Input device

Abstract

When a pressing operation is performed, an output value of a detection value of a horizontal operation can be prevented from being unstable in opposition to the intention of an operator. The input device includes a strain generator having an operation shaft, a load sensor that detects a load applied to the operation shaft in a horizontal direction, an operation member that is provided on an upper portion of the operation shaft and is capable of performing a pressing operation, and a switch section that detects a pressing operation performed by the operation member. And outputting the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction and the detection value of the pressing operation detected by the switch part to the outside, and the control part does not update the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction when the pressing operation is detected by the switch part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to input devices. Background Art

[0002] In the following patent document 1, a rod-type coordinate input device is disclosed, which is constructed by activating a press sensor through a rod provided on an operating component to detect a press operation of the operating component, detecting a tilt operation of the operating component through a strain sensor provided on a substrate on the lower side of the operating component, and enabling the tilt operation and the press operation to be performed simultaneously.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 4667732 Summary of the invention

[0006] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, in the stick-type coordinate input device of Patent Document 1, when a pressing operation is performed, part of the load applied to the operating member due to the pressing operation is also applied to the strain sensor, and there is a risk that the load may become unstable against the operator's intention.

[0008] Means for solving technical problems

[0009] An input device in one embodiment comprises: a strain generating body having an operating axis; a load sensor for detecting a load in a horizontal direction applied to the operating axis; an operating component provided at an upper portion of the operating axis and capable of a pressing operation; a switch portion for detecting a pressing operation performed by the operating component; and a control portion for outputting a detection value of the load in the horizontal direction and a detection value of the pressing operation detected by the switch portion to the outside, wherein the control portion does not update the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction while a pressing operation is detected by the switch portion.

[0010] Effects of the Invention

[0011] According to the input device of one embodiment, when a pressing operation is performed, it is possible to suppress the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the appearance of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the input device according to one embodiment as seen from above.

[0014] Figure 3This is an exploded perspective view of the input device according to one embodiment as seen from below.

[0015] Figure 4 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system included in an input device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing a first example of output control processing performed by a control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a timing chart showing an example of time changes in a detection value and an output value of a horizontal operation in an input device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing a second example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 9 This is a timing chart showing an example of time changes in a detection value and an output value of a horizontal operation in an input device according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig.10 This is a flowchart showing a third example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig.13 This is a flowchart showing a modified example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig.14 This is a flowchart showing a sixth example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0026] Fig.15 This is a flowchart showing a seventh example of the output control process performed by the control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0027] Fig.16This is a flowchart showing a calibration process performed by a control device included in the input device according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig.17 This is a perspective view of the appearance of an input device according to a modified example of an embodiment.

[0029] Fig.18 This is an exploded perspective view of an input device according to a modification example of an embodiment as viewed from above.

[0030] Fig.19 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device according to a modified example of an embodiment.

[0031] Description of Reference Numerals

[0032] 100, 100-2 Input device

[0033] 110 substrate

[0034] 111 First fixed contact

[0035] 112 Second fixed contact

[0036] 120 Movable contact

[0037] 121 Dome

[0038] 130 Flexible Substrate

[0039] 130A Base

[0040] 130B Lead-out

[0041] 131 Central opening

[0042] 132 Strain sensor (load sensor)

[0043] 140 strain generator

[0044] 141 base

[0045] 142 Operating shaft

[0046] 143 recess

[0047] 144 Through hole

[0048] 150 Operating parts

[0049] 151 Operation Department

[0050] 152 Shaft

[0051] 152A Pressing part

[0052] 161 Screw

[0053] 170 control device (control unit)

[0054] 180 Fixed plate

[0055] 180A Top surface

[0056] 180B space

[0057] 181 Pedestal DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] An embodiment is described below. In addition, in the following description, for convenience, the X-axis direction in the figure is set as the front-to-back direction, the Y-axis direction in the figure is set as the left-to-right direction, and the Z-axis direction in the figure is set as the up-down direction. Among them, the positive direction of the X-axis is set as the front direction, the positive direction of the Y-axis is set as the right direction, and the positive direction of the Z-axis is set as the up direction. These directions represent the relative positional relationship within the device, and do not limit the setting direction or operation direction of the device. Devices with the same relative positional relationship within the device, and devices with different setting directions and operation directions are all included in the scope of the present invention.

[0059] [One implementation method]

[0060] (Configuration of Input Device 100)

[0061] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the appearance of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment as viewed from above. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment as viewed from below. Figure 4 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0062] Figure 1 to Figure 3 The input device 100 shown is an input device used in, for example, a game console controller, a notebook computer, etc., and is capable of horizontal operations in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction) and downward (Z-axis positive direction) pressing operations. Figure 1 to Figure 3 As shown, input device 100 includes substrate 110 , movable contact 120 , flexible substrate 130 , strain generating body 140 , and operating member 150 .

[0063] The substrate 110 is a horizontal plate-shaped member made of resin and provided at the lowermost side (Z-axis negative side) of the input device 100. As an example, in the present embodiment, the substrate 110 has a square shape when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction).

[0064] A circular first fixed contact 111 and an annular second fixed contact 112 surrounding the first fixed contact 111 are provided at the center of the upper surface 110A of the substrate 110. The first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are both thin metal plates.

[0065] The substrate 110 is fixed to an arbitrary installation surface by four screws 161 penetrating the substrate 110 and the base 141 of the strain generating body 140 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) while being overlapped with the base 141 of the strain generating body 140 .

[0066] Movable contact 120 is a thin metal plate superposed on first fixed contact 111 and second fixed contact 112 of substrate 110. Movable contact 120 has dome-shaped dome portion 121 protruding upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) at the center thereof.

