Vibration device

Abstract

The invention provides a vibration device. The vibration device (20) has a housing portion (22), a movable portion (32), a driving portion (38), and an elastic member (54). The housing part (22) is provided with an opening part (27) which is opened in the vertical direction, and the housing part (22) is supported by the frame body (12). The movable part (32) is accommodated in the housing part (22) and faces the outside through the opening part (27). The drive unit (38) reciprocates the movable unit (32) in the vertical direction. An elastic member (54) that supports the movable section (32) is provided in the housing section (22) so as to be elastically deformable. The reciprocating motion of the movable part (32) is transmitted as vibration to an operator (M).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibrating device. Background Art

[0002] The vibration motor disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes: a stationary part having a frame and a coil; a vibrating body including a magnet; an elastic member disposed between the frame and the vibrating body; and a damper part disposed above the vibrating body. The vibrating body is supported by the elastic member inside the frame.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-202287

[0004] In a device provided with a vibration device like that disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is required that when an operator touches a predetermined portion of the device, a sense of touch can be locally obtained through the vibration device. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a vibration device that allows an operator to easily feel as if he or she is touching a predetermined portion of a device.

[0006] A vibration device according to one embodiment includes a storage portion, a movable portion, a driving portion, and an elastic portion. The storage portion is provided with an opening portion opening in a first direction, and the storage portion is supported by a frame. The movable portion is stored in the storage portion and faces the outside through the opening portion. The driving portion causes the movable portion to reciprocate along the first direction. The elastic portion is provided in the storage portion in an elastically deformable manner, and the elastic portion supports the movable portion. The reciprocating motion of the movable portion is transmitted to an operator as vibration.

[0007] According to the present invention, the operator can easily obtain the feeling that he / she has touched a predetermined part. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing a part of a household electric appliance provided with the vibration device according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the vibration device shown.

[0010] Figure 3 is a longitudinal section view of the vibration device ( Figure 1 AA line section view).

[0011] Figure 4 The operator's finger touches Figure 3 A longitudinal sectional view of the vibration state of the movable part of the vibration device shown.

[0012] Figure 5It is a perspective view showing a part of a household electric appliance provided with a vibration device according to a second embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the vibration device shown.

[0014] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A three-dimensional view of the housing portion and the movable portion of the vibration device shown.

[0015] Figure 8 The operator's finger touches Figure 5 A longitudinal sectional view of the vibration state of the movable part of the vibration device shown in FIG. Figure 5 BB line cross-sectional view).

[0016] Fig. 9 It is a perspective view showing a case portion and a movable portion of a vibration device according to a modified example of the second embodiment.

[0017] Fig.10 It is a perspective view showing a part of a household electric appliance provided with a vibration device according to a third embodiment.

[0018] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 An exploded perspective view of the vibration device shown.

[0019] Fig.12 It is shown Fig.11 A three-dimensional view of the inner shell and the second elastic member shown.

[0020] Fig.13 The operator's finger touches Fig.10 A longitudinal sectional view of the vibration state of the movable part of the vibration device shown in FIG. Fig.10 CC line cross-sectional view).

[0021] Fig.14 It is a perspective view showing a part of a household electric appliance provided with a vibration device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0022] Fig.15 It is a perspective view which enlarges a part of the household electric appliance provided with the vibration device of 4th Embodiment.

[0023] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 An exploded perspective view of the vibration device shown.

[0024] Fig.17 The operator's finger touches Fig.15 A longitudinal sectional view of the vibration state of the movable part of the vibration device shown in FIG. Fig.15 DD line cross-sectional view).

[0025] Fig.18 It is a longitudinal sectional view showing a vibration state of the movable part when an operator's finger touches the vibration device according to the first modification.

[0026] Fig.19 It is a longitudinal sectional view showing a vibration state of the movable part when an operator's finger touches the vibration device according to the second modification.

[0027] Description of symbols

[0028] 10: home appliance; 12: frame; 13: upper wall; 13A: upper surface; 14: bottom wall; 20: vibration device; 22: housing; 24: housing body; 25: cylinder; 25A: notch; 26: upper plate; 26A: upper surface; 26B: lower surface; 27: opening; 27A: upper surface; 27B: lower surface; 28: end plate; 28A: upper surface; 29: step; 29A: mounting surface; 29B: longitudinal surface; 30: control unit; 32: movable part; 33: cylinder; 34: top plate; 34A: upper surface; 34B: lower surface; 35: flange; 35A: lower surface; 38: driving part; 42: magnet; 42A: upper surface; 42B: lower surface; 44: pole piece; 4 4A: upper surface; 46: coil; 47: hollow portion; 49: circular plate portion; 51: extension portion; 54: elastic member; 55: outer fixing portion; 56: inner fixing portion; 57: connecting portion; 58: connecting plate portion; 60: vibrating device; 62: housing portion; 64: housing body; 65: cylindrical portion; 66: upper plate portion; 67: opening portion; 68: wall portion; 68A: first partition wall; 68B: second partition wall; 69: upper surface; 72: hole portion; 74: hole portion; 76: movable portion; 78: groove portion; 78A: first groove; 78B: second groove; 79: bottom surface; 81: circular portion; 82: arc portion; 90: vibrating device; 92: wall portion; 94: groove portion; 100: vibrating device; 102: housing portion; 104: inner shell; 106: cylindrical portion; 106A: lower surface; 106B: outer peripheral surface; 108: upper plate portion; 108A: upper surface; 112: column portion; 112A: lower surface; 114: protrusion; 116: outer shell; 118: cylindrical portion; 119: step portion; 119A: mounting surface; 122: bottom plate portion; 124: guide portion; 126: insertion portion; 132: driving portion; 135: circular plate portion; 136: extension portion; 142: elastic member; 144: first elastic member; 146: second elastic member; 147: outer fixing portion; 148: inner fixing portion; 149: connecting portion; 151: connecting plate portion; 152: mounting portion; 153: mounting plate portion; 153A: Upper surface; 155: space portion; 160: home appliance; 162: main body; 164: operating portion; 165: frame; 166: display panel; 167: bottom wall; 168: control portion; 169: upper wall; 170: vibration device; 170A: vibration device; 170B: vibration device; 170C: vibration device; 172: sensor film; 174: control chip; 176: adhesive; 180: vibration device; 182: piezoelectric film sensor; 190: vibration device; 192: sensor film; 194: sensor film; C: central axis; F: finger; K: axis; M: operator; P1: position; P2: position; PA: center position; PB: center position; R1: radius; R2: radius;R3: radius; R4: radius; R5: radius; S: range; W1: width; W2: width. ; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, each embodiment and each modification of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in all the accompanying drawings referred to for describing each embodiment and each modification, the same reference numerals are used for the same or substantially the same structures and elements. In addition, in principle, no repeated description is made for the structures and elements that have been described once. In the following description, unless otherwise mentioned, the terms "first", "second", etc. are only used to distinguish the constituent elements from each other and do not represent a specific order or sequence.

