vibration actuator

Abstract

A vibration actuator of the present application has: a case; a first movable portion having a magnet portion and being freely reciprocally movable in a vibration direction along an axial direction within the case by first elastic support portions joined to both ends of the magnet portion spaced apart in the axial direction; and a second movable portion having a coil portion coaxially disposed around the magnet portion in a manner of surrounding the magnet portion and being freely reciprocally movable in the vibration direction at an outer periphery of the first movable portion within the case by second elastic support portions joined to both ends of the coil portion spaced apart in the axial direction, the vibration actuator generating vibration by energizing the coil portion to drive the first movable portion and the second movable portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to vibration actuators. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, electronic devices with vibration functionality have incorporated vibration actuators as the source of vibration. These actuators transmit vibrations to the user, allowing the user to feel the vibrations and thus providing stimulation, such as notifications of incoming calls, or enhancing the sense of operation and realism. Furthermore, electronic devices primarily include handheld electrical devices such as portable gaming terminals, controllers (gamepads) for stationary gaming consoles, mobile phones, smartphones, and other mobile communication terminals, as well as tablet PCs and other mobile information terminals. Additionally, vibration actuators are sometimes also installed in wearable devices attached to clothing, arms, or other similar items.

[0003] Vibration actuators, which are miniaturized structures that can be installed on mobile devices, include, for example, the actuator with a linear reciprocating mechanism shown in Patent Document 1.

[0004] The actuator has: a movable part with cores disposed on the front and back of a magnet and a shaft inserted and fixed in the direction of the magnet's front and back; and a fixed part having a coil and a yoke for housing the movable part. The coil is arranged to surround the movable part, and leaf springs are provided between the two ends of the shaft and the yoke to support the movable part in a manner that allows it to move freely along the axial direction of the shaft. By energizing the coil, the movable part with the shaft reciprocates linearly and vibrates.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Chinese Patent No. 101944819 Specification Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, in conventional vibration actuators, there is a desire to generate a variety of vibrations while achieving miniaturization, so as to achieve a variety of vibrational expressions as the given tactile sensation.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a vibration actuator that can stably generate a variety of vibration outputs with different frequency bands while achieving miniaturization.

[0011] Solution to the problem

[0012] One embodiment of the vibration actuator of the present invention has the following structure, which includes:

[0013] case;

[0014] A first movable part, having a magnet portion, is configured to reciprocate freely within the housing in the axial vibration direction by means of a first elastic support portion, the first elastic support portion engaging two axially spaced ends of the magnet portion; and

[0015] The second movable part has a coil part coaxially arranged to surround the magnet part, and is arranged within the housing and on the outer periphery of the first movable part, in the vibration direction by means of a second elastic support part, which is engaged with two axially spaced ends of the coil part.

[0016] The vibration actuator generates vibration by energizing the coil section to drive the first movable part and the second movable part.

[0017] Invention Effects

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to stably generate a wide variety of vibration outputs with different frequency bands while achieving miniaturization. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 This is an exploded view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a front view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The AA-line arrow section view.

[0023] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the drive unit of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the first movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the first movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the second movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the second movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the rear side of the second movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic circuit structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the vibration generated by the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating a modified example 1 of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the vibration characteristics of a modified example 1 of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 15 This is a front view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view showing the essential structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the first movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the second movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 19 It means Figure 15 The diagram shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the main structure of the vibration actuator.

[0038] Figure 20 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example 2 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the first movable part of a modified example 2 of the vibration actuator.

[0040] Figure 22 This is a diagram showing the main structure of a modified example 2 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view of a modified example 3 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 24This is a perspective view of the first movable part of the modified example 3 of the vibration actuator.

[0043] Figure 25 This is a diagram showing the essential structure of a modified example 3 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 26 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example 4 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 27 This is an exploded perspective view of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 28 This is a partially exploded perspective view of the drive unit of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 29 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the main structure of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 30 This is a diagram illustrating the joint between the elastic support and the movable part of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator.

[0049] Figure 31 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the main structure of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 32 This is a front side perspective view of the drive unit of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 33 This is a left-side view of the second elastic support portion of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 34 This is a front side perspective view of the second elastic support portion of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] (Implementation Method 1)

[0055] [Overall structure of the vibration actuator]

[0056] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an exploded view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 3 This is a front view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The AA-line arrow cross-sectional view. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the Z1 and Z2 directions are referred to as the "upper" side and "lower" side for ease of understanding, and these directions are collectively referred to as the "Z direction." The X1 and X2 directions are indicated by the "left" side and "right" side, referring to one side and the other side of the vibration direction of the movable body in the vibration actuator; these directions are collectively referred to as the "X direction." The Y1 and Y2 directions represent the "front" side and "rear" side; these directions are collectively referred to as the "Y direction."

[0058] A vibration actuator 1 is installed as a vibration source in an electrical device, including electronic devices such as portable gaming terminals, to realize the vibration function of the electrical device. Such electrical devices also include mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones. The vibration actuator 1, by being installed in various devices such as portable gaming terminals or mobile devices, vibrates to provide a desired tactile sensation, to notify the user of incoming calls, or to provide a sense of operation or realism. The vibration actuator 1 of this embodiment can generate stronger vibrations than a vibration actuator with a single vibration system. Furthermore, the vibration actuator 1 of this embodiment has a basic structure capable of generating vibrations in a desired frequency band within a range from low to high frequencies.

[0059] Vibration actuator 1 Figure 1 The image shows a vibrating body with a rectangular shell 2.

[0060] Figure 3 This is a front view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The AA-line arrow section is a longitudinal section view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator.

[0061] like Figures 2-5 As shown, the vibration actuator 1 has a housing 2 and a drive unit 3 housed within the housing 2. The drive unit 3 has a first movable part 4, a second movable part 6, a first elastic support part 52, 54, and a second elastic support part 72, 74.

[0062] <Shell 2>

[0063] The housing 2 houses the vibration unit 3 and has a box-shaped housing body 22 and a plate portion 24. The housing 2 is formed in a cuboid shape, which makes it easy to mount electrical equipment with the help of the outer plane, but it is not limited to this and can also be formed in a cylindrical or prismatic shape.

[0064] Within the housing 2, the first movable part 4 is freely movable in the vibration direction (corresponding to the X direction in this embodiment) via first elastic support parts 52 and 54, and the second movable part 6 is freely movable in the vibration direction via second elastic support parts 72 and 74. Furthermore, the first movable part 4 and the first elastic support parts 52 and 54 are included in the first vibration system, and the second movable part 6 and the second elastic support parts 72 and 74 are included in the second vibration system.

[0065] like Figures 1-4 As shown, the housing 2 is formed by the opening 26 of the bottom cylindrical housing body 22 (see reference). Figure 2 The drive unit 3 is housed by using the plate (cover) 24 for enclosure.

[0066] In the vibration actuator 1, the vibration actuator 1 itself functions as a vibrating body by being driven by the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 of the drive unit 3.

[0067] The vibration unit 3 includes: a first movable part 4 having a magnet part 40; first elastic support parts 52 and 54; a second movable part 6 having a coil part 61 disposed on the outer periphery of the magnet part 40; and second elastic support parts 72 and 74. Figure 5 As shown, the first movable part 4 is disposed inside the second movable part 6, and the second movable part 6 can move freely in the vibration direction on the outer periphery of the first movable part 4.

[0068] The first movable part 4 is configured to move freely back and forth within the housing 2 in the vibration direction by means of the first elastic support parts 52 and 54, which are engaged with the two ends 401 and 402 of the magnet part 40 that are spaced apart axially along the vibration direction.

[0069] On the other hand, the second movable part 6 is arranged within the housing 2 and around the outer periphery of the first movable part 4, freely reciprocating in the vibration direction, by means of second elastic supports 72 and 74. These second elastic supports 72 and 74 are engaged with the two axially spaced ends 6301 and 6302 of the coil part 61. Furthermore, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are symmetrically supported in the vibration direction by the first elastic supports 52 and 54 and the second elastic supports 72 and 74 on both sides of their respective vibration directions. Therefore, compared to a structure where the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are supported on one side, the axis of vibration of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 is not located on one side, but can be located at the center of the vibration direction. Thus, even if the amplitude of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 is increased, or the weight of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 is increased, they can still be supported in a suitable manner, freely reciprocating in the vibration direction.

[0070] In the drive unit 3, within the housing 2, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are respectively arranged in a manner that allows them to move freely in the vibration direction, namely the X (X1, X2) direction. The drive unit 3 drives the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 through the coordinated action of the energized coil part 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) and the magnet part 40 (magnet 41, yoke 42, 43), thereby generating vibration.

[0071] Specifically, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are mechanically and independently supported on the housing 2 by means of the first elastic support parts 52, 54 and the second elastic support parts 72, 74, respectively, and are not mechanically connected to each other. However, due to the mutual electromagnetic interaction between the coil part 61, which is supported relative to it by energizing the coil part 61, and the magnet part 40, the first movable part 4, which has the magnet part 40, moves, and the second movable part 6, which has the coil part 61, also moves accordingly. That is, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are not mechanically connected, but by energizing the coil part 61, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 reciprocate in the vibration direction.

[0072] The structures of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 will now be described in turn. Furthermore, in the following description, the relative positional relationships between the structural components of the first movable part 4 and the structural components of the second movable part 6 will be described using, for example, [examples would be inserted here]. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 11 This is based on the premise that both the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are located in a position where the amplitude is zero in the vibration direction, as shown. The same applies in other embodiments and variations described later.

[0073] <First movable part 4>

[0074] The first movable part 4, for example, is located at both ends of the housing 2, spaced apart in the X direction, and is held in a suspended state by means of the first elastic support parts 52, 54, and is movable in the vibration direction (X direction).

[0075] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the first movable part 4 of the vibration actuator. Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the first movable part 4 of the vibration actuator.

[0076] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first movable part 4 shown includes: a magnet part 40; hammer parts 44 and 45; sleeves 46 and 47 serving as spring stop parts; and spring fixing parts 48 and 49.

[0077] The magnet portion 40 is magnetized along the X direction, and the two end faces of the magnet portion 40, spaced apart in the vibration direction, are magnetic pole faces with different polarities. The magnet portion 40 includes, for example, a magnet 41, and at both ends of the magnet 41 (see reference). Figure 11 The magnetic yokes 42 and 43 are configured on the front (4101) and back (4102).

[0078] Magnet 41 is magnetized along the axial direction (vibration direction) (refer to...) Figure 11 The magnet 41 is a solid cylindrical (or plate-shaped) magnet. That is, the magnetization direction of the magnet 41 corresponds to both the axial direction and the vibration direction. In this embodiment, the magnet 41 is formed as a cylinder (or "plate-shaped") whose length (height) in the vibration direction is longer than its diameter (width). The magnet 41 is made of, for example, neodymium sintered magnets. The magnet 41 is disposed in the central part of the magnet section 40 in the vibration direction, and magnetic yokes 42 and 43 are fixed to both ends of the magnet 41.