[0067] The movable contact 120, the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 together constitute a "switch unit". The movable contact 120 is always in contact with the second fixed contact 112 at the outer edge of the dome portion 121. When the movable contact 120 is not pressed by the operating member 150, the center of the dome portion 121 is separated from the first fixed contact 111. Moreover, when the movable contact 120 is pressed by the operating member 150, the dome portion 121 is pressed by the pressing portion 152A of the operating member 150, so that the dome portion 121 performs a reverse action, and the center of the dome portion 121 contacts the first fixed contact 111. As a result, the movable contact 120 can make the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 conduct to each other via the movable contact 120. In addition, the movable contact 120 generates a click feeling by the reverse action of the dome portion 121.

[0068] The flexible substrate 130 is a flexible thin-film wiring member that is provided in a recess 143 formed on the lower surface of the base 141 of the strain generating body 140 and fixed to the top surface of the recess 143. The flexible substrate 130 is bonded to the top surface of the recess 143 in the recess 143 of the strain generating body 140 by any bonding method (e.g., adhesive). The flexible substrate 130 has a base 130A and a lead portion 130B.

[0069] The base 130A is an annular portion disposed at the center of the lower surface of the base 141 of the strain generating body 140. A circular central opening 131 is formed at the center of the base 130A. The shaft 152 of the operating member 150 is inserted into the central opening 131.

[0070] The lead portion 130B is a strip-shaped portion extending outward in an L-shape from the outer peripheral edge portion of the base portion 130A. The lead portion 130B is electrically connected to the outside at its front end portion.

[0071] In the flexible substrate 130, four strain sensors 132 are provided on the same circumference and at equal intervals (i.e., 90-degree intervals) around the central opening 131 in the lower surface of the base 130A. The four strain sensors 132 are resistors printed on the lower surface of the base 130A. The four strain sensors 132 are an example of "load sensors" and are provided to detect the horizontal load applied to the operating shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140.

[0072] Specifically, the strain sensors 132 are provided on the lower surface of the base 130A in the flexible substrate 130 in each of four directions (right (positive direction of the Y axis), left (negative direction of the Y axis), front (positive direction of the X axis), and rear (negative direction of the X axis)) based on the central opening 131. That is, the four strain sensors 132 are arranged in a cross shape around the central opening 131.

[0073] In addition, the detection direction of each of the four strain sensors 132 is set in the radial direction centered on the operating shaft 142. Therefore, when the operating member 150 is horizontally operated and strain is generated in the base 141 (around the root part of the operating shaft 142) via the operating shaft 142, each of the four strain sensors 132 deforms (extends or contracts) according to the strain of the base 141, and the resistance value changes. Thus, each of the four strain sensors 132 can detect the strain of the base 141 caused by the horizontal operation of the operating shaft 142, and therefore can detect the horizontal load applied to the operating shaft 142 by the horizontal operation of the operating member 150.

[0074] The flexible substrate 130 can output a load detection signal (analog signal) indicating a load in the horizontal direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by each of the four strain sensors 132 to the outside (control device 170 ) via the lead portion 130B.

[0075] Specifically, the two strain sensors 132 arranged at the front (X-axis positive direction) and the rear (X-axis negative direction) with reference to the central opening 131 are electrically connected in series. When a load in the X-axis direction is applied to the operating shaft 142, one side stretches and the other side contracts, so that the voltage value at the middle point between the two strain sensors 132 changes. Therefore, the external device (output destination of the load detection signal) (control device 170) can detect the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 based on the voltage value (load detection signal) at the middle point.

[0076] In addition, the two strain sensors 132 arranged on the right (positive direction of the Y axis) and the left (negative direction of the Y axis) with respect to the central opening 131 are electrically connected in series. When a load in the Y axis direction is applied to the operating shaft 142, one side stretches and the other side contracts, so that the voltage value at the middle point between the two strain sensors 132 changes. Therefore, the external device (output destination of the load detection signal) (control device 170) can detect the load in the Y axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 based on the voltage value (load detection signal) at the middle point.

[0077] The strain generating body 140 is a resin member that generates strain due to the operation load from the operation member 150 when the operation member 150 is horizontally operated. The strain generating body 140 includes a base 141 and an operation shaft 142.

[0078] The base 141 is a horizontal flat plate having a certain thickness in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and has the same shape as the substrate 110 , that is, a square shape, when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction).

[0079] A recessed portion 143 is formed on the lower surface of the base 141. The recessed portion 143 has the same shape as the flexible substrate 130 (part of the base 130A and the lead portion 130B) when viewed from below (in the negative direction of the Z axis). Thus, the strain generating body 140 can arrange the flexible substrate 130 (part of the base 130A and the lead portion 130B) inside the recessed portion 143.

[0080] The operating shaft 142 is a cylindrical portion vertically provided upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) from the center of the upper surface of the base 141. When the operating member 150 is horizontally operated (i.e., when a load is applied in the horizontal direction), the operating shaft 142 transmits a load to the base 141. Due to the load transmitted through the operating shaft 142, a portion of the base 141 surrounding the operating shaft 142 is strained.

[0081] In addition, a circular through hole 144 is formed at the center of the strain generating body 140, penetrating the base 141 and the operating shaft 142 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The shaft 152 of the operating member 150 is inserted into the through hole 144. Thus, the strain generating body 140 can support the operating member 150 so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0082] The operating member 150 is a resin member provided on the upper portion of the operating shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140. The operating member 150 includes an operating portion 151 and a shaft portion 152.

[0083] The operation portion 151 is a cylindrical portion provided at the upper end of the operation member 150 and having a larger diameter than the operation shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140. The operation portion 151 is disposed above the operation shaft 142. The operator touches the operation portion 151 to perform horizontal operation and pressing operation.

