The third fixed electrode 9 has an electrode portion 91 and a third terminal 92. The electrode portion 91 is configured to protrude from the upper surface of the pedestal portion 123 of the main body 12. The electrode portion 91 has its central portion 911 protruding more than its surrounding area. The electrode portion 91 is disposed below the click member 3. The electrode portion 91 faces the click member 3. More specifically, the electrode portion 91 faces the click member 3 via a through hole 40 of the movable electrode 4. The third terminal 92 passes through the main body 12 and protrudes from the outside of the main body 12.

[0083] Multiple first terminals 74, second terminals 82, and third terminals 92 are mechanically joined and electrically connected, for example, to conductive components on a printed circuit board by soldering.

[0084] like Figure 2 As shown, an insulating sheet 6 is sandwiched between the connecting portion 73 of the first fixed electrode 7 and a portion of the plurality of protrusions 52 of the elastic body 5. Thus, the first fixed electrode 7 is electrically insulated relative to the elastic body 5. Several of the plurality of protrusions 52 are located above the first fixed electrode 7 and are in contact with the first fixed electrode 7 through the insulating sheet 6 (insulating layer), but the protrusions 52 and the first fixed electrode are electrically insulated from each other through the insulating sheet 6.

[0085] At least a portion of the tongue 81 of the second fixed electrode 8 overlaps with the notch 61 of the insulating sheet 6 when viewed from above. An elastomer 5 is disposed above the insulating sheet 6. One of the plurality of protrusions 52 of the elastomer 5, a protrusion 52a, is configured to overlap with the notch 61 of the insulating sheet 6 when viewed from above. Therefore, the tongue 81 and the protrusion 52a of the second fixed electrode 8 are in direct contact with each other. Through this structure, the second fixed electrode 8 is electrically connected to the elastomer 5. The protrusion 52a has a further protruding convex portion 521 on its lower surface (see reference). Figure 5 At least a portion of the second fixed electrode 8 is in contact with the elastomer 5 through the insulating sheet 6. That is, a portion of the second fixed electrode 8 is in contact with a portion of the insulating sheet 6.

[0086] (2.7) Electronic equipment

[0087] like Figure 2As shown, the input device 1 is used, for example, with the electronic device 100. The electronic device 100 processes the input signal from the input device 1. As a result, the electronic device 100 measures the electrostatic capacitance C1 between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5. Furthermore, the electronic device 100 detects whether the click member 3 has bent at the bending portion 301 by processing the input signal from the input device 1. That is, the electronic device 100 detects the presence or absence of deformation of the click member 3 by processing the input signal from the input device 1.

[0088] The electronic device 100 includes a control unit 101, a first terminal unit T1, a second terminal unit T2, and a third terminal unit T3.

[0089] The control unit 101 processes the input signals from the input device 1 received via the first terminal T1, the second terminal T2, and the third terminal T3. The first terminal T1 is electrically connected to the first fixed electrode 7. The second terminal T2 is electrically connected to the second fixed electrode 8. The third terminal T3 is electrically connected to the third fixed electrode 9.

[0090] A capacitor with a first fixed electrode 7 and an elastic body 5 as opposing electrodes is connected in the circuit between the first terminal T1 and the second terminal T2. That is, the first terminal T1 is electrically connected to the first fixed electrode 7, the first fixed electrode 7 is opposed to the elastic body 5 through the insulating sheet 6, the elastic body 5 is electrically connected to the second fixed electrode 8, and the second fixed electrode 8 is electrically connected to the second terminal T2.

[0091] A series circuit is connected between the first terminal T1 and the third terminal T3, consisting of a capacitor with the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 as opposing electrodes, and a capacitor with the third fixed electrode 9 and the click member 3 as opposing electrodes. Specifically, the first terminal T1 is electrically connected to the first fixed electrode 7, which is positioned opposite the elastic body 5 via an insulating sheet 6. Furthermore, the elastic body 5 is electrically connected to the click member 3 via a movable electrode 4, the click member 3 is positioned opposite the third fixed electrode 9, and the third fixed electrode 9 is electrically connected to the third terminal T3.