[0030] [Configurations of the first embodiment]

[0031] exist Figure 1 2 shows a part of the household electric appliance 10 on which the vibration device 20 according to the first embodiment is mounted.

[0032] (Home appliances)

[0033] The household appliance 10 has a frame 12 and a vibration device 20 provided on the frame 12. Examples of the household appliance 10 include electric fans, washing machines, televisions, recorders, lighting equipment, and the like. Here, the direction in which a movable portion 32 of the vibration device 20, which will be described later, vibrates is set to the up-down direction. The up-down direction is an example of a first direction. Directions perpendicular to the up-down direction are set to the front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction. The front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction are examples of a second direction intersecting the first direction. In addition, a display panel (not shown) is provided on the household appliance 10. The display panel displays information to the operator M ( Figure 4 ) or the like. The instruction message includes content instructing the operator M to touch a predetermined portion of the home appliance 10. In the present embodiment, the predetermined portion refers to a portion of the home appliance 10 where the vibration device 20 is provided.

[0034] <Frame>

[0035] The frame body 12 has an upper wall 13 located on the upper side in the up-down direction and a bottom wall 14 located on the lower side relative to the upper wall 13. An upper surface 13A of the upper wall 13 is a flat surface extending in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction.

[0036] <Vibration devices>

[0037] The vibration device 20 is provided in the frame 12 for the finger F ( Figure 4 Specifically, the vibration device 20 is fixed to the inner side of the frame 12. In addition, the upper part of the vibration device 20 is exposed from the upper wall 13 to the upper side (outside).

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, the vibration device 20 is configured as a disc-shaped unit having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. That is, the vibration device 20 has a central axis C. The central axis C extends in the vertical direction. An FPC (flexible printed circuit board) 48 described later protrudes from a portion of the outer periphery of the vibration device 20. Specifically, the vibration device 20 has a housing portion 22, a movable portion 32, a drive portion 38, and an elastic member 54.

[0039] <Housing>

[0040] The housing portion 22 is an example of a housing portion that houses the movable portion 32. The housing portion 22 is fixed to the bottom wall 14 ( Figure 1 ) and supported by the frame 12 ( Figure 1 ) As an example, the housing portion 22 includes a housing body 24 made of resin and an end plate 28 made of metal.

[0041] <<Main body>>

[0042] The housing body 24 includes a cylindrical portion 25 formed in an annular shape with the central axis C as the center and an upper plate portion 26 covering the upper end of the cylindrical portion 25. The lower end of the housing body 24 is open in the up-down direction. A notch portion 25A is formed at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25 and in a part of the circumferential direction. The notch portion 25A opens from the central axis C toward the outer side in the radial direction.

[0043] The upper plate portion 26 is formed into a disk shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The upper plate portion 26 is provided with an opening portion 27 penetrating the upper plate portion 26 in the vertical direction. In other words, the housing portion 22 is provided with an opening portion 27 opening in the vertical direction. The opening portion 27 is a circular hole portion having a center on the central axis C (a portion including a through hole and an edge of the through hole). The radius of the opening portion 27 is set to R1 (mm).

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the upper surface 26A of the upper plate portion 26 and the upper surface 27A of the opening portion 27 are aligned at the same height. On the other hand, the lower surface 27B of the opening portion 27 protrudes downward from the lower surface 26B of the upper plate portion 26 in the vertical direction. A step portion 29 is formed at the lower portion of the cylindrical portion 25. The step portion 29 has a mounting surface 29A extending in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 25 and a longitudinal surface 29B extending downward from the radial outer end of the mounting surface 29A. In other words, the step portion 29 is a portion cut away so that the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25 has an L-shaped cross section.

[0045] <<End plate>>

[0046] like Figure 2As shown in FIG. 2 , the end plate 28 is a disc-shaped member having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The end plate 28 constitutes the bottom of the housing portion 22. Specifically, the end plate 28 is bonded to the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25 to close the space inside the housing body 24. In addition, the end plate 28 is welded or bonded to the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25 in a state where the movable portion 32, the elastic member 54, and the driving portion 38 are accommodated inside the housing body 24. The end plate 28 has an upper surface 28A.

[0047] <Movable parts>

[0048] The movable portion 32 is located in the vibrating device 20 so that the finger F of the operator M ( Figure 4 ) is touched. The movable portion 32 is an example of a predetermined portion for the operator M to touch. The movable portion 32 is composed of a metal component. The movable portion 32 includes: a cylindrical portion 33 formed in an annular shape with the central axis C as the center; a top plate portion 34 covering the upper end of the cylindrical portion 33; and a flange portion 35 extending radially outward from the lower end of the cylindrical portion 33. The lower end of the movable portion 32 is open toward the lower side.

[0049] The top plate portion 34 is formed in a disk shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The top plate portion 34 is a portion of the movable portion 32 for the finger F ( Figure 4 ) The top plate portion 34 has an upper surface 34A and a lower surface 34B. The radius of the top plate portion 34 is equal to the radius of the cylindrical portion 33. The radius of the top plate portion 34 is set to R2 (mm). The radius R2 is smaller than the radius R1.

[0050] The flange portion 35 is formed in a circular ring shape when viewed from the top and bottom. The flange portion 35 has a lower surface 35A. The radius of the flange portion 35 from the central axis C to the outermost peripheral position is set to R3 (mm). The radius R3 is greater than the radius R1. That is, the flange portion 35 cannot pass through the opening portion 27. On the other hand, the cylindrical portion 33 and the top plate portion 34 can pass through the opening portion 27 in the top and bottom directions. In this way, the movable portion 32 is accommodated in the housing portion 22 in a manner that the upper portion can protrude from the opening portion 27 to the outside (upper side) of the housing portion 22. In other words, the movable portion 32 faces the outside of the housing portion 22 via the opening portion 27. Moreover, the reciprocating motion of the movable portion 32 can be transmitted to the operator M as vibration. In addition, "the state in which the movable part 32 faces the outside of the shell part 22 through the opening part 27" includes the state in which the upper surface 34A of the movable part 32 is located above the upper surface 26A, the state in which the upper surface 34A and the upper surface 26A are located at the same height, and the state in which the upper surface 34A is located below the upper surface 26A.

[0051] <Drive unit>

[0052] The driving unit 38 has a control unit 30 ( Figure 1), magnet 42, pole piece 44, coil 46 and FPC 48. The energization of the coil 46 in the drive unit 38 is controlled by the control unit 30. As an example, the control unit 30 controls the energization of the coil 46 so that the movable part 32 reciprocates in the up-down direction and the upper end of the movable part 32 protrudes outward (upward) from the housing part 22.