[0079] The magnet part 40 is disposed inside the coil part 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614, details to be described later) of the second movable part 6, with a gap between it and the coil part 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) in an axial direction. Here, "radial" also refers to the direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the coil part 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614). The magnet part 40 is configured such that it is positioned radially outward from the center of the inner circumferential surface of the coil holding part 63 relative to the vibration direction.

[0080] The radial "gap" refers to the gap between the cylindrical body portion 632 of the coil holding portion 63, which is located radially inside the coil portion 61, and the magnet portion 40 when the amplitude is zero. It is a gap that does not contact each other even when the coil is driven.

[0081] Magnet 41 can be any shape other than a solid column, such as a cylinder or plate, as long as its two magnetized surfaces are arranged inside coil portion 61 with their respective magnetized surfaces facing the direction of extension of the axis of coil portion 61, which is also the direction of vibration. If it is solid, it can have a stronger magnetic force compared to a cylindrical case. In addition, when the first movable portion 4 and the second movable portion 6 are in the position of zero amplitude, it is desirable that the axial center of magnet 41 coincides with the axial center of the first movable portion 4 and the second movable portion 6.

[0082] Magnetic yokes 42 and 43 are magnetic bodies, respectively fixed to the two end faces of magnet 41. Furthermore, magnetic yokes 42 and 43 are symmetrically arranged on magnet 41 with magnet 41 as the center, clamping magnet 41. Magnetic yokes 42 and 43 can also be fixed to magnet 41 by attraction, or, for example, using thermosetting adhesives such as epoxy resin or anaerobic adhesives. In this embodiment, magnet 41 is a cylinder; therefore, magnetic yokes 42 and 43 are formed as disks with the same diameter as magnet 41. Magnetic yokes 42 and 43, together with magnet 41, the coil portion 61 (a pair of coils 612 and 614) on the second movable part 6 side, and the outer magnetic yoke (described later), constitute the magnetic circuit of vibration actuator 1.

[0083] The yokes 42 and 43 concentrate the magnetic flux of the magnet 41 and allow it to flow efficiently without leakage, effectively distributing the magnetic flux flowing between the magnet 41 and the coil section 61 (a pair of coils 612 and 614). The yokes 42 and 43 are formed, for example, from electro-galvanized steel sheet (SECC) (bonded steel sheet).

[0084] In addition to functioning as part of the magnetic circuit, the magnetic yokes 42 and 43 also function as the main body of the movable body together with the magnet 41, as a positioning element when fixing the hammers 44 and 45, and as hammers themselves. The magnetic yokes 42 and 43 fix the magnet 40 to the hammers 44 and 45 and the sleeves 46 and 47.

[0085] <Hammer Section 44, 45>

[0086] Hammers 44 and 45 are fixed to the outer surfaces of the magnetic yokes 42 and 43 in the vibration direction, respectively. Hammers 44 and 45 are symmetrically arranged in the vibration direction, clamping the magnet 40, thereby increasing the vibration output of the first movable part 4. Hammers 44 and 45 have outer peripheral surfaces with the same diameter as the magnetic yokes 42 and 43, i.e., the magnet 40, and are respectively formed in annular shape. The through holes (openings) 441 and 451 in the center of hammers 44 and 45 are coaxial with the magnet 40 and are formed with the same diameter, but they can also be of different diameters. Sleeves (spring stop parts) 46 and 47 are inserted into and engaged in the through holes (openings) 441 and 451.

[0087] Hammers 44 and 45 function as weights in the first movable part 4, positioning and fixing sleeves 46 and 47 relative to magnet 41. Hammers 44 and 45 can also be fixed to magnet 41 using thermosetting adhesives such as epoxy resin or anaerobic adhesives. Hammers 44 and 45 can also be made of non-magnetic materials. This suppresses the expansion of the magnetic circuit structure of the vibration actuator 1, allowing for a compact magnetic circuit configuration. Furthermore, since hammers 44 and 45 are made of non-magnetic materials that do not affect the dimensions of the magnetic circuit, the design freedom of hammers 44 and 45 can be increased while achieving the desired vibration characteristics for the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6.

[0088] Preferably, the hammer sections 44 and 45 are made of a material with a high specific gravity, for example. Preferably, the hammer sections 44 and 45 are made of a material with a specific gravity higher than that of silicon steel (the specific gravity of the steel plate is, for example, 7.70 g / cm³). 3 ~7.98g / cm 3 Materials with high specific gravity (e.g., specific gravity of 16 g / cm³) 3 ~19g / cm 3 The hammers 44 and 45 are formed from a material with a higher specific gravity than the magnetic yokes 42 and 43, such as tungsten (specific gravity, for example, 19.3 g / cm³). 3 Therefore, even if the external dimensions of the first movable part 4 are set in the design, the mass of the first movable part 4 can be increased relatively easily, and the desired vibration output that provides sufficient tactile vibration for the user can be achieved. In addition, the mass of the hammer parts 44 and 45 can be changed according to the desired vibration output of the first movable part.

[0089] Furthermore, the outer diameters of the hammers 44 and 45 are the same as or smaller than the outer diameters of the yokes 42 and 43. If the outer diameter is smaller, when the first movable part 4 vibrates, compared to the case where the outer diameters are the same, the first movable part 4 is less likely to come into contact with the first elastic support parts 52 and 54, thus allowing for appropriate vibration. Therefore, while achieving miniaturization of the vibration actuator 1, high vibration output can be ensured.

[0090] <Sleeve (Spring Stop) 46, 47>

[0091] The sleeve connects the first movable part 4 (i.e., the magnet part 40 and the hammer parts 44 and 45) to the first elastic support parts 52 and 54.

[0092] Sleeves 46 and 47 constitute the ends on both sides of the vibration direction of the first movable part 4, that is, the ends that are spaced apart from the magnet part 40 on both sides of the vibration direction.

[0093] In this embodiment, sleeves 46 and 47 are cylindrical (or rod-shaped, such as cylindrical bodies) arranged along the central axis of the first movable part 4, and are sandwiched between the magnetic yokes 42 and 43 and the first elastic support parts 52 and 54.

[0094] Sleeves 46 and 47 are configured such that one end is inserted into hammers 44 and 45 respectively, and protrudes from the center of the surfaces on both ends of the magnetic yokes 42 and 43. Sleeves 46 and 47 are fixed to hammers 44 and 45 at one end respectively. Sleeves 46 and 47 may also be fixed to magnetic yokes 42 and 43.

[0095] That is, the sleeves 46 and 47 are arranged protruding outward in the vibration direction of the second movable part 6, and respectively constitute the two ends 401 and 402 of the first movable part 4, and are engaged with the first elastic support parts 52 and 54. Thus, the two ends 401 and 402 of the first movable part 4 protrude outward from both axial sides of the magnet part 40 in the vibration direction of the two ends 6301 and 6302 of the second movable part 6.

[0096] Sleeves 46 and 47 are engaged with first elastic support parts 52 and 54, for example by means of spring fixing parts 48 and 49 such as rivets.

[0097] In the vibration actuator 1, the sleeves 46 and 47 are configured to protrude outward from the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 in the vibration direction. Regardless of the amplitude position of the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 and the second elastic support portions 72 and 74, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 are located at positions that are spaced apart from the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 in the vibration direction, that is, positions that do not overlap.

[0098] Furthermore, sleeves 46 and 47 can be bonded to magnetic yokes 42 and 43, and hammers 44 and 45, for example, using thermosetting adhesives such as epoxy resin or anaerobic adhesives, or simply by bonding, or connected by a combination of welding, bonding, and riveting. Additionally, sleeves 46 and 47 abut against magnetic yokes 42 and 43 at one end, but they may not abut against each other. Furthermore, by arranging hammers or similar objects inside sleeves 46 and 47 to give them the function of hammers, the vibration output of the vibration actuator 1 can be adjusted by mass adjustment together with hammers 44 and 45.

[0099] Alternatively, the sleeves 46 and 47 can be fixed to the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 using rivets as spring fixing portions 48 and 49. However, it is also possible to fix them using adhesive.

[0100] Sleeves 46 and 47 engage with the inner periphery of the first elastic support portions 52 and 54. Through the deformation of the first elastic support portions 52 and 54, the first movable portion 4 can freely reciprocate in the vibration direction relative to the outer periphery of the first elastic support portions 52 and 54. Furthermore, sleeves 46 and 47 are formed, for example, from copper sintered material.

[0101] Furthermore, sleeves 46 and 47 are positioned to disengage from the magnetic circuit comprising the magnet 40, coil 61, and outer yoke 65 within the first movable part 4. Consequently, the arrangement space for the coil 61 is not restricted; that is, the distance between the magnetic circuit (magnet 40) and the coil 61 on the movable body side is not separated, and the efficiency of electromagnetic conversion is not reduced. Therefore, the weight of the first movable part 4 can be appropriately increased, enabling high vibration output.

[0102] <First elastic support parts 52, 54>

[0103] like Figures 2-7 As shown, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 support the first movable portion 4 in such a way that the first movable portion 4 can move freely back and forth relative to the housing 2 in the vibration direction.

[0104] The first elastic support parts 52 and 54 sandwich the first movable part 4 in the vibration direction of the first movable part 4, and are mounted on the first movable part 4 and the peripheral wall of the housing 2 in a manner that intersects with the vibration direction.

[0105] In this embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first elastic support parts 52 and 54 are installed parallel to each other on the two ends 401 and 402 of the circumferential wall part 3 around the axis of the housing 2 and the first movable part 4, respectively.

[0106] The first elastic support portions 52 and 54 are formed in the shape of a rectangular plate (e.g., a square shape), and have an inner peripheral portion 5a in the shape of an annular shape and an outer peripheral portion 5b in the shape of a frame shape, which are joined by a top-view arc-shaped deformable arm 5c that undergoes elastic deformation.

[0107] The deformable arm 5c connects the inner peripheral portion 5a and the outer peripheral portion 5b, and is vortex-shaped to ensure sufficient length for elastic deformation. Due to the deformation of the deformable arm 5c, the inner peripheral portion 5a and the outer peripheral portion 5b are displaced relative to each other in the axial direction (vibration direction).

[0108] The first elastic support portions 52 and 54 support the first movable portion 4 in an axial (vibration direction) manner such that the first movable portion 4 does not contact the housing 2 and the second movable portion 6 whether the second movable portion 6 is moving or not.

[0109] The first elastic support portions 52 and 54 may also be composed of two or more spring elements (e.g., leaf springs) relative to the first movable portion 4. These multiple leaf springs are installed in a direction orthogonal to the vibration direction.

[0110] Furthermore, regarding the first elastic support portions 52 and 54, even when the first movable portion 4 is driven (vibrating) or subjected to an external impact, the first movable portion 4 will not interact with the cylindrical main body portion 632 (see reference). Figure 10 The inner circumferential surface of the coil 612 will not come into contact with the pair of coils 612 and 614. Therefore, coils 612 and 614 will not be damaged.