[0092] One of the groups of the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 is connected to ground. In this embodiment, the first terminal T1 is a conductive electrode, and the second terminal T2 and the third terminal T3 are ground electrodes. Therefore, the group of the second fixed electrode 8 and the third fixed electrode 9 is connected to ground. In this case, since the click member 3 is connected to ground via the second fixed electrode 8, the click member 3 can be used as a shield, and noise can be suppressed. Alternatively, the first terminal T1 may be a ground electrode, the second terminal T2 and the third terminal T3 may be conductive electrodes, and the first fixed electrode 7 may be connected to ground.

[0093] (3) Example of an action

[0094] The following describes how input device 1 is fed from operating body U1 (reference). Figure 3 Examples of actions when subjected to force.

[0095] The movable electrode 4 supports the click member 3, and the click member 3 presses the movable electrode 4 downward in response to the force from the operating body U1. Furthermore, if the magnitude of the force from the operating body U1 is greater than a given magnitude, the click member 3 bends at the bending portion 301.

[0096] If the movable electrode 4 is pressed in by a force applied from the operating body U1, the elastic body 5 is compressed in the vertical direction, deforming and expanding in a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction. Due to the deformation of the elastic body 5, the electrostatic capacitance C1 between the elastic body 5 and the first fixed electrode 7 changes. Furthermore, the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 output analog electrical signals containing information related to the change in electrostatic capacitance C1. The control unit 101 of the electronic device 100 measures the electrostatic capacitance C1 based on the aforementioned electrical signals. Furthermore, the control unit 101 determines the magnitude of the force applied to the input device 1 based on the electrostatic capacitance C1. Alternatively, the control unit 101 can also directly determine the magnitude of the force applied to the input device 1 based on the aforementioned electrical signals output from the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8.

[0097] If the force applied from the operating body U1 is greater than a given value, the click member 3 bends at the bending portion 301, and the click member 3 moves closer to the third fixed electrode 9. As a result, the electrostatic capacitance C3 between the third fixed electrode 9 and the click member 3 changes. Then, the first fixed electrode 7 and the third fixed electrode 9 output analog electrical signals containing information related to the change in electrostatic capacitance C3. More specifically, the first fixed electrode 7 and the third fixed electrode 9 output electrical signals containing information corresponding to the combined capacitance of electrostatic capacitance C1 and electrostatic capacitance C3. The control unit 101 of the electronic device 100 measures the electrostatic capacitance C3, or the combined capacitance of electrostatic capacitance C1 and electrostatic capacitance C3, based on the aforementioned electrical signals. Furthermore, the control unit 101 detects whether the click member 3 has bent based on the obtained electrostatic capacitance C3 or combined capacitance. For example, the control unit 101 detects that the bending portion 301 has bent if the obtained electrostatic capacitance C3 or combined capacitance exceeds a given threshold.

[0098] In addition, in this embodiment, if the clicking member 3 bends at the bending portion 301, the clicking member 3 will contact the third fixed electrode 9. However, if the clicking member 3 bends at the bending portion 301, the clicking member 3 may not contact the third fixed electrode 9.

[0099] Thus, the control unit 101 detects the magnitude of the force applied to the input device 1 and the presence or absence of bending of the click member 3. Based on the detection results, the control unit 101 can determine the operation state (operation input) performed by the operating body U1. The operation inputs that the control unit 101 can determine may include, for example, touch operations, push operations, and click operations on the input device 1. A touch operation refers to a state where the magnitude of the operation load is below a given value and the click member 3 is not bent at the bending portion 301. A push operation refers to a state where the magnitude of the operation load is greater than the given value and the click member 3 is not bent at the bending portion 301. A click operation refers to a state where the click member 3 is bent at the bending portion 301 (a state that produces a click sensation).

[0100] The control unit 101 determines which operation input corresponds to the operation input performed on the input device 1, and outputs the control signal corresponding to that operation state to the outside (other circuit modules, etc.).

[0101] (4) Blocking components

[0102] Corresponding to the force applied to the pressure portion 311 of the click member 3, the elastic body 5 is compressed in the vertical direction. Here, the amount of compression of the elastic body 5 is constrained by the blocking member 122 of the main body 12.

[0103] like Figure 2 As shown, when no force is applied to the pressure-bearing part 311, the elastic body 5 is in a non-compressible state. At this time, the movable electrode 4, which is sandwiched between the elastic body 5 and the click member 3, is positioned vertically with a gap relative to the blocking member 122 disposed below the movable electrode 4.