[0053] <<Magnet>>

[0054] The magnet 42 is formed into a cylindrical shape with a predetermined height in the vertical direction centered on the central axis C. The height of the magnet 42 in the vertical direction is lower than the height of the cylindrical portion 25 in the vertical direction. The upper surface 42A and the lower surface 42B of the magnet 42 are formed into a planar shape. The upper surface 42A and the lower surface 42B are along a horizontal direction including the front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction. The maximum radius of the magnet 42 is set to R4 (mm). The radius R4 is smaller than the radius R2. In this way, the magnet 42 has a size that can be accommodated inside the movable portion 32.

[0055] The upper surface 42A is bonded to the lower surface 34B ( Figure 3 ) in the central part. Thus, the magnet 42 can move in the up-down direction integrally with the movable part 32. In addition, the magnetic poles of the magnet 42 are arranged so that the upper side is the N pole and the lower side is the S pole.

[0056] <<Pole piece>>

[0057] The pole piece 44 is made of a magnetic component. The pole piece 44 is formed into a disk shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The radius of the pole piece 44 is substantially equal to the radius R4 of the magnet 42. The upper surface 44A of the pole piece 44 in the vertical direction is bonded to the lower surface 42B of the magnet 42. Thus, the magnet 42 and the pole piece 44 can move in the vertical direction integrally with the movable portion 32. In addition, the magnet 42 and the pole piece 44 are both housed in the cylindrical portion 25.

[0058] <<Coil>>

[0059] The coil 46 is wound into a cylindrical shape centered on the central axis C. The coil 46 is connected to a power source, and generates a magnetic field by being supplied with current by the power source. A hollow portion 47 is formed on the radial inner side of the coil 46. The radius of the hollow portion 47 is set to R5 (mm). The radius R5 is larger than the radius R4 and smaller than the radius R2.

[0060] In the non-energized state where no current is supplied to the coil 46, the lower part of the magnet 42 and the pole piece 44 are located inside the hollow portion 47 (stationary). In the energized state where current is supplied to the coil 46, the magnet 42 and the pole piece 44 move relative to the coil 46 in the vertical direction due to the action of the magnetic force (magnetic field) generated in the coil 46. Specifically, by alternately switching the direction of supplying power to the coil 46, the magnet 42 and the pole piece 44 reciprocate in the vertical direction. That is, the movable portion 32 vibrates in the vertical direction.

[0061] <<FPC>>

[0062] The FPC 48 is provided with a wiring pattern (not shown). The FPC 48 has a disc portion 49 and an extending portion 51. The disc portion 49 supports the coil 46. A part of the wiring pattern of the disc portion 49 is connected to the coil 46. The disc portion 49 is fixed to the upper surface 28A of the end plate 28.

[0063] The extension portion 51 is a portion extending radially outward in a band shape from the disk portion 49. The front end of the extension portion 51 protrudes outward from the housing portion 22 through the notch portion 25A. The wiring portion (not shown) of the extension portion 51 is connected to the control unit 30 ( Figure 1 ) and power connections.

[0064] <<Control unit>>

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown, the control unit 30 is connected to the FPC 48. The control unit 30 controls the coil 46 ( Figure 2 ) to control the vibration of the movable part 32. As an example, the control unit 30 also functions as a power supply unit from the power supply to the vibration device 20. In addition, the drive unit 38 ( Figure 2 ) can also be controlled by an external control unit different from the control unit 30.

[0066] <Elastic components>

[0067] Figure 2 The elastic member 54 shown is an example of an elastic part, and is composed of a metal member. The elastic member 54 is provided on the housing portion 22 in a manner that allows elastic deformation. The elastic member 54 supports the movable portion 32. Specifically, the elastic member 54 is a flat plate-shaped member having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction in a static state without elastic deformation. The outer shape of the elastic member 54 is circular. The center of the elastic member 54 is located on the central axis C. The radius of the elastic member 54 is larger than the radius R3 of the movable portion 32 and smaller than the radius of the housing portion 22.

[0068] The elastic member 54 includes an outer fixing portion 55, an inner fixing portion 56, and a connecting portion 57. The outer fixing portion 55 is an annular portion and constitutes the outer edge of the elastic member 54. The inner fixing portion 56 is an annular portion and is located at a position closer to the inside than the outer fixing portion 55 and the connecting portion 57. The inner fixing portion 56 is located at a position overlapping with the flange portion 35 in the vertical direction. As an example, the lower surface of the flange portion 35 is fixed to the upper surface of the inner fixing portion 56 by welding.

[0069] The connecting portion 57 connects the outer fixing portion 55 and the inner fixing portion 56. The connecting portion 57 is elastically deformable in the up-down direction. As an example, the connecting portion 57 has three connecting plate portions 58. The three connecting plate portions 58 are arranged at positions that are offset by 120° in the circumferential direction of the elastic member 54. In addition, the three connecting plate portions 58 extend in an arc shape along the circumferential direction of the elastic member 54. In addition, the connecting portion 57 can adopt a structure having one or two connecting plate portions 58, or a structure having four or more connecting plate portions 58.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, the outer fixing portion 55 is attached to the housing portion 22 by being bonded to the mounting surface 29A from below. In addition, in the completed state of the vibration device 20, a space is formed between the outer fixing portion 55 and the FPC 48. Thus, the connection portion 57 can be elastically deformed in the vertical direction.

[0071] Figure 3 The position P1 indicated by the imaginary line indicates the position of the upper end of the range in which the upper surface 34A of the movable part 32 can move. The position P2 indicated by the imaginary line indicates the position of the lower end of the range in which the lower surface 35A of the movable part 32 can move. In other words, the movable part 32 can vibrate in the range S from the position P1 to the position P2 in the vertical direction.

[0072] [Function of the first embodiment]

[0073] The operation of the vibration device 20 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0074] exist Figure 1 and Figure 4 In the illustrated household appliance 10, the control unit 30 causes a display panel (not shown) to display an instruction message for the operator M. For example, an instruction message such as "Please touch the vibration device 20 with your finger F" is displayed. Then, the control unit 30 energizes the coil 46 from the power supply. As a result, the movable part 32 starts to vibrate (reciprocate) in the up and down direction.

[0075] The operator M touches the upper surface 34A or the upper surface 34A and the upper surface 26A with a finger F according to the instruction message. Here, the upper end of the movable portion 32 vibrates in a manner protruding upward from the upper surface 26A. As a result, the operator M directly receives the vibration of the movable portion 32 with the finger F. That is, the reciprocating motion of the movable portion 32 is transmitted to the operator M as a vibration, so the operator M can easily get the feeling of touching the vibration device 20. At this time, since the elastic member 54 is elastically deformed, the transmission of vibration from the movable portion 32 to the housing portion 22 is suppressed, and thus the transmission of vibration from the housing portion 22 to the frame 12 is suppressed.

