Vibration actuator and contact type input device

Abstract

A vibration actuator includes a plate made of a magnetic material, an electromagnet configured on the plate with a coil disposed at the center of an iron core, and an elastic body that supports the iron core on both sides of the coil and is connected to the plate. By the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil, one of the coil and the plate is displaced so as to approach the other, thereby performing vibration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibration actuator and a contact input device including the vibration actuator. Background Art

[0002] Currently, the following structure is known: as a contact operation feeling (the feeling of operating in contact), a vibration actuator gives vibration to the fingertip or the like of an operator in contact with a display screen of a touch panel display serving as a touch panel (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a mobile terminal device in which a vibration actuator is mounted via a vibration transmission portion on the back surface of a touch panel. The vibration actuator of this device is disposed in a housing fixed to the vibration transmission portion, and a movable member is disposed so as to be reciprocally movable along a guide shaft disposed perpendicular to the touch panel. In the vibration actuator, the movable member collides with the housing corresponding to an operation performed on the touch panel, so that although a collision sound may be generated, vibration is given to the fingertip in contact with the touch panel via the vibration transmission portion.

[0004] Prior Art Documents

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-070729 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] However, in the vibration actuator of Patent Document 1, since the movable member reciprocally moves along a guide shaft disposed perpendicular to the display surface of the touch panel, the device itself has a structure having a length in the direction perpendicular to the display surface, that is, a thickness.

[0009] In this structure, a predetermined thickness amount of arrangement space is required on the back surface side of the touch panel, and thus there is a problem that the mobile terminal device including the touch panel itself becomes large.

[0010] Moreover, in the drive circuit of the vibration actuator of Patent Document 1, as the movable member, it has a magnet and two magnetic yokes that sandwich the magnet, and as the fixed member, it has a bobbin that surrounds the movable body and two coils wound around the bobbin. Therefore, its assembly takes time. Thus, there is a demand for further reducing the number of components to improve the assemblability.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a vibration actuator and a contact input device that are easy to assemble, are arranged in a space-saving manner, and vibrate appropriately.

[0012] Means for Solving the Problems

[0013] The vibration actuator of the present invention has the following structure and includes:

[0014] Magnetic plate

[0015] An electromagnet, which is arranged on the above-mentioned plate and formed by arranging a coil at the central part of the iron core; and

[0016] An elastomer, which supports the above-mentioned iron core on both sides of the above-mentioned coil and is connected to the above-mentioned plate,

[0017] Utilizing the magnetic force generated by energizing the above-mentioned coil, one of the above-mentioned coil and the above-mentioned plate is displaced in a manner of approaching the other to perform vibration.

[0018] The contact-type input device of the present invention adopts the following structure, which is a contact-type input device in which the vibration actuator of the above structure is arranged on the back of the operation surface,

[0019] According to the contact action of the operator on the above-mentioned operation surface, the above-mentioned coil is energized, and one of the above-mentioned coil and the above-mentioned plate is displaced in a manner of approaching the other to perform vibration, and a tactile sensation is presented to the operator.

[0020] The effects of the invention are as follows.

[0021] According to the present invention, it can be easily assembled, arranged in a space-saving manner, and vibrated appropriately. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 It is an external perspective view of a vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 It is a top view of the vibration actuator.

[0024] Figure 3 It is a bottom view of the vibration actuator.

[0025] Figure 4 It is a front view of the vibration actuator.

[0026] Figure 5 It is a right view of the above-mentioned vibration actuator.

[0027] Figure 6 It is Figure 2 A sectional view taken along the line A-A of

[0028] Figure 7 It is Figure 2 A sectional view taken along the line B-B of

[0029] Figure 8 It is an exploded perspective view of a vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 9It is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the movable part and the elastic support part in the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 10 It is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the movable part, the elastic support part, and the base part in the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11C It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the vibration actuator.

[0033] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing an example of the drive circuit of the actuator body.

[0034] Figure 13 It is an external perspective view showing an example of a vibration notification device having a vibration actuator.

[0035] Figure 14 It is a simplified side cross-sectional view showing the main part structure of the vibration notification device.

[0036] Figure 15A and Figure 15B It is a diagram showing the tactile sensation given by the vibration notification device in a time-sequential image.

[0037] Figure 16 It is a simplified side cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the vibration notification device.

[0038] Figure 17 It is a perspective view of another modified example 1 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 18 It is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 1 of the vibration actuator.

[0040] Figure 19 It is a perspective view of another modified example 2 of the vibration actuator.

[0041] Figure 20 It is a perspective view of another modified example 3 of the vibration actuator.

[0042] Figure 21 It is a perspective view of another modified example 4 of the vibration actuator.

[0043] Figure 22 It is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 4 of the vibration actuator.

[0044] Figure 23 It is a perspective view of another modified example 5 of the vibration actuator.

[0045] Figure 24Is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 5 of the vibration actuator.

[0046] Figure 25 Is a perspective view of another modification example 6 of the vibration actuator.

[0047] Figure 26 Is a perspective view of another modification example 7 of the vibration actuator.

[0048] Figure 27 Is a perspective view of another modification example 8 of the vibration actuator.

[0049] Figure 28 Is a perspective view of another modification example 9 of the vibration actuator.

[0050] Figure 29 Is a perspective view of an example of a vibration notification device having another modification example 9 of the vibration actuator.

[0051] Figure 30 Is a perspective view of another modification example 10 of the vibration actuator.

[0052] Figure 31 Is a perspective view of another modification example 11 of the vibration actuator.

[0053] Figure 32 Is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 11 of the vibration actuator.

[0054] Figure 33 Is a perspective view of another modification example 12 of the vibration actuator.

[0055] Figure 34 Is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 12 of the vibration actuator.

[0056] Figure 35 Is a perspective view of another modification example 13 of the vibration actuator.

[0057] Figure 36 Is a perspective view of another modification example 14 of the vibration actuator.

[0058] Figure 37 Is a perspective view of another modification example 15 of the vibration actuator.

[0059] Figure 38 Is a diagram for explaining the mounting structure of another modification example 15 of the vibration actuator.

[0060] Figure 39 Is a perspective view of another modification example 16 of the vibration actuator.

[0061] Figure 40 Is a perspective view of another modification example 17 of the vibration actuator.

[0062] Figure 41 It is a perspective view of the 18th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0063] Figure 42 It is an exploded perspective view of the 18th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0064] Figure 43 It is a perspective view of the 19th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0065] Figure 44 It is an exploded perspective view of the 19th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0066] Figure 45 It is a perspective view of the 20th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0067] Figure 46 It is an exploded perspective view of the 20th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0068] Figure 47 It is a perspective view of the 21st other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0069] Figure 48 It is an exploded perspective view of the 21st other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0070] Figure 49 It is a perspective view of the 22nd other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0071] Figure 50 It is an exploded perspective view of the 22nd other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0072] Figure 51 It is a perspective view of the 23rd other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0073] Figure 52 It is an exploded perspective view of the 23rd other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0074] Figure 53 It is a perspective view of the 24th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0075] Figure 54 It is an exploded perspective view of the 24th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0076] Figure 55 It is a perspective view of the 25th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0077] Figure 56 It is an exploded perspective view of the 25th other modification example of the vibration actuator.

[0078] Figure 57It is a perspective view of another modification example 26 of the vibration actuator.

[0079] Figure 58 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 26 of the vibration actuator.

[0080] Figure 59 It is a perspective view of another modification example 27 of the vibration actuator.

[0081] Figure 60 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 27 of the vibration actuator.

[0082] Figure 61 It is a perspective view of another modification example 28 of the vibration actuator.

[0083] Figure 62 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 28 of the vibration actuator.

[0084] Figure 63 It is a perspective view of another modification example 29 of the vibration actuator.

[0085] Figure 64 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 29 of the vibration actuator.

[0086] Figure 65 It is a perspective view of another modification example 30 of the vibration actuator.

[0087] Figure 66 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 30 of the vibration actuator.

[0088] Figure 67 It is a perspective view of another modification example 31 of the vibration actuator.

[0089] Figure 68 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 31 of the vibration actuator.

[0090] Figure 69 It is a perspective view of another modification example 32 of the vibration actuator.

[0091] Figure 70 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 32 of the vibration actuator.

[0092] Figure 71 It is a perspective view of another modification example 33 of the vibration actuator.

[0093] Figure 72 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 33 of the vibration actuator.

[0094] Figure 73 It is a perspective view of another modification example 34 of the vibration actuator.

[0095] Figure 74 Is an exploded perspective view of another modification 34 of the vibration actuator.

[0096] Figure 75 Is a perspective view of another modification 35 of the vibration actuator.

[0097] Figure 76 Is an exploded perspective view of another modification 35 of the vibration actuator.

[0098] Figure 77 Is a perspective view of another modification 36 of the vibration actuator.

[0099] Figure 78 Is an exploded perspective view of another modification 36 of the vibration actuator.

[0100] Figure 79 Is a perspective view of another modification 37 of the vibration actuator.

[0101] Figure 80 Is an exploded perspective view of another modification 37 of the vibration actuator. Detailed implementation

[0102] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0103] In the present embodiment, an orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is used for the description. The same orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is also shown in the following figures. Hereinafter, the width, depth, and height of the vibration notification device (contact-type input device) 1 having the vibration actuator 10 are the lengths in the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction, respectively, and the width, depth, and height of the vibration actuator 10 are also correspondingly set to the lengths in the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction, respectively. Further, the positive side in the Z direction is the direction in which vibration feedback is given to the operator (operator), and is described as the "plane side" (or "upper side"), and the negative side in the Z direction is the direction pressed by the operator during operation, and is described as the "bottom side" (or "lower side"). In addition, among the respective members constituting the vibration actuator 10, the surface located on the "plane side" (or "upper side") is described as the "surface" (or "upper surface"), and the surface located on the "back side" (or "lower side") is described as the "back surface" (or "lower surface").

[0104] <Overall structure of the vibration actuator 10>

[0105] The vibration actuator 10 is preferably a contact-type input device, that is, a vibration notification device having an operation device (in the present embodiment, refer to Figure 13 the flat plate main body 110 shown) as a vibration notification unit (operation surface) for the operator to perform a contact operation. Figure 13It is used in the touchpad shown. By vibrating the operating device, the vibration actuator 10 can impart a contact operation feeling (also referred to as "tactile feeling" or "force sense") to the operator who operates the contact operating device according to the use and usage conditions of the operating device.

[0106] The vibration actuator 10 is a thin vibration actuator in the form of a flat plate or thin sheet. When the Z direction is taken as the thickness direction, it is disposed opposite to the back side of the operating device in the thickness direction and can vibrate the operating device.

[0107] The vibration actuator 10 is formed in a thin plate shape and has a movable part 20, a base part (hereinafter also referred to as "base plate") 30, and a plate-shaped elastic part 40 as an elastic support part (elastic body) that supports the movable part 20 so as to be movable relative to the base part 30. In addition, although the elastic support part is provided as the plate-shaped elastic part 40, it is only necessary to support the movable part 20 so as to be movable relative to the base part 30, and it is not limited to the plate shape.

[0108] In the vibration actuator 10, it can be connected to a vibration prompt part (for example, Figures 14 - 16 the flat plate bodies 110, 110A shown) that receives the pressing operation of the user via one of the movable part 20 and the base part 30.

[0109] The vibration actuator 10 vibrates by the movable part 20 approaching or leaving the base part 30 in the Z direction, specifically, moving toward the base part 30 side, and imparts this vibration as an operation feeling to the operating device on which the vibration actuator 10 is installed.