[0111] Furthermore, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 can be made of any type of component, as long as they elastically support the first movable portion 4 to allow it to move freely back and forth. In this embodiment, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 are identical components with the same structure.

[0112] The inner peripheral portion 5a has a connecting hole 5d disposed at the center of the first elastic support portions 52 and 54. The two ends 401 and 402 (sleeves 46 and 47) of the first movable portion 4, which are separated in the vibration direction, are fitted into the connecting hole 5d and connected. The inner peripheral portion 5a is arranged in a direction orthogonal to the direction of protrusion of the sleeves 46 and 47, and is fixed by the two ends 401 and 402 and the spring fixing portions 48 and 49.

[0113] On the other hand, the outer peripheral portion 5b is fixed in the housing 2 in a state where it is arranged orthogonally to the vibration direction on the peripheral wall portion about the X-axis of the vibration direction. The outer peripheral portion 5b is bonded to the housing 2, for example, by an adhesive.

[0114] The spring members serving as the first elastic support parts 52 and 54 can be made of any material capable of elastic deformation, such as stainless steel sheet or phosphor bronze, through sheet metal processing. In this embodiment, the first elastic support parts 52 and 54 are thin, flat, rectangular leaf springs formed of phosphor bronze, which has high machinability, excellent corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, and high wear resistance, and their interiors are spiral-shaped. Furthermore, if formed of a non-magnetic material like phosphor bronze, the flow of magnetic flux in the magnetic circuit will not be disrupted. The first elastic support parts 52 and 54 can also be made of resin, as long as they vibrately support the first movable part 4. Additionally, since the first elastic support parts 52 and 54 are flat, compared to conical springs, improved positional accuracy, i.e., improved machining accuracy, can be achieved.

[0115] In this embodiment, multiple first elastic support portions 52 and 54 are engaged with the first movable portion 4 and the housing 2 in the same direction of their respective vortex directions. Therefore, even if the movement of the first movable portion 4 increases, while the first movable portion 4 rotates slightly but moves in the parallel direction (here, radially along the plane perpendicular to the vibration direction), the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 also rotate in the same direction at both ends of the first movable portion 4. That is, unlike the case where the vortex directions are opposite, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 do not rotate in different directions at both ends of the first movable portion 4 and thus do not hinder each other's rotation. The first elastic support portions 52 and 54 move smoothly relative to each other along the vibration direction, that is, they can deform smoothly. Therefore, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 have a larger amplitude and move relative to each other in the buckling or even stretching direction, which can improve vibration output. Alternatively, it can be designed such that the vortex directions of the multiple first elastic support portions 52 and 54 are set to be opposite to each other, depending on the desired vibration range of the first movable portion 4.

[0116] <Second movable part 6>

[0117] The second movable part 6 is disposed, for example, inside the housing 2 on the outer periphery of the first movable part 4, and is held movable in the vibration direction (X direction) in a state of being suspended by the second elastic support parts 72, 74. The second elastic support parts 72, 74 are engaged with two ends 6301, 6302 that are spaced apart in the vibration direction (X direction).

[0118] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the second movable part 6 of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the second movable part 6 of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the second movable part 6 of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention from the rear side.

[0119] The second movable part 6 has a coil part 61, a coil holding part 63, and an outer magnetic yoke 65.

[0120] <Coil Section 61>

[0121] In the vibration actuator 1, the coil part 61, with its axial direction as the vibration direction, together with the magnet part 41, forms a magnetic circuit for generating a drive source.

[0122] The coil portion 61 is coaxially arranged with the magnet portion 41 in a manner that surrounds the magnet portion 41. The coil portion 61 is energized to drive the first movable portion 4 and the second movable portion 6, causing the first movable portion 4 and the second movable portion 6 to move in the vibration direction and generate vibration. The coil portion 61 and the magnet portion 41 together constitute a voice coil motor.

[0123] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the coil section 61 is provided as a pair of coils 612 and 614. However, as long as the magnetic circuit that is driven in the same way is formed, a single coil or more than three coils can be used. It is desirable to arrange the coils symmetrically in the vibration direction.

[0124] A pair of coils 612 and 614 are arranged symmetrically about the magnet 41 in the vibration direction relative to the first movable part 4, which has magnets 41, yokes 42 and 43, etc. Preferably, the center position of the length of the coils 612 and 614 in the vibration direction, that is, the center position of the length between the left end of the coil 612 and the right end of the coil 614, is at the same position (including approximately the same position) as the center position of the length of the magnet part 40 of the first movable part 4 in the vibration direction.

[0125] In this embodiment, a pair of coils 612 and 614 are formed by winding a single coil wire in opposite directions. When energized, current flows in opposite directions in coils 612 and 614 respectively.

[0126] The ends of each of the pair of coils 612 and 614, that is, the two ends of the windings of the coils that constitute the pair of coils 612 and 614, are tied together and connected to the terminal binding part in the center of the coil holding part 63.

[0127] The coil section 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) is connected to the power supply section via a terminal binding section. For example, each end of the coil section 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) is connected to the AC power supply section via a terminal binding section, and AC power (AC voltage) is supplied from the AC power supply section to the coil section 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614). As a result, the coil section 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) can generate a thrust between itself and the magnet 41, which allows it to move closer to or further away from each other in their respective axial directions.

[0128] Furthermore, the coil winding connecting the pair of coils 612 and 614 is arranged within the slot of the coil holding portion 63. In this embodiment, the coil portion 61 (the pair of coils 612 and 614) is constructed using a single winding, but this is not a limitation; a separate pair of coils can also be used. In this structure, when the separate coils are wound in the same direction, current is supplied in different directions during operation.

[0129] Furthermore, preferably, the coil shafts of the pair of coils 612, 614 are arranged coaxially with the shaft of the coil holding part 63 or the shaft of the magnet 41.

[0130] In the vibration actuator 1, the pair of coils 612 and 614 can also be air-core coils, but they can also be formed into a cylindrical shape by winding coil wire around the coil holding part 63, for example. As a result, the coils 612 and 614 can be assembled without using self-fusion wire, thereby reducing the cost of the coils (the pair of coils 612 and 614) themselves and thus reducing the overall cost of the vibration actuator.

[0131] <Coil holding part 63>

[0132] The coil holding part 63 holds the coil part 61 in a manner that surrounds the magnet part 40, and the coil holding part 63 is a cylindrical body that is held inside the housing 2, on the outer periphery of the first movable part 4, and is freely movable in the vibration direction as the second movable part 6. The coil holding part 63 may also be referred to, for example, as a "coil bobbin".

[0133] The coil holding part 63 is preferably made of a non-magnetic material, such as phenolic resin, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or other resins. The coil holding part 63 is preferably made of a material containing phenolic resin such as bakelite, which has high flame retardancy.

[0134] The coil holding part 63 is made of a material containing phenolic resin, thereby improving its flame retardancy. Therefore, even when current flows through the held coils (a pair of coils 612, 614), and the coil holding part 63 heats up along with the pair of coils 612, 614 due to Joule heating, improved safety during operation is achieved. Furthermore, improved dimensional accuracy and positional accuracy of the coils (a pair of coils 612, 614) reduce fluctuations in vibration characteristics.

[0135] like Figure 9 As shown, the coil holding part 63 is cylindrical and has a cylindrical main body part 632. The cylindrical main body part 632 forms a concave portion on the outer surface of the coil holding part 63 and is used for winding the coil. The coil holding part 63 has a central flange part 634 at the center of the vibration direction that sandwiches the cylindrical main body part 632, and two end flange parts 636 and 638 at both ends in the vibration direction.

[0136] Between the central flange 634 and the two end flanges 636 and 638, a concave portion is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical main body 632 in a radially open manner. A groove 639 is provided in the central flange 634, which extends in the vibration direction (X direction) and connects the cylindrical main body 632.

[0137] A pair of coils 612 and 614 are respectively disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical main body 632. The cylindrical main body 632 is located between the magnet part 40 and the coil part 61 in a radial direction orthogonal to the vibration direction. The inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical main body 632 can guide the first movable part 4 to reciprocate along the inner peripheral surface. When the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are driven, the cylindrical main body 632 prevents the magnet part 40 from contacting the coil part 61, and functions as a protective wall to protect the first movable part 4 from impact with the coil part 61.

[0138] The thickness of the cylindrical main body 632 is such that even if the first movable part 4, which is moving, comes into contact, it will not have any effect on the pair of coils 612, 614 that are held.

[0139] A terminal bundling portion 67 is provided in the radial direction on the central flange portion 634. The terminal bundling portion 67 faces outward from the opening 656 of the outer magnetic yoke 65, facilitating connection to external devices.

[0140] The terminal binding part 67 is a conductive component and has a rod-shaped body for binding the winding of the coil. The terminal binding part 67 is provided by pressing its base end into the outer periphery of the central flange of the coil holding part 63. The winding at the end constituting the coil winding is bound and reliably connected to the terminal binding part 67 by solder or the like.

[0141] In the central flange portion 634, the diameter of the portion 672 excluding the terminal binding portion 67, which is the diameter of the outer periphery of the central flange portion, is smaller than the maximum diameter of the outer periphery of the other flange portions (end flange portions) 636 and 638. In addition, protruding guide rails 6362 and 6382 are formed in the circumferential direction in the end flange portions 636 and 638.

[0142] An outer magnetic yoke 65 covering coils 612 and 614 is disposed between guide rails 6362 and 6382. The outer magnetic yoke 65 has claws that engage with the cutouts respectively provided on the guide rails 6362 and 6382. By engaging the claws with the cutouts on the guide rails 6362 and 6382, the outer magnetic yoke 65 is positioned at a desired location, i.e., the central portion of the vibration direction, on the outer peripheral surface of the coil holding portion 63.

[0143] The outer magnetic yoke 65 is mounted on the coil holding portion 63, and is positioned such that the outer surface of the outer magnetic yoke 65 is flush with the guide rails 6362 and 6382 of the end flange portions 636 and 638, thus covering the cylindrical body on which the coils 612 and 614 are disposed. Furthermore, by means of the groove portion 639 (see reference...) Figure 9 The winding direction of the coils of a pair of coils 612 and 614 is reversed in such a way that the winding direction of each coil is reversed.

[0144] <External magnetic yoke 65>

[0145] The outer magnetic yoke 65 is a cylindrical magnetic body disposed on the outer peripheral surface surrounding the coil holding portion 63, covering a pair of coils on the radially outer side. In this embodiment, the outer magnetic yoke 65 is formed into a cylindrical shape by combining multiple segments 652 and 654. Compared with a single piece, the segmented segments 652 and 654 make the assembly of the vibration actuator 1 easier and improve assemblability.

[0146] As described above, the outer magnetic yoke 65, together with the coil portion 61, forms the magnetic circuit on the side of the second movable portion 6, and together with the magnetic circuit on the side of the first movable portion 4, namely the magnet 41, magnetic yokes 42 and 43, forms the magnetic circuit of the vibration actuator. The outer magnetic yoke 65 prevents magnetic leakage from the magnetic circuit to the outside of the vibration actuator 1.

