Tactile presentation device

Abstract

Provided is a tactile presentation device which can suitably present tactile sensation and has excellent mass productivity. The apparatus includes a tactile presentation unit and a control unit. The tactile presentation unit includes a plurality of anode electrodes and a plurality of cathode electrodes. The control unit can switch each anode electrode between a first state to which an anode potential is applied and a second state to which a floating potential is applied, and can switch each cathode electrode between a third state to which a cathode potential is applied and a fourth state to which a floating potential is applied. The control unit controls the tactile presentation unit so that at least one of the anode electrodes is in a first state, the anode electrodes other than the anode electrodes in the first state are in a second state, and at least the cathode electrodes at a distance of 1.0 mm or less from the anode electrodes in the first state are in a fourth state. The cathode electrode other than the cathode electrode in the fourth state is in the third state, and the total area of the anode electrode in the first state and the cathode electrode in the third state is 0.7 cm2 or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tactile presentation device, in particular to a tactile presentation device which presents tactile sensation through electrical stimulation. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, tactile presentation devices (sometimes also referred to as "haptic devices") that can present tactile sensations to users have attracted attention and have been applied to many purposes such as medical treatment, education, entertainment, and remote operation. Several methods are known as tactile presentation devices. Currently, the most widely used methods are methods of presenting tactile sensations by imparting force to the user or methods of presenting tactile sensations by imparting vibration to the user, but recently, methods of presenting tactile sensations by electrical stimulation have also been favored. A tactile presentation device using electrical stimulation has been disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-251948 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In a tactile presentation device using electrical stimulation, multiple electrodes are arranged at a predetermined pitch in the portion in contact with the user's skin, and a current path from the anode to the cathode is formed under the skin to stimulate the sensory receptors under the skin (e.g., Meissner's corpuscles) to present tactile sensations. It is believed that in such a tactile presentation device, by reducing the arrangement pitch of the electrodes, the fineness of the tactile sensation can be improved.

[0008] However, the inventors of the present application have conducted detailed studies and found that if the arrangement pitch of the electrodes is reduced, even if the area of ​​the electrodes is maintained, the tactile sense may not be felt.

[0009] In addition, in the tactile presentation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, each electrode is switched between a state of being connected to a power source (a state of functioning as an anode) and a state of being connected to GND (a state of functioning as a cathode). However, in such a configuration in which each electrode is switched between a state of functioning as an anode and a state of functioning as a cathode, the circuit and the drive become complicated, resulting in an increase in the size of the device or in the manufacturing cost, so that mass productivity may be reduced.

[0010] The embodiments of the present invention have been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object thereof is to provide a tactile presentation device that can appropriately present tactile sensation even when the arrangement pitch of electrodes for imparting electrical stimulation is relatively small and has excellent mass productivity.

[0011] Solutions for solving problems

[0012] This specification discloses a tactile presentation device described in the following items.

[0013] [Project 1]

[0014] A tactile presentation device, comprising:

[0015] at least one tactile sense presenting unit, each of which presents a tactile sense through electrical stimulation; and

[0016] a control unit, which controls the at least one tactile presentation unit,

[0017] Each of the at least one tactile presentation parts comprises:

[0018] a support having a major surface;

[0019] A plurality of anode electrodes are disposed on the main surface of the support and arranged in a matrix with an arrangement pitch of 1.5 mm or less; and

[0020] a plurality of cathode electrodes, which are arranged on the main surface of the support body in a manner not to overlap with the plurality of anode electrodes when viewed from above, and are arranged at an arrangement pitch greater than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has an area larger than the area of ​​each of the plurality of anode electrodes,

[0021] The control unit

[0022] Each of the plurality of anode electrodes can be independently switched between a first state in which an anode potential is applied and a second state in which a floating potential is applied, and

[0023] Each of the plurality of cathode electrodes can be independently switched between a third state in which a cathode potential is applied and a fourth state in which a floating potential is applied,

[0024] When the tactile presentation part presents the tactile sensation,

[0025] The control unit controls the tactile presentation unit so that

[0026] Any at least one anode electrode among the plurality of anode electrodes is in the first state,

[0027] Anode electrodes other than the anode electrode in the first state among the plurality of anode electrodes are in the second state,

[0028] At least one cathode electrode at a distance within 1.0 mm from the anode electrode in the first state among the plurality of cathode electrodes is in the fourth state,

[0029] The cathode electrodes other than the cathode electrode in the fourth state among the plurality of cathode electrodes are in the third state, and

[0030] The total area of ​​the anode electrode in the first state and the cathode electrode in the third state is 0.7 cm 2 above.