[0110] <Movable part 20>

[0111] The movable part 20 is formed in a rectangular plate shape and has a coil 22, an iron core 24, and a weight part 26. The coil is formed in a flat shape and is disposed so as to surround the central part of the iron core 24. In addition, the coil 22 is disposed via an insulating material on the outer periphery of the central part of the iron core 24. The insulating material can be, for example, a coating agent applied to the iron core 24 and hardened, or can be configured as a spool-shaped insulating member sandwiched between the coil 22 and the iron core 24. As the insulating material, for example, a resin material such as Poly Butylene Terephthalate (PBT) can be used, thereby ensuring electrical insulation between the coil 22 and the iron core 24.

[0112] The iron core (magnetic core) 24 is a magnetic body, and both end portions 24a and 24b in the winding axis direction protrude from the coil 22, that is to say, both end portions 24a and 24b protrude from the wound coil 22. Spring connection portions 241 and 242 that are respectively joined to the elastic support portions are provided at the front ends of both end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24. The iron core 24 is formed in a rectangular plate shape, and both end portions 24a and 24b are respectively in the shape of a rectangular plate with a wider width, and face the base portion 30 on the back side. A weight portion 26 that extends on the spring connection portions 241 and 242 is mounted on the surfaces of both end portions 24a and 24b.

[0113] The weight portion 26 is in a plate shape, and is preferably provided corresponding to the shape of the iron core 24, such as the horizontal width (length in the X direction) and the length in the depth direction (length in the Y direction). Its weight can be arbitrarily set. For example, the length of the weight portion 26 in the Y direction, the length in the Z direction, the material, etc. can be adjusted. In this way, the weight portion 26 can adjust the weight of the movable portion 20, and the natural vibration frequency can be set by this adjustment. In addition, when the arrangement space in the thickness (Z direction) is limited, it can also be in a shape with an increased weight in the XY direction. For the weight portion 26, when a vibration notification portion (such as a touchpad main body, etc.) that receives a pressing operation by the user is mounted on the movable portion 20 side, it is preferably fixed and mounted on the weight portion 26 via a fixing member such as an adhesive, a fastening member, a bonding member, etc.

[0114] The iron core 24 is magnetized by energizing the coil 22 and functions as an electromagnet. Both end portions 24a and 24b become magnetic poles, and a magnetic attraction force is generated between the iron core 24 and the approaching magnetic body, that is, the base portion 30.

[0115] By energizing the coil 22, both end portions 24a and 24b, especially the back surfaces of both end portions 24a and 24b, of the iron core 24 become planar magnetic pole surfaces. In addition, the iron core 24 is preferably formed of a soft magnetic material such as a silicon steel sheet, permalloy, or ferrite. And the iron core 24 can also be composed of electromagnetic stainless steel, sintered material, MIM (metal injection molding) material, laminated steel sheet, electrogalvanized steel sheet (SECC), etc.

[0116] <Base portion 30>

[0117] As Figures 1 - 8 shown, the base portion 30 supports the movable portion 20 via the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 in the approaching and separating direction of the base portion 30, Figure 1It can move freely in the Z direction. The base portion 30 has opposing portions 32a and 32b made of a magnetic material that are opposed to the two end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 with a gap (void) G therebetween in the opposing direction that intersects the winding axis direction of the coil 22. The base portion 30 is a flat member having a predetermined thickness in the Z direction and forms the bottom surface of the vibration actuator 10.

[0118] The base portion 30 has a base main body portion 31 made of a magnetic material. In the base main body portion 31, there are provided opposing portions (magnetic bodies) 32a and 32b opposed to the two end portions 24a and 24b, spring connection portions 34a and 34b as elastic portion connection portions, and a fixing portion 36.

[0119] The base main body portion 31 has an opening 38 at the center and is formed in a frame shape that is square when viewed from above. The opening 38 is a space into which the lower portion of the coil 22 is inserted and is formed in a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the coil 22, for example, a square shape.

[0120] In the base main body portion 31, opposing portions 32a and 32b are respectively formed on a pair of opposing and separated side portions 311, and spring fixing portions 34a and 34b are respectively formed on another pair of opposing and separated side portions 312 between the pair of side portions 311. The opposing portions 32a and 32b and the spring fixing portions 34a and 34b are respectively formed on the surface of the base main body portion 31, that is, the surface on the movable portion side.

[0121] The pair of side portions 311 and the other pair of side portions 312 are respectively planar bodies, and cutout portions 311a and 312a are respectively formed at the central portions of the four outer edge portions constituting the outer peripheral portion of the base main body portion 31. The cutout portions 311a and 312a are respectively used to ensure a deformation region of a part of the disposed plate-shaped elastic portion 40.

[0122] The opposing portions (opposing surfaces) 32a and 32b are a part of the base portion 30 and constitute a magnetic material that is opposed to the two end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 with a void (gap) G therebetween in the opposing direction that intersects the winding axis direction of the coil 22, for example, the Z direction.

[0123] The opposing portions 32a and 32b are attracted to the two end portions 24a and 24b by the magnetic suction force generated between the back surfaces of the two end portions 24a and 24b due to the energization of the coil 22.

[0124] The opposing portions 32a and 32b are, for example, formed at the central portions of the pair of side portions 311 and are disposed at positions separated by the opening 38 in the Y direction.

[0125] Since the opposing portions 32a and 32b are surfaces that are opposed to the entire back surfaces of the two end portions 24a and 24b, the magnetic flux can flow efficiently between the back surfaces of the two end portions 24a and 24b.

[0126] The opposing portions 32a and 32b are ferromagnetic bodies as part of the base body portion 31, and are formed of, for example, iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), gadolinium (Gd), or the like. The opposing portions 32a and 32b, together with the spring connection portions 34a and 34b and the fixing portion 36, serve as the base body portion 31, and are particularly formed of a metal material such as iron, cobalt, nickel (for example, iron).

[0127] The end portions 24a and 24b are disposed separately and oppositely above (in the Z direction) the opposing portions 32a and 32b, and have a shape that is symmetric about the centers in the X direction and the Y direction, respectively.

[0128] The spring connection portions 34a and 34b are disposed with the opening portion 38 therebetween in the X direction, and are joined to the other end portions of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 on the surface side of the base portion 30.

[0129] The fixing portion 36 fixes the base portion 30. The fixing portion 36 is, for example, fastened to an operating device (vibration notification portion) with which an operator makes contact operations or a fastening hole of a box body (disposing portion) in which the operating device is disposed (refer to Figure 13 the screw 170 shown in ) via a fastening member (for example, Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 13 ).

[0130] The fixing portion 36 is formed at the four corners of the base portion 30, and can reliably fasten and fix the base portion 30 to a fixing object. In addition, although the fixing portion 36 is formed at the four corners, as long as the base portion 30 can be fixed to the fixing object, the number of the fixing portions 36 can be any number.

[0131] <Plate-shaped elastic portion 40>

[0132] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is plate-shaped, specifically a leaf spring that elastically deforms, and supports the movable portion 20 so as to be movable relative to the base portion 30. The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed into a thin plate frame shape having a predetermined thickness (thickness in the Z direction), and is disposed in a layered manner in the thickness direction (Z direction) between the base portion 30 and the movable portion 20.

[0133] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is connected to the movable portion 20 and the base portion 30, respectively. Moreover, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed into a frame shape surrounding the base portion 30, and the movable portion 20 is joined to a pair of opposing side portions 461 that are parallel to each other, and the base portion 30 is joined to the other pair of opposing side portions 462 adjacent to the pair of side portions 461. Thereby, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 supports the movable portion 20 symmetrically and with good balance in the direction (X direction and Y direction) perpendicular to the opposing direction (vibration direction) with respect to the base portion 30.

[0134] Since the plate-shaped elastic part 40 is a rectangular frame (a thin plate frame in this case), it is possible to reduce the number of components and make the overall structure thinner, and it can also be manufactured without bending the components. In addition, since it is a frame, it can be arranged so as not to interfere with other components by arranging other components inside the frame.

[0135] Furthermore, the plate-shaped elastic part 40 is determined by the spring constant K sp to determine the displacement amount and natural frequency of the movable part 20, and when the movable part 20 is driven, that is, when the coil 22 is energized, a mechanical tactile sensation is generated by the displacement.

[0136] The plate-shaped elastic part 40 has movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b, base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b, and a planar elastic main body part 46 including arms that connect the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b and elastically deform.

[0137] The elastic main body part 46 connects the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b in a manner that allows elastic deformation in the Z direction.

[0138] The elastic main body part 46 has deformable arms that connect the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b. The arms are formed in an L shape, for example, so that they form a frame shape surrounding the base part 30 in a top view and are deformable in the Z direction on the outer peripheral side of the base part 30.

[0139] In the elastic main body part 46, a pair of parallel side parts 461 are formed by the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b and one side of the L-shaped arm that is linearly connected to them, and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b are formed in a manner that protrudes inward on the other pair of side parts 462 adjacent to the pair of side parts 461.

[0140] In the plate-shaped elastic part 40, the elastic main body part 46, the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b, and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b are arranged on the same plane.

[0141] The movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b are planar and fixed to the movable part 20. In a top view of the elastic main body part 46, the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b are provided at the central parts of a pair of side parts 311 arranged outside the base part 30 and are fixed in surface contact with the spring connection parts 241, 242 of the iron core 24 on the back side. The movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b are arranged symmetrically in all directions with respect to the center in the X direction or the center in the Y direction. The base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b are planar and fixed to the base part 30.

[0142] In order to ensure flexibility, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 has an arm portion of the elastic main body portion 46, and the shape of the arm portion can be any shape as long as the movable portion side fixing portions 42a and 42b and the base portion side fixing portions 44a and 44b are connected to be displaceable in the Z direction.

[0143] Moreover, the elastic main body portion 46 can be any shape as long as it is formed to deform well in balance so that the movable portion 20 moves in the Z direction (vibration application direction) in a state where it is located on the XY plane.

[0144] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 supports the movable portion 20 in such a manner that the back surfaces of both end portions of the movable portion 20 face the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30 with a gap G therebetween in the vertical direction thereof, that is, the vibration direction (Z direction). The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 forms the gap G due to its thickness (length in the Z direction).

[0145] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 deforms between the upper surface of the iron core 24 or the coil 22 and the bottom surface of the base portion 30. In this way, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed in a rectangular frame shape, and the movable portion side fixing portions 42a and 42b and the base portion side fixing portions 44a and 44b are arranged at the central portions of the respective side portions constituting the rectangular frame. When the movable portion 20 is driven, the movable portion side fixing portions 42a and 42b are displaced relative to the base portion side fixing portions 44a and 44b.

[0146] The movable portion 20 is supported on both sides by L-shaped arm portions in the elastic main body portion 46 that connect the movable portion side fixing portions 42a and 42b and the base portion side fixing portions 44a and 44b. Thereby, stress dispersion during elastic deformation can be performed, and the movable portion 20 can move in the vibration direction (Z direction) without tilting with respect to the base portion 30, thereby enabling improvement in the reliability of the vibration state and improvement in stability.

[0147] <Magnetic Circuit of Vibration Actuator 10>

[0148] Figures 11A - 11C It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the vibration actuator. In addition, Figures 11A - 11C is a perspective view of the vibration actuator 10 showing a portion cut along the B-B line in Figure 2 For the magnetic circuit, the unillustrated portions also have the same magnetic flux flow M as the illustrated portions.