[0104] If a force is applied to the pressure-bearing part 311, the movable electrode 4 moves downward while the elastic body 5 is compressed. That is, the movable electrode 4 moves closer to the blocking member 122. If the magnitude of the force exceeds a certain value, it will... Figure 3 As shown, the movable electrode 4 contacts the blocking member 122. Therefore, the movement of the movable electrode 4 is constrained. That is, the movable electrode 4 cannot move further downward. Furthermore, by constraining the downward movement of the movable electrode 4, the compression amount of the elastomer 5 is constrained.

[0105] That is, the blocking member 122 restricts the movement of the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4) to prevent the elastic body 5, which is pushed by the movable member 2, from being compressed to a thickness below a given value. In other words, when the movement of the movable member 2 is blocked by the blocking member 122, the blocking member 122 restricts the movement of the movable member 2 so that the thickness of the compressed elastic body 5 is compressed only to a given thickness. The given thickness is approximately equal to the distance between the bottom surface 121 of the recess 120 and the upper surface of the blocking member 122.

[0106] By providing a blocking member 122 to the input device 1, the load on the elastomer 5 exceeding a certain magnitude can be suppressed, thereby preventing the deterioration of the elastomer 5. In other words, the lifespan of the elastomer 5 can be extended. Furthermore, since the stroke (range of movement) of the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4) is constrained, the operating feel of the input device 1 is stabilized.

[0107] The blocking member 122 restricts the movement of the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4) by contacting at least a region along its outer edge. Furthermore, the blocking member 122 also restricts movement by contacting an imaginary line V1 (reference) within the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4) surrounding the center (through hole 40) of the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4). Figure 5 Multiple contact points arranged on the movable member 2 (movable electrode 4) constrain the movement of the movable member 2. Here, the imaginary line V1 is a rectangular line along the outer edge of the rectangular movable electrode 4. The movable electrode 4 contacts the blocking member 122 at least on each of its four sides. In this structure, compared to the case where the blocking member 122 and the movable electrode 4 only contact at one point, the movable electrode 4 is less likely to tilt. That is, when the blocking member 122 and the movable electrode 4 are in contact, it is easier to maintain the thickness direction of the movable electrode 4 along the vertical direction.

[0108] (Variation Example 1)

[0109] The following uses Figure 6 The input device 1A involved in Modification 1 will be described below. For structures identical to those in the embodiment, the same reference numerals will be used, and descriptions will be omitted.

[0110] The input device 1A of this modified example 1 also includes a switch SW1. Switch SW1 can be a mechanical switch or a semiconductor switch. Switch SW1 has three contacts 201, 202, and 203. Switch SW1 forms a c-contact. Contact 201 is electrically connected to the second terminal T2 of the electronic device 100. Contact 202 is electrically connected to the second fixed electrode 8. Contact 203 is electrically connected to the third fixed electrode 9.

[0111] The switch SW1 is configured to switch between two states: a first state where contacts 201 and 202 are on and contacts 201 and 203 are off; and a second state where contacts 201 and 203 are on and contacts 201 and 202 are off. That is, the input device 1A includes contact 201, which switches between the first state (electrically connected to the second fixed electrode 8) and the second state (electrically connected to the third fixed electrode 9). The switching between the first and second states of switch SW1 is controlled by the control unit 101 of the electronic device 100.

[0112] One of the contact 201 and the first fixed electrode 7 is connected to ground. In this modified example 1, the first terminal T1 is a conductive electrode and the second terminal T2 is a ground electrode. Therefore, the contact 201 is connected to ground. Alternatively, the first terminal T1 may be a ground electrode, the second terminal T2 may be a conductive electrode, and the first fixed electrode 7 may be connected to ground.

[0113] When switch SW1 is in the first state, input device 1 outputs an electrical signal containing information related to the change in electrostatic capacitance C1 between the elastic body 5 and the first fixed electrode 7. Therefore, control unit 101 can detect the magnitude of the force applied to input device 1. On the other hand, when switch SW1 is in the second state, input device 1 outputs an electrical signal containing information related to the change in electrostatic capacitance C3 between the third fixed electrode 9 and the click member 3. Therefore, control unit 101 can detect whether the click member 3 has bent at the bending portion 301.