[0031] [Project 2]

[0032] The tactile presentation device according to item 1, wherein:

[0033] The plurality of anode electrodes are formed of gold, platinum, titanium, a carbon-based material, or a conductive metal oxide.

[0034] [Item 3]

[0035] The tactile presentation device according to item 1 or 2, wherein:

[0036] The arrangement pitch of the plurality of cathode electrodes is larger than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes.

[0037] [Item 4]

[0038] The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein:

[0039] The number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is less than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

[0040] [Item 5]

[0041] The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein:

[0042] The number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is smaller than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

[0043] [Item 6]

[0044] The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein:

[0045] Each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape surrounding at least one anode electrode among the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

[0046] [Item 7]

[0047] The tactile presentation device according to item 6, wherein:

[0048] Each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape surrounding two or more anode electrodes among the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

[0049] [Item 8]

[0050] The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein:

[0051] The plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged in a matrix.

[0052] [Item 9]

[0053] The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein:

[0054] The plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged in a row and a plurality of columns, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape in which a long side direction is defined in a column direction.

[0055] [Item 10]

[0056] The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein:

[0057] The at least one tactile sense presenting unit presents a tactile sense to the tip of each finger through electrical stimulation.

[0058] Effects of the Invention

[0059] According to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a tactile presentation device that can appropriately present a tactile sense even when the arrangement pitch of electrodes for imparting electrical stimulation is relatively small and has excellent mass productivity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a tactile presentation device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 2 It is a diagram for explaining the fingertip web fp.

[0062] Figure 3 1 is a plan view showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10 included in the tactile sense presentation device 100 , and shows a state where the tactile sense presentation unit 10 is arranged on the base of a fingertip fp.

[0063] Figure 4 It is a plan view showing the tactile sense presenting unit 10 in an enlarged manner.

[0064] Figure 5 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the tactile sense presenting unit 10 .

[0065] Figure 6 : is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 .

[0066] Fig. 7A The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense.

[0067] Figure 7B The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense.

[0068] Fig. 8A The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense.

[0069] Figure 8B The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense.

[0070] Fig. 9 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an FPC (flexible printed circuit) 1 used for verification of the distance between the anode and cathode and the total area of ​​the anode and cathode.

[0071] Fig.10 It is a graph showing the relationship between the anode-cathode distance (cm) and the tactile value (mm).

[0072] Fig.11 It is a graph showing the relationship between voltage (Vrms) and tactile value (mm).

[0073] Fig.12 1 is a plan view showing a tactile sense presentation unit 810 included in the tactile sense presentation device of Comparative Example 1.

[0074] Fig.13 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile sense presenting unit 810 .

[0075] Fig.14A The diagram shows the state (the potential given to) of the anode electrode 812 and the common cathode 813 when the tactile sense presenting unit 810 presents a tactile sense.

[0076] Fig. 14B The diagram shows the state (the potential given to) of the anode electrode 812 and the common cathode 813 when the tactile sense presenting unit 810 presents a tactile sense.

[0077] Fig.151 is a plan view showing a tactile sense presentation unit 910 included in the tactile sense presentation device of Comparative Example 2.

[0078] Fig.16A The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913 when the tactile sense presentation unit 910 presents a tactile sense.

[0079] Fig. 16B The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913 when the tactile sense presentation unit 910 presents a tactile sense.

[0080] Fig.17 FIG. 2 is a top view schematically showing a tactile presentation unit 10 of another tactile presentation device 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Fig.18A The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 of the tactile sense presentation device 200 presents tactile sense.

[0082] Fig.18B The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 of the tactile sense presentation device 200 presents tactile sense.

[0083] Fig.18C The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 of the tactile sense presentation device 200 presents tactile sense.

[0084] Fig.19 FIG. 1 is a top view schematically showing a tactile presentation unit 10 of another tactile presentation device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Fig. 20A The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 of the tactile sense presentation device 300 presents a tactile sense.

[0086] Fig. 20B The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 of the tactile sense presentation device 300 presents a tactile sense.

[0087] Fig. 20C The diagram shows the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 of the tactile sense presentation device 300 presents a tactile sense.