[0149] Figure 11A is a diagram showing the stationary state (located at the stationary position SI) of the vibration actuator 10. When current is made to flow through the coil 22 of the vibration actuator 10 shown in Figure 11A the iron core 24 is excited to generate a magnetic field, and both end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 become magnetic poles. For example, Figure 11BIn this case, in the iron core 24, one end portion 24a becomes the N pole, and the other end portion 24b becomes the S pole. Then, a magnetic path shown by the flow M of magnetic flux is formed between the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the iron core 24 and the base portion 30. The flow M of magnetic flux in this magnetic path is from one end portion 24a to the opposing opposing portion 32a, reaches the opposing portion 32b from the opposing portion 32a, flows from the opposing portion 32b to the other end portion 24b of the iron core 24, flows through the iron core 24, and is emitted again from one end portion 24a.

[0150] Accordingly, based on the principle of the solenoid, magnetic attractive forces KR are generated at both end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24. Then, both end portions 24a and 24b are attracted to both of the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30. Since the base portion 30 is fixed to a box body or the like via the fixing portion 36, both end portions 24a and 24b are attracted to the opposing portions 32a and 32b and adsorbed. That is, the plate-like elastic portion 40 is deformed, and the movable portion 20 is attracted to the side of the base portion 30. The movable portion 20 is disposed close to the side of the position (KI) where the base portion 30 is fixed.

[0151] Next, if the energization of the coil 22 is released, the magnetic field disappears, as Figure 11C shown, the magnetic attractive force KR of the movable portion 20 disappears, and the acting force of the plate-like elastic portion 40 deformed toward the base portion 30 is released. That is, a reaction force HR as a spring of the plate-like elastic portion 40 is generated, and due to the reaction force HR of the plate-like elastic portion 40, the movable portion 20 moves in such a manner as to move to the original position (the position SI in the non-driven stationary state as the reference position) (moves in the positive Z direction opposite to the attracting direction of the magnetic attractive force KR). At this time, the movable portion 20 moves to a position HI displaced further in the direction away from the base portion 30 than the stationary position SI in the stationary state due to the reaction force HR, and a strong vibration is generated.

[0152] This vibration is accompanied by the attenuation of the acting force and repeats free vibration while attenuating. Also, the energization and release of energization of the coil 22 can be repeated to cause the movable portion 20 to reciprocate in the Z direction to generate vibration. In this way, in the vibration actuator 10, the movable portion 20 supported in a state of being suspended by the plate-like elastic portion 40 with respect to the base portion 30 is mechanically displaced due to the magnetic attractive force generated between the electromagnet and the opposing portions 32a and 32b as magnetic bodies, and then performs free vibration.

[0153] In this way, the vibration actuator 10 uses the magnetic attractive force generated between the iron core 24 and the opposing portions (magnetic bodies) 32a and 32b due to the energization of the coil 22 to generate the movement of the movable portion 20 toward the base portion 30 side. This movement generates vibration of the movable portion 20 due to the elastic force (acting force) generated by the plate-like elastic portion 40, thereby imparting a tactile sensation to the user.

[0154] In the vibration actuator 10, the iron core 24 around which the coil 22 is wound is supported by the plate-shaped elastic part 40 so as to be movable relative to the base part 30 in the Z direction in a state where the coil 22 is inserted through the opening 38 of the base part 30. The vibration actuator 10 can be constituted only by the height of the laminated thin-plate iron core 24, the part of the coil 22 on the iron core 24, the plate-shaped elastic part 40, and the base part 30. Thus, the vibration actuator 10 can be formed into a thin plate shape, and space saving of the arrangement space can be achieved. Also, compared with a structure in which components such as a coil and a magnet are arranged so as to face each other in the Z direction and are magnetically generated and driven in the Z direction by overlapping in the Z direction, this structure has a further thinner structure.

[0155] Also, the plate-shaped iron core 24 is vertically opposed to the opposed parts 32a and 32b of the base part 30, and the movable part 20 is held via the plate-shaped elastic part 40 serving as a leaf spring disposed between the iron core 24 and the base part 30 so as to be movable in the vertical direction (vibration direction). Thus, the iron core 24 is supported so as to be vibratable in a state where a space having the thickness of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 is secured between the iron core 24 and the base part 30 as a clearance for the amplitude.

[0156] The base part 30 is in a plate shape provided with an opening (opening) 38 through which the coil 22 is movably inserted in the opposed direction. Around the opening 38 in the base part 30, a fixing part 36 for fixing the base part 30 to a vibration notification part (for example Figures 14 - 16 the flat plate main bodies 110 and 110A) that receives a pressing operation by a user or a placement part (for example Figures 14 - 16 the bottom part 120) where the vibration notification part is placed is provided. The plate-shaped elastic part 40 extends so as to surround the base part 30 outside the fixing part 36. Thus, the fixing of the base part 30 is not hindered, the plate-shaped elastic part 40 can be elastically deformed, and a stroke for its elastic deformation can be ensured.

[0157] Also, in the vibration actuator 10, all the constituent elements such as the base part 30, the plate-shaped elastic part 40, the movable part 20, and the weight part 26 are assembled in the Z direction, that is, the thickness direction. Therefore, a vibration actuator that can be easily assembled, hardly causes deviation during assembly, and can be stably driven can be manufactured.

[0158] Also, the vibration actuator 10 has a structure in which the distance between the iron core 24 and the base part 30 is ensured by the thickness of the plate-shaped elastic part 40. Thus, it is not necessary to provide other components to form the distance between the iron core 24 and the base part 30, the number of components can be further reduced, and size reduction, simplification of assembly, and cost reduction can be achieved.

[0159] Furthermore, since the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is a leaf spring with high thickness accuracy in manufacturing, the deviation of the gap between the iron core 24 and the base portion 30 (specifically, the opposing portions 32a and 32b) is suppressed, ensuring a stable gap. Since the surfaces of the two end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 are exposed, it is easy to increase the weight on the movable portion 20 side using the surface space.

[0160] Moreover, since no magnet is used and vibration is generated by reciprocally linearly moving the movable portion 20, cost reduction can be achieved compared to a structure using a magnet. Also, the number of components can be reduced and manufacturing can be facilitated.

[0161] According to the vibration actuator 10, it is easy to assemble, achieve a thin profile, and thus be arranged in a space-saving manner and vibrate appropriately. Moreover, the vibration actuator 10 can be made thin and small, and can give an appropriate tactile sensation corresponding to the pressing operation of the user on the vibration prompting portion.

[0162] <Driving principle of the vibration actuator 10>

[0163] Hereinafter, the driving principle of the vibration actuator 10 will be briefly described. The vibration actuator 10 can also use the following equations of motion and circuit equations to drive by generating a resonance phenomenon using a pulse. In addition, as an operation, it can be an operation that is not resonance driving but is expressed as the operation feeling in the touch panel (refer to Figure 13 ) of the vibration prompting device 100, for example, by inputting a current pulse (which can be single or multiple) via a control portion (not shown) to drive.

[0164] In addition, the movable portion 20 in the vibration actuator 10 reciprocates based on Equations (1) and (2).

[0165] Equation 1

[0166]

[0167] m: mass [kg]

[0168] x(t): displacement [m]

[0169] K f : thrust constant [N / A]

[0170] i(t): current [A]

[0171] K sp : spring constant [N / m]

[0172] D: damping coefficient [N / (m / s)]

[0173] Equation 2

[0174]

[0175] e(t): Voltage [V]

[0176] R: Resistance [Ω]

[0177] L: Inductance [H]

[0178] K e : Back electromotive force constant [V / (rad / s)]

[0179] That is, the mass m [Kg], displacement x(t) [m], thrust constant K of the vibration actuator 10 f [N / A], current i(t) [A], spring constant K sp [N / m], damping coefficient D [N / (m / s)], etc. can be appropriately changed within the range that satisfies Equation (1). And the voltage e(t) [V], resistance R [Ω], inductance L [H], back electromotive force constant K e [V / (rad / s)] can be appropriately changed within the range that satisfies Equation (2).

[0180] In this way, the vibration of the vibration actuator 10 is determined by the mass m of the movable part 20 and the spring constant K of the metal spring (leaf spring in this embodiment) as the plate-shaped elastic part 40 sp . And the vibration generated by the vibration actuator 10 can be set according to the input voltage (pulse) and the attenuation degree of the vibration attenuation part ( Figure 14 such as the vibration attenuation part 190 shown) if there is a vibration attenuation part.

[0181] And in the vibration actuator 10, the joining of the base part 30 and the plate-shaped elastic part 40, and the joining of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 and the movable part 20 are fastened using adhesives, welding, etc. as fastening members. Threaded members can also be used as fastening members.

[0182] <Drive Circuit of Vibration Actuator 10>

[0183] Figure 12 Shows an example of the drive circuit of the actuator body.

[0184] Figure 12The drive circuit shown is included in the control unit, for example. The drive circuit has a switching element 12 as a current pulse supply unit composed of a MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor), a signal generation unit (Signalgeneration) 14 as a voltage pulse application unit, resistors R1 and R2, and SBDs (Schottky Barrier Diodes).

[0185] In the control unit, the signal generation unit 14 connected to the power supply voltage Vcc is connected to the gate of the switching element 12. The switching element 12 is a discharge switching switch. The switching element 12 is connected to the vibration actuator 10 ( Figure 12 shown by [Actuator] in), the SBD, and is also connected to the vibration actuator 10 supplied with voltage from the power supply unit Vact.

[0186] For this vibration actuator 10, when the input of the actuator drive signal is stopped, the vibration actuator 10 releases the acting force, and the movable part 20 is moved to the other direction side (positive Z direction side) by the acting force. The vibration actuator 10 vibrates the movable part 20 by the input and stop of the actuator drive signal. The vibration actuator 10 vibrates the movable part 20 without using a magnet.

[0187] In addition, in the embodiment, the actuator drive signal corresponds to a drive current pulse (also referred to as "current pulse") supplied to the coil 22 as a drive current for driving the movable part and the operating device. In the vibration actuator 10, when a current pulse is supplied to the coil 22, due to the magnetic attraction force between the electromagnet of the movable part 20 and the opposing parts 32a and 32b of the base part 30, the movable part 20 moves in one direction and mechanically displaces, and the supply is stopped, and then free vibration occurs. The vibration generated thereby is imparted to the operating device. The plate-shaped elastic part 40 can control the displacement and free vibration period based on the magnetic attraction force.

[0188] And, an actuator drive signal is generated by the input of a signal from a detection unit that detects the operation of the operator. The detection unit can also use, for example, a pressure-sensitive sensor that detects the pressing generated based on the operation of the operator as a pressure signal and converts the pressure signal into an electrical signal and outputs it. And the detection unit can also be a capacitive type, a proximity sensor that detects the position of the finger (pressing object) of the operator who presses the vibration prompting part, and the proximity sensor detects the capacitance coupling with the finger of the operator to detect the position of the finger.

[0189] <Vibration prompting device 100>

[0190] Figure 13It is a top view showing an example of a vibration notification device having a vibration actuator. In addition, Figure 13 For ease of explanation, the planar touchpad main body through which the operator's finger presses is shown.

[0191] The vibration notification device 100 is, for example, a touchpad as an indicating device used in place of a mouse in a notebook computer or the like.

[0192] The touchpad as the vibration notification device 100 is disposed in a rectangular opening provided in a casing of a notebook computer or the like. The touchpad has a plate-shaped flat main body 110 that is traced with a finger as a contact operation, a vibration actuator 10 disposed on the back surface of the flat main body 110, and a frame portion 130 that surrounds the vibration actuator 10.

[0193] In the touchpad, when a contact operation such as tracing or tapping the flat main body 110 with a finger is performed, the vibration actuator 10 imparts a vibration that becomes a tactile sensation.