[0084] The shaft portion 152 is a cylindrical portion that is suspended downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis) from the center of the lower surface of the operating portion 151 and has a diameter smaller than that of the operating shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140. The shaft portion 152 of the operating member 150 is inserted into the through hole 144 of the strain generating body 140. Thus, the operating member 150 is supported by the strain generating body 140 so as to be movable in the up-down direction (in the Z axis direction). Moreover, when the operator performs a pressing operation (i.e., an operation of applying a load downward), the operating member 150 moves downward. In addition, if the operator operates the operating member 150 horizontally (i.e., performs an operation of applying a load in the horizontal direction), the shaft portion 152 applies a load to the operating shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140 from the inside.

[0085] A cylindrical pressing portion 152A is provided at the lower end of the shaft portion 152. The pressing portion 152A is provided on the upper side (Z-axis positive side) of the central portion of the movable contact 120 and is opposite to the central portion of the movable contact 120. When the pressing portion 152A is pressed by the operating member 150, the central portion of the movable contact 120 is pressed to elastically deform the central portion of the movable contact 120, so that the central portion of the movable contact 120 can be brought into contact with the first fixed contact 111.

[0086] As described above, in the input device 100 of one embodiment, the operating member 150 has the shaft portion 152 that passes through the strain generating body 140, and the strain sensor 132 is provided on the flexible substrate 130 fixed to the lower surface of the strain generating body 140. When the operating member 150 is horizontally operated and a load is applied to the operating shaft 142, the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the horizontal direction is detected by detecting the strain generated in the strain generating body 140, and the switch portion is provided on the lower side of the strain generating body 140. When the operating member 150 is pressed, the switch portion is pressed by the shaft portion 152 of the operating member 150, thereby detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member 150.

[0087] Thus, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can reliably cause the strain generating body 140 to generate strain through the shaft 152 without pressing the switch portion when the operating member 150 performs a horizontal operation, and can reliably press the switch portion through the shaft 152 without causing the strain generating body 140 to generate strain when the operating member 150 performs a pressing operation.

[0088] In addition, in an input device 100 of one embodiment, the switch portion includes a movable contact 120 having a dome-shaped dome portion 121 that can be elastically deformed, and a first fixed contact 111 arranged on the lower side of the movable contact 120. When the dome portion 121 is pressed by the operating member 150, the dome portion 121 reverses and contacts the first fixed contact 111, thereby detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member 150.

[0089] Thus, input device 100 according to one embodiment can reliably detect a pressing operation by operating member 150 with a relatively simple configuration based on movable contact 120 and first fixed contact 111 .

[0090] In the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the movable contact 120 is a metal plate having a dome portion 121 , and generates a click feeling by a reverse motion.

[0091] Thus, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can provide a click feeling to the operator who has performed a pressing operation using the operating member 150 , and can make the operator easily understand through tactile sense that the pressing operation has been reliably performed.

[0092] (Configuration of Control System Included in Input Device 100)

[0093] Figure 5 It is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0094] like Figure 5 As shown, the control system included in the input device 100 includes a first fixed contact 111 , a second fixed contact 112 , four strain sensors 132 , and a control device 170 .

[0095] The control device 170 is an example of a "control unit". The control device 170 is electrically connected to the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112. Thus, the control device 170 can detect whether the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are connected to each other. In addition, the control device 170 can detect that the switch unit is turned on, that is, it can detect the pressing operation performed by the operating member 150 by detecting that the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are connected to each other via the movable contact 120.

[0096] In addition, the control device 170 is electrically connected to each of the four strain sensors 132. Specifically, the control device 170 is connected to a bridge circuit including the four strain sensors 132.

[0097] Moreover, the control device 170 can detect the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 accompanying the horizontal operation of the operating part 150 based on the voltage value of the midpoint between the two strain sensors 132 (strain sensor (X+) and strain sensor (X-)) arranged in the X-axis direction.

[0098] In addition, the control device 170 can detect the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 accompanying the horizontal operation of the operating part 150 based on the voltage value of the midpoint between the two strain sensors 132 (strain sensor (Y+) and strain sensor (Y-)) arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0099] In addition, the control device 170 includes a processor (e.g., a CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc.), a memory (e.g., a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc.). The control device 170 implements various functions of the control device 170 by executing a program stored in the memory through the processor. For example, an IC (Integrated Circuit) is used as the control device 170.

[0100] (First Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0101] Figure 6 This is a flowchart showing a first example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0102] in addition, Figure 6 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0103] Variable SW_Status: value indicating the status of the switch

[0104] Detection value X: Detection value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0105] Detection value Y: Detection value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0106] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0107] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0108] First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (ON) (step S601). Here, the control device 170 determines that the switch unit (SW) is turned on when it is detected that the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are connected to each other. In addition, the control device 170 determines that the switch unit (SW) is disconnected (OFF) when it is detected that the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are not connected to each other.

[0109] In step S601, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is on (step S601: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S602). Then, the control device 170 does not update the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue, but outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S605). That is, the detection value when the switch (SW) is off is output. After that, the control device 170 ends. Figure 6 A series of processing is shown.

[0110] On the other hand, in step S601, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is off (step S601: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S603). Then, the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S604), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S605). After that, the control device 170 ends. Figure 6 A series of processing is shown.

[0111] In addition, the control device 170 initializes the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" when the input device 100 is activated. In addition, the control device 170 repeatedly executes the Figure 6 A series of processing is shown.

[0112] Figure 7 1 is a timing chart showing an example of time changes in the detection value and the output value of the horizontal operation in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0113] In addition, Figure 7 In the upper section of , the dotted line represents the detection value of the horizontal operation (the detection value of the horizontal direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132). Figure 7 In the upper section, the solid line represents the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0114] like Figure 7As shown, in the input device 100 , when a horizontal operation is performed by the operating member 150 , if a pressing operation is performed by the operating member 150 , there is a possibility that the detection value of the horizontal operation may be unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation.