[0147] The outer magnetic yoke 65 increases the thrust constant and improves electromagnetic conversion efficiency in the magnetic circuit. Furthermore, the outer magnetic yoke 65 utilizes the magnetic attraction of the magnet 41 to function as a magnetic spring together with the magnet 41. The outer magnetic yoke 65 reduces the stress when the first elastic support portions 52, 54 and the second elastic support portions 72, 74 are configured as mechanical springs, thereby improving the durability of the first elastic support portions 52, 54 and the second elastic support portions 72, 74.

[0148] The outer magnetic yoke 65 has: a segmented body 655; and an opening 656 provided circumferentially along the vibration direction in the segmented body 655.

[0149] The main body 655 of the segment is formed in an arc shape, for example, from SECC (electroplated galvanized steel sheet) which has excellent weldability and corrosion resistance.

[0150] The main body 655 of the segment is flexible. The openings 656 are located at the center of the main body 655 in the vibration direction and at the center of the circumference.

[0151] The opening 656 is formed in a position corresponding to the terminal binding portion 67 on the coil holding portion 63 side. In the split body 655, it is formed into a rectangle that is divided in the circumferential direction by parallel sides spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and in the vibration direction by upper and lower sides that are spaced apart in the vibration direction and symmetrically formed with each other.

[0152] The opening 656 allows the terminal bundling part 67 to be inserted. The opening is positioned at the same height so that the protrusion formed by the terminal bundling part in the central flange 634 located on the inner side is embedded in the center of the length of the outer magnetic yoke 65 in the vibration direction. Utilizing the shielding effect of the outer magnetic yoke 65, leakage magnetic flux to the outside of the vibration actuator can be reduced.

[0153] The segments 652 and 654 constituting the outer magnetic yoke 65 have the same structure, such as Figure 10 As shown, with the outer magnetic yoke 65 mounted on the coil holding part 63, an opening is also provided on the back side of the coil holding part 63. This allows for the use of the same component, thus reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the outer magnetic yoke 65 surrounding the second movable part 6 has an opening symmetrically positioned about an axis extending along the vibration direction, ensuring that even as a magnetic circuit structure, the structure through which magnetic flux flows is symmetrical.

[0154] <Second elastic support parts 72, 74>

[0155] like Figures 8-10 As shown, the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 support the second movable portion 6 in such a way that the second movable portion 6 can move freely back and forth relative to the housing 2 in the vibration direction.

[0156] The second elastic support portions 72 and 74 sandwich the second movable portion 6 in the vibration direction (X direction), and the second movable portion 6 and the peripheral wall portion of the housing 2 are erected in a manner that intersects with the vibration direction.

[0157] In this embodiment, the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 are as follows: Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, the two ends of the second movable part 6 (the two ends of the coil holding part 63 spaced apart in the vibration direction) 6301, 6302) and the housing 2 (housing body 22) are installed in a parallel manner to each other.

[0158] The second elastic support portions 72 and 74 are formed in the shape of a rectangular plate (e.g., a square shape) and have a shape in which the inner spring end, i.e., the annular inner peripheral portion 7a, and the outer spring end, i.e., the frame-shaped outer fixing portion 7b, are joined by a top-view arc-shaped arm portion 7c that undergoes elastic deformation.

[0159] The second elastic support portions 72 and 74 support the second movable portion 6 in a manner that allows it to move freely in the axial direction (vibration direction, X direction) so that the second movable portion 6 does not contact the housing 2 and the first movable portion 4 whether the first movable portion 4 is moving or not.

[0160] The second elastic support parts 72 and 74 may also be composed of two or more spring elements (leaf springs, etc.) relative to the second movable part 6. These multiple leaf springs are installed in a direction orthogonal to the vibration direction.

[0161] Furthermore, the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 can be made of any type of component, as long as they elastically support the second movable portion 6 to allow it to move freely back and forth. In this embodiment, the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 are identical components with the same structure.

[0162] The two ends 6301 and 6302 of the second movable part 6 are respectively engaged with the inner peripheral part 7a. The inner peripheral part 7a can be glued and fixed to the two ends 6301 and 6302, or it can be externally embedded, or it can be engaged by riveting.

[0163] The inner peripheral portion 7a has a through hole 7d disposed at the center of the second elastic support portions 72 and 74. The first movable portion 4 (specifically, both ends of the first movable portion 4) is inserted through the through hole 7d in the vibration direction.

[0164] On the other hand, the outer peripheral portion 7b is fixed in the housing 2 in a state where it is arranged orthogonally to the vibration direction on the peripheral wall portion about the X-axis of the vibration direction. The outer peripheral portion 7b is bonded to the housing 2, for example, by an adhesive.

[0165] To ensure sufficient length for elastic deformation, the arm 7c is formed in a spiral shape between the inner peripheral portion 7a and the outer peripheral portion 7b, bending and extending along the inner peripheral portion 7a. Due to the deformation of the arm 7c, the inner peripheral portion 7a and the outer peripheral portion 7b are relatively displaced in the axial direction (vibration direction, X direction).

[0166] The spring components serving as the second elastic support parts 72 and 74 can be made of any material capable of elastic deformation, such as stainless steel sheet or phosphor bronze, through sheet metal processing. The second elastic support parts 72 and 74 can also be thin, flat, rectangular leaf springs made of corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel sheet or phosphor bronze, with an internal spiral structure. Alternatively, they can be made of non-magnetic materials such as phosphor bronze, which has high machinability, tensile strength, and wear resistance. This ensures that the flow of magnetic flux in the magnetic circuit remains completely unobstructed. The second elastic support parts 72 and 74 can also be made of resin, as long as they vibrately support the second movable part 6. Furthermore, since the second elastic support parts 72 and 74 are flat, compared to conical springs, improved positional accuracy, i.e., improved machining accuracy, can be achieved.

[0167] In this embodiment, multiple second elastic support portions 72 and 74 are engaged with the second movable portion 6 and the housing 2 in the same direction as their respective vortex directions. Therefore, even if the movement of the second movable portion 6 increases, the second movable portion 6, even if it rotates slightly but moves in the parallel direction (here, the direction on the plane perpendicular to the vibration direction), rotates in the same direction as the first elastic support portions 52 and 54 during rotation, and moves smoothly along the vibration direction, that is, it can deform smoothly. Thus, the second elastic support portions 72 and 74 have a larger amplitude and move relative to each other in the bending direction and even the stretching direction, which can improve the vibration output.

[0168] Alternatively, the design could be as follows: the vortex directions of the plurality of second elastic support portions 72, 74 are set to opposite directions to each other, depending on the desired vibration range of the second movable portion 6.

[0169] <Principle and Operation of Vibration Actuator 1>

[0170] Reference Figure 11 The basic operation of the vibration actuator 1 based on the magnetic circuit structure is explained. Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram showing the magnetic circuit structure of a vibration actuator.

[0171] Regarding the operation of the vibration actuator 1, it will be controlled on one side of the magnet 41 in the magnetization direction (in this embodiment). Figure 11 The N pole is on the front side 4101 (left side of the middle), and the other side of the magnetization direction (in this embodiment) Figure 11 The case where the back side 4102 (right side of the middle) is magnetized with the S pole is used as an example.

[0172] In the vibration actuator 1, the first movable part 4 can be considered as the mass part in the vibration model of the spring-mass system. By energizing the coils 612 and 614, the second movable part 6 can also move together with the first movable part 4.

[0173] In the vibration actuator 1, when the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are both in the position of zero amplitude in the vibration direction, the magnet 41 is disposed in the center of the housing 2. In addition, a pair of coils 612 and 614 are disposed around the outer periphery of the yokes 42 and 43 in such a way as to receive magnetic flux from the yokes 42 and 43 in which the magnet 41 is sandwiched in the first movable part 4.

[0174] In the vibration actuator 1, the flow mf as magnetic flux forms a flow that is emitted from the front side 4101 of the magnet 41, radiates from the yoke 42 toward the coil 612, passes through the outer yoke 65, and is incident from the yoke 43 toward the magnet 41 via the coil 614.

[0175] like Figure 11 As shown, when energized, the interaction between the magnetic field of magnet 41 and the current flowing in the coils (a pair of coils 612, 614) generates a Lorentz force in the -f direction in the pair of coils 612, 614 according to the Fleming left-hand rule.

[0176] The Lorentz force in the -f direction is orthogonal to the direction of the magnetic field and the direction of the current flowing in the coils (a pair of coils 612, 614). Since the coils (a pair of coils 612, 614) are freely movable as the second movable part 6 by the second elastic supports 72, 74, a thrust is generated in the second movable part 6 to move in the -f direction, i.e., the X2 direction. Furthermore, by generating the Lorentz force in the -f direction in the coils (a pair of coils 612, 614), according to the action-reaction law, a force opposite to this Lorentz force in the -f direction is generated on the first movable part 4 with the magnet 41 as a thrust in the F direction, causing the first movable part 4 with the magnet 41 to move in the F direction, i.e., the X1 direction.

[0177] Furthermore, when the energizing direction of a pair of coils 612 and 614 is reversed and energized, a Lorentz force in the f direction, opposite to the -f direction, is generated. Due to the generation of this Lorentz force in the f direction, a thrust is generated in the second movable part 6 to move in the f direction, i.e., the X1 direction. In the first movable part 4, according to the action-reaction law of the Lorentz force in the f direction, a force opposite to the Lorentz force in the f direction is generated as a thrust in the -F direction.

[0178] The first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 move back and forth in the vibration direction in accordance with the thrust they generate, that is, they vibrate, thereby generating the vibration of the vibration actuator 1 itself.

[0179] The motion (e.g., amplitude, phase) of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 in the vibration generated in the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 respectively is determined by the input frequency.

[0180] That is, the amplitude and phase of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are determined according to the input frequency. Based on the mutual movement (amplitude and phase) of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 in the vibration direction, various vibrations can be generated and manifested in the vibration actuator 1.

[0181] Furthermore, in the vibration actuator 1, during non-vibration without power, magnetic attraction forces act between the magnet 41 and the outer yoke 65, functioning as magnetic springs. Due to the magnetic attraction forces generated between the magnet 41 and the outer yoke 65 (652, 654), and the restoring forces of the first elastic support portions 52, 54 and the second elastic support portions 72, 74, which return to their original shapes, the first movable portion 4 and the second movable portion 6 return to their original positions. Vibration is generated by repeating this action.

[0182] The vibration actuator 1 is driven by an alternating current wave input from the power supply unit to the coil unit 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614). That is, the energizing direction of the coil unit 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) is periodically switched, and in the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6, the thrust in the left-right direction of the housing 2 (i.e., the thrust in the X1 direction, F, f) and the thrust in the X2 direction, -F, -f, f, act alternately. Therefore, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 move and vibrate appropriately in the vibration direction in accordance with the energized power.