[0194] The vibration actuator 10 in the touchpad is mounted to directly drive the movable portion 20 and the flat main body 110 to impart vibration. Specifically, as Figure 14 shown, the base portion 30 is fixedly mounted to the bottom 120 of the opening of the casing via a screw 170 as a fastener, and the movable portion 20 is fixed to the flat main body 110 side.

[0195] The flat main body 110 is disposed on the bottom 120 via a frame portion 130 disposed so as to surround the vibration actuator 10. The flat main body 110 is disposed on the movable portion 20, and in the central portion, it is fixedly mounted to the heavy portion 26 of the movable portion 20 via a double-sided tape 160 as a fixing mount.

[0196] The outer peripheral portion of the flat main body 110 is mounted between the frame portion 130 so as to be movable relative to the casing via a vibration damping portion (buffer portion) 190. The vibration damping portion 190 is formed of, for example, an elastomer or the like, but as long as it is a component that supports the flat main body 110 so as to be displaceable along with the drive of the vibration actuator 10, it can be arbitrarily configured.

[0197] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the tactile sensation imparted by the vibration notification device 100 in a time-series image. Figure 15A It shows the relationship in time series of the input voltage, the acceleration of the movable portion 20, and the displacement of the movable portion 20 when the tactile sensation is generated, Figure 15B and is a schematic diagram showing the specific operation state corresponding to Figure 15A In the touchpad as the vibration notification device 100, operations such as tracing the flat main body 110 with a finger and tapping operations such as clicking are performed. This operation is detected by a strain sensor as a pressure-sensitive sensor.

[0198] After this operation is started, as shown in FIG. 15, according to the pressure sensing, a signal (actuator drive signal) is output to the vibration actuator (referring to the input voltage in Figure 15A ), the movable part 20 and the flat plate main body 110 mounted on the movable part 20 start to move in the pressing direction (the -Z direction). In this way, the vibration actuator 10 drives in the pressing direction. Then, by using the vibration actuator 10, the acceleration of the movable part 20 and the flat plate main body 110 in the pressing direction increases, and the flat plate main body 110 is displaced in the pressing direction, that is, in the direction of pressing down the flat plate main body 110, and reaches the lowest point (S0-p). At this time, an operating feeling such as a pressing feeling is given to the operator's finger.

[0199] Then, when the vibration actuator 10 becomes a non-driven state, by using the reaction force of the plate-shaped elastic part 40, the flat plate main body 110 moves to a position above the operation reference position (the same as the stationary position SI in FIG. 11) which is the initial position (displacement Sp-p). As a result, a gap is generated due to the difference in vectors (V1, V2) between the acceleration and the displacement, and a strong touch feeling can be given to the finger, and a touch feeling corresponding to the operation can be given to the operation object. For example, if it is an operation of pressing a switch, the feeling of pressing the switch can be given. In addition, since the base part 30 is fixed to the bottom 120 of the arrangement part of the box body which is a touch panel and has a high rigidity, the vibration propagated from the movable part 20 to the bottom (arrangement part) 120 via the base part 30 is canceled, and its reaction force is propagated to the flat plate main body 110 side as vibration. The vibration generated in this way is efficiently transmitted to the user's finger side.

[0200] In addition, in the vibration notification device 100, in order to maintain the connection state with the flat plate main body 110 even when vibration (displacement and strain are generated) is generated in the flat plate main body 110 by driving the movable part 20, the vibration damping part 190 is preferably provided in a pre-compressed state, that is, a contracted state, between the flat plate main body 110 and the frame part 130. As a result, an amplification effect and a damping effect of vibration using the resilience of the vibration damping part 190 can be generated.

[0201] In addition, in the structure of the vibration notification device 100, the vibration actuator 10 may also be installed to indirectly drive the flat plate main body 110 via the movable part 20 to give vibration.

[0202] Figure 16 It is a schematic side sectional view showing a modified example of the vibration notification device.

[0203] The touch panel of the vibration notification device 100A is a component that mounts the base part of the vibration actuator 10 in the vibration notification device 100 on the flat plate main body 110.

[0204] In the vibration notification device 100A, a frame portion 130 is disposed on the bottom 120 of the opening of the housing, and a flexible flat plate body 110A is disposed on the frame portion 130.

[0205] Inside the frame portion 130, on the back surface of the flat plate body 110A, the base portion 30 of the vibration actuator 10 is fixed via a screw 170 inserted into the fixing portion 36.

[0206] The vibration actuator 10 is disposed such that the movable portion 20 faces downward, and a gap serving as the movable region of the movable portion 20 is formed between the movable portion 20 and the bottom 120.

[0207] In this structure, if a contact operation such as swiping or tapping is performed on the flat plate body 110 with a finger, the operation is detected by the pressure-sensitive sensor. Immediately after the start of the operation, an input signal (actuator drive signal) is input to the vibration actuator according to the pressure-sensitive touch, and the movable portion 20 starts to move in the pressing direction (Z direction). The flat plate body 110 is displaced in the pressing direction, reaches the lowest point, and due to the reaction force of the spring, the movable portion 20 and the flat plate body 110 move to a position above the operation reference position as the initial position (the same position as the displacement Sp-p). As a result, a gap is generated due to the difference in vectors (V1, V2) between the acceleration and the displacement, and a strong tactile sensation can be imparted to the finger, thereby enabling a tactile sensation corresponding to the operation to be imparted to the operation target. For example, if it is an operation of pressing a switch, the feeling of pressing the switch can be imparted.

[0208] In this way, in the vibration notification device 100, specifically, when an object such as the fingertip of an operator contacts the flat plate body 110 of the touch panel and performs an operation, the vibration actuator 10 is driven accordingly to vibrate. Through this vibration, a tactile sensation is imparted to the operator.

[0209] For example, in a case where a display unit such as a liquid crystal display is provided in an electronic device equipped with a touch panel, the vibration actuator 10 can also impart various tactile sensations to the touch panel corresponding to the display image operated by the operator. For example, the vibration actuator 10 can generate vibrations in such a way as to impart the tactile sensation of a mechanical switch corresponding to the image that is the object of the contact operation. Mechanical switches are, for example, tactile switches, alternate switches, momentary switches, toggle switches, slide switches, rotary switches, DIP switches, rocker switches, etc. Also, a pressing-type switch can also impart the tactile sensation of switches with different degrees of pressing.

[0210] In this way, in the vibration notification device 1 of the present embodiment, a true tactile sensation such as the feeling of a switch can be realized by a true tactile sensation expression based on load detection.

[0211] <Other modification examples>

[0212] The following other modified examples are modified examples formed by changing or adding a part of the structure in the above-described vibration actuator 10. When having the same functions as the above-described constituent elements, the same names and the same reference signs are given and the description is omitted. Further, hereinafter, for convenience of description, the above-described constituent elements are denoted by other names. Specifically, for the structure in which the coil 22 is disposed on the iron core 24, the electromagnet D and the plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic support portion) are referred to as elastic bodies according to their functions. Further, specifically, the plate-shaped base portion is referred to as a base, and more specifically, as a base plate. The base portion side fixing portion is referred to as a plate connection portion, the movable portion side fixing portion is referred to as an iron core connection portion, and the heavy object portion is referred to as a counterweight or a counterweight plate.

[0213] Moreover, as materials of the respective constituent elements including the constituent elements of the above-described embodiment, the coil has high conductivity and is made of, for example, copper. The iron core is made of a material having a high magnetic permeability (i.e., a ferromagnetic material, simply referred to as a magnetic material), and is preferably made of SECC, a silicon steel sheet, SUS, or the like. The plate-shaped elastic portion and the elastic body are preferably non-magnetic bodies. As non-magnetic materials constituting the plate-shaped elastic portion and the elastic body, SUS, phosphor bronze, resin, rubber, or the like can also be applied. Further, the base portion and the base plate are preferably made of a material having a high magnetic permeability such as SECC, a silicon steel sheet, SUS (ferromagnetic SUS), or the like. The heavy object portion, the counterweight, and the counterweight plate are formed of a material having a high specific gravity, phosphor bronze, SUS, tungsten, or the like.

[0214] The following vibration actuators each have the same basic structure as the vibration actuator 10. Each vibration actuator basically has a plate of a magnetic material, an electromagnet disposed on the plate and formed by disposing a coil at the central portion of the iron core, and an elastic body that supports the iron core on both sides of the coil and is connected to the plate.

[0215] The electromagnet may be in a flat plate shape, the elastic body may be in a flat plate shape, the axis of the coil is disposed parallel to the plate, and the electromagnet is supported in a state of being spaced apart from the plate.

[0216] The plate may have an opening that is part of the vibration space of the electromagnet in a region corresponding to the coil. In the vibration actuator, by the magnetic force generated by energizing the electromagnet, one of the coil or the plate is displaced so as to approach the other and vibrates. For example, the coil and the iron core may be displaced toward the plate side to vibrate, or the plate may be displaced toward the coil and the iron core side to vibrate.

[0217] Moreover, in each vibration actuator, the amplitude of the electromagnet D in the space formed between the electromagnet and the plate is defined by the spring constants of the plate-shaped elastic portion and the elastic body. The amplitude of the electromagnet in the space formed between the electromagnet D and the plate is defined by the thickness of the elastic body.

[0218] Further, in each of the vibration actuators, in the case where the elastic body (plate-shaped elastic portion) is a rectangular frame-shaped elastic body (frame) as shown in the vibration actuator 10 of the embodiment, the elastic body may support the iron core on one pair of opposite sides and be connected to the plate on the other pair of opposite sides. Further, the elastic body may include an iron core connection portion and a plate connection portion, and the elastic body may be configured to include a pair of iron core connection portions and a pair of plate connection portions.

[0219] 1. Other modification examples 1, 2, and 3

[0220] In the vibration actuator 10 of the above-described embodiment, a structure has been described in which the plate-shaped base portion 30 side is fixed to the back surface of the box body of the flat plate main body 110 and the electromagnet composed of the coil 22 and the iron core 24 vibrates. However, as shown in Figure 17 and Figure 18 the vibration actuator 1010, the plate-shaped elastic body 1040 is configured to have a bent portion 1046 between a pair of connection portions (i.e., "fixed portion side fixed portions", also referred to as "plate connection portions") 1044 connected to the base plate 30 serving as the base portion and a connection portion (i.e., "movable portion side fixed portion", also referred to as "iron core connection portion") 1042 connected to the iron core 24. The bent portion 1046 (the bent portion in other modification examples is the same) defines the amplitude of the electromagnet D in the space formed between the electromagnet D and the base plate 30.

[0221] In addition, Figure 17 and Figure 18 the vibration actuator 1010 shown in has a different structure of the plate-shaped elastic body 1040 compared to the vibration actuator 10, and the other structures are the same. The elastic body 1040 is a so-called leaf spring formed in a rectangular frame shape and may be formed of metal or resin.

[0222] The elastic body 1040 has iron core connection portions 1042a and 1042b as movable portion side fixed portions, plate connection portions 1044a and 1044b as base portion side fixed portions, and an elastic main body portion including the bent portion 1046 having a zigzag shape. The elastic main body portion connects the iron core connection portions 1042a and 1042b to the base portion side fixed portions 1044a and 1044b and elastically deforms.

[0223] The bent portion 1046 is arranged as a part of the side portion parallel to the extending direction (axial direction of the iron core 24) of the iron core 24 that constitutes the electromagnet D together with the coil 22 in a plan view and is connected to the iron core connection portions 1042a and 1042b. According to this structure, even when the arrangement space of the vibration actuator 1010 is limited, a length that can be elastically deformed can be ensured and elastic deformation can be appropriately performed.