[0114] That is, by switching the first and second states of switch SW1, input device 1 selectively outputs electrical signals related to the detection of the magnitude of the force applied to input device 1 and electrical signals related to the detection of the bending of click member 3. Control unit 101 may, for example, switch the first and second states of switch SW1 whenever a given time is performed, or switch the first and second states of switch SW1 in response to operations on the user interface.

[0115] (Variation Example 2)

[0116] The following uses Figure 7 The input device 1B involved in Modification Example 2 will be described below. For structures identical to those in the embodiment, the same reference numerals will be used, and descriptions will be omitted.

[0117] In the input device 1 of this embodiment, the blocking member 122 is disposed on the outer side relative to the elastic body 5. In contrast, in the input device 1B of this modified example 2, the blocking member 122B is disposed on the inner side relative to the elastic body 5. More specifically, the blocking member 122B is formed to surround the pedestal portion 123 of the main body 12. The blocking member 122B is connected to the pedestal portion 123. Viewed from above, the shape of the blocking member 122B follows the shape of the pedestal portion 123 and is annular.

[0118] Similar to the implementation method, the movable electrode 4 moves downward by the force from the operating body U1, compressing the elastic body 5 in the vertical direction. Figure 7 In the diagram, the movable electrode 4 before being moved by an externally applied force is shown in solid line, and the position of the cross-section of the movable electrode 4 after being moved by an external force is shown in dashed line. The movable electrode 4 moves by an operating force and comes into contact with the blocking member 122B. Thus, the movement of the movable electrode 4 is constrained.

[0119] In the movable member 2, the movable electrode 4 (frame-shaped portion) is formed in a frame shape. That is, the movable member 2 has a frame-shaped portion. The blocking member 122B restricts the movement of the movable member 2 by contacting at least a region along the inner edge of the frame-shaped portion. More specifically, the blocking member 122B contacts a region covering the entire circumference of the inner edge of the frame-shaped portion.

[0120] Furthermore, in this modified example 2, a blocking member 122 as described in the embodiment can be provided in the region on the outer side relative to the elastic body 5. That is, the input device 1B can have both a blocking member 122 provided in the region on the outer side relative to the elastic body 5 and a blocking member 122B provided in the region on the inner side.

[0121] (Other variations of the implementation method)

[0122] Other variations of the embodiments are listed below. These variations can be appropriately combined to implement the embodiments. Furthermore, these variations can be appropriately combined with the variations described above.

[0123] The blocking member 122 is not limited to a continuous member in the circumferential direction. The blocking member 122 may include multiple members that are divided in the circumferential direction.

[0124] The second fixed electrode 8 may include multiple components. For example, the second fixed electrode 8 may have a structure equivalent to the second fixed electrode 8 in the embodiment, and also have conductive components formed on its surface.

[0125] An electrically insulating component can be disposed on the opposite surface of the third fixed electrode 9 and the click component 3.

[0126] The movable member 2 may have a click member 3, or it may not have a movable electrode 4. In this case, the click member 3 can be electrically connected to the elastic body 5 without passing through the movable electrode 4 by contacting the elastic body 5.

[0127] The movable member 2 may have a movable electrode 4 or an electrically insulating member that replaces the movable electrode 4; on the other hand, the click member 3 may be omitted. That is, it is not necessary for the movable member 2 to have a bending portion 301. The movable member 2 may be configured to at least push the elastic body 5 toward the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8.

[0128] The input device 1 is not limited to a structure operated by a person as an input device for various electronic devices; for example, it can be used in device position detection. When the device is moved to a given position, a force is applied to the input device 1, which is positioned at the given position, and the operating state of the input device 1 changes.

[0129] The insulating layer between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 is not limited to including the insulating sheet 6. The insulating layer may, for example, contain air. That is, the input device 1 may also have a structure that constrains the positional relationship between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 so as to form an air gap between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5.

[0130] The elastic body 5 can be divided into multiple components. For example, the elastic body 5 can be divided into: a first opposing portion, which is opposed to the first fixed electrode 7 and electrically insulated from the first fixed electrode 7 by an insulating sheet 6 (insulating layer); and a second opposing portion, which is opposed to the second fixed electrode 8 and is in contact with the second fixed electrode 8. In this case, the first opposing portion and the second opposing portion can be directly electrically connected or electrically connected via the movable member 2.