[0115] However, the input device 100 is executed by the control device 170 Figure 6 A series of processing is shown, so that Figure 7 As shown, during the period of the pressing operation by the operating member 150, the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation is not updated, so that the output value can be kept constant.

[0116] As described above, the input device 100 according to one embodiment is executed by the control device 170 Figure 6 According to the series of processes shown, the output value of the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is not updated while the switch unit detects the pressing operation of the operating member 150.

[0117] Thus, the input device 100 of one embodiment can make the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant even if the detection value of the horizontal operation (i.e., the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction applied to the operating shaft 142) becomes unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation when the horizontal operation and the pressing operation are performed simultaneously by the operating member 150. Therefore, according to the input device 100 of one embodiment, it is possible to suppress the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable contrary to the intention of the operator.

[0118] (Second Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0119] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing a second example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0120] in addition, Figure 8 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0121] Variable SW_Status: value indicating the status of the switch

[0122] Detection value X: Detection value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0123] Detection value Y: Detection value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0124] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0125] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0126] Variable Off_count: Duration of time from when the switch (SW) is turned off

[0127] Variable W: variable used to gradually change the weight of the moving average

[0128] First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S801).

[0129] In step S801 , when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S801 : Yes), the control device 170 sets “ON” to the variable SW_Status (step S802 ).

[0130] Then, the control device 170 determines whether at least one of the detection value X and the detection value Y changes rapidly just before the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S803). Here, the control device 170 determines that "the detection values ​​X and Y change rapidly just before the switch unit (SW) is turned on" when the difference between the detection value when the switch unit (SW) is turned on and the previous detection value is greater than a predetermined threshold value. For example, when the detection value X and the detection value Y are detected every 0.1 seconds, the control device 170 determines that "the detection values ​​X and Y change rapidly just before the switch unit (SW) is turned on" when at least one of the difference between the detection value X when the switch unit (SW) is turned on and the detection value X 0.1 seconds ago and the difference between the detection value Y when the switch unit (SW) is turned on and the detection value Y 0.1 seconds ago is greater than a predetermined threshold value.

[0131] In step S803, when it is determined that "the detection values ​​X and Y change suddenly before the switch part (SW) is about to be turned on" (step S803: yes), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X before the sudden change and the detection value Y before the sudden change (step S804). Here, the control device 170 finds the difference between the detection value and the previous detection value each time it traces back the detection value before the sudden change one by one, and when the difference is less than a specified threshold, the previous detection value is specified as the "detection value before the sudden change". Then, the control device 170 sets the initial value "0" for the variable W (step S806), sets the initial value "0" for the variable Off_count (step S807), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). Thereafter, the control device 170 ends Figure 8 A series of processing is shown.

[0132] In step S803, if it is determined that "the detection values ​​X and Y do not change sharply before the switch (SW) is turned on" (step S803: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S805). Then, the control device 170 sets the initial value "0" to the variable W (step S806), sets the initial value "0" to the variable Off_count (step S807), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends. Figure 8 A series of processing is shown.

[0133] In step S801, when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S801: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S808). Then, the control device 170 determines whether the variable Off_count is smaller than a predetermined threshold value TH (step S809).

[0134] In step S809, if it is determined that the variable Off_count is less than the predetermined threshold value TH (step S809: Yes), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable Off_count (step S810). Then, the control device 170 does not update the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue, but outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends. Figure 8 If the duration of the switch (SW) being in the OFF state is less than the threshold value Th, it is considered that the force of pressing the operating member 150 is weakened contrary to the operator's intention. Therefore, the control device 170 continues to output the switch ON.

[0135] In step S809 , when it is determined that the variable Off_count is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value TH (step S809 : No), the control device 170 determines whether the variable W is less than “10” (step S811 ).

[0136] In step S811, if it is determined that the variable W is less than "10" (step S811: Yes), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable W (step S812). Then, the control device 170 calculates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue by the moving average calculation formula (step S813). And, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue calculated in step S813 (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends. Figure 8If the output value changes suddenly from the X / Y value before the sudden change to the latest X / Y value, the operator will feel uncomfortable. Therefore, the output value of the control device 170 is gradually approached to the latest X / Y value from the X / Y value before the sudden change.

[0137] In step S811, when it is determined that the variable W is greater than "10" (step S811: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S814), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends. Figure 8 A series of processing is shown.

[0138] In addition, the control device 170 initializes the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" when the input device 100 is activated. In addition, the control device 170 repeatedly executes the Figure 8 A series of processing is shown.

[0139] (An example of a moving average calculation formula)

[0140] Here, yes Figure 8 An example of a moving average calculation formula used in step S813 of the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0141] (first example)

[0142] For example, the control device 170 may calculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue using the following equations (1) and (2).

[0143]

Mathematical formula 1

[0144] Xvalue=0.7×Xvalue+0.3×X…(1)

[0145]

Mathematical formula 2

[0146] Yvalue=0.7×Yvalue+0.3×Y…(2)

[0147] Yvalue=0.7×Yvalue+0.3×Y…(2)

[0148] The above mathematical formulas (1) and (2) utilize a modified moving average, which is a type of exponential moving average, and use the detection values ​​X, Y and the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue to recalculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue, and use fixed values ​​(as an example, "0.3" and "0.7") for the first coefficient multiplied by the detection values ​​X, Y and the second coefficient multiplied by the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue.

[0149] Thus, the control device 170 can make the output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue, which are set constant after the switch unit (SW) is switched on, change multiple times (in Figure 8 In the flowchart shown, the actual detection value X and the detection value Y are gradually returned (10 times as an example).

[0150] (Second example)

[0151] In addition, for example, the control device 170 may calculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue using the following equations (3) and (4).

[0152]

Mathematical formula 3

[0153]

[0154]

Mathematical formula 4

[0155]

[0156] The above mathematical formulas (3) and (4) utilize a modified moving average, which is a type of exponential moving average, and use the detection values ​​X, Y and the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue to recalculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue, so that the first coefficient multiplied by the detection values ​​X, Y and the second coefficient multiplied by the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue gradually change.