[0224] For example, as shown in Figure 19As shown in the elastomer 1140 of the vibration actuator 1110 of the other modification example 2, the shape of the zigzag-shaped portion 1146 as the bent portion may also be a shape in which the number of bends (folding portions) is increased. As Figure 19 shown, the zigzag-shaped portions 1146 as the bent portions may be respectively provided on a pair of opposite sides (the opposite sides where the plate connection portions 1044a and 1044b are arranged) extending in the positive and negative Y directions parallel to the axial direction of the iron core. The vibration actuators 1010 and 1110 displace the electromagnet (coil 22) toward the base plate (base portion) 30 side to vibrate it.

[0225] And, as in the vibration actuator 1210 of the other modification example 3 shown as Figure 20 shown, each of the above-mentioned bent portions may be a zigzag-shaped portion 1146 as a bent portion provided on a pair of opposite sides (the opposite sides on one side of the iron core connection portion) in the direction orthogonal to the iron core axis in the square-shaped elastomer 1240. The vibration actuator 1210 includes an elastomer 1040, a base plate (base portion) 30, and a movable portion 1220 as an electromagnet D having a coil 22 and iron core end portions 24a and 24b.

[0226] Moreover, the elastomers 1040, 1140, 1240 having respective bent portions and the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 are rectangular frames, and have a shape that supports the iron core on one pair of opposite sides and is connected to the base plate (base portion) on the other pair of opposite sides. According to this structure, there is no need to provide a member for ensuring the deformation region of the elastomer by arranging other members inside the frame, and it is possible to reduce the number of members and make the whole thinner. And when manufacturing the vibration actuator, on the basis of canceling the bending process of the members, etc., the vibration actuator itself can be arranged so as not to interfere with other members. In the following other modification examples, if there is an elastic portion in the form of a rectangular frame, the same effects as those described above can be obtained.

[0227] 2. Other Modification Example 4

[0228] Figure 21 and Figure 22 are perspective views of the other modification example 4 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0229] As shown in the vibration actuator 1310 in the figure, a shock absorber 66 may be provided. When the base plate 30 is mounted on the mounting target area (such as a device main body), the shock absorber 66 is used to attenuate the vibration caused by the leaf spring as the plate-shaped elastic portion (elastomer) 40, that is, to damp the vibration of the leaf spring. In addition, the mounting target area is also called the area of the fixed object, and the shock absorber 66 is a shock-absorbing member and is also called a damping member.

[0230] After the vibration actuator 1310 is fixed to the installation target area, the shock absorber 66 is mounted on the plate-shaped elastic part 40 in such a way that it is sandwiched between the installation target area and the plate-shaped elastic part 40. The shock absorber 66 is arranged on the back surfaces of the end parts 24a, 24b of the iron core 24 of the movable part 1320 in such a way that it is adjacent to the back surface of the base plate 30 in the plane direction starting from a position adjacent to the spring connection parts 241, 242.

[0231] The shock absorber 66 has a function of attenuating and damping the vibration of the electromagnet D (coil iron core). It is sufficient that the shock absorber 66 can attenuate the vibration, and it can be any component, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, specifically a thermosetting silicone rubber or a thermoplastic butyl rubber. By using the shock absorber 66 to form a structure in which the vibration of the electromagnet D converges and decays within a certain time, it is possible to feedback the vibration with good interruption as the feeling of operation.

[0232] The shock absorber 66 is set such that its upper surface is fixed to the iron core, and its lower surface is located outside the base and contacts the installation target area on the device side.

[0233] 3. Other modification example 5

[0234] Figure 23 and Figure 24 is a perspective view of other modification example 5 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0235] As shown in the vibration actuator 1410 in the figure, a shrinkable resin elastic body 1400 can also be used as the elastic body disposed between the base plate 30 and the electromagnet D (iron cores 24 on both sides of the coil 22). The elastic body 1400 is a pair of flat plate-like components that support the electromagnet D so as to be displaceable in a direction perpendicular to the plate surface with respect to the base plate 30.

[0236] In addition, the vibration actuator 1410 has a base plate 30 as a base part and a flat plate-like movable part 20 as an electromagnet D that is disposed on the base plate 30 and has a coil 22 disposed at the central part of the iron core 24. In the vibration actuator 1410, the movable part 20 is displaced toward the base plate 30 by the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil 22 to cause vibration. And a weight part 26 is appropriately mounted on the movable part 20.

[0237] According to this structure, it is easy to assemble, can achieve low profile, can be arranged in a space-saving manner and vibrate appropriately. And when the elastic body 1400 is made of an elastic material such as silicone, it is easy to change the size, material, etc., and it is easy to adjust the function as a spring. And the elastic body 1400 can also be formed by coating an elastic material. It can be formed by coating an elastic material only between the two components sandwiching the elastic body 1400.

[0238] Thus, the elastomer 1400 is a pair of flat elastic members sandwiched between the base plate 30 and the iron core 24. Therefore, no other components are required, and the vibration actuator 1410 can be manufactured without processing the elastomer.

[0239] 4. Other modification examples 6 and 7

[0240] Figure 25 It is a perspective view of other modification example 6 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0241] As shown in the figure, in the vibration actuator 1510, the base plate 1530 can also be a plate with high magnetic permeability, and fixing holes 1532 are provided in the base plate 1530.

[0242] The base plate 1530 is fixed to an object to be mounted (for example, a PCB or a flat plate 102) via the fixing holes 1532 by fastening members 1534 such as screws or an adhesive.

[0243] Moreover, the positions of the fixing holes 1532 provided in the base plate 1530 can be changed. As in Figure 26 the vibration actuator 1610 shown, when the base plate is fixed to the object to be mounted by an adhesive, it can also be configured to have a base plate 1630 with a structure in which the fixing holes 1532 (refer to Figure 25 ) are removed from the base plate 1530 (refer to Figure 25 ). According to this structure, in the base plate 1630, compared with the case where there are fixing holes, the bonding area with the object to be mounted is increased, and it can be firmly mounted. And according to this structure, since the part where the fixing holes 1532 are provided does not function as a magnetic path, the area of the vibration actuator can be reduced corresponding to the removal of the fixing holes 1532 from the base plate 1630. Thus, the reduction of the actuator size and the empty space in the vibration actuator can be effectively used for the spring part design of arranging the spring in a zigzag shape to ensure the length of the spring (increase of the deformation area).

[0244] As in Figure 27 the vibration actuator 1710 of modification example 8 shown, in the same structure as the vibration actuator 1510 (refer to Figure 25 ), any one of the fixing holes 1532 can be a long hole 1536. According to this structure, when fixing to an object to be mounted such as the flat plate 102, the fastening member 1534 can be inserted into both the fixing hole 1532 and the long hole 1536 for temporary fixing and positioning, and it can be fixed to a desired position.

[0245] 5. Other modification example 9

[0246] Figure 28 It is a perspective view of other modification example 9 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0247] Like the vibration actuator 1810 shown in the figure, the heavy object part 26 (see Figure 1 ) installed on the movable part 20 can also be replaced with a flat plate-shaped counterweight plate 1850 as the heavy object part, and an opening 1852 for inserting the coil 22 is provided in the counterweight plate 1850.

[0248] The counterweight plate 1850 has a structure with an opening (opening 1852) in the area of the coil 22. It can be said that in the electromagnet D, the counterweight plate 1850 in a shape not overlapping with the coil 22 is fixed to the iron cores 24 on both sides of the coil 22. According to this structure, the movable area of the movable part 1820 can be ensured, and a low-profile design can be achieved.

[0249] And, as Figure 29 shown, the counterweight plate 1850 can also be installed on the back surface of the installation object (such as a PCB or a flat plate 102, etc.) as a fixing part. According to this structure, a tactile cue device 2310 is formed by the vibration actuator 1810 and the flat plate 102, and vibrations can be generated corresponding to operations such as pressing operations on the flat plate 102, giving a tactile sensation.

[0250] 6. Other modification example 10

[0251] Figure 30 It is a perspective view of other modification example 10 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0252] Like the vibration actuator 1910 shown in the figure, instead of the heavy object part 26 (see Figure 1 ) installed on the movable part 20, a counterweight plate 1950 can be provided as a flat plate-shaped heavy object part.

[0253] The counterweight plate 1950 is a frame-shaped member having an opening 1952 in the area of the coil 22. In other words, in the electromagnet D where the coil 22 is arranged in the iron core 24, the counterweight plate 1950 in a shape not overlapping with the coil 22 is fixed to the iron cores on both sides of the coil 22. The opening 1952 is provided in the central part of the counterweight plate 1950 for inserting the coil 22. Thus, the thickness in the vibration direction of the vibration actuator 1910 can be reduced.

[0254] And, an opening 1954 (recess) for the coil wiring connection part (pad) 1902 of the flexible substrate (FPC) 1900 is provided in the counterweight plate 1950.

[0255] The coil wiring connection portion 1902 is a connection portion between the wiring of the flexible substrate 1900 and the coil 22. In the counterweight plate 1950 and in the opening 1952, a plurality of substrate openings 1954 are continuously formed in the axial direction of the coil 22. Thus, even when the counterweight plate 1950 is arranged in the opposite direction in the coil axial direction, one of the substrate openings 1954 is arranged to open in the area of the coil wiring connection portion 1902.

[0256] Moreover, regardless of the shape of the coil wiring connection portion 1902, the counterweight plate 1950 can be appropriately attached to the iron core 24 while avoiding the coil wiring connection portion 1902. Thus, the movable area of the movable portion 1920 can be ensured, and the vibration actuator 1910 can be made thinner. Also, in the vibration actuator 1910, the surface of the counterweight plate 1950 can be reliably fixed to the back surface of the operation surface in a surface-contact state.

[0257] 7. Other modification examples 11, 12, 13

[0258] Figure 31 is a perspective view showing another modification example 11 of a vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 32 is Figure 31 an exploded perspective view of the vibration actuator of the other modification example 11 shown.

[0259] As in the case of the vibration actuator 2010 shown in the figure, a shock absorber (shock-absorbing member) 2000 that attenuates the elastic deformation of the plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic body) 40, that is, damps vibration, may be provided between the counterweight plate 2050 of the movable portion 2020 and the plate-shaped elastic portion 40.

[0260] The shock absorber 2000 is sandwiched between the base portion side fixing portions 44a, 44b of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 that are the iron core connection portions and the protruding surface portions 2054a, 2054b that protrude from the central portion of the counterweight plate 2050 in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the iron core 24.

[0261] In addition, the counterweight plate 2050 has a shape that does not overlap with the coil 22. In the electromagnet D having the iron core 24 and the coil 22, the iron core 24 (specifically, the end portions 24a, 24b of the iron core 24) fixed to both side portions of the coil 22 constitute the movable portion 2020. An opening 2052 that opens in the area of the coil 22 is formed in the counterweight plate 2050.

[0262] In this way, the movable part 2020 is connected to the movable part side fixing parts 42a and 42b of a pair of opposite sides of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 at the spring connection parts 241 and 242 at both ends of the iron core 24. On the other hand, the counterweight plate 2050 is connected to the base part side fixing parts 44a and 44b of the other pair of opposite sides of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 via the shock absorber 2000. Thereby, the thickness of the vibration actuator 2010 can be reduced by an amount corresponding to the thickness of the shock absorber 2000 to damp the vibration of the plate-shaped elastic part 40. In addition, the base part side fixing parts 44a and 44b are arranged and fixed on the base plate.

[0263] Moreover, in the vibration actuator of the present embodiment, the shock absorber 2000 may also be provided between the counterweight and the base plate, or between the counterweight and the installation object for fixing the base plate. In both cases, the vibration of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 can be braked and controlled, and it can vibrate appropriately.