[0076] As described above, in the vibration device 20, the elastic member 54 supporting the movable portion 32 is elastically deformed, thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration from the movable portion 32 to the housing portion 22. As a result, the transmission of vibration to other parts (frame 12) different from the vibration device 20 touched by the operator M is suppressed. In addition, the movable portion 32 reciprocates while protruding outward from the opening portion 27 of the housing portion 22. As a result, the operator M directly receives the vibration of the movable portion 32 with his finger F, and thus easily gets the feeling of touching the vibration device 20.

[0077] In addition, since the upper portion of the movable portion 32 protrudes to the outside of the housing portion 22 , the vibration of the movable portion 32 can be more strongly transmitted to the finger F of the operator M. Moreover, when the movable portion 32 protrudes from the housing portion 22 , the operator M can easily know the position of the movable portion 32 , so the operator M can easily know where to touch the vibration device 20 .

[0078] [Configurations of the Second Embodiment]

[0079] Figure 5 The vibrating device 60 of the second embodiment is shown. The vibrating device 60 replaces the vibrating device 20 ( Figure 1 ) is provided. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same or substantially same structures and elements as those of the vibration device 20, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0080] like Figure 6 As shown, the vibration device 60 has a housing portion 62, a movable portion 76, a driving portion 38, and an elastic member 54. The vibration device 60 has a central axis C.

[0081] <Housing>

[0082] The housing portion 62 is an example of a housing portion that houses the movable portion 76. The housing portion 62 is supported and fixed to the bottom wall 14 ( Figure 5 ) As an example, the housing portion 62 includes a housing body 64 made of resin and an end plate 28 .

[0083] <<Main body>>

[0084] Figure 7 The housing body 64 shown has a cylindrical portion 65 formed in an annular shape with the central axis C as the center and an upper plate portion 66 covering the upper end of the cylindrical portion 65. The lower end of the housing body 64 is open in the vertical direction. A notch portion 25A is formed at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 65 and in a part of the circumference.

[0085] The upper plate portion 66 is formed into a disk shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The upper plate portion 66 is provided with an opening portion 67 penetrating the upper plate portion 66 in the vertical direction. In other words, the housing portion 62 is provided with an opening portion 67 opening in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the housing portion 62 is provided with a wall portion 68.

[0086] <<<Wall>>>

[0087] The wall portion 68 is formed into a plate-like shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The wall portion 68 has an upper surface 69. The length corresponding to the thickness of the wall portion 68 in the vertical direction is set to L1 (mm). The wall portion 68 extends radially inward from the edges of three locations of the opening portion 67 and is connected. In other words, the wall portion 68 is located radially inward of the opening portion 67. The wall portion 68 divides the opening portion 67 into a plurality of hole portions. Specifically, the wall portion 68 has a first partition wall 68A and three second partition walls 68B.

[0088] The first partition wall 68A is formed into a ring shape with its center located on the central axis C. Three second partition walls 68B are located at equal intervals on the circumference of the first partition wall 68A. In addition, the three second partition walls 68B extend radially outward from the first partition wall 68A to connect the first partition wall 68A to the edges of three locations of the opening 67. In addition, the wall portion 68 is also an example of a limiting portion that limits the movement of the movable portion 76 described later to the outer side (upper side) in the vertical direction. That is, the wall portion 68 is located on the inner side of the opening 67 in the front-back direction and the left-right direction, and limits the movement of the movable portion 76 to the outer side in the vertical direction.

[0089] The width W1 (mm) of the first partition wall 68A in the radial direction of the upper plate portion 66 and the width W2 (mm) of the second partition wall 68B in the circumferential direction of the upper plate portion 66 are of the same magnitude. As described above, the first partition wall 68A and the second partition wall 68B are connected to each other. Thus, the wall portion 68 has increased rigidity against external forces acting from the outside toward the inside in the vertical direction of the housing portion 62 and external forces acting from the inside toward the outside. That is, the wall portion 68 is configured to resist external forces acting in the vertical direction.

[0090] The first partition wall 68A and the second partition wall 68B divide the opening 67 into one hole 72 and three holes 74. The hole 72 is a circular through hole centered on the central axis C. The hole 74 is located radially outward of the hole 72. The hole 74 is an arc-shaped through hole.

[0091] like Figure 8 As shown, a step portion 29 is formed at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 65. The outer fixing portion 55 of the elastic member 54 is bonded to the mounting surface 29A.

[0092] <Movable parts>

[0093] Figure 7 The movable portion 76 shown is located in the vibrating device 20 so that the finger F ( Figure 8 ) is touched. The movable portion 76 is an example of a predetermined portion to be touched by the operator M. The movable portion 76 is formed of a metal member. The movable portion 76 is different from the movable portion 32 ( Figure 2 In other words, the movable portion 76 and the movable portion 32 have the same structure except for the groove portion 78. Therefore, for the same structure as the movable portion 32, the same reference numerals as the movable portion 32 are marked and the description is omitted.

[0094] <<Groove>>

[0095] The groove portion 78 is a portion that is recessed downward from the upper surface 34A. The cross-sectional shape of the groove portion 78 is a U-shape that opens toward the upper side. The groove portion 78 has a first groove 78A and three second grooves 78B. The first groove 78A is formed in an annular shape with its center located on the central axis C. The three second grooves 78B are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. In addition, the three second grooves 78B extend linearly from the first groove 78A to the outside in the radial direction and penetrate to the outer periphery of the top plate portion 34. The bottom surface 79 of the groove portion 78 is formed in a flat surface along the horizontal direction.

[0096] The top plate portion 34 is divided into a circular portion 81 and three arc portions 82 by the groove portion 78. The upper surface of the circular portion 81 and the upper surface of the arc portion 82 constitute the upper surface 34A. That is, the height of the upper surface of each of the circular portion 81 and the three arc portions 82 is the same. Here, the wall portion 68 is inserted into the groove portion 78. Specifically, the first partition wall 68A is inserted into the first groove 78A. The second partition wall 68B is inserted into the second groove 78B.

[0097] The circular portion 81 is inserted into the hole portion 72. The three arc portions 82 are inserted into the three holes 74. The length corresponding to the depth of the groove portion 78 in the vertical direction is set to L2 (mm). The length L2 is longer than the length L1. That is, the groove portion 78 allows the movable portion 76 to move relative to the wall portion 68 in the vertical direction.

[0098] When the lower surface of the wall portion 68 is in contact with the bottom surface 79, the upper surface 34A of the one circular portion 81 and the upper surfaces 34A of the three arc portions 82 protrude upward from the wall portion 68. On the other hand, when the height of the upper surface 34A in the vertical direction coincides with the height of the upper surface 69 in the vertical direction, a space portion is formed between the wall portion 68 and the bottom surface 79. In addition, in the vibration device 60, before the vibration of the movable portion 76 starts, the height of the upper surface 34A in the vertical direction coincides with the height of the upper surface 69 in the vertical direction.