[0157] Thus, the control device 170 can make the output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue, which are set constant after the switch unit (SW) is switched on, change multiple times (in Figure 8 In the flowchart shown, the actual detection value X and the detection value Y are gradually returned (10 times as an example).

[0158] (Third example)

[0159] In addition, for example, the control device 170 may calculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue based on a simple moving average.

[0160] For example, in the first example above, the moving average is calculated multiple times by the above mathematical formulas (1) and (2), but the moving average can also be calculated only once by the above mathematical formulas (1) and (2), and the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue can be calculated by a simple moving average with both coefficients set to "0.5".

[0161] (Fourth example)

[0162] In addition, for example, the control device 170 may store a plurality of detection values ​​X and detection values ​​Y in a memory, and calculate Xvalue and Yvalue by using a simple moving average of the plurality of detection values ​​X and detection values ​​Y.

[0163] Fig. 9 1 is a timing chart showing an example of time changes in the detection value and the output value of the horizontal operation in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0164] In addition, Fig. 9 In the upper section of , the dotted line represents the detection value of the horizontal operation (the detection value of the horizontal direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132). Fig. 9 In the upper section, the solid line represents the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0165] like Fig. 9 As shown, in the input device 100 , when a horizontal operation is performed by the operating member 150 , if a pressing operation is performed by the operating member 150 , there is a possibility that the detection value of the horizontal operation may be unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation.

[0166] However, the input device 100 is executed by the control device 170 Figure 8 A series of processing is shown, so that Fig. 9 As shown, during the period of the pressing operation by the operating member 150, the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation is not updated, so that the output value can be kept constant.

[0167] In addition, the input device 100 executes the Figure 8 A series of processing is shown, so that Fig. 9 As shown, when the detection value changes suddenly before the switch section (SW) is turned on, the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation can be updated to the detection value X before the sudden change.

[0168] In addition, the input device 100 executes the Figure 8 A series of processing is shown, so that Fig. 9As shown, after the switch unit (SW) is switched on to make the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant, when the switch unit (SW) is switched off, the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation can be kept constant for a predetermined time.

[0169] In addition, the input device 100 executes the Figure 8 A series of processing is shown, so that Fig. 9 As shown, after a predetermined time has passed since the switch unit (SW) was switched off, the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation can be corrected multiple times and gradually returned to the actual detection value.

[0170] As described above, the input device 100 according to one embodiment is executed by the control device 170 Figure 8 By performing the series of processes shown, the output value of the detected value of the load is not updated while the switch unit detects the pressing operation of the operating member 150.

[0171] Thus, the input device 100 of one embodiment can make the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant even if the detection value of the horizontal operation (i.e., the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction applied to the operating shaft 142) becomes unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation when the horizontal operation and the pressing operation are performed simultaneously by the operating member 150. Therefore, according to the input device 100 of one embodiment, it is possible to suppress the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable contrary to the intention of the operator.

[0172] In addition, the input device 100 of one embodiment executes Figure 8 By performing the series of processing shown, the output value of the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is not updated for a certain period of time after the switch portion no longer detects the pressing operation.

[0173] Thus, the input device 100 of one embodiment can make the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant even when the operator accidentally switches the pressing operation to off during the pressing operation. Therefore, according to the input device 100 of one embodiment, it is possible to suppress the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention.

[0174] In addition, the input device 100 of one embodiment executes Figure 8The series of processing shown in FIG. 10A , after stopping the updating of the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load, a moving average of the detection value of the horizontal load is output as the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load within a certain period from when the updating of the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is restarted, and the detection value of the horizontal load is output as the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load after a certain period has passed since when the updating of the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is restarted.

[0175] Thus, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can slowly return the output value of the horizontal operation detection value set constant during the pressing operation to the detection value of the horizontal load after the pressing operation, thereby suppressing a sudden change in the output value of the horizontal operation detection value.

[0176] In addition, the input device 100 of one embodiment executes Figure 8 The series of processing shown gradually changes the first coefficient and the second coefficient, and calculates the moving average multiple times using the value obtained by multiplying the detection value of the horizontal load by the first coefficient and the value obtained by multiplying the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load by the second coefficient.

[0177] Thus, the input device 100 of one embodiment can make the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation set to be constant during the pressing operation further slowly return to the detection value of the horizontal load after the pressing operation, thereby further suppressing the rapid change of the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0178] In addition, the input device 100 of one embodiment executes Figure 8 The series of processing shown, when a pressing operation is detected by the switch part, when the detection value of the horizontal load changes suddenly, the detection value of the horizontal load before the sudden change is used as the output value of the horizontal load detection value output during the period when the output value of the horizontal load detection value is not updated.

[0179] Thus, when the operator performs a pressing operation, the input device 100 of one embodiment can output the detection value of the horizontal operation before the sudden change constantly during the pressing operation, even if the operator accidentally changes the detection value of the horizontal load due to the influence of the pressing operation. Therefore, according to the input device 100 of one embodiment, it is possible to suppress the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable contrary to the operator's intention.

[0180] (Third Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0181] Fig.10This is a flowchart showing a third example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0182] in addition, Fig.10 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0183] Variable SW_Status: value indicating the status of the switch

[0184] Detection value X: Detection value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0185] Detection value Y: Detection value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0186] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0187] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0188] First threshold TH1: Threshold of the detection values ​​X and Y for determining whether to disable the switch unit

[0189] First, the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1001 ). Next, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1002 ).

[0190] In step S1002, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is off (step S1002: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1005), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). Fig.10 A series of processing is shown.

[0191] In step S1002 , when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1002 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value X is larger than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003 ).