[0264] Figure 33 It is a perspective view of another modification 12 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 34 It is Figure 33 an exploded perspective view of the shown vibration actuator. Figure 35 It is a perspective view of another modification 13 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0265] As Figure 33 and Figure 34 shown by the vibration actuator 2110 as another modification 12, the shock absorber 2100 may also be clamped between the counterweight plate 2150 and the base plate 30. In the vibration actuator 2110, the shock absorber 2100 may also be installed on either the counterweight plate 2150 or the base plate 30.

[0266] In the vibration actuator 2110, the shock absorber 2100 is configured such that, with respect to the counterweight plate 2150, a plate-shaped spring piece part 2154 that can be independently deformed abuts against the main body part of the counterweight plate 2150. The spring piece part 2154 is formed by performing a cut-in process on a predetermined position of the counterweight plate 2150, here the corner part of the rectangular counterweight plate 2150 including a square. The spring piece part 2154 is formed in a part of the main body part of the counterweight plate 2150 in a manner that can be elastically deformed.

[0267] Thereby, for the shock absorber 2100, if the counterweight plate 2150 moves as the movable part 2120 moves, the spring piece part 2154 and the shock absorber 2100 are deformed by the movement, and the resonance during the vibration of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 can be suppressed, thereby enabling appropriate vibration.

[0268] Moreover, as Figure 35As shown, the shock absorber 2200 may also be clamped between the counterweight plate 2050 having the opening 2052 and the mounting surface 102a of the object to be mounted (e.g., the flat plate 102) on which the vibration actuator 2210 is mounted.

[0269] The shock absorber 2200 is mounted, for example, on the back surfaces (the surfaces on the side of the base plate 30) of the end portions 2056a and 2056b of the counterweight plate 2050 disposed on the electromagnet D (coil iron core) formed by disposing the coil 22 in the central portion of the iron core in the movable portion 2220.

[0270] The end portions 2056a and 2056b are arranged to protrude more toward the end side in the core axis direction than the end portions of the iron core within the coil 22. When the electromagnet D moves toward the base plate 30 in the surface perpendicular direction relative to the base plate 30 via the plate-like elastic portion 40, the shock absorber 2200 on the back surfaces of the end portions 2056a and 2056b moves toward the mounting surface 102a of the object to be mounted (e.g., the flat plate 102) and abuts against it, achieving the same effect as the shock absorbers 2000 and 2100 described above.

[0271] 8. Other Modification Example 14

[0272] Figure 36 It is a perspective view of Other Modification Example 14 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0273] As in the case of the vibration actuator 2410 shown in the figure, the coil 2422 disposed in the movable portion 2420 in a manner of winding around the iron core 24 may also be an air-core coil, which is provided on the outer periphery of a plate-like bobbin 2400 having slits through which the iron core 24 passes formed on both side portions. By inserting the bobbin 2400 with the coil into the iron core 24 and mounting it on the iron core 24, the coil can be easily disposed around the central portion of the iron core 24.

[0274] Moreover, as the bobbin, flanges forming convex edges may be provided at both end portions separated in the axial direction, and the bobbin with the flanges may be mounted on the iron core 24, and the coil may be provided at the central portion of the iron core in such a manner that the coil is directly wound between the flanges of the bobbin. Thus, since the coil is provided between the flanges, the coil 2422 having a specified width is formed, and the coil can be accurately provided on the iron core with a desired width, and the winding amount of the coil can be adjusted during coil winding.

[0275] 9. Other Modification Example 15

[0276] Figure 37 It is a perspective view of Other Modification Example 15 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0277] Similar to the vibration actuator 2610 shown in the figure, the strain detection unit 2600 can also be provided on the plate-shaped elastic part (elastic support part) 40. That is, the plate-shaped elastic part 40 is provided with the strain detection unit 2600. For example, the strain detection unit 2600 is arranged at the part of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 that deforms due to deformation. The deformed part is the connection part between the base part side fixing part 44b and the elastic main body part 46 including the elastically deformed arm part.

[0278] The strain detection unit 2600 detects the strain generated by the load applied to the connection part that functions as a strain body during the driving of the vibration actuator 2610, that is, during vibration. Thus, for example, the vibration actuator 2610 can be driven based on the detection result to impart vibration to the installed device. For example, after operating an operating device such as a tablet or a touch panel, a tactile sensation can be imparted to the operator (also referred to as the operator) via the operating device, that is, tactile feedback can be realized.

[0279] In addition, each of the above vibration actuators (for example, the vibration actuator 2610) can also be a contact-type input device used in such a way that the base plate is fixed to an installation object such as a tablet or a PCB, and vibration is imparted to the operation surface connected to the upper movable part. This contact-type input device energizes the coil 22 according to the contact action of the operator on the operation surface to vibrate the electromagnet D, thereby prompting a tactile sensation to the operator (the operator). In addition, the operation surface can also be a display, an operation panel, or a touchpad.

[0280] And, as Figure 38 shown, each of the above vibration actuators (for example, the vibration actuator 2610) can also be used in a state where the base plate 30 is fixed to the installation object 103 with the upper side facing up and the movable part 20 side is suspended downward. For example, in the vibration actuator 2610 in this state, the strain detection unit 2600 can confirm the displacement of the movable part, output this confirmation as an additional signal to the control unit, etc., and can perform feedback control on the timing of acceleration and braking generated to change the vibration.

[0281] And, in the case of a structure having a weight plate on the side of the electromagnet D with a coil core, it can also be a structure in which the weight plate is fixed to the installation object with the weight plate facing up and the base plate facing down. In other deformation examples of the vibration actuator, either the base plate or the electromagnet is respectively arranged on the back of the operation surface.

[0282] 10. Other Deformation Example 16

[0283] Figure 39 is a perspective view of other deformation example 16 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the case where the vibration actuators in the described embodiment and each deformation example are used in a suspended state (refer to Figure 38)Under such circumstances, that is, the device body to be installed and the vibration-applying object are in a state where one is suspended from the other. At this time, there is no restriction in the direction of mutual separation due to its own weight or the like.

[0284] In contrast, as in Figure 39 the vibration actuator 2910 shown, a restricting mechanism 290 for restricting the movement of the base plate 2930 and the movable part (specifically, the electromagnet D formed by arranging a coil 22 on an iron core) 2920 in the direction of relative separation can also be provided.

[0285] The restricting mechanism 290 has, for example, a moving engaging part 2957 provided on the movable part side and a movement restricting part 2937 provided on the base plate side. When the movable part and the base plate move in the direction of relative separation, the moving engaging part 2957 engages with the movement restricting part 2937 to restrict the movement in the separation direction. The restricting mechanism 290 can be provided at the four corner parts in a plan view of the vibration actuator, and can also be provided, for example, at the diagonal positions of the vibration actuator 2920 having a rectangular shape in a plan view.

[0286] In addition, the vibration actuator 2910 is configured in the same manner as the vibration actuator 1810, and the movable part 2920 is formed by installing a weight plate 2950 on the electromagnet D. In the weight plate 2950, the moving engaging part 2957 is provided at the front end of a part that protrudes laterally from a part of the outer periphery of a rectangular plate-shaped main body 2951 having an opening 2952 in the central part and is bent toward the base plate 2930 side. On the other hand, the movement restricting part 2937 is located at a position opposite to the moving engaging part 2957 and separated from it on the side opposite to the base plate 2930 with respect to the moving engaging part 2957.

[0287] And, since the movement restricting part 2937 is formed integrally with the base plate 2930, it is made of metal. Since the moving engaging part 2957 is the weight plate 2950, it is a non-magnetic body and can also be formed of resin or the like.

[0288] The separation distance between the base plate 2930 and the movable part 2920 is restricted by the restricting mechanism 290, and the base plate 2930 and the movable part 2920 do not separate more than necessary and do not disengage from each other. Therefore, for example, when the vibration actuator 2910 is installed on a mounting object 103 such as a PCB or a flat plate instead of Figure 38 the vibration actuator 2610 shown, even when it is in a state of being mounted and suspended by the base plate 2930, it can function properly. The same applies to the case of being mounted by the movable part 2920. The base plate 2930 and the movable part 2920 do not separate more than necessary and can function properly.

[0289] 11. Other Modification Example 17

[0290] In the vibration actuator 10 of the embodiment (refer to Figures 1 - 10 ), a structure is described in which the plate-shaped base portion 30 side is fixed to the back surface of the flat plate main body 110 and the electromagnet D constituted by the coil 22 and the iron core 24 is vibrated. However, as in the vibration actuator 3210 shown in Figure 40 , the iron core 24 (electromagnet D) and the weight portion 26 may be fixed to the box body (for example, the flat plate main body 110) via the fastening member 3212, thereby vibrating the base plate (base portion) 30. In the vibration actuator 3210, the fastening member (threaded member, rivet, etc.) 3212 penetrates through the plate connection portion of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 that is a frame-shaped elastic body and the weight portion 26 and is mounted on the flat plate main body 110.

[0291] 12. Other Modification Example 18

[0292] Figure 41 FIG. is a perspective view of Other Modification Example 18 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 42 and FIG. is an exploded perspective view of this Other Modification Example 18.

[0293] As shown in the figure, in the leaf spring 3340 which is a plate-shaped elastic portion, it may be configured such that the frame-shaped arm portion 48 connected to the base plate 3330 is disposed inside the base plate 3330 instead of the outside of the outer periphery. Specifically, the base portion side fixing portions 44a, 44b for connecting the frame-shaped leaf spring 3340 to the base plate 3330 are provided on the outside rather than the inside of the frame-shaped portion. In this case, in order to ensure the vibration space of the leaf spring 3340, a flat spacer 600 may be interposed between the base plate 3330 and the leaf spring 3340. The spacer 600 defines the amplitude of the electromagnet D in the space formed between the electromagnet D and the base plate 3330.

[0294] 13. Other Modification Example 19

[0295] Figure 43 FIG. is a perspective view of Other Modification Example 19 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 44 and FIG. is an exploded perspective view of this Other Modification Example 19.

[0296] As in the vibration actuator 3410 shown in the figure, it may be configured such that the iron core of the electromagnet (the portion where the mounting counterweight 3450 is provided other than the central portion where the coil 22 is disposed) and the spring 3446 of the elastic deformation portion 3440 are formed integrally with the same member. The spring 3446 has a zigzag shape, and in order to ensure the vibration space of the spring 3446, it is preferable to interpose a flat spacer 60 between the base plate 3430 and the spring 3446.

[0297] Further, either the base plate 3430 or the spring 3446 can be deformed to form the height. With the above structure, the number of components can be reduced. By providing the spacer 60, the thickness of the vibration actuator 3410 can also be adjusted.

[0298] 14. Other modification example 20

[0299] Figure 45 FIG. is a perspective view of another modification example 20 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 46 is an exploded perspective view of this other modification example 20.

[0300] As shown in the vibration actuator 3510 in the figure, both ends of the iron core 24 separated in the mandrel direction in the movable part 3520 including the electromagnet D can also be supported by a pair of springs (elastic bodies) 3540, and the above-mentioned springs 3540 are installed on the base plate 3530 via a pair of spacers 62.

[0301] The illustrated spacer 62 is interposed between the plate-side fixing part 3542 continuous with the bent part 3546 that elastically deforms in the spring 3540 and the base plate 3530 to connect the two. In addition, the bent part 3546 is fixed to both ends of the iron core 24 together with the weight plate 50 by the fastening member 172. According to this structure, since the opposing surface of the iron core 24 and the base plate and the fixing part of the spring 3540 and the base plate are in the same direction, the width of the product can be reduced.