[0088] Description of Reference Numerals

[0089] 10Tactile presentation unit

[0090] 11 array substrate (support body)

[0091] 11a Main surface of array substrate

[0092] 11b substrate

[0093] 12Anode electrode

[0094] 13 cathode electrode

[0095] 14th 1TFT

[0096] 15 2nd TFT

[0097] 20. Control Unit

[0098] 100, 200, 300 tactile presentation device

[0099] 210 Personal Computer (PC)

[0100] 220Head-mounted display (HMD)

[0101] GL gate wiring

[0102] SL1 1st source wiring

[0103] SL2: second source wiring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0104] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0105] [Implementation Method 1]

[0106] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The tactile presentation device 100 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the tactile presentation device 100. Figure 1 , in addition to the tactile presentation device 100 , a personal computer (PC) 210 and a head mounted display (HMD) 220 are also shown.

[0107] like Figure 1 As shown, the tactile presentation device 100 includes at least one tactile presentation unit 10 and a control unit 20 for controlling the at least one tactile presentation unit 10. In the example shown in the figure, the tactile presentation device 100 includes a plurality of tactile presentation units 10, more specifically, five tactile presentation units 10. In addition, the number of the tactile presentation units 10 is not limited to five.

[0108] When the tactile presentation device 100 is used, the five tactile presentation units 10 are arranged to contact the user's hand H (in Figure 1 Each tactile presentation unit 10 presents tactile sensation to the tip of one finger F by electrical stimulation. Figure 2 As shown, the “finger tip” refers to a region fp that is located in front of the first joint j1 of the finger F and is located closer to the palm side than the center when the finger F is viewed from the side.

[0109] The control unit 20 controls the tactile presentation unit 10. The control unit 20 controls the tactile presentation unit 10 based on the control signal sent from the PC 210. Data communication between the control unit 20 and the PC 210 can be performed by wireless communication or by wired communication. Wireless communication and wired communication can be performed in accordance with various well-known communication standards. The control unit 20 is implemented by a microcomputer, for example.

[0110] The tactile presentation unit 10 uses a flexible substrate or wiring, and is wired so as not to hinder the movement of the hand H. The control unit 20 can be disposed, for example, at a portion corresponding to the user's arm. The tactile presentation unit 10 and the control unit 20 may be integrated as a glove.

[0111] PC210 outputs an image signal to HMD220, and HMD220 displays based on the received image signal. In addition, HMD220 outputs position tracking data and the like as information related to the position of HMD220 to PC210. ​​Data communication between PC210 and HMD220 can be performed by wireless communication or by wired communication. PC210 can be provided outside HMD220 or built into HMD220.

[0112] In addition, although an example in which the tactile presentation device 100 presents a tactile sense in conjunction with a display by the HMD 220 is shown here, the use of the tactile presentation device 100 is not limited to this.

[0113] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The specific structure of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 will be described. Figure 3 1 is a top view showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10 in a state of being arranged on the belly of a fingertip fp. Figure 4 It is a plan view showing the tactile sense presenting unit 10 in an enlarged manner. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10, Figure 6 : is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 .

[0114] exist Figure 3In the example shown, each tactile sense presenting part 10 is substantially rectangular in plan view. There is no particular limitation on the ratio of the lateral width w1 and the longitudinal width w2 of the tactile sense presenting part 10. In addition, the shape of the tactile sense presenting part 10 is not limited to a substantially rectangular shape.

[0115] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, each tactile sense presenting unit 10 includes an array substrate (support body) 11 having a main surface 11 a , a plurality of anode electrodes 12 , and a plurality of cathode electrodes 13 .

[0116] A plurality of anode electrodes 12 are provided on the main surface 11a of the array substrate 11. The plurality of anode electrodes 12 are arranged in a matrix. In the present application specification, for convenience, one of the two arrangement directions of the anode electrodes 12 is referred to as the "row direction" and the other is referred to as the "column direction".

[0117] The arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12 is 1.5 mm or less. That is, the arrangement pitch p1a and the arrangement pitch p1b of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction are both 1.5 mm or less. By setting the arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12 to 1.5 mm or less, the fineness of the tactile sense can be sufficiently improved.

[0118] The plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are provided on the main surface 11a of the array substrate 11 so as not to overlap with the anode electrodes 12 in a plan view. The plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are also arranged in a matrix.

[0119] The arrangement pitch of the cathode electrodes 13 is the same as the arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12. That is, the arrangement pitch p2a of the cathode electrodes 13 along the row direction is the same as the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction, and the arrangement pitch p2b of the cathode electrodes 13 along the column direction is the same as the arrangement pitch p1b of the anode electrodes 12 along the column direction.

[0120] The area of ​​each cathode electrode 13 is different from the area of ​​each anode electrode 12. More specifically, the area of ​​each cathode electrode 13 is larger than the area of ​​each anode electrode 12.