[0192] In step S1003, when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1005), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). Fig.10 A series of processing is shown.

[0193] In step S1003, when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is less than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003: No), it is determined whether the absolute value of the detection value Y is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1004). In step S1004, when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1004: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1005), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). After that, the control device 170 ends. Fig.10 A series of processing is shown.

[0194] If it is determined in step S1003 that the absolute value of the detection value X is less than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003: No), and if it is determined in step S1004 that the absolute value of the detection value Y is less than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1004: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S1006), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). Then, the control device 170 ends. Fig.10 A series of processing is shown.

[0195] The input device 100 of one embodiment executes the Fig.10 According to the series of processes shown, when the detected value of the horizontal load is larger than the predetermined first threshold value TH1, the operation of the switch unit is invalidated.

[0196] Thus, when an excessive load is applied to the operating shaft 142 in the horizontal direction by a horizontal operation, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can invalidate a pressing operation even if a pressing operation of the push switch portion is performed contrary to the operator's intention.

[0197] (Fourth Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0198] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0199] in addition, Fig.11 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0200] Variable SW_Status: value indicating the status of the switch

[0201] Detection value X: Detection value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0202] Detection value Y: Detection value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0203] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0204] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0205] Second threshold TH2: A threshold of the detection values ​​X and Y for determining whether to invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load. The second threshold TH2 is smaller than the first threshold TH1.

[0206] First, the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1101).

[0207] In step S1101 , when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1101 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1102 ).

[0208] In step S1102, when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1102: Yes), the control device 170 sets the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" (step S1103). Then, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1104).

[0209] In step S1104, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is off (step S1104: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1107), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). Then, the control device 170 ends. Fig.11 A series of processing is shown.

[0210] In step S1104, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is turned on (step S1104: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S1105), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). Fig.11 A series of processing is shown.

[0211] When it is determined in step S1101 that the absolute value of the detection value X is greater than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1101: No), or when it is determined in step S1102 that the absolute value of the detection value Y is greater than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1102: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1106). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1107), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). After that, the control device 170 ends Fig.11 A series of processing is shown.

[0212] The input device 100 of one embodiment executes the Fig.11 By performing the series of processing shown, when the detected value of the horizontal load is smaller than the predetermined second threshold value TH2 which is smaller than the predetermined first threshold value TH1, the detected value of the horizontal load is invalidated (set to "0").

[0213] Thus, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can regard the load in the horizontal direction as a load contrary to the operator's intention when the load in the horizontal direction is small, and can invalidate the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction.

[0214] (Fifth Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0215] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0216] Fig.12 The flowchart shown in FIG. 1 is similar to the flowchart in that step S1104 is executed before step S1103 and step S1106. Fig.11 The flowchart shown differs from that shown in Fig.11 The flowchart shown is the same.

[0217] That is, in Fig.12In the flowchart shown, after the control device 170 determines in step S1104 that the switch portion (SW) is turned on (step S1104: Yes), it sets the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" (step S1103). In addition, when the control device 170 determines in step S1104 that the switch portion (SW) is turned off (step S1104: No), the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue are updated to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1106). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1107), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). Thereafter, the control device 170 ends Fig.11 A series of processing is shown.

[0218] The input device 100 of one embodiment executes the Fig.12 The series of processing shown, when the detected value of the horizontal load is smaller than the specified second threshold value TH2 which is smaller than the specified first threshold value TH1 and a pressing operation is detected by the switch unit, the detected value of the horizontal load is invalidated (set to "0").

[0219] Thus, when the operator performs a pressing operation, even if a small load is applied to the operating shaft 142 in the horizontal direction contrary to the operator's intention, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can invalidate the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction.

[0220] (Variation of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0221] In addition, in the input device 100 of one embodiment, it is also possible to configure the load applied to the operating member 150 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) to be detected by the four strain sensors 132. When the load in the Z direction is applied, all the strain sensors 132 are stretched and the resistance value increases. The control device 170 can detect the load in the Z direction based on the total value of the resistance value of the strain sensors 132.

[0222] Fig.13 This is a flowchart showing a modification of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0223] in addition, Fig.13 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0224] Variable SW_Status: value indicating the status of the switch

[0225] Detection value X: Detection value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0226] Detection value Y: Detection value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0227] Detection value Z: Detection value of the load in the Z-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0228] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0229] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0230] First constant a: A constant to be multiplied by the detected value Z of the vertical load. Where a is greater than 1

[0231] Second constant b: a constant multiplied by the detected value Z of the vertical load. b is smaller than 1.

[0232] First, the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than a times the first constant of the detection value Z (step S1201 ).

[0233] In step S1201 , when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1201 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1202 ).

[0234] In step S1202 , when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1202 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1203 ).

[0235] In step S1203 , when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1203 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1204 ).

[0236] In step S1204, when it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1204: Yes), the control device 170 sets "0" to the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1205). Then, the control device 170 advances the processing to step S1207. In other words, if both the detection value X and the detection value Y are smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z, the control device 170 sets "0" to the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue.

[0237] If it is determined in step S1201 that the absolute value of the detection value X is not less than a times the first constant of the detection value Z (step S1201: No), or if it is determined in step S1202 that the absolute value of the detection value Y is not less than a times the first constant of the detection value Z (step S1202: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1209). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1210), and ends. Fig.13 In other words, if at least one of the detection value X and the detection value Y is larger than the first constant a times of the detection value Z, the control device 170 regards the state of the switch unit as OFF.

[0238] When it is determined in step S1203 that the absolute value of the detection value X is not less than the second constant b times of the detection value Z (step S1203: No), or when it is determined in step S1204 that the absolute value of the detection value Y is not less than the second constant b times of the detection value Z (step S1204: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1206). Then, the control device 170 advances the processing to step S1207.

[0239] In step S1207, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1207).