[0131] (Summary)

[0132] Based on the implementation methods described above, the following methods are disclosed.

[0133] The input device 1 (1A, 1B) according to the first method includes: a first fixed electrode 7; a second fixed electrode 8 electrically insulated from the first fixed electrode 7; an elastic body 5 having conductivity and located above the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8; a movable member 2 located above the elastic body 5 and pushing the elastic body 5 toward the first fixed electrode 7; and an insulating sheet 6 located between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5, insulating the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 from each other, and the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastic body 5 in contact with each other.

[0134] According to the above structure, the electrostatic capacitance C1 measured by using the first fixed electrode 7 and the second fixed electrode 8 as terminals for measurement is larger than the electrostatic capacitance measured when the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastomer 5 are electrically insulated from each other by an insulating layer. As a result, it becomes easier to capture changes in electrostatic capacitance.

[0135] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the second method, an oxide film can be formed on the surface of the second fixed electrode 8.

[0136] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the third method, the second fixed electrode 8 and the elastic body 5 are electrically connected to each other.

[0137] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the fourth method, the movable member 2 includes a click member 3, which bends when pushed by a force greater than a given magnitude.

[0138] Based on the above structure, when the operator operates the click component 3, they are given a moderate feeling (click sensation) caused by the bending of the click component 3 at the bending part 301.

[0139] The input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the fifth method also includes a third fixed electrode 9, which is located below the click member 3. The click member 3 is conductive and in contact with the elastic body 5. If the movable member 2 is pushed by a force greater than a given magnitude, the click member 3 bends and a part of the click member 3 approaches the third fixed electrode.

[0140] Based on the above structure, the combined capacitance of the electrostatic capacitance C1 between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastomer 5 and the electrostatic capacitance C3 between the click member 3 and the third fixed electrode 9 can be measured using the first fixed electrode 7 and the third fixed electrode 9. Furthermore, the bending of the click member 3 can be detected based on the measured combined capacitance. Moreover, compared to detecting the bending of the click member 3 by contacting the click member 3 with the third fixed electrode 9 and detecting the continuity between the click member 3 and the third fixed electrode 9, the detection can be performed stably without being affected by contact resistance, etc.

[0141] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the sixth method, the first fixed electrode 7 is electrically connected to ground.

[0142] Based on the above structure, signals can be output from the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 through a simple structure.

[0143] In the input device 1A involved in the seventh method, the output is from either the second fixed electrode 8 or the third fixed electrode 9, and any one of the first fixed electrode 7, the second fixed electrode 8, and the third fixed electrode 9 is connected to ground.

[0144] Based on the above structure, compared with the sixth method, the number of output terminals of the input device 1A is reduced.

[0145] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the eighth method, the area of ​​the region where the first fixed electrode 7 overlaps with the elastic body 5 when viewed from above is larger than the area of ​​the region where the second fixed electrode 8 overlaps with the elastic body 5 when viewed from above.

[0146] Based on the above structure, the electrostatic capacitance C1 between the first fixed electrode 7 and the elastic body 5 becomes relatively large. Therefore, it becomes easier to capture changes in the electrostatic capacitance C1.

[0147] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the ninth method, the first fixed electrode 7 has a notch 75, and the second fixed electrode 8 is disposed in the notch 75 of the first fixed electrode 7.

[0148] Based on the above structure, it is easy to design the area of ​​the first fixed electrode 7 to be larger than the area of ​​the second fixed electrode 8.

[0149] The input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the 10th method further includes: a blocking member 122 (122B) that restricts the movement of the movable member 2. The movable member 2 further includes: a movable electrode 4 located below the click member 3. The blocking member 122 (122B) restricts the movement of the movable electrode 4 toward the elastic body 5 to a fixed position.

[0150] Based on the above structure, the elastic body 5 can be prevented from being subjected to a load of a certain magnitude or greater, thereby preventing the deterioration of the elastic body 5. That is, the lifespan of the elastic body 5 can be extended. In addition, since the stroke (range of movement) of the movable member 2 is constrained, the operating feel of the input device 1 (1A, 1B) is stabilized.