[0099] [Function of the second embodiment]

[0100] The operation of the vibration device 60 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0101] exist Figure 8 In the household appliance 10 shown, an instruction message urging the user to touch the vibration device 60 is displayed, and the movable portion 76 starts to vibrate in the up-down direction. The operator M touches the upper surface 34A or the upper surface 34A and the upper surface 26A with a finger F according to the instruction message. Here, the upper end of the movable portion 76 vibrates in a manner protruding upward from the upper surface 26A. Thus, the operator M directly receives the vibration of the movable portion 76 with the finger F, and thus easily gets the feeling of touching the vibration device 60. At this time, since the elastic member 54 is elastically deformed, the transmission of vibration from the movable portion 76 to the housing portion 22 is suppressed, and thus the transmission of vibration from the housing portion 22 to the frame 12 is suppressed.

[0102] Since the upper portion of the movable portion 76 protrudes to the outside of the housing portion 22 , the vibration of the movable portion 76 can be more strongly transmitted to the finger F of the operator M. Furthermore, when the movable portion 76 protrudes from the housing portion 22 , the operator M can easily know the position of the movable portion 76 , so the operator M can easily know where to touch the vibration device 60 .

[0103] In the vibration device 60 , the finger F of the operator M may come into contact with the wall 68 . Here, the wall 68 resists the external force (external force from the finger F) acting from the outside of the housing 22 to the inside, thereby preventing the movable portion 76 from being excessively pushed downward.

[0104] In the vibration device 60, the wall portion 68 is provided so as to divide the opening portion 67 into one hole portion 72 and three holes 74 ( Figure 7 ). Thus, compared with a structure in which the wall portion 68 protrudes only from a portion of the edge of the opening portion 67, the finger F is more likely to come into contact with the wall portion 68. Thus, it is possible to further suppress the movable portion 76 from being excessively pressed downward.

[0105] In the vibration device 60, the wall portion 68 is inserted into the groove portion 78, but the movable portion 76 is allowed to move in the up-down direction. That is, in the up-down direction, a space portion (gap) is formed between the bottom surface 79 of the groove portion 78 and the wall portion 68. Thus, even if the wall portion 68 covers a part of the opening portion 67, the up-down movement of the movable portion 76 is not easily restricted by the wall portion 68, so the movable range of the movable portion 76 in the up-down direction can be ensured within a necessary range.

[0106] In the vibration device 60, when the movable portion 76 moves to the outside (upper side) of the housing portion 62 in the vertical direction, the wall portion 68 functions as a restriction portion, thereby restricting excessive movement of the movable portion 76. Thus, even if the vibration state of the movable portion 76 changes and causes the movable portion 76 to move excessively upward, the movement is restricted, so that the movable portion 76 can be suppressed from excessively moving to the outside of the housing portion 62.

[0107] [Modification of the second embodiment]

[0108] Fig. 9 A vibration device 60 ( Figure 7 ) is a part of a vibration device 90 of a modified example. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same structures as the vibration device 60 and the description thereof is omitted. The difference between the vibration device 90 and the vibration device 60 is that the wall portion 68 ( Figure 7 ) is replaced by the wall portion 92, the groove portion 78 ( Figure 7 ) is replaced by groove portion 94.

[0109] The wall portion 92 has one first partition wall 68A and two second partition walls 68B. The two second partition walls 68B are arranged in a straight line in the radial direction. The groove portion 94 has one first groove 78A and two second grooves 78B. The two second grooves 78B are arranged in a straight line in the radial direction. In this way, the following structure can also be used: the wall portion 92 divides the opening portion 67 into two in the circumferential direction, and the groove portion 94 divides the top plate portion 34 into two in the circumferential direction.

[0110] [Configurations of the third embodiment]

[0111] Fig.10 The vibrating device 100 of the third embodiment is shown. The vibrating device 100 replaces the vibrating device 20 ( Figure 1 ) is provided. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same or substantially same structures and elements as those of the vibration device 20, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0112] like Fig.11 As shown, the vibration device 100 includes a housing portion 102, a movable portion 32, a driving portion 132, and an elastic member 142. The vibration device 100 has a central axis C.

[0113] <Housing>

[0114] The housing portion 102 is an example of a housing portion that houses the movable portion 32. The housing portion 102 is surrounded by the bottom wall 14 ( Fig.10 As an example, the housing portion 102 includes an inner housing 104 made of resin and an outer housing 116 made of resin. The outer housing 116 is fixed to the bottom wall 14.

[0115] <<Inner shell>>

[0116] like Fig.12 As shown, the inner housing 104 includes a cylindrical portion 106, an upper plate portion 108, three column portions 112, and two protrusions 114. The lower end portion of the inner housing 104 is open in the up-down direction.

[0117] The cylindrical portion 106 is formed in an annular shape centered on the central axis C. The surface located at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 106 is referred to as a lower surface 106A. The cylindrical portion 106 has an outer peripheral surface 106B. The height of the cylindrical portion 106 in the vertical direction is referred to as h1 (mm).

[0118] The upper plate portion 108 is formed integrally with the cylindrical portion 106 and covers the upper end portion of the cylindrical portion 106. The upper plate portion 108 is formed in a disk shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The upper plate portion 108 is provided with an opening portion 27 penetrating the upper plate portion 108 in the vertical direction. In other words, the housing portion 102 is provided with an opening portion 27 opening in the vertical direction. The upper end surface of the upper plate portion 108 is set as the upper surface 108A ( Fig.11 ).

[0119] The three pillars 112 are arranged at equal intervals (central angle 120°) on the circumference of the upper plate 108, and each has the same structure. Therefore, one pillar 112 is described. The pillar 112 is bent along the circumference of the cylindrical portion 106. The pillar 112 extends from the lower surface of the upper plate 108 to the lower side along the up-down direction. The outer peripheral surface of the pillar 112 is integrated with the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 106. The lower end of the pillar 112 protrudes downward than the lower surface 106A. The surface located at the lower end of the pillar 112 is set as the lower surface 112A.

[0120] Two protrusions 114 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 106B. The two protrusions 114 have the same structure except for the arrangement. As an example, the protrusion 114 is formed into a rectangular parallelepiped with a height of about h1 / 2 (mm) in the vertical direction. The center positions PA and PB of the two protrusions 114 in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 106 are located on the axis K perpendicular to the central axis C. As an example, one column portion 112 is located on the axis K.

[0121] <<Outer shell>>

[0122] like Fig.11 As shown, the outer housing 116 includes a cylindrical portion 118, a bottom plate portion 122, two guide portions 124, and one insertion portion 126. The outer housing 116 accommodates the inner housing 104 so as to be movable in the up-down direction.

[0123] The cylindrical portion 118 is formed into a ring shape with the central axis C as the center. A step portion 119 is formed at the lower end of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 118. An annular mounting surface 119A is formed at the upper end of the step portion 119. In addition, the height of the cylindrical portion 118 in the vertical direction is set to h2 (mm). The height h2 is greater than the height h1 ( Fig.12 )high.