[0183] The following shows the motion equations and circuit equations representing the driving principle of the vibration actuator 1. The vibration actuator 1 is driven based on the motion equations shown in equations (1) and (2) and the circuit equation shown in equation (3).

[0184]

Number 1

[0185]

[0186]

[0187] m1: Mass of the first movable part [kg]

[0188] m2: Mass of the second movable part [kg]

[0189] x1(t): Displacement of the first movable part [m]

[0190] x2(t): Displacement of the second movable part [m]

[0191] K f Thrust constant [N / A]

[0192] i(t): Current [A]

[0193] K1: Spring constant of the first elastic support [N / m]

[0194] K2: Spring constant of the second elastic support [N / m]

[0195] D1: Damping coefficient of the first vibration system [N / (m / s)]

[0196] D2: Damping coefficient of the second vibration system [N / (m / s)]

[0197]

Number 2

[0198]

[0199] e(t): Voltage [V]

[0200] R: Resistance [Ω]

[0201] L: Inductance [H]

[0202] K e Back electromotive force constant [V / (m / s)]

[0203] That is, the mass m1[kg] of the first movable part, the mass m2[kg] of the second movable part, the displacement x1(t)[m] of the first movable part, the displacement x2(t)[m] of the second movable part, and the thrust constant K in the vibration actuator 1 can be appropriately changed within the range of satisfying equations (1) and (2). f [N / A], current i(t)[A], spring constant K1[N / m] of the first elastic support, spring constant K2[N / m] of the second elastic support, damping coefficient D1[N / (m / s)] of the first vibration system, damping coefficient D2[N / (m / s)] of the second vibration system, etc. In addition, the voltage e(t)[V], resistance R[Ω], inductance L[H], and back electromotive force constant K can be appropriately changed within the range satisfying equation (3). e [V / (rad / s)]. The vibration actuator 1 satisfies equations (1) to (3) and is driven by resonance. Vibration is generated by energizing the coil with an alternating current wave corresponding to the resonance frequency, which is determined by the mass of the movable body and the spring constant of the elastic support.

[0204] <Vibration characteristics of vibration actuator 1>

[0205] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the vibration generated by the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 12 The diagram shows the case where only the first movable part 4 vibrates. Figure 12 The text is incomplete and contains several grammatical errors and inconsistencies. A proper translation would require the full context of each sentence. Figure 12 An example of acceleration characteristics (referred to as "2-resonance" in the text). "2-resonance" refers to the vibration characteristics of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. "1-resonance" refers to the vibration characteristics of a comparative example vibration actuator configured such that the second movable part 6 is fixed in a non-vibrating state, and only the first movable part 4 vibrates. Furthermore, in... Figure 12The diagram also shows the displacements (i.e., the maximum displacement caused by vibration (maximum amplitude)) of the coil side (i.e., the second movable part 6) and the magnet side (i.e., the first movable part 4) in the "2 resonance".

[0206] According to Figure 12 As can be seen from the curves representing their respective displacements, in the vibration actuator 1, the first movable part 4 (i.e., the first vibration system) supported by the first elastic support parts 52 and 54 and the second movable part 6 (i.e., the second vibration system) supported by the second elastic support parts 72 and 74 have resonance points with different frequencies. The first movable part 4 is configured such that, compared with the second movable part 6, it has a lower resonance frequency and can move at a lower frequency.

[0207] When coils 612 and 614 are energized, vibrations with different motions are generated in the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6, respectively. The combined acceleration obtained from the acceleration of these vibrations is output from the vibration actuator 1 to the outside. In a vibration actuator 1 where the two movable parts have different resonant frequencies, as in... Figure 12 As shown by the curve of "2 resonances", the acceleration characteristics contain two peaks. Specifically, the two peaks are the resonance point (first resonance frequency) P1 and the resonance point (second resonance frequency) P2.

[0208] At input frequencies lower than the resonance point P1, the first movable part 4 vibrates more and displaces, but the second movable part 6 vibrates almost nothing or displaces with only a small vibration.

[0209] At the resonance point P1, the phase of the first movable part 4 changes from an input frequency lower than the resonance point P1, and the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 vibrate with the same phase.

[0210] In the frequency band between resonance points P1 and P2, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 vibrate in the same phase. In this frequency band, the displacement of the first movable part 4 is reduced compared to the displacement at resonance point P1, but maintains a certain displacement, while the displacement of the second movable part 6 is almost constant compared to the displacement at resonance point P1.

[0211] Thus, in the vibration actuator 1, between the peak values ​​of the vibration (between P1 and P2), both the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 vibrate in the same phase and maintain a displacement of more than a certain value. Therefore, the vibration actuator 1 can generate a stronger force (i.e.,...) than the vibration actuator of the comparative example. Figure 12 The vibration is indicated by the high G value shown on the left axis.

[0212] The vibration actuator 1 can generate vibration at a frequency during the period when the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are driven in the same phase. Compared with a structure having only one movable part (comparative example), it can generate a strong, predetermined vibration at this frequency. In particular, in this embodiment, a strong vibration at a low frequency can be imparted to express a deep tactile sensation.

[0213] Furthermore, at resonance point P2, the phase of the second movable part 6 changes from an input frequency lower than resonance point P2, and the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 vibrate in opposite phases. Therefore, the output acceleration (G value) is smaller than at resonance point P1, but multiple peak values ​​that cannot be obtained in the comparative example are obtained. Moreover, in Figure 12 In the vibration characteristic curve shown, the acceleration at resonance point P2 is smaller than that at resonance point P1. However, this is not the only possibility; the relationship between the magnitudes of resonance points P1 and P2 can be adjusted using the resonant frequency and the weights of the first and second movable parts. For example, the acceleration at resonance point P2 can be made larger than that at resonance point P1, depending on the magnitude of the acceleration at resonance point P2.

[0214] When the input frequency exceeds the resonance point P2, the displacement of the second movable part 6 in the vibration actuator 1 decreases. At this time, similar to the resonance point P2, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 vibrate in opposite phase. That is, as... Figure 12 As shown, when the input frequency exceeds the resonance point P2, the second movable part 6 and the first movable part 4 become out of phase and both become small displacements. Therefore, the decrease in acceleration (G value) gradually increases. As the frequency increases, the acceleration (G value) also decreases compared to the comparative example.

[0215] Therefore, when the vibration actuator 1 energizes the coil at a frequency higher than the resonance point P2, it generates a vibration different from the vibration of the vibration actuator generated by the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 vibrating in the same phase, thus providing a different vibration to the user. By changing the input frequency, compared with the comparative example, it is possible to output high acceleration or low acceleration, and therefore, it is possible to drive at the desired frequency and adjust the intensity of the vibration accordingly.

[0216] (Variation Example 1)

[0217] Figure 13 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the main structure of a modified example of the vibration actuator 1. Figure 14 It means Figure 13 The diagram showing the vibration characteristics of the vibration actuator 10 in Modified Example 1 illustrates the characteristics with and without magnetic fluid in the vibration actuator 1. Furthermore, the input voltage is higher (e.g., 2.4 times) with the magnetic fluid characteristic than with the non-magnetic fluid characteristic.

[0218] For example, Figure 13The vibration actuator 10 shown in the modified example has a structure in which the magnetic fluid JR is placed between the first movable part 4 and the second movable part, that is, within the second movable part 6.

[0219] Magnetic fluid JR is injected between the magnet part 40 and the coil part 61, that is, between the inner circumferential surface of the second movable part 6 and the first movable part 4, so that it is held between the first movable part 4 and the second movable part by its magnetism.

[0220] Since the vibration actuator 10 has a magnetic fluid JR between the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6, the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 are not easily moved in the vibration direction, which causes the amplitude of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 to be attenuated.

[0221] As a result, the peak amplitude of the resonance of the first movable part 4 and the second movable part 6 is attenuated, the peak value of the acceleration G at the resonance is suppressed, and the overall vibration characteristics, that is, the overall acceleration during vibration, are reduced. Figure 13 The waveform V2 shown represents the vibration characteristics before it decreases. Furthermore, if the peak value of acceleration G is suppressed, the other accelerations will relatively increase.

[0222] In order to obtain a high peak input voltage with the same peak value as the acceleration shown in waveform V1, the coil is energized with a wide frequency band between the peak values ​​as shown in waveform V2, thus enabling a vibration actuator 1 to generate a variety of vibrations.

[0223] (Implementation Method 2)

[0224] Figure 15 This is a front view showing the main structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view showing the essential structure of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the first movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the second movable part of the vibration actuator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 19 It means Figure 15 The diagram shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the main structure of the vibration actuator.

[0225] Compared to vibration actuator 1, the vibration actuator 1A in embodiment 2 differs only in the number of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A that support the first movable portion 4A; all other structures are the same. Therefore, only the structures different from those in vibration actuator 1 will be described. For the same structures, the same reference numerals and names will be assigned and descriptions will be omitted. For structures with substantially the same function, A will be assigned and described.

[0226] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the vibration actuator 1A is a vibrating body having a rectangular housing 2A and a drive unit 3A housed within the housing 2A.

[0227] Compared with the drive unit 3, the drive unit 3A is different in that it has multiple (two pieces in this embodiment) first elastic support parts on one side to support the first movable part 4A.

[0228] The housing 2A houses the vibration unit 3A and has: a box-shaped housing body 22A with an opening 26A; and a plate portion 24A that closes the opening 26A, and has the same function as the housing 2. In addition, the housing 2A is formed in a cuboid shape, which makes it easy to mount electrical equipment by means of the outer plane, but it is not limited to this and can also be formed in a cylindrical or prismatic shape.

[0229] In the vibration actuator 1A, it is driven by the first movable part 4A and the second movable part 6A of the drive unit, so that the vibration actuator 1A itself functions as a vibrating body.

[0230] The vibration unit 3A includes: a first movable part 4A having a magnet part 40; first elastic support parts 52A and 54A; a second movable part 6A having a coil part 61 disposed on the outer periphery of the magnet part 40; and second elastic support parts 72A and 74A.

[0231] In the drive unit 3A, within the housing 2A, the first movable part 4A and the second movable part 6A are supported by the first elastic support part 52A, 54A and the second elastic support part 72A, 74A, respectively, so that they can move freely in the vibration direction, that is, in the X (X1, X2) direction.

[0232] Furthermore, the second movable part 6A has the same structure as the second movable part 6. Therefore, the same names and reference numerals are given to its structural elements and the description is omitted. The first movable part 4A will be described.

[0233] The drive unit 3A drives the first movable part 4A and the second movable part 6A to vibrate by coordinating the operation of the energized coil part 61 (a pair of coils 612, 614) and the magnet part 40 (magnet 41, yoke 42, 43).

[0234] The first movable part 4A, for example, is located at both ends of the housing 2A in the X direction, spaced apart by means of the first elastic support parts 52A and 54A, and is held in a suspended state and movable in the vibration direction (X direction).