[0240] In step S1207, when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is OFF (step S1207: NO), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1210), and ends the process. Fig.13 A series of processing is shown.

[0241] In step S1207, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is on (step S1207: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S1208), and ends the process. Fig.13A series of processing is shown.

[0242] In this way, the control device 170 may invalidate the operation of the switch unit when the detection value of the horizontal load is larger than the first constant a times the detection value of the vertical load detected by the four strain sensors 132 .

[0243] Thus, when the operator performs a horizontal operation, the input device 100 of one embodiment can invalidate the detection of the vertical load (i.e., invalidate the unintentional pressing operation) even if a load is applied to the operating member 150 in the vertical direction contrary to the operator's intention.

[0244] Furthermore, the control device 170 may invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load when the detection value of the horizontal load is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value of the vertical load detected by the four strain sensors 132 .

[0245] Thus, when the operator performs a pressing operation, the input device 100 of one embodiment can invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load (i.e., invalidate the unintentional horizontal operation) even if a small load is applied to the operating shaft 142 in the horizontal direction contrary to the operator's intention.

[0246] (Sixth Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0247] Fig.14 This is a flowchart showing a sixth example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0248] in addition, Fig.14 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0249] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0250] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0251] First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1301).

[0252] In step S1301, when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1301: Yes), the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1303). Fig.14 A series of processing is shown.

[0253] In step S1301, when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1301: No), the control device 170 executes Fig.16 The control device 170 then outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1303). Fig.14 A series of processing is shown.

[0254] (Seventh Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0255] Fig.15 This is a flowchart showing a seventh example of the output control process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0256] in addition, Fig.15 The meanings of various values ​​used in the output control process shown are as follows.

[0257] Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the X-axis direction

[0258] Output value Yvalue: The output value of the load applied to the operating shaft 142 in the Y-axis direction

[0259] Variable Off_count: Duration of time from when the switch (SW) is turned off

[0260] Variable Ca_count: Elapsed period of time during which it is determined that no load is applied to the operating shaft 142 First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is turned on (step S1401).

[0261] In step S1401, when it is determined that the switch (SW) is turned on (step S1401: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable Off_count to an initial value of "0" (step S1402), and sets the variable Ca_count to an initial value of "0" (step S1403). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1407). After that, the control device 170 ends. Fig.15 A series of processing is shown.

[0262] In step S1401 , when it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1401 : No), the control device 170 determines whether the variable Off_count is smaller than a predetermined threshold value Th (step S1404 ).

[0263] In step S1404, if it is determined that the variable Off_count is less than the predetermined threshold value Th (step S1404: Yes), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable Ca_count (step S1405). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1407). After that, the control device 170 ends. Fig.15 A series of processing is shown.

[0264] In step S1404, when it is determined that the variable Off_count is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value Th (step S1404: No), the control device 170 executes Fig.15 Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1407). Then, the control device 170 ends Fig.15 A series of processing is shown.

[0265] (Seventh Example of Output Control Processing by Control Device 170)

[0266] Fig.16 This is a flowchart showing a calibration process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0267] in addition, Fig.16 The meanings of the various values ​​used in the calibration process shown are as follows.

[0268] Detection value X: Detection value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0269] Detection value Y: Detection value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 detected by the strain sensor 132

[0270] The third threshold Th3: a threshold of the change amount of the detection values ​​X and Y used to determine whether the detection values ​​X and Y have changed.

[0271] Variable Ca_count: The elapsed period during which the detected values ​​X and Y are judged to be unchanged

[0272] Threshold Th_Ca: The threshold of the variable Ca_count used to determine if the detection values ​​X and Y have not changed for a certain period of time.

[0273] First, the control device 170 determines whether the variation of the detection value X is smaller than a predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1501 ).

[0274] In step S1501, when it is determined that the variation of the detection value X is greater than or equal to the third threshold value Th3 (step S1501: No), the control device 170 sets the variable Ca_count to "0" (step S1505), and ends the process. Fig.16 A series of processing is shown.

[0275] In step S1501 , when it is determined that the variation of the detection value X is greater than the third threshold value Th3 (step S1501 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the variation of the detection value Y is smaller than the third threshold value Th3 (step S1502 ).

[0276] In step S1502, when it is determined that the variation of the detection value Y is greater than or equal to the third threshold value Th3 (step S1502: No), the control device 170 sets the variable Ca_count to "0" (step S1505), and ends the process. Fig.16 A series of processing is shown.

[0277] In step S1502 , when it is determined that the variation of the detection value Y is smaller than the predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1502 : Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the variable Ca_count is larger than a predetermined threshold value Th_Ca (step S1503 ).

[0278] In step S1503, when it is determined that the variable Ca_count is greater than the predetermined threshold value Th_Ca (step S1503: Yes), the control device 170 calibrates the detection value X output by the strain sensor 132 to "0", and calibrates the detection value Y output by the strain sensor 132 to "0" (step S1504). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable Ca_count to "0" (step S1505), and ends. Fig.16 A series of processing is shown.

[0279] In step S1503, when it is determined that the variable Ca_count is less than the predetermined threshold value Th_Ca (step S1503: No), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable Ca_count (step S1506), and ends the process. Fig.16 A series of processing is shown.

[0280] The input device 100 of one embodiment executes the control device 170 Fig.14 or Fig.15 The series of processing shown in the figure is executed Fig.16The series of processing shown in FIG. 1 calibrates the output value of the horizontal load output by the strain sensor 132 to 0 when the state in which no pressing operation is detected and the change in the horizontal load is less than a specified third threshold value (i.e., the state in which no horizontal operation is performed) continues for a certain period of time.

[0281] Therefore, since the input device 100 of one embodiment can correct the output value of the horizontal load output by the strain sensor 132 to 0 at an appropriate timing when neither the pressing operation nor the horizontal operation is performed, the accuracy of the output value of the horizontal load output by the strain sensor 132 can be improved.