[0124] The bottom plate 122 is formed in a disc shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction. The bottom plate 122 is formed integrally with the cylindrical portion 118 and covers the lower end of the cylindrical portion 118. On the other hand, the upper end of the outer case 116 is open in the vertical direction.

[0125] The two guide portions 124 are respectively formed by inner wall portions of a through hole that penetrates the cylindrical portion 118 in the radial direction. The two guide portions 124 are located on the axis K ( Fig.12 The guide portion 124 extends in the up-down direction and has a size capable of engaging with the protrusion 114. Thus, the two guide portions 124 guide the two protrusions 114 within a predetermined range in the up-down direction.

[0126] The insertion portion 126 radially penetrates a portion of the cylindrical portion 118. An extension portion 136 of an FPC 134 described later is inserted through the insertion portion 126.

[0127] <Drive unit>

[0128] The driving unit 132 includes a magnet 42, a pole piece 44, a coil 46, and an FPC 134. The operation of the driving unit 132 is controlled by the control unit 30 ( Fig.10 The driving unit 132 reciprocates the movable unit 32 in the vertical direction in such a manner that the movable unit 32 protrudes toward the outside of the housing unit 102 .

[0129] <<FPC>>

[0130] The FPC 134 is provided with a wiring pattern (not shown). The FPC 134 has a disc portion 135 and an extension portion 136. The disc portion 135 supports the coil 46. A part of the wiring pattern of the disc portion 135 is connected to the coil 46. The disc portion 135 is fixed to an inner fixing portion 148 of a second elastic member 146 described later.

[0131] The extension portion 136 is a strip-shaped portion extending radially outward from the circular plate portion 135. A portion of the extension portion 136 is bent at two locations. The front end portion of the extension portion 136 protrudes outward from the outer housing 116 by passing through the insertion portion 126. The wiring portion (not shown) of the extension portion 136 is connected to the control unit 30 and the power supply (not shown).

[0132] <Elastic components>

[0133] The elastic member 142 is an example of an elastic part and is composed of a metal member. The elastic member 142 includes a first elastic member 144 and a second elastic member 146. The first elastic member 144 and the second elastic member 146 are located at positions separated from each other in the up-down direction. In addition, the first elastic member 144 and the second elastic member 146 are located at positions that do not interfere with each other regardless of whether each of them is elastically deformed or not.

[0134] <<First elastic member>>

[0135] As an example, the first elastic member 144 has the same Figure 2 ) The first elastic member 144 has the same structure as the first elastic member 144. Therefore, the description of the specific structure of the first elastic member 144 is omitted. In addition, the outer fixing portion 55 of the first elastic member 144 is attached to the lower surface 106A from the lower side. In other words, the first elastic member 144 is provided on the inner housing 104 in a manner that allows elastic deformation. In addition, the first elastic member 144 supports the movable portion 32.

[0136] <<Second elastic member>>

[0137] The second elastic member 146 is provided on the outer housing 116 in an elastically deformable manner. And the second elastic member 146 supports the inner housing 104. Specifically, the second elastic member 146 is a flat plate-shaped member having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction in a static state without elastic deformation. The outer shape of the second elastic member 146 is circular. The center of the second elastic member 146 is located on the central axis C. The outer diameter of the second elastic member 146 is larger than the outer diameter of the first elastic member 144 and smaller than the outer diameter of the outer housing 116.

[0138] like Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second elastic member 146 includes an outer fixing portion 147, an inner fixing portion 148, a connecting portion 149, and a mounting portion 152. The outer fixing portion 147 is an annular portion and constitutes the outer edge of the second elastic member 146. The inner fixing portion 148 is an annular portion and is located inside the outer fixing portion 147, the connecting portion 149, and the mounting portion 152.

[0139] The connecting portion 149 connects the outer fixing portion 147 and the inner fixing portion 148. The connecting portion 149 is capable of elastic deformation in the up-down direction. As an example, the connecting portion 149 has three connecting plate portions 151. The three connecting plate portions 151 are located at positions that are equally spaced 120° apart in the circumferential direction of the second elastic member 146. In addition, the three connecting plate portions 151 extend in an arc shape along the circumferential direction of the second elastic member 146. In addition, in the present embodiment, the connecting portion 149 has three connecting plate portions 151, but a structure having one or two connecting plate portions 151 may also be adopted, and a structure having more than four connecting plate portions 151 may also be adopted.

[0140] As an example, the mounting portion 152 has three mounting plate portions 153. The upper end surface of the mounting plate portion 153 is defined as the upper surface 153A ( Fig.11 ). The three mounting plate portions 153 are located at equal intervals of 120° in the circumferential direction of the second elastic member 146. In addition, the three mounting plate portions 153 are located at positions facing the three column portions 112 in the vertical direction. The three lower surfaces 112A are bonded to the three upper surfaces 153A, respectively.

[0141] like Fig.11 As shown, the outer fixing portion 147 is attached to the outer housing 116 by being bonded to the mounting surface 119A from the upper side. In addition, in the completed state of the vibration device 100, a space portion 155 ( 200 ) is provided between the bottom plate portion 122 and the second elastic member 146 to allow elastic deformation of the second elastic member 146 in the vertical direction. Fig.13 ) In this way, the second elastic member 146 is provided on the outer housing 116 in an elastically deformable manner, and supports the inner housing 104 .

[0142] [Function of the third embodiment]

[0143] The operation of the vibration device 100 according to the third embodiment will be described.

[0144] exist Fig.13 In the household electrical appliance 10 shown, an instruction message urging the user to touch the vibration device 100 is displayed, and the movable portion 32 starts to vibrate in the vertical direction. The operator M touches the upper surface 108A or the upper surface 108A and the upper surface 34A with a finger F according to the instruction message. Here, the upper end of the movable portion 32 vibrates in a manner protruding upward from the upper surface 108A. As a result, the operator M directly receives the vibration of the movable portion 32 with the finger F, and thus easily gets the feeling of touching the vibration device 100. At this time, since the elastic member 142 is elastically deformed, the transmission of vibration from the movable portion 32 to the housing portion 102 is suppressed, and thus the transmission of vibration from the housing portion 102 to the frame 12 is suppressed.

[0145] Furthermore, when the finger F presses the upper surface 108A downward (when the inner housing 104 is pushed downward), the space 155 allows the second elastic member 146 to deform in the vertical direction (lower side). Furthermore, the second elastic member 146 suppresses the transmission of vibration from the movable portion 32 to the outer housing 116 via the inner housing 104. In addition, the elastic deformation of the second elastic member 146 can increase the amount by which the inner housing 104 can be pushed in in the vertical direction (lower side).

[0146] Thus, in the vibration device 100, the transmission of vibration from the movable portion 32 to the frame 12 can be suppressed by the elastic deformation of the elastic member 142. In addition, the operator M can easily feel the vibration device 100 and the operator M can easily feel the operation of pressing the movable portion 32 and the inner housing 104 downward.