[0235] like Figure 17As shown, compared with the first movable part 4, the ends of the first movable part 4A on both sides of the vibration direction are supported by a plurality of first elastic support parts 52A and 54A in such a way that they can move freely in the vibration direction.

[0236] The first movable part 4A has a magnet part 40, a hammer part 44, 45, a sleeve 462, 472 serving as a spring stop part 46A, 47A, an auxiliary sleeve 464, 474, and a spring fixing part 48, 49.

[0237] Specifically, compared to the first movable part 4, the first movable part 4A differs in that it has spring stop parts 46A and 47A instead of sleeves 46 and 47. Furthermore, the magnet part 40, hammer part 44 and 45, and spring fixing parts 48 and 49 are the same as in Embodiment 1, so descriptions are omitted.

[0238] The spring stop portions 46A and 47A are connected to multiple leaf springs, such as the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A, on both sides of the first movable portion 4A, namely the magnet portion 40 and the hammer portions 44 and 45, in the vibration direction (X1 and X2 directions). With the help of these leaf springs, the first movable portion 4A is supported on the housing 2A in a freely movable manner in the vibration direction.

[0239] Sleeves 462 and 472 are located at the ends of the first movable part 4A on both sides of the vibration direction, that is, at the positions spaced apart from the magnet part 40 on both sides of the vibration direction, and together with auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474, they constitute the two ends of the first movable part 4A.

[0240] Sleeves 462 and 472 are cylindrical (or rod-shaped, such as cylindrical bodies) arranged along the central axis of the first movable part 4A.

[0241] Sleeves 462 and 472 are configured such that one end is inserted into hammers 44 and 45 respectively, and protrudes from the center of the surfaces on both ends of the magnetic yokes 42 and 43. Sleeves 462 and 472 are fixed to hammers 44 and 45 at one end respectively. Sleeves 46 and 47 can also be fixed to magnetic yokes 42 and 43.

[0242] At their other ends, namely the ends located on the side spaced apart from the magnet portion 40 of the first movable portion 4A along the vibration direction, sleeves 462 and 472 are fixed to the first piece of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A. The first piece of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A of sleeves 462 and 472 is joined to the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A, for example, by spring fixing portions 48 and 49 such as rivets.

[0243] Auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474 are continuously disposed on sleeves 462 and 472, respectively, with the first elastic support part separated by multiple first elastic support parts 52A and 54A.

[0244] Auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474 function as spacers to separate the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A from each other. These first elastic support portions 52A and 54A are respectively engaged with the two ends of the first movable portion 4A that are spaced apart in the vibration direction. By using auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474 to space the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A from each other, the elastic deformation area of ​​each of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A can be appropriately ensured. By adjusting the number of pieces of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A in this way, the movement state of the first movable portion 4A in the vibration direction, i.e., vibration, can be appropriately changed.

[0245] Auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474 engage with the second first elastic support portion of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A. The auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474 are alternately arranged with sleeves 462 and 472 and the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A, and the spring fixing portions 48 and 49 are fitted into them from both sides of the vibration direction, thereby being engaged and fixed together as a whole.

[0246] Furthermore, in the vibration actuator 1A, the spring stop portions 46A and 47A are configured to protrude outward from the second elastic support portions 72A and 74A in the vibration direction. The protruding portions cause the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A to be located at a position spaced apart from the second elastic support portions 72A and 74A in the vibration direction, that is, at a position where the two do not overlap.

[0247] Alternatively, sleeves 462, 472 and auxiliary sleeves 464, 474 can be appropriately connected to magnetic yokes 42, 43, hammers 44, 45, and spring fixing parts 48, 49. For example, they can also be bonded using thermosetting adhesives such as epoxy resin, anaerobic adhesives, or simply fixed by bonding, or connected by a combination of fusion welding, bonding, and riveting.

[0248] Furthermore, sleeves 462 and 472 abut against magnetic yokes 42 and 43 at one end, but they may not abut against each other. Moreover, by arranging hammers or similar objects inside sleeves 462 and 472 to give them the function of hammers, the vibration output of the vibration actuator 1A can be adjusted by mass adjustment together with the hammer parts 44 and 45.

[0249] Furthermore, rivets serving as spring fixing parts 48 and 49 are used to fix sleeves 462 and 472, auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474, and first elastic support parts 52A and 54A. However, it is also possible to fix them using adhesive.

[0250] Sleeves 462 and 472 engage with the inner periphery of the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A. Through deformation of the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A, the first movable portion 4A can freely reciprocate relative to the outer periphery of the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A in the vibration direction. Furthermore, sleeves 46 and 47 and auxiliary sleeves 464 and 474 are formed, for example, from a copper sintered material.

[0251] Furthermore, sleeves 462 and 472 are positioned to disengage from the magnetic circuit including the magnet 40, coil 61, and outer yoke 65 in the first movable part 4A. Consequently, the placement space for the coil 61 is not restricted; that is, the distance between the magnetic circuit (magnet 40) and the coil 61 on the movable body side is not separated, and the efficiency of electromagnetic conversion is not reduced. Therefore, the weight of the first movable part 4A can be appropriately increased, enabling high vibration output.

[0252] like Figures 15-17 As shown, the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A support the first movable portion 4A in such a way that the first movable portion 4A can move freely back and forth relative to the housing 2A in the vibration direction.

[0253] The first elastic support parts 52A and 54A sandwich the first movable part 4A in the vibration direction of the first movable part 4A, and multiple pieces are mounted on both the first movable part 4A and the peripheral wall of the housing 2A in a manner that intersects with the vibration direction.

[0254] Compared with the first elastic support portions 52 and 54, the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A differ only in the number of pieces joined on one side of the vibration direction of the first movable portion 4A, and can be constructed in the same way as the first elastic support portions 52 and 54.

[0255] Multiple first elastic support parts 52A and 54A are installed parallel to each other on the two ends of the first movable part 4A and on the inner circumferential surfaces that are opposite to the two ends and arranged around the axis in the housing 2A.

[0256] Multiple first elastic support portions 52A and 54A support each of the two ends of the first movable portion 4A at multiple positions in the axial direction.

[0257] The plurality of first elastic support portions 52A, 54A can distribute the burden of supporting the first movable portion 4A to each of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A, 54A in each of the two ends of the first movable portion 4A.

[0258] In the vibration system formed by the first elastic support and the first movable part 4A, the first movable part 4A is configured to be driven at a lower frequency than the second movable part 6A in the vibration system formed by the second elastic support and the second movable part 6A.

[0259] In order to support the first movable part 4A, which vibrates at a low frequency and has a large amplitude, it is supported by an elastic support part that is easy to deform and soft (with a small spring constant) even under small loads. In this case, it is highly likely that the first movable part 4A will be supported in an inclined state.

[0260] In the vibration actuator 1A, multiple first elastic support portions 52A and 54A are provided at both ends of the first movable part 4A. Soft elastic support portions (springs) are applied to these multiple first elastic support portions 52A and 54A to support the first movable part 4A with a large amplitude at multiple locations. This allows the first movable part 4A to be supported in a state where its axis does not deviate in the vibration direction, that is, where it is not easy for the first movable part 4A to tilt, and it can move freely in the vibration direction.

[0261] The first elastic support portions 52A and 54A are leaf springs constructed in the same manner as the first elastic support portions 52 and 54. In this embodiment, the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A are constructed from identical components having the same structure.

[0262] The first elastic support portions 52A and 54A are respectively formed into rectangular plates (e.g., square shapes), and have an inner peripheral portion 5a with an annular shape and an outer peripheral portion 5b with a frame shape, which are joined by a top-view arc-shaped deformable arm 5c that undergoes elastic deformation.

[0263] The deformable arm 5c connects the inner peripheral portion 5a and the outer peripheral portion 5b, and is vortex-shaped to ensure sufficient length for elastic deformation. Due to the deformation of the deformable arm 5c, the inner peripheral portion 5a and the outer peripheral portion 5b are displaced relative to each other in the axial direction.

[0264] The first elastic support portions 52A and 54A support the first movable portion 4A in a manner that prevents the first movable portion 4A from contacting the housing 2A and the second movable portion 6A, allowing it to move freely in the axial direction (vibration direction).

[0265] Furthermore, the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A can also be configured such that, at each of the two ends of the first movable portion 4A, a plurality of first elastic support portions 52A and 54A arranged in parallel are configured such that the connection positions of the deformable arm 5c and the outer peripheral portion 5b do not overlap. For example, among the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A, the connection positions of the deformable arm 5c of the first piece and the outer peripheral portion 5b are arranged such that they are connected in the Y1 and Y2 directions, and the connection positions of the deformable arm 5c of the second piece and the outer peripheral portion 5b are arranged such that they are connected in the Z1 and Z2 directions. That is, they are arranged such that the direction of the vortex is different.

[0266] Specifically, for example, two deformable arms 5c are provided in each of the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A, each forming a double spring. Furthermore, the first elastic support portions 52 and 54, and the other first elastic support portions 52B, 52C, 52E, 52F, 54B, 54C, 54E, and 54F (described later), can also be formed in the same manner as the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A. These first elastic support portions 52A and 54A can also be configured such that the direction of the deformable arms 5c is changed by 90° on each side of the first movable portion 4A, arranged in a complementary positional relationship, thereby supporting the first movable portion 4A from all four directions by means of the deformable arms 5c.

[0267] Thus, the first movable part 4A is supported by the first elastic support parts 52A and 54A relative to the shell 2A surrounding the first movable part 4A, and can move freely and evenly around its entire circumference. Even when driven by low frequency and large amplitude, it will not tilt and can move back and forth appropriately in the vibration direction.

[0268] Furthermore, when the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A are driven by the first movable portion 4A, or even when subjected to an external impact, the first movable portion 4A will not interact with the cylindrical main body portion 632 (see reference). Figure 19 The inner circumferential surface of the coil will not come into contact with the pair of coils 612 and 614. Therefore, coils 612 and 614 will not be damaged.

[0269] The inner circumferential portion 5a is arranged in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the sleeves 462 and 472 protrude. The inner circumferential portion 5a has a connecting hole 5d arranged at the center of the first elastic support portions 52A and 54A, into which the shafts of the spring fixing portions 48 and 49 are inserted.

[0270] Thus, for example, the inner periphery 5a of each of the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A, 52A on one side of the first movable portion 4A is connected in a state where it is clamped by the end of the sleeve 462, the auxiliary sleeves 464, 474 and the head of the spring fixing portions 48, 49. As a result, the plurality of first elastic support portions 52A, 52A are firmly fixed to the first movable portion 4A.

[0271] On the other hand, the outer peripheral portion 5b is fixed in the housing 2A in a state where it is arranged orthogonally to the vibration direction on the peripheral wall portion about the X-axis of the vibration direction. The outer peripheral portion 5b is bonded to the housing 2A, for example, using an adhesive.

[0272] As the first elastic support parts 52A and 54A, the leaf springs can be formed from any material as described above, as long as they are made of materials capable of elastic deformation.