[0302] Further, the weight plate 50 is formed in a shape that does not overlap with the coil 22, and has an opening 52 for arranging the coil 22 and a substrate opening (recession) 54 that opens in the area of the coil wiring connection part 1902 connected to the coil 22. As a result, the thickness of the vibration actuator 3510 in the vibration direction becomes thinner.

[0303] 15. Other modification example 21

[0304] Figure 47 FIG. is a perspective view of another modification example 21 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 48 is an exploded perspective view of this other modification example 21.

[0305] As shown in the vibration actuator 3610 in the figure, instead of the frame-shaped elastic body (refer to Figure 8 etc.), a plate-shaped elastic body (rubber plate) 80 can be arranged between the base plate 30 and the electromagnet D (specifically, the spring connection parts 241 and 242 at both ends of the iron core 24 wound with the coil).

[0306] It is configured such that the iron core 24 vibrates using this plate-shaped elastic body (rubber plate) 80. And the vibration actuator 3610 has a weight plate 50 (refer to Figure 45and Figure 46 ) to replace the heavy object portion 26 (see Figure 8 ), the counterweight plate 50 is fixed to the iron cores 24 at both ends of the coil 22. In addition, the counterweight plate 50 is a frame-shaped member having an opening (opening portion 52) in the region of the coil 22, and has an opening portion 54 in the region of the coil wiring connection portion 1902. In the plate-shaped elastic body (rubber plate) 80, the spring connection portions 241 and 242 at both ends of the iron core and both end portions of the counterweight plate 50 are fastened to the base plate 30 by fastening members 172 (see Figure 47 ). According to this structure, the same effect as that of the vibration actuator 1410 can be obtained, and the actuator can be made thinner, and the manufacturing becomes easy.

[0307] 16. Other modification examples 22, 23

[0308] Figures 49 - 52 are perspective views and exploded perspective views of other modification examples 22, 23 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Figures 49 - 52 the vibration actuators 3710 and 3810 shown, in order to ensure the vibration space of the electromagnet D, it is also considered that instead of adjusting according to the thickness (length in the Z direction) of the frame springs 3746 and 3846 that are elastically deformed, a structure in which the base plate 3730 or the elastic body (plate-shaped elastic portion) 3840 having the frame spring 3846 itself is bent.

[0309] That is, the amplitude of the electromagnet D in the space formed between the electromagnet D and the base plates 3730 and 3830 is defined according to the height increased by the bending process of the base plate 3730 or the elastic body 3840 (the plate-side fixing portion 3844 connected to the frame spring 3846).

[0310] In the vibration actuator 3710, the height of the connection position with the elastic body 3740 is increased by the bending process portion 3734 of the base plate 3730. And in the vibration actuator 3810, the height of the frame spring 3846 is increased by using the bending process portion 3845 as a step. According to the above structure, on the basis of selecting the optimal material and spring constant of the elastic body, the width and height of the vibration space can be determined differently, so the degree of freedom in design can be increased. And since no other members for increasing the height are required, the number of members can be reduced.

[0311] 17. Other modification example 24

[0312] Figure 53 is a perspective view of other modification example 24 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 54 is an exploded perspective view of this other modification example 24.

[0313] It is also possible to configure the actuator without forming an opening in the base plate serving as the base portion, as in the case of the vibration actuator 3910 shown in the figure. The base plate 3930 is a high-permeability base plate having a shape without an opening portion in the structure of the base portion 30 (refer to Figure 8 ). An electromagnet D having a coil 22 at the center of the plate-shaped iron core 24 is disposed on the base plate 3930.

[0314] In addition, an elastic body 3940 serving as a frame that surrounds the base plate 3930 is connected to the base plate 3930 in a state of supporting the plate-shaped iron core 24. In this structure, by the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil 22, the electromagnet D of the movable portion 20 vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the plate surface of the iron core 24. In this case, adjusting the interval between the coil 22 and the base plate 30 requires Figure 53 the provision of the spacer 62 shown in the figure, or bending the base plate 30 or the elastic body 3940 itself (refer to Figures 49 - 52 ). The spacer 62 is interposed between the base plate 3930 and the plate-side connection portion of the elastic body 3940.

[0315] 18. Other modification examples 25, 26, 27

[0316] Figures 55 - 60 are perspective views and exploded perspective views of other modification examples 25 to 27 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. As in the case of the vibration actuator 4010 shown in Figure 55 and Figure 56 , the electromagnet D may be formed by winding the coil 22 around the bobbin 28 formed in the iron core 24.

[0317] As in the case of the vibration actuator 4110 shown in Figure 57 and Figure 58 , the frame-shaped elastic body (refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 ) 4140 may be divided to form (divided bodies 441, 442). The divided bodies 441 and 442 are connected to the electromagnet D and the counterweight 50 at one end portions 441a, 442a and the other end portions 441b, 442b, respectively.

[0318] In addition, as in the case of the vibration actuator 4210 shown in Figure 59 and Figure 60 , the base plate 4230 may be made of a non-magnetic material, and a rectangular frame-shaped yoke 64 may be additionally provided on the base plate 4230 so as to surround the opening portion to form a magnetic path of the electromagnet D. The yoke 64 may be configured such that a pair of opposite sides 642, 644 forming the frame are opposed to the magnetic pole portions of the electromagnet D in the vertical direction.

[0319] 19. Other modification example 28

[0320] Figure 61 A perspective view of another modification 28 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 62 Fig. is an exploded perspective view of this other modification 28. As Figure 61 and Figure 62 shown in the vibration actuator 4310, it may also be an electromagnet D0 with a coil 22 externally mounted at the central part, and is formed in a shape such that both ends 4324a, 4324b of a plate-shaped iron core 4324 around which the coil 22 is wound protrude in a direction orthogonal to the winding direction of the coil 22. In addition, like the iron core 24, the iron core 4324 is a magnetic body with a coil 22 externally mounted at the center, and spring connection parts 241, 242 protruding in the core axis direction are respectively provided at both ends 4324a, 4324b. According to this structure, the area facing the base plate 30, that is, the area forming the magnetic circuit, also becomes larger, and a magnetic circuit with higher magnetic efficiency can be realized.

[0321] 20. Other modifications 29, 30, 31, 32, 33

[0322] Figures 63 - 66 Perspective views and exploded perspective views of other modifications 29 and 30 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0323] As Figures 63 - 66 shown in the vibration actuators 4410, 4510, a plurality of iron core coils (iron cores 4424, coils 4422, iron cores 4524, coils 4522), that is, a plurality of electromagnets D1, D2 supported by a frame-shaped elastic body 40, may also be formed in parallel arrangement. According to this structure, the generated magnetic force can be kept constant, and the vibration actuators 4410, 4510 can be made thinner.

[0324] Figures 67 - 70 Perspective views and exploded perspective views of other modifications 31 and 32 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0325] As shown in the vibration actuators 4610, 4710 of other modifications 31, 32, it may also be configured to form a plurality of electromagnets D3, D4 (iron cores 4624, coils 4622, iron cores 4724, coils 4722) in parallel arrangement.

[0326] The vibration actuators 4610, 4710 respectively sandwich flat plate-shaped elastic bodies (made of the same material as the elastic body 1400) 4640, 4740 between a plurality of electromagnets D3, D4 and the base plates 4630, 4730 instead of the frame-shaped elastic members.

[0327] The base plates 4630, 4730 and the counterweights 4650, 4750 together have shapes that do not overlap with the coils 4622, 4722 respectively. According to this structure, by appropriately changing and adjusting the dimensions, quantities, shapes, and arrangements of the electromagnets D3, D4 and the elastic bodies D3, D4, the touch feeling obtained by the vibration actuator can be subtly adjusted.

[0328] Figure 71 It is a perspective view of another modification 33 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 72 It is an exploded perspective view of this other modification 33.

[0329] As in the vibration actuator 4810 of the other modification 33 shown in the figure, it may also be configured to have a movable portion 4820, which is formed by combining electromagnets D5, each of which is formed by winding a coil 4822 around a rectangular thin plate-shaped iron core 4824, into a rectangular frame shape. A structure is adopted in which a plurality of elastic bodies 4840 are provided at the four corner portions of the frame-shaped portion assembled into a frame between the movable portion 4820 and the base plate 4830, and the movable portion 4820 is respectively supported movably by the elastic bodies 4840.

[0330] In this structure, the base plate 4830 has a notch 4832 that serves as a recess for the coil 22, and the coil 22 is disposed within the notch 4832. In addition, the movable portion 4820 has an H-shaped counterweight 4850 having a shape that avoids each coil 4822 on a part of the frame-shaped electromagnet D5. The counterweight 4850 is disposed between a pair of electromagnets separated and parallel in the X direction and is fixed by the iron cores 4824 of a pair of electromagnets D5-1 separated and parallel in the Y direction respectively. According to this structure, it is possible to achieve a lower profile and miniaturization of the vibration actuator 4810 itself, and it is possible to set a larger area (range of intensity) of the touch feeling obtained by the vibration of the actuator.

[0331] As in the vibration actuator 4810 of the other modification 33 shown in the figure, it may also be configured to have a movable portion 4820, which is formed by combining electromagnets D5, each of which is formed by winding a coil 4822 around a rectangular thin plate-shaped iron core 4824, into a rectangular frame shape. Between the movable portion 4820 and the base plate 4830, a plurality of elastic bodies 4840 are provided at the four corner portions of the frame-shaped portion assembled into a frame, and the movable portion 4820 is respectively supported movably by the elastic bodies 4840.

[0332] In this structure, the base plate 4830 has a notch 4832 that serves as a recess for the coil 22, and the coil 22 is disposed within the notch 4832. Also, the movable part 4820 has an H-shaped counterweight 4850 that avoids the respective coils 4822 on a part of the frame-shaped electromagnet D5. The counterweight 4850 is disposed between a pair of electromagnets separated and parallel in the X direction and is fixed by the respective iron cores 4824 of a pair of electromagnets D5-1 separated and parallel in the Y direction. According to this structure, it is possible to achieve a reduction in height and size of the vibration actuator 4810 itself, and it is possible to set a relatively large area (range of intensity) of the tactile sensation obtained from the vibration of the actuator.

[0333] 21. Other Modification Example 34

[0334] Figure 73 It is a perspective view of Other Modification Example 34 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 74 It is an exploded perspective view of this Other Modification Example 34. As shown in the vibration actuator 4910, the base plate 4930, the elastic body 4940, and the counterweight 4950 are circular, and the iron core 4924 is formed in a shape having branch iron core portions 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c that extend radially from the center in three directions.

[0335] The coils 4922 are respectively disposed (encased) at the central portions of the respective branch iron core portions 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c. The coils 4922 and the branch iron core portions 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c together constitute an electromagnet D6. Spring connection portions 241a, 241b, and 241c are provided at the respective front end portions of the branch iron core portions 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c. The electromagnet D6 is connected to the elastic body 4940 via the spring connection portions 241a, 241b, and 241c.

[0336] The elastic body 4940 is not a rectangular frame as in the above-described embodiment, but a circular frame that surrounds the circular base plate 4930. The elastic body 4940 has a zigzag portion (bent portion) disposed along the circumferential direction, and at the zigzag portion, the spring connection portions 241a, 241b, and 241c and the base plate 4930 are alternately connected in the circumferential direction.

[0337] In this way, it is possible to make the shape of the vibration actuator 4910 circular and obtain vibrations larger than the area of the members. Also, the electromagnet can be formed by radially arranging two or four or more of the branch iron core portions 4924a to 4924c and respectively disposing coils.