[0147] In the vibration device 100 , since the upper portion of the movable portion 32 protrudes to the outside of the inner housing 104 , the vibration of the movable portion 32 can be more strongly transmitted to the finger F of the operator M. Furthermore, when the movable portion 32 protrudes from the inner housing 104 , the operator M can easily know the position of the movable portion 32 , and therefore, the operator M can easily know where to touch the vibration device 100 .

[0148] [Configurations of the fourth embodiment]

[0149] exist Fig.14 1 shows a part of a household appliance 160. The household appliance 160 has a main body 162 and an operation unit 164 provided on the main body 162. The household appliance 160 is an electrical appliance for home use. Examples of the household appliance 160 include an electric fan, a washing machine, a television, a recorder, and a lighting device. As an example, the household appliance 160 is an electric fan. The household appliance 160 stands upright in the up-down direction. The main body 162 has a motor and a fan which are not shown.

[0150] The operation unit 164 includes a frame 165, a display panel 166, a control unit 168, and three vibration devices 170 (170A, 170B, 170C). The frame 165 is formed into a box shape including a bottom wall 167 and an upper wall 169. The display panel 166 is provided on the upper wall 169. Messages related to the operation instructions of the three vibration devices 170 can be displayed on the display panel 166. The control unit 168 is provided inside the frame 165.

[0151] The control unit 168 is configured to include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory. The control unit 168 operates the motor and fan of the main body 162 according to the operation signal sent from the vibration devices 170A, 170B, and 170C. In addition, the control unit 168 causes the display panel 166 to display messages related to the operation of the vibration devices 170A, 170B, and 170C and information on the operation status of the main body 162.

[0152] The vibration devices 170A, 170B, and 170C function as operation buttons of the operation unit 164, respectively. The structures of the vibration devices 170A, 170B, and 170C are the same, and only the assigned operation items are different. Therefore, when describing the specific structure, it is described as one vibration device 170. On the other hand, when distinguishing the vibration devices 170 according to the operation, they are recorded as vibration devices 170A, 170B, and 170C.

[0153] The vibration devices 170A, 170B, and 170C are moved by the finger F( Fig.17 ) operation. The vibration device 170A is used to switch the operation time of the home appliance 160. The vibration device 170B is used to switch the mode (strong wind, normal wind, weak wind) of the home appliance 160. The vibration device 170C is used to switch the operation of the home appliance 160 on and off.

[0154] like Fig.15 As shown in FIG. 1 , the upper portion of the vibration device 170 protrudes upward from the upper wall 169 of the frame 165. In the description of the structure of the vibration device 170, the vibration device 20 ( Figure 1 ) The same or substantially the same structures and elements are marked with the same reference numerals and the description thereof is omitted. Specifically, the vibration device 170 has a vibration device 20 ( Figure 1 ) in which a sensor membrane 172 and a control chip 174 are added.

[0155] like Fig.16 As shown, the sensor film 172 is formed in a disk shape having a predetermined thickness in the vertical direction, and its center is located on the central axis C. The control chip 174 is electrically connected to the sensor film 172 via the FPC 48 .

[0156] like Fig.17As shown, the sensor film 172 covers the upper surface 26A and the upper surface 34A from the upper side. As an example, the outer peripheral portion of the sensor film 172 is bonded to the upper surface 26A by an adhesive 176. As an example, the inner peripheral portion of the sensor film 172 is arranged with a gap (in a non-bonded state) in the vertical direction from the upper surface 34A. The sensor film 172 is an example of a detection portion that detects whether the finger F of the operator M operates the movable portion 32, and is an electrostatic capacitance sensor.

[0157] The control chip 174 constitutes a part of the detection unit. The control chip 174 is used to transmit the detection signals of the on signal and the off signal from the sensor film 172 to the control unit 168 ( Fig.15 ) to function. When the finger F contacts the sensor film 172, the control chip 174 sends an on signal to the control unit 168 according to the change in electrostatic capacitance in the sensor film 172. In addition, when the finger F leaves the sensor film 172, the control chip 174 sends an off signal to the control unit 168 according to the change in electrostatic capacitance in the sensor film 172.

[0158] When the control unit 168 receives the ON signal, the drive unit 38 starts the reciprocating motion of the movable unit 32. That is, when the sensor film 172 detects the operation (opening or closing) of the movable unit 32 by the finger F, the drive unit 38 starts or stops the reciprocating motion of the movable unit 32.

[0159] [Function of the fourth embodiment]

[0160] exist Fig.17 In the home appliance 160 shown in the figure, when the operator M intends to operate the movable part 32 with the finger F, the finger F contacts the sensor film 172, and the control chip 174 sends a signal to the control part 168 ( Fig.15 ) sends a connection signal. Then, the control unit 168 causes the movable part 32 to vibrate in the up-down direction by operating the driving unit 38. Here, the movable part 32 reciprocates (vibrates) in the up-down direction. Thus, the operator M can easily get the feeling of contacting the vibration device 170 by receiving the vibration of the movable part 32 with the finger F through the sensor membrane 172. In addition, the operator M can also get the operating feeling of the movable part 32. In addition, the elastic deformation of the elastic member 54 suppresses the transmission of vibration from the shell part 22 to the frame 165.

[0161] In the vibration device 170, when the movable part 32 is in a stationary state (stopped state), a space portion (gap) exists between the sensor film 172 and the movable part 32. Therefore, when the movable part 32 vibrates, even if the rising movable part 32 contacts the sensor film 172, it is possible to suppress an unnecessary load from acting on the sensor film 172.

[0162] In addition, in the vibration device 170, the sensor film 172 is provided on the housing portion 22. Therefore, compared with a structure in which the sensor film 172 is provided on other parts of the frame 165, the distance between the sensor film 172 and the movable portion 32 is short. Therefore, when the operator M attempts to operate the movable portion 32 with a finger F, the finger F easily contacts the sensor film 172, and it is easy to detect that the movable portion 32 has been operated. In other words, the time difference between the time when the operator M operates the movable portion 32 and the time when the movable portion 32 starts to vibrate can be shortened, so when the operator M operates the movable portion 32, the operator M is less likely to feel uncomfortable.

[0163] In the vibration device 170 , since the upper portion of the movable portion 32 protrudes to the outside of the housing portion 22 , the vibration of the movable portion 32 can be more strongly transmitted to the finger F of the operator M. Furthermore, when the movable portion 32 protrudes from the housing portion 22 , the operator M can easily know the position of the movable portion 32 , and thus the operator M can easily know where to touch the vibration device 170 .

[0164] (Variation Example)

[0165] Hereinafter, a modification example different from the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments will be described. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same or similar components as those in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0166] <First Modification>

[0167] Fig.18 The vibrating device 180 of the first modified example is shown. The vibrating device 180 has a vibrating device 20 ( Figure 1 ) is added with a piezoelectric film sensor 182. The piezoelectric film sensor 182 is an example of a detection unit that detects whether the movable part 32 is operated. Specifically, in the vibration device 180, the piezoelectric film sensor 182 is provided between the vibration device 180 and the frame 12. The piezoelectric film sensor 182 detects the pressing force received by the finger F on the housing 22 and sends a signal to the control unit 30 ( Figure 1 ) sends a detection signal.