[0273] The vibration actuator 1A constructed in this way can achieve the same function and effect as the vibration actuator 1.

[0274] Even when the first movable part 4A vibrates at a low frequency, and the structure is designed to move the first movable part 4A in such a way that the first movable part 4A moves in a manner that is the maximum displacement in the vibration direction, the support can be increased by using a plurality of first elastic support parts 52A and 54A that are soft and easily elastically deformable, and the structure can be stably maintained.

[0275] In addition, the vibration actuator 1A can perform the same function as the vibration actuator 1, but performs more stably and accurately.

[0276] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the structural elements can be appropriately modified according to the number of magnets in the magnet section 40, the number of coils in the coil section 61, the arrangement of the coils and magnets, and the structure and number of the first elastic support sections 52, 52A, 54, and 54A. Hereinafter, some of these modifications will be described as variations 2 to 6. Moreover, each variation 2 to 6 has the same basic structure as embodiments 1 and 2, and therefore provides the same functional effects.

[0277] When vibration actuators 1 and 1A generate vibration, the amplitude is small if the frequency is high. Therefore, even a small number of first elastic support parts, such as one piece each, can maintain the first movable parts 4 and 4A that can reciprocate. In vibration actuator 1A, the first movable part 4A is supported at both ends by multiple first elastic support parts 52A and 54A, each consisting of two pieces. Therefore, even low-frequency vibrations can be appropriately supported and exhibited.

[0278] (Variation Example 2)

[0279] Figure 20 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example 2 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the first movable part of a modified example 2 of the vibration actuator. Additionally, Figure 22 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the main structure of a modified example 2 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0280] Compared to vibration actuator 1, the vibration actuator 1B in modified example 2 differs in the shapes of the magnet part 40B and the coil part 61B. For other structural elements, their shapes may differ but they have the same function. Therefore, only structures different from vibration actuator 1 will be described. For structures with the same reference numerals and names, descriptions will be omitted. Structures with substantially the same function will be described using the designation B.

[0281] The vibration actuator 1B is a vibrating body having a rectangular housing 2B and a drive unit 3B housed within the housing 2B.

[0282] In the drive unit 3B, the number of magnets in the first movable part 4B and the number of coils in the second movable part 6B are different from those in the drive unit 3.

[0283] like Figures 20-22 As shown, the vibration unit 3B has: a first movable part 4B having a magnet part 40B; first elastic support parts 52B and 54B; a second movable part 6B having a coil part 61B; and second elastic support parts 72B and 74B.

[0284] The first elastic support portions 52B and 54B support the first movable portion 4B at its two ends spaced apart in the vibration direction (X direction) in a manner that allows it to move freely back and forth. The second elastic support portions 72B and 74B, at their two ends spaced apart in the vibration direction (X direction), support the second movable portion 6B, which is disposed on the outer periphery of the magnet portion 40B, in a manner that allows it to move freely back and forth on the outer periphery of the magnet portion 40B. The drive unit 3B drives the first movable portion 4B and the second movable portion 6B to vibrate by coordinating the energized coil portion 61B with the magnet portion 40B.

[0285] The first movable part 4B has a magnet part 40B, hammer parts 44B and 45B, spring stop parts 46B and 47B, and spring fixing parts 48B and 49B. In addition, the second movable part 6B has a coil part 61B, a coil holding part 63B, and an outer magnetic yoke 65B including split bodies 652B and 654B.

[0286] In the magnet section 40B of the first movable part 4B, two magnets 412 and 413 are arranged in the vibration direction with their same magnetic poles facing each other, and a magnetic yoke 422 is inserted between them to form an integral structure. On the other hand, the coil section 61B of the second movable part 6B is composed of a coil arranged to surround the magnetic yoke 422.

[0287] In the second movable part 6B, outside the coil holding part 63B of the coil holding part 61B, an outer magnetic yoke 65B surrounding the coil part 61B is arranged between the guide rails 6362B and 6382B of the end flange parts 636B and 638B. The outer magnetic yoke 65B is composed of split bodies 652B and 654B. This results in a magnetic circuit structure that efficiently utilizes magnetic force, enabling miniaturization.

[0288] (Variation Example 3)

[0289] Figure 23 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example 3 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the first movable part of a modified example 3 of the vibration actuator. Additionally, Figure 25 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the main structure of a modified example 3 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0290] Compared to vibration actuator 1, the vibration actuator 1C in modified example 3 differs in the shapes of the magnet part 40C and the coil part 61C. The shapes of other structural elements may differ but they have the same function. Therefore, only structures different from vibration actuator 1 will be described. For structures with the same reference numerals and names, descriptions will be omitted. Structures with substantially the same function will be described using the designation C.

[0291] The vibration actuator 1C is a vibrating body having a cuboid housing 2C formed by a plate portion 24C and a box-shaped housing body 22C, and a drive unit 3C housed within the housing 2C.

[0292] In the drive unit 3C, the number of magnets in the first movable part 4C and the number of coils in the second movable part 6C are different from those in the drive unit 3.

[0293] like Figures 23-25 As shown, the vibration unit 3C has: a first movable part 4C having a magnet part 40C; first elastic support parts 52C and 54C; a second movable part 6C having a coil part 61C; and second elastic support parts 72C and 74C.

[0294] The first elastic support portions 52C and 54C support the first movable portion 4C at its two ends spaced apart in the vibration direction (X direction) in a manner that allows it to move freely back and forth. The second elastic support portions 72C and 74C, at their two ends spaced apart in the vibration direction (X direction), support the second movable portion 6C, which is disposed on the outer periphery of the magnet portion 40C, in a manner that allows it to move freely back and forth on the outer periphery of the magnet portion 40C. The drive unit 3C drives the first movable portion 4C and the second movable portion 6C to vibrate by coordinating the energized coil portion 61C with the magnet portion 40C.

[0295] The first movable part 4C has a magnet part 40C, a hammer part 44C, 45C, a spring stop part 46C, 47C, and a spring fixing part 48C, 49C. In addition, the second movable part 6C has a coil part 61C, a coil holding part 63C, and an outer magnetic yoke 65C including split bodies 652C, 654C.

[0296] In the magnet section 40C of the first movable part 4C, two magnets 412 and 413 are arranged in the vibration direction with their same magnetic poles facing each other, and a magnetic yoke 422 is provided between them. In addition, magnetic yokes 423 and 424 are integrally provided at the separated ends of the magnets 412 and 413 in the vibration direction.

[0297] On the other hand, the coil portion 61C of the second movable portion 6C is composed of three coils 616, 617, and 618 arranged in such a way as to surround the magnetic yokes 422, 423, and 424 respectively, and is appropriately disposed in the coil holding portion 63C.

[0298] In the second movable part 6C, the coil part 61C is covered by an outer magnetic yoke 65C disposed outside the coil holding part 63C. The outer magnetic yoke 65C includes split bodies 652C and 654C.

[0299] In Modification 3, the magnet section 40C is formed by aligning the same magnetic poles of two magnets 412 and 413, and correspondingly, coils 616, 617, and 618 are added. This allows for the efficient generation of magnetic force in the magnetic circuit and increases the thrust when the first movable section 4C and the second movable section 6C vibrate.

[0300] (Variation Example 4)

[0301] Figure 26 This is an exploded perspective view showing a modified example 4 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 26 In the middle section, for the second movable part, for convenience, the state in which the outer magnetic yoke's segment is removed is shown.

[0302] Compared to vibration actuator 1, the vibration actuator 1D in modified example 4 changes all structural elements related to shape in the drive unit 3C. Therefore, other structural elements have the same function except for the different shape. Therefore, compared with actuator 1, structural elements with the same function and the same name are assigned to D for description.

[0303] The vibration actuator 1D is a vibrating body having a cuboid housing 2D formed by a plate portion 24D and a box-shaped housing body 22D, and a drive unit 3D housed within the housing 2D. In the vibration actuator 1D, the drive unit 3D is formed in a cuboid shape.

[0304] Therefore, when the drive unit 3D is housed within the rectangular housing 2D, since the drive unit 3D corresponds to the shape of the housing 2D, it can be configured without gaps on the outer periphery. That is, by fitting the drive unit 3D into the housing 2D, the volume of the drive unit 3D can be maximized, making extremely efficient use of the occupied space to increase the driving force.

[0305] (Variation Example 5)

[0306] Figure 27 This is an exploded perspective view of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28 This is a partially exploded perspective view of the drive unit, showing the essential structure of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 29 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the main structure of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 30 This is a diagram illustrating the joint between the elastic support and the movable part of a modified example 5 of the vibration actuator.

[0307] Compared to vibration actuator 1, the vibration actuator 1E in variant 5 differs only in the structure of the first elastic support parts 52E, 54E and the second elastic support parts 72E, 74E. The shapes of other structural elements may differ, but they have roughly the same function. Therefore, only the structures that differ from vibration actuator 1 will be described. For the same structures, the same names will be given and the same reference numerals will be assigned the same E, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0308] The vibration actuator 1E is a vibrating body having a cuboid housing 2E formed by a plate portion 24E and a box-shaped housing body 22E, and a drive unit 3E housed within the housing 2E.

[0309] Compared with the drive unit 3, the drive unit 3E sets up an elastic support part that supports the first movable part 4E and the second movable part 6E to move freely in the vibration direction, and supports each movable part 4E and 6E at both ends using a pair of elastic support parts 52E and 54E.

[0310] like Figures 27-30 As shown, the vibration unit 3E has: a first movable part 4E having a magnet part 40E; elastic support parts 52E and 54E; and a second movable part 6E having a coil part 61E.

[0311] The second movable part 6E is disposed within the housing 2E on the outer periphery of the first movable part 4E. The first movable part 4E has a magnet part 40E, hammer parts 44E and 45E, spring stop parts 46E and 47E, and spring fixing parts 48E and 49E. In addition, the second movable part 6E has a coil part 61E, a coil holding part 63E, and an outer magnetic yoke 65E including split bodies 652E and 654E.

[0312] The elastic support portions 52E and 54E are engaged within the housing 2E at their two ends, which are spaced apart in the vibration direction (X1, X2 direction), relative to each of the first movable portion 4E and the second movable portion 6E, in a manner in which the two can freely reciprocate.

[0313] The elastic support portions 52E and 54E have the same shape, and the outer peripheral fixing portion 501 is formed as a rectangular plate (e.g., a square), and the inner peripheral portion of the outer peripheral fixing portion 501 can be displaced in a direction perpendicular to the outer peripheral fixing portion 501.

[0314] The elastic support portions 52E and 54E are formed such that the displacement becomes the greatest as they move toward the center. In the elastic support portions 52E and 54E, a first movable part fixing portion 502 for engaging with the first movable part 4E is provided at the center, and a second movable part fixing portion 503 for fixing the second movable part 6E is provided on its outer periphery, in the deformable portion that connects the outer periphery fixing portion 501 to the center.