[0282] (Modification of the Configuration of Input Device 100)

[0283] Fig.17 It is a perspective view of the appearance of an input device 100 - 2 according to a modified example of an embodiment. Fig.18 This is an exploded perspective view of an input device 100 - 2 according to a modification example of an embodiment as viewed from above. Fig.19 It is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device 100 - 2 according to a modified example of an embodiment.

[0284] Figure 17 to Figure 19 The input device 100-2 shown is different from the input device 100 in that a horizontal flat plate-shaped fixing plate 180 is further provided on the lower side of the base plate 110, and the base 141 of the strain generating body 140 is screwed and fixed to four pedestals 181 protruding from the upper surface 180A of the fixing plate 180 by four screws 161 penetrating the base 141 in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). In addition, the four pedestals 181 are all cylindrical in shape with a predetermined height.

[0285] in addition, Figure 17 to Figure 19 The substrate 110 of the input device 100-2 shown is arranged in a space 180B surrounded by four pedestals 181, and is screwed to the lower surface of the base 141 of the strain generating body 140. The substrate 110 is separated from the upper surface 180A of the fixing plate 180. The substrate 110 is not directly fixed to the fixing plate 180. A hole 182 is provided in the center of the fixing plate 180. The hole 182 of the fixing plate 180 reduces the click sound when the operating member 150 is pressed. In order to reduce the click sound, a sound absorbing material may be placed in the hole 182.

[0286] The input device 100-2 of a modified example of an embodiment is the same as the input device 100 except for the above-mentioned differences. The input device 100-2 of this modified example can detect the load in the vertical direction. The detection of the load in the horizontal direction functions in the same manner as the input device 100 and has the same effect as the input device 100.

[0287] As mentioned above, although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or changes can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.

Claims

1. An input device, characterized in that: have: A strain generating body having an operating axis; a load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; An operating component, which is disposed on the upper portion of the operating shaft and can be pressed; a switch portion for detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member; as well as a control unit that outputs to the outside a detection value of the horizontal load detected by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation detected by the switch unit, The control unit does not update an output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction while the switch unit detects the pressing operation.

2. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit does not update the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load during a certain period after the switch unit no longer detects the pressing operation.

3. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: After the control unit stops updating the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction, the control unit outputs the moving average of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction as the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction during a certain period from when the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction is started again, and outputs the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction as the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction after a certain period has passed since when the output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction is started again.

4. The input device according to claim 3, characterized in that The control unit gradually changes the first coefficient and the second coefficient, and calculates the moving average multiple times by multiplying the value obtained by multiplying the detection value of the horizontal load by the first coefficient and the value obtained by multiplying the output value of the previous detection value of the horizontal load by the second coefficient.

5. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: When the control unit detects the pressing operation by the switch unit, and when the detection value of the horizontal load changes suddenly, the control unit uses the detection value of the horizontal load before the sudden change as the output value of the horizontal load detection value output during the period when the output value of the horizontal load detection value is not updated.

6. An input device, characterized in that: have: A strain generating body having an operating axis; a load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; An operating component, which is disposed on the upper portion of the operating shaft and can be pressed; a switch portion for detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member; as well as a control unit that outputs to the outside a detection value of the horizontal load detected by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation detected by the switch unit, The control unit invalidates the pressing operation when the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is larger than a predetermined first threshold value.

7. The input device according to claim 6, characterized in that The control unit invalidates the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction when the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is smaller than a predetermined second threshold value that is smaller than the predetermined first threshold value.

8. The input device according to claim 6, wherein: The control unit invalidates the detected value of the horizontal load when the detected value of the horizontal load is smaller than a predetermined second threshold value that is smaller than the predetermined first threshold value and the pressing operation is detected by the switch unit.

9. An input device, characterized in that: have: A strain generating body having an operating axis; a load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; An operating component, which is disposed on the upper portion of the operating shaft and can be pressed; a switch portion for detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member; as well as a control unit that outputs to the outside a detection value of the horizontal load detected by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation detected by the switch unit, The switch portion detects a load in a vertical direction applied to the operating member. The control unit invalidates the pressing operation when the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is larger than a first constant times the detected value of the load in the vertical direction. The first constant is greater than 1.

10. The input device according to claim 9, characterized in that The control unit invalidates the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction when the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is smaller than the second constant times the detected value of the load in the vertical direction. The second constant is smaller than 1.

11. An input device, characterized in that: have: A strain generating body having an operating axis; a load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; An operating component, which is disposed on the upper portion of the operating shaft and can be pressed; a switch portion for detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member; as well as a control unit that outputs to the outside a detection value of the horizontal load detected by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation detected by the switch unit, The control unit calibrates the load in the horizontal direction output by the load sensor to zero when the pressing operation is not detected and a state in which the amount of change in the load in the horizontal direction is smaller than a predetermined third threshold value continues for a certain period of time.

12. The input device according to claim 1, wherein: The operating member has a shaft portion that passes through the strain generating body. The load sensor is provided on a flexible substrate fixed to the lower surface of the strain generating body, and detects the strain generated in the strain generating body when the operating member is horizontally operated, thereby detecting the load in the horizontal direction applied to the operating axis. The switch portion is provided on the lower side of the strain generating body, and when the pressing operation is performed by the operating member, the switch portion is pressed by the shaft portion of the operating member, thereby detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member.

13. The input device according to claim 12, wherein: The switch unit comprises: a movable contact having a dome-shaped portion that is elastically deformable; and A fixed contact is provided on the lower side of the movable contact, The dome portion is pressed by the operating member, and the dome portion performs a reverse motion to come into contact with the fixed contact, thereby detecting the pressing operation performed by the operating member.

14. The input device according to claim 13, wherein: The movable contact is a metal plate having the dome portion, and generates a click feeling through the reversing action.

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