[0338] 22. Other Modification Example 35

[0339] Figure 75Stereogram of another modification 35 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and an exploded stereogram of the other modification 35. As shown in the vibration actuator 5010, the elastomer is configured as a plurality of pairs of coil springs 5040, which are sandwiched between the base plate 30 and the core ends 24a, 24b of the electromagnet D to support the core ends 241, 242 of the electromagnet D. In this vibration actuator 5010, a weight 50 having a shape that does not overlap with the coil is fixed to the cores (core ends 24a, 24b) on both sides of the coil. According to this structure, by using the coil springs 5040, an actuator 5010 with low cost and high durability can be obtained.

[0340] In this way, since the elastomer is a pair (or a plurality of pairs) of flat elastic members sandwiched between the base plate 30 and the core ends 24a, 24b, no other components are required, and the vibration actuator 1410 can be manufactured without processing the elastomer.

[0341] 23. Another modification 36

[0342] Figure 77 Stereogram of another modification 36 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 78 is an exploded stereogram of the other modification 36.

[0343] As shown in the figure, a weight 5150 for increasing the tactile sensation obtained by the vibration actuator 5110 can also be arranged on the back side (base plate 5130 side) of the core 5124.

[0344] In the core 5124, in order to reduce the height (thickness in the Z direction) of the vibration actuator 5110, the core ends 5124a, 5124b are bent to form steps, so that the height positions of the core ends 5124a, 5124b are higher than the main body bottom surface 5124c of the core 5124.

[0345] By respectively arranging and fixing a pair of opposite sides 5152 of the weight 5150 on the steps obtained by the core ends 5124a, 5124b, the surfaces of the core 5124 (the surfaces of the core ends 5124a, 5124b) and the coil 5122 become the surfaces of the vibration actuator. Thus, compared with the structure having the thickness of the surface portion of the coil, the core ends 5124a, 5124b, and the weight 5150 stacked in sequence, the vibration actuator 5110 can be made low-profile.

[0346] 24. Another modification 37

[0347] Figure 79 Stereogram of another modification 37 of the vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 80It is an exploded perspective view of the other modification 37. As shown in the figure, in order to increase the tactile sensation obtained by the vibration actuator 5210, in the movable part 5220, a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped weight 5250 is mounted on the iron core 5224. The weight 5250 is dividedly arranged on the iron core ends 5224a and 5224b at positions avoiding the coil 5222 part at the center of the iron core 5224. According to this structure, the height of the vibration actuator 5210 can be kept low, and sufficient vibration can be obtained.

[0348] 25. Other structures

[0349] Moreover, in each of the vibration actuators having a heavy object part, a weight, or a weight plate, a capacitance detection part may be provided between the heavy object part, the weight, or the weight plate and the base plate.

[0350] The capacitance detection part may also be configured, for example, in the vibration actuator 2010 shown in Figure 32 by replacing one of the shock absorbers 2000 and installing it on one of the heavy object part, the weight, or the weight plate and the base plate to detect the change in the capacitance between the other and the one. The capacitance detection part may be any component that detects the relative distance between a part of the heavy object part, the weight, or the weight plate and a part of the base plate. Thus, the movable part can detect the pressing operation of the operator, and the vibration actuator generates a vibration corresponding to the operation via the control part and gives it to the operator.

[0351] Moreover, each vibration actuator of the modification can be used by replacing it with the vibration actuator 10 shown in Figure 13 and can be installed on the touch panel. Each vibration actuator of the modification is basically fixed to the product case side via the base plate, the weight plate, or the heavy object part, and thus can be assembled into a product.

[0352] Moreover, in the case of configuring the above-mentioned vibration actuators on the back surface of the operation surface to form a contact-type input device, it may also be configured such that the magnetic body plate itself is the operation surface, or an electromagnet is directly installed on the back surface of the operation surface. In this structure, according to the contact action of the operator on the operation surface, the coil is energized, and one of the coil (electromagnet) and the base plate (plate) is displaced so as to approach the other to vibrate. Thus, the tactile sensation can be directly presented to the operator and the tactile sensation can be more effectively given.

[0353] For example, in each of the above-mentioned vibration actuators, it may also be configured such that the operation surface is a weight. In this case, since it becomes a structure in which the weight is pasted on the operation surface, the operation surface itself has a structure with steps for avoiding the coil to install the iron core.

[0354] Also, in a vibration actuator using an operation surface as a counterweight, an elastic member such as a rubber sheet or a shock absorber can also be used instead of the elastic body. For example, in this structure, an electromagnet and a counter magnetic material opposed thereto can also be arranged at opposed positions on the operation surface side and the box body side, and an elastic member can be provided and fixed between the operation surface and the box body, so that the entire operation surface and the box body are configured as an actuator.

[0355] Also, the back surface of the operation surface can be configured to have the shape and function of a plate. In this case, a plate connection portion (fixed portion on the base portion side) of the elastic body is connected to the back surface, but the plate connection portion can also be connected at a position higher than the back surface to ensure a deformation region of the elastic body itself in the thickness direction. And, in order to ensure this deformation region, it can also be connected to the elastic body (plate connection portion) at a stepped portion (e.g., Figure 50 bending processing portion 3734) formed by processing the back surface. Also, it can have a bending processing portion (e.g., Figure 51 bending processing portion 3845) for processing the elastic body itself (plate connection portion) to change the height. According to this structure, the number of components can be reduced corresponding to the amount of the plate (base plate) not provided.

[0356] Also, when the elastic body itself is mounted on the back surface, in order to ensure the elastic deformation region (region in the thickness direction) of the elastic body, it can also be provided via a spacer (refer to Figure 54 spacer 62). The region of the elastic body can be appropriately changed according to the height of the spacer. In addition, the operation surface can also be, for example, a display, an operation panel, or a touch panel.

[0357] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. In addition, the above description is an example of a suitable embodiment of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the description of the structure of the above device and the shape of each part is only an example, and it is self - evident that various changes and additions can be made to the above example within the scope of the present invention.

[0358] All the disclosures of the specification, claims, drawings, and abstract included in the Japanese application of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022 - 074823 filed on April 28, 2022 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0359] Industrial Applicability

[0360] The vibration actuator and the contact - type input device of the present invention have the effects of being easy to assemble, being configured in a space - saving manner, and being able to vibrate appropriately, and are useful, for example, as components for PCBs, touch panels, operation panels, etc.

[0361] Symbol Description

[0362] 1 - Vibration prompting device (contact-type input device), 10, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410, 1510, 1610, 1710, 1810, 1910, 2010, 2110, 2210, 2310, 2610, 2910, 3210, 3410, 3510, 3610, 3710, 3810, 3910, 4010, 4110, 4210, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4710, 4810, 4910, 5010, 5110, 5210 - Vibration actuator, 12 - Switch element, 14 - Signal generation unit, 20, 1320, 1820, 1920, 2020, 2920 - Movable part, 22 - Coil, 24 - Iron core (magnetic core), 24a - One end portion, 24b - The other end portion, 26 - Weight portion, 30 - Base portion (base, base plate), 32a, 32b - Opposing portions, 34a, 34b - Spring fixing portions, 36 - Fixing portion, 38, 1852 - Opening portion, 40, 1040, 1246 - Plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic body), 42a, 42b, 1042a, 1042b - Movable part side fixing portion (iron core connection portion), 44a, 44b, 1044a, 1044b - Base portion side fixing portion (plate connection portion), 46 - Elastic main body portion, 48 - Arm portion, 60, 62 - Spacers, 100, 100A - Vibration prompting device, 102 - Object to be installed, 110, 110A - Flat plate main body, 120 - Bottom portion, 130 - Frame portion, 160 - Double-sided tape, 170 - Screw, 172 - Fastening member, 190 - Vibration damping portion (buffer portion), 241, 242 - Spring connection portions, 311, 461, 462 - A pair of side portions, 311a, 312a - Cutout portions, 312 - The other pair of side portions, 441, 442 - Divided bodies, 1042 - Connection portion, 1046 - Bent portion, 1146 - Zigzag-shaped portion, 1400 - Elastic body, 1530, 1630, 2930, 3330, 3430, 3530, 3730, 3830, 4230, 4630, 4730, 4830, 4930, 5130 - Base plate, 1532 - Fixing hole, 1534 - Fastening member, 1536 - Long hole, 1850, 1950, 2050, 2150, 2950 - Counterweight plate, 1900 - Flexible substrate, 1902 - Coil wiring connection portion, 2000, 2100, 2200 - Vibration damper.

Claims

1. A vibration actuator, characterized in that, Comprising: A plate of a magnetic body; An electromagnet formed by arranging a coil at the central part of an iron core; and An elastic body, which is a rectangular frame surrounding the above-mentioned plate, and is connected to the above-mentioned plate at a pair of connecting parts protruding inward from the other opposite sides in a state where the above-mentioned electromagnet is suspended at the opposite sides of the above-mentioned frame, Using the magnetic force generated by energizing the above-mentioned coil, one of the above-mentioned coil and the above-mentioned plate is displaced in a manner of approaching the other and vibrates.

2. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The above-mentioned plate has an opening in the area corresponding to the above-mentioned coil, which is a part of the vibration space of the above-mentioned electromagnet.

3. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein Both the above-mentioned plate and the above-mentioned electromagnet are in a flat plate shape.

4. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein A plurality of the above-mentioned electromagnets are arranged in parallel or formed into a rectangle.

5. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The above-mentioned elastic body supports the above-mentioned iron core at one of the opposite sides.

6. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The above-mentioned elastic body has a pair of iron core connecting parts.

7. The vibration actuator according to claim 6, wherein The above-mentioned elastic body arranges and connects the above-mentioned pair of connecting parts on the above-mentioned plate, and arranges and connects the above-mentioned iron core on the above-mentioned iron core connecting parts.

8. The vibration actuator according to claim 6, wherein The above-mentioned elastic body has a bent part between one of the above-mentioned pair of iron core connecting parts and one of the above-mentioned pair of connecting parts.

9. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein In the above-mentioned electromagnet, a counterweight having a shape that does not overlap with the above-mentioned coil is fixed to the above-mentioned iron cores on both sides of the above-mentioned coil.

10. The vibration actuator according to claim 9, wherein There is a vibration damping member between the above-mentioned iron core or the above-mentioned counterweight and the above-mentioned plate or the installation object area of the above-mentioned vibration actuator.

11. The vibration actuator according to claim 9, wherein The above-mentioned counterweight is a frame-shaped member having an opening in the area of the above-mentioned coil.

12. The vibration actuator according to claim 9, wherein The above-mentioned counterweight has an opening in the area of the coil wiring connection part.

13. The vibration actuator according to claim 9, wherein There is an electrostatic capacitance detection part between the above-mentioned counterweight and the above-mentioned plate.

14. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The above-mentioned elastic body has a strain detection part.

15. A contact type input device, wherein the vibration actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 14 is arranged on the back of an operation surface, and is characterized in that According to the contact action of an operator on the above-mentioned operation surface, the above-mentioned coil is energized, and one of the above-mentioned coil and the above-mentioned plate is displaced in a manner of approaching the other and vibrates, so as to prompt the operator with a tactile sensation.

16. The contact type input device according to claim 15, wherein Either the above-mentioned plate or the above-mentioned electromagnet is arranged on the back of the operation surface.

17. The contact type input device according to claim 15, wherein The back surface of the above-mentioned operation surface has the shape and function of the above-mentioned plate.

18. The contact input device according to claim 15, characterized in that the above-mentioned operation surface is a display, an operation panel or a touchpad.

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