[0151] In the input device 1 (1A) according to the 11th method, based on the 10th method, if the movable electrode 4 presses the elastic body 5, the outer edge of the movable electrode 4 will contact the blocking member 122.

[0152] Based on the above structure, the structure of the blocking member 122 can be made simple.

[0153] In the input device 1B involved in the 12th method, the movable electrode 4 has a through hole 76. If the movable electrode 4 presses the elastic body 5, the periphery of the through hole 76 will contact the blocking member 122B.

[0154] Based on the above structure, the structure of the blocking member 122B can be simplified.

[0155] In the input device 1 (1A, 1B) involved in the 13th method, if the movable electrode 4 presses the elastic body 5, multiple parts of the movable member 2 will come into contact with the blocking member 122 (122B).

[0156] Based on the above structure, compared with the case where the blocking member 122 (122B) and the movable member 2 only contact at part 1, the movable member 2 is more difficult to tilt.

[0157] Regarding structures other than the first method, those structures are not necessary for input devices 1 (1A, 1B) and can be appropriately omitted.

[0158] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0159] 1. Input devices 1A and 1B

[0160] 2. Movable components

[0161] 3 Click on the component

[0162] 4. Movable electrode (frame-shaped part)

[0163] 40, 50, 60 through holes

[0164] 5. Elastomers

[0165] 6 Insulating sheets

[0166] 61 gap

[0167] 7. First fixed electrode

[0168] 8. Second fixed electrode

[0169] 9. Third fixed electrode

[0170] 10 Outer Cover

[0171] 71 First End

[0172] 72 End 2

[0173] 73 Connecting parts

[0174] 74 Terminal 1

[0175] 75 gap

[0176] 76 Through holes

[0177] 122, 122B blocking components

[0178] 201, 202, 203 contacts

[0179] 301 Bending section

[0180] 311 Pressure-bearing section

[0181] V1 Imaginary Line.

Claims

1. An input device comprising: First fixed electrode; The second fixed electrode is electrically insulated from the first fixed electrode; An elastomer, which is conductive, is located above the first fixed electrode and the second fixed electrode; A movable member, located above the elastic body, pushes the elastic body toward the first fixed electrode; and An insulating layer, located between the first fixed electrode and the elastomer, insulates the first fixed electrode and the elastomer from each other. The second fixed electrode and the elastomer are in contact with each other.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein, An oxide film is formed on the surface of the second fixed electrode.

3. The input device according to claim 1, wherein, The second fixed electrode and the elastomer are electrically connected to each other.

4. The input device according to claim 1, wherein, The movable component includes a click component. The click component will bend if it is pushed by a force greater than a given magnitude.

5. The input device according to claim 4, wherein, The input device further includes a third fixed electrode located below the click component. The click component is conductive and comes into contact with the elastomer. If the movable member is pushed by a force greater than the given magnitude, the click member bends, and a portion of the click member moves closer to the third fixed electrode.

6. The input device according to claim 5, wherein, The first fixed electrode is electrically connected to ground. Alternatively, the second fixed electrode and the third fixed electrode are electrically connected to ground.

7. The input device according to claim 5, wherein, Output from either the second fixed electrode or the third fixed electrode. Any of the first fixed electrode, the second fixed electrode, and the third fixed electrode is connected to ground.

8. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The area where the first fixed electrode overlaps with the elastomer, as viewed from above, is larger than the area where the second fixed electrode overlaps with the elastomer, as viewed from above.

9. The input device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The first fixed electrode has a notch. The second fixed electrode is disposed in the notch of the first fixed electrode.

10. The input device according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein, The input device further includes: a blocking member that restricts the movement of the movable member. The movable component further includes: a movable electrode located below the click component. The blocking member constrains the movement of the movable electrode toward the elastomer to a fixed position.

11. The input device according to claim 10, wherein, If the movable electrode presses against the elastic body, the outer edge of the movable electrode comes into contact with the blocking member.

12. The input device according to claim 10, wherein, The movable electrode has a through hole. If the movable electrode presses against the elastic body, the periphery of the through hole contacts the blocking member.

13. The input device according to claim 10, wherein, If the movable electrode presses against the elastic body, then multiple parts of the movable member come into contact with the blocking member.

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