[0168] For example, when the operator M operates the movable portion 32, the finger F presses the movable portion 32 downward in a state of straddling the movable portion 32 and the housing portion 22. At this time, the piezoelectric film sensor 182 detects the pressing, and the control unit 30 drives the drive unit 38, so that the movable portion 32 vibrates in the vertical direction. Thus, the operator M can obtain an operational feeling through the vibration of the movable portion 32.

[0169] <Second Modification>

[0170] Fig.19The vibrating device 190 of the second modified example is shown. The vibrating device 190 has a Figure 1 ) has a structure in which sensor films 192 and 194 are added. The sensor films 192 and 194 are an example of a detection unit that detects whether the movable part 32 is operated, and are electrostatic capacitance sensors. The sensor film 192 is bonded to the upper surface 34A of the movable part 32. The sensor film 194 is formed in a ring shape and bonded to the upper surface 26A.

[0171] The sensor film 192 directly detects whether the operator M operates the movable part 32. The sensor film 194 can indirectly detect whether the movable part 32 is operated by detecting the contact of a part of the finger F when the operator M operates the movable part 32. The information on the operation of the movable part 32 detected by the sensor films 192 and 194 is sent to the control unit 30 ( Figure 1 ).

[0172] When the sensor film 192 detects “operation” or when the sensor film 192 and the sensor film 194 detect “operation”, the control unit 30 determines that the movable portion 32 is operated. Therefore, the movable portion 32 is driven by the driving unit 38 .

[0173] On the other hand, when “no operation” is detected by the sensor film 192, the movable portion 32 is not driven. For example, when “no operation” is detected by the sensor film 192, the movable portion 32 is not driven even if “operation” is detected by the sensor film 194. This is because the finger F touches only the housing portion 22 and does not touch the movable portion 32.

[0174] <Other Modifications>

[0175] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications such as combination are possible without departing from the gist of the invention.

[0176] The vibration device 90 may not include the first partition wall 68A. That is, one second partition wall 68B may extend in the radial direction and divide the opening 67. In addition, one second partition wall 68B may be formed in a protrusion shape, thereby not dividing the opening 67 into a plurality of holes.

[0177] A protrusion protruding in the radial direction may be provided on the cylindrical portion 33 of the movable portion 32, and a limiting portion in contact with the protrusion may be provided on the housing portion 22. The limiting portion may contact the protrusion in the vertical direction, so that the upward movement of the movable portion 32 can be limited within a predetermined range. Furthermore, the protrusion and the limiting portion may be respectively formed of magnets, and a repulsive force may be generated by opposing the same magnetic poles to limit the upward movement of the movable portion 32.

[0178] In each embodiment and each modification, the movable portion 32 is not limited to a structure in which the upper surface 34A can protrude outward (upward) from the upper surface 26A, and may be a structure in which the upper surface 34A is located at the same height as the upper surface 26A in the vertical direction (not protruding). In addition, in the movable portion 32, as long as the finger F can contact the upper surface 34A, the upper surface 34A may be located at a position closer to the inside (lower side) than the upper surface 26A. In any case, an indirect operation state may be performed with a member such as a film sandwiched between the finger F and the upper surface 34A.

[0179] In addition, the present technology can adopt the following structures.

[0180] (1) A vibration device comprising: a storage portion having an opening portion opened in a first direction, the storage portion being supported by a frame; a movable portion being stored in the storage portion and facing the outside through the opening portion; a driving portion that causes the movable portion to reciprocate along the first direction; and an elastic portion that is elastically deformable and is provided in the storage portion, the elastic portion supporting the movable portion, wherein the reciprocating motion of the movable portion is transmitted to an operator as vibration.

[0181] (2) A vibration device according to (1) above, wherein a wall portion is provided in the storage portion and is located on the inner side of the opening portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the wall portion resists an external force acting from the outer side toward the inner side of the storage portion in the first direction.

[0182] (3) The resonator device according to (2) above, wherein the wall portion divides the opening into a plurality of hole portions.

[0183] (4) The vibration device according to (2) or (3), wherein the movable portion is provided with a groove portion into which the wall portion is inserted and which allows the movable portion to move in the first direction relative to the wall portion.

[0184] (5) A vibration device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein a limiting portion is provided in the storage portion and is located on the inner side of the opening portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the limiting portion limits the movement of the movable portion toward the outside of the first direction.

[0185] (6) A vibration device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the housing portion comprises: an inner shell having the opening; and an outer shell housing the inner shell so as to be movable in the first direction, and the elastic portion comprises: a first elastic member disposed on the inner shell in an elastically deformable manner, the first elastic member supporting the movable portion; and a second elastic member disposed on the outer shell in an elastically deformable manner, the second elastic member supporting the inner shell, and a space portion allowing deformation of the second elastic member in the first direction being provided between the outer shell and the second elastic member.

[0186] (7) A vibration device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein a detection unit for detecting the presence or absence of operation of the movable unit is provided on at least one of the movable unit and the storage unit, and when the detection unit detects the operation of the movable unit, the driving unit starts the reciprocating motion of the movable unit.

Claims

1. A vibration device, comprising: a storage portion having an opening portion opened in a first direction, the storage portion being supported by the frame; a movable portion, which is accommodated in the accommodation portion and faces the outside through the opening portion; a driving unit configured to cause the movable unit to reciprocate along the first direction; and The elastic portion is provided in the housing portion in an elastically deformable manner, and supports the movable portion. The reciprocating motion of the movable portion is transmitted to the operator as vibration.

2. The vibration device according to claim 1, wherein: The storage portion is provided with a wall portion located inside the opening portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the wall portion resists an external force acting from the outside toward the inside of the storage portion in the first direction.

3. The vibration device according to claim 2, wherein: The wall portion divides the opening into a plurality of hole portions.

4. The vibration device according to claim 2, wherein: The movable portion is provided with a groove portion into which the wall portion is inserted and which allows the movable portion to move in the first direction relative to the wall portion.

5. The vibration device according to claim 1, wherein The housing portion is provided with a restriction portion located inside the opening in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and the restriction portion restricts movement of the movable portion to the outside in the first direction.

6. The vibration device according to claim 1, wherein The storage portion has: an inner shell provided with the opening; and an outer housing that accommodates the inner housing so as to be movable in the first direction, The elastic portion has: a first elastic member provided on the inner housing in an elastically deformable manner, the first elastic member supporting the movable portion; and a second elastic member provided on the outer housing in an elastically deformable manner, the second elastic member supporting the inner housing, A space portion that allows deformation of the second elastic member in the first direction is provided between the outer case and the second elastic member.

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