[0315] In the elastic support portions 52E and 54E, the second movable part fixing portion 503 is provided in the middle portion between the outer peripheral fixing portion 501 and the center portion, that is, the portion that can be elastically deformed between the outer peripheral fixing portion 501 and the center portion (the first movable part fixing portion 502). In the elastic support portions 52E and 54E, the second movable part fixing portion 503 is provided away from the outer peripheral fixing portion 501 and the center portion in the elastically deformable portion, so it can deform and displace relative to both in the vibration direction.

[0316] The first movable part fixing part 502 and the second movable part fixing part 503 are spaced apart so that they can be displaced in the direction of the central axis of the elastic support parts 52E and 54E, which is also the vibration direction. This spacing ensures the elastic deformation area of ​​the elastic deformation portion between the first movable part fixing part 502 and the second movable part fixing part 503. Thus, the first movable part 4E and the second movable part 6E, at their two ends spaced apart in the vibration direction, are supported by elastic support parts 52E and 54E respectively, allowing them to move freely in the vibration direction.

[0317] In addition, the elastic support parts 52E and 54E may also have the same basic structure as the first elastic support parts 52, 52A to 52C, 54, 54A to 54C or the second elastic support parts 72, 72A to 72C, 74, 74A to 74C.

[0318] The drive unit 3E drives the first movable part 4E and the second movable part 6E to vibrate through the coordinated action of the energized coil part 61E and the magnet part 40E.

[0319] In Modification 5, both the first movable part 4E and the second movable part 6E are supported at their two ends in the vibration direction by identical elastic support parts (leaf springs) 52E and 54E, so that they can move in the vibration direction respectively. Thus, miniaturization can be achieved.

[0320] Furthermore, in the vibration actuators 1 and 1A, the elastic support is not limited to a leaf spring; it can be configured in any way.

[0321] (Variation Example 6)

[0322] Figure 31 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the main structure of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 32 This is a front side perspective view of the drive unit of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 33 This is a left-side view of the second elastic support portion of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 34 This is a front side perspective view of the second elastic support portion of a modified example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0323] The vibration actuator 1F shown in this variation 6 is a modification of the vibration actuator 1 in embodiment 1, except that the shapes of the second elastic support portions 72F and 74F are changed. Other structural elements may have different shapes compared to the vibration actuator 1, but have substantially the same function. Therefore, only the different structures will be described, and the same structures will be given the same name and the same reference numeral E, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0324] The vibration actuator 1F is a vibrating body having a cuboid housing 2F formed by a plate portion 24F and a box-shaped housing body 22F, and a drive unit 3F housed within the housing 2F.

[0325] Compared with the drive unit 3, the drive unit 3F has a structure that integrates the first elastic support and the second elastic support, which respectively support the first movable part 4F and the second movable part 6F in a freely movable manner in the vibration direction, and supports each movable part 4F and 6F at both ends by a pair of elastic support parts 52F and 54F.

[0326] The vibration unit 3F has: a first movable part 4F having a magnet part 40F; first elastic support parts 52F and 54F; a second movable part 6F having a coil part 61F; and second elastic support parts 72F and 74E.

[0327] The second elastic support parts 72F and 74F are formed in the same shape and can also be freely elastically deformed. For example... Figure 33 and Figure 34 As shown, the second elastic support portions 72F and 74F are formed in a rectangular shape.

[0328] In the second elastic support portions 72F and 74F, an outer fixing portion 7b fixed to the housing 2F is provided on the outer periphery. Additionally, in the second elastic support portions 72F and 74F, an annular inner periphery portion 7a is provided in the central portion for engagement with the second movable portion 6F. The inner periphery portion 7a has openings 7d through which the two ends of the first movable portion 4F are respectively inserted.

[0329] The inner periphery 7a is connected to the outer fixing part 7b, which is formed by bending and protruding in all directions, and is located at the four corners of the flat rectangular shape.

[0330] The arm portion 7c is formed inclined in the thickness direction of the second elastic support portions 72F and 74F, which is also the vibration direction. The second elastic support portions 72F and 74F are pre-stressed in the vibration direction. The second elastic support portions 72F and 74F are configured such that the arm portion 7c bends and extends in all directions from the inner peripheral portion 7a, and the outer fixing portion 7b is located on a different plane from the inner peripheral portion 7a.

[0331] Therefore, compared with a flat leaf spring, the second movable part 6F, which is connected to the housing 2F by the second elastic support parts 72F and 74F, can exert a stronger force in the direction of vibration.

[0332] This allows for an increase in the amplitude of the movable part that can be supported in a reciprocating motion.

[0333] In the vibration actuators 1 to 1F, any one of the magnet parts 40A to 40F can be changed together with the coil parts 61, 61A to 61F.

[0334] The invention made by the inventors has been specifically described above based on the embodiments, but the invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified within the scope of its spirit.

[0335] Furthermore, the vibration actuator of the present invention can also be installed in the contact portion of mobile devices (e.g., mobile information terminals such as tablet PCs and portable game terminals) that come into contact with the user, other than game controllers and mobile terminals. That is, the vibration actuator 1 can also be installed in handheld electrical devices such as mobile terminals and electric beauty devices like massagers, in the contact portion that comes into contact with the user. The vibration actuator 1 can also be installed in wearable devices (worn by the user) in the contact portion that comes into contact with the user. For example, in the case of handheld electrical devices such as game controllers, the contact portion that comes into contact with the user is, for example, the handle that the user holds during use. Additionally, in the case of wearable electrical devices such as massagers, the contact portion that comes into contact with the user is, for example, a pressure part that applies pressure to the user's body surface.

[0336] The entire contents of the description, drawings and abstract contained in Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-129940, filed on August 6, 2021, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0337] Industrial applicability

[0338] The vibration actuator of the present invention is useful as a device mounted on electronic devices such as game consoles or mobile terminals, and electrical devices such as electric beauty appliances, which can stably generate a variety of vibration outputs in different frequency bands while achieving miniaturization.

[0339] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0340] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 10 Vibration Actuators

[0341] 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F shells

[0342] 3, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F drive units

[0343] 4, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 4F First movable part

[0344] 5a, 7a inner peripheral part

[0345] 5b Peripheral part

[0346] 5c deformable arm

[0347] 5d connecting hole

[0348] 6, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6E, 6E, 6F Second movable parts

[0349] 7b Outer fixing part

[0350] 7c Deformable Arm

[0351] 7d opening

[0352] 22, 22A, 22C, 22D, 22E, 22F Shell Main Body

[0353] 24, 24A, 24C, 24D, 24E, 24F plate sections

[0354] 26, 26A opening

[0355] Magnet sections of models 40, 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 40E, and 40F.

[0356] Magnets 41, 41E, 41F, 412, and 413

[0357] Magnetic yokes 42, 42E, 42F, 43, 43E, 43F, 422, 423, 424

[0358] Hammers 44, 44B, 44C, 44E, 44F, 45, 45B, 45C, 45E, 45F

[0359] 441, 451 Through holes (openings)

[0360] Sleeves 46, 47, 462, and 472 (spring stop parts)

[0361] 46A, 46B, 46C, 46E, 46F, 47A, 47B, 47C, 47E, 47F Spring Stop

[0362] 48, 48B, 48C, 48E, 49, 49B, 4C, 49E Spring fixing parts

[0363] 52, 52A, 52B, 52C, 52E, 52F, 54, 54A, 54B, 54C, 54E, 54F, First Elastic Support Section

[0364] Coil sections 61, 61A, 61B, 61C, 61D, 61E, and 61F

[0365] 63, 63B, 63C, 63E, 63F Coil Holding Section

[0366] External magnetic yokes 65, 65B, 65C, 65E, 65F

[0367] 67 terminal bundling section

[0368] 72, 72A, 72B, 72C, 72E, 72F, 74, 74A, 74B, 74C, 74E, 74F Second Elastic Support Section

[0369] 464, 474 auxiliary sleeves

[0370] 501 Peripheral Fixing Part

[0371] 502 First movable part fixed part

[0372] 503 Second movable part fixed part

[0373] 612, 612E, 612F, 614, 614E, 614F, 616, 617, 618 coils

[0374] 632 cylindrical main body

[0375] 634 Central flange

[0376] 636, 636B, 638B end flange

[0377] 639 slot

[0378] 652, 652B, 652C, 652E, 654, 654B, 654C, 654E, 654F split body

[0379] 655 Segmented Main Body

[0380] 656 Opening

[0381] Part 672

[0382] 4101 Front

[0383] 4102 Back

[0384] 6362, 6362B, 6382, 6382B guide rails.

Claims

1. A vibration actuator, comprising: case; A first movable part having a magnet part and being configured to reciprocate freely within the housing in a vibration direction along the axial direction by means of a first elastic support part, the first elastic support part being engaged with two ends of the first movable part spaced apart in the axial direction of the magnet part; as well as The second movable part has a coil part coaxially arranged with the magnet part in a manner surrounding the magnet part, and a cylindrical coil holding part that holds the coil part. The coil holding part is arranged within the housing, on the outer periphery of the first movable part, and freely reciprocating in the vibration direction by means of a second elastic support part. The second elastic support part is engaged with two axially spaced ends of the second movable part of the coil part. The two ends of the first movable part are inserted through the second elastic support part and positioned at a location that protrudes further outward in the vibration direction than the two ends of the second movable part, and engage with the first elastic support part. The vibration actuator generates vibration by energizing the coil section to drive the first movable part and the second movable part.

2. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first movable part and the second movable part are driven simultaneously and individually to move.

3. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first elastic support is composed of a plurality of spring members installed at each of the two ends of the first movable part in a manner that is spaced apart in the axial direction and allows the first movable part to move freely back and forth along the axial direction.

4. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first resonant frequency of the first vibration system including the first movable part and the first elastic support part is smaller than the second resonant frequency of the second vibration system including the second movable part and the second elastic support part.

5. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 4, wherein, The first movable part and the second movable part reciprocate with the same phase in the frequency band between the first resonant frequency and the second resonant frequency.

6. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The magnet part has a magnet and magnetic yokes respectively disposed on the two end faces of the magnet along the axial direction. The coil section has a pair of coils positioned to surround the magnetic yoke.

7. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The magnet section has two magnets arranged such that their identical magnetic poles face each other. The coil portion includes a coil positioned to surround the opposing portions of the two magnets.

8. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The first movable part has hammers on both sides that are fixed axially to the magnet part.

9. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The hammer is a ring-shaped body with an opening in the center, and The hammer is provided with a pair of spring stop portions, which engage with the hammer at the opening, protrude outward from the vibration direction of the second movable part, and constitute each of the two ends of the first movable part, and engage with the first elastic support portion.

10. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The two ends of the first movable part include a pair of spring stop portions that are respectively arranged protruding outward from both axial sides of the magnet portion toward the two ends of the second movable part in the vibration direction, and the pair of spring stop portions engage with a pair of first elastic support portions respectively.

11. The vibration actuator as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The second movable part has an outer magnetic yoke surrounding the coil part.

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