[0121] Each cathode electrode 13 has a shape that surrounds one anode electrode 12 when viewed from above. In the illustrated example, each anode electrode 12 is roughly rectangular, and each cathode electrode 13 is roughly quadrilateral surrounding one anode electrode 12. In addition, in the present embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is the same as the number of anode electrodes 12. In addition, the shape of the anode electrode 12 is not limited to the roughly rectangular shape illustrated here, and may be, for example, roughly circular or roughly elliptical, or roughly polygonal other than roughly rectangular. Similarly, the shape of the cathode electrode 13 is not limited to the roughly quadrilateral shape illustrated here.

[0122] The array substrate 11 supports the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13. The array substrate 11 may also be flexible as a whole. The array substrate 11 includes: a plurality of gate wirings GL, a plurality of first source wirings SL1, a plurality of second source wirings SL2, a plurality of first TFTs 14, and a plurality of second TFTs 15; and a substrate 11b supporting them.

[0123] The gate lines GL extend in a certain direction (for example, one of the row and column directions). The first source lines SL1 and the second source lines SL2 extend in a direction intersecting the direction in which the gate lines GL extend (for example, the other of the row and column directions).

[0124] Each of the plurality of first TFTs 14 is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of anode electrodes 12. The first TFT 14 includes a gate electrode 14g, a gate insulating layer 14i, a semiconductor layer 14a, and a source electrode 14s. The gate electrode 14g is electrically connected to the corresponding gate wiring GL. The gate insulating layer 14i is formed to cover the gate electrode 14g. The semiconductor layer 14a is formed on the gate insulating layer 14i and is opposite to the gate electrode 14g via the gate insulating layer 14i. The material of the semiconductor layer 14a is not particularly limited. The source electrode 14s is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 14a. In addition, the source electrode 14s is electrically connected to the corresponding first source wiring SL1.

[0125] The plurality of second TFTs 15 are each provided corresponding to each of the plurality of cathode electrodes 13. The second TFT 15 includes a gate electrode 15g, a gate insulating layer 15i, a semiconductor layer 15a, and a source electrode 15s. The gate electrode 15g is electrically connected to the corresponding gate wiring GL. The gate insulating layer 15i is formed to cover the gate electrode 15g. The semiconductor layer 15a is formed on the gate insulating layer 15i and is opposite to the gate electrode 15g via the gate insulating layer 15i. The material of the semiconductor layer 15a is not particularly limited. The source electrode 15s is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 15a. In addition, the source electrode 15s is electrically connected to the corresponding second source wiring SL2.

[0126] An interlayer insulating layer 16 is formed to cover the first TFT 14 and the second TFT 15, and an anode electrode 12 and a cathode electrode 13 are provided on the interlayer insulating layer 16. A first contact hole CH1 for exposing a portion of the semiconductor layer 14a of the first TFT 14 and a second contact hole CH2 for exposing a portion of the semiconductor layer 15a of the second TFT 15 are formed in the interlayer insulating layer 16.

[0127] The anode electrode 12 is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 14a of the first TFT 14 in the first contact hole CH1. A predetermined anode potential is provided to the anode electrode 12 from the first source line SL1 via the first TFT 14. The first source line SL1 is connected to a power source, for example, and in this case, the anode potential is the power source potential.

[0128] The cathode electrode 13 is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 15a of the second TFT 15 in the second contact hole CH2. A predetermined cathode potential lower than the anode potential is given to the cathode electrode 13 from the second source line SL2 via the second TFT 15. The second source line SL2 is connected to the ground (GND), for example, and in this case, the cathode potential is the ground potential.

[0129] The control unit 20 performs the following control on the tactile sense presentation unit 10 having the above-described configuration.

[0130] The control unit 20 can independently switch each of the plurality of anode electrodes 12 to a state in which an anode potential is provided (hereinafter referred to as the "first state") and a state in which a floating potential is provided (hereinafter referred to as the "second state"). In addition, the control unit 20 can independently switch each of the plurality of cathode electrodes 13 to a state in which a cathode potential is provided (hereinafter referred to as the "third state") and a state in which a floating potential is provided (hereinafter referred to as the "fourth state"). By appropriately performing such switching by the control unit 20, a desired portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 can present a sense of touch.

[0131] When the tactile sense presenting unit 10 presents a tactile sense, the control unit 20 specifically controls the tactile sense presenting unit 10 so as to satisfy the following conditions [1] to [5].

[0132] [1] Any at least one anode electrode 12 among the plurality of anode electrodes 12 is in the "first state" (i.e., is given an anode potential). Here, the anode electrode 12 set to the first state is the anode electrode 12 located in the portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 where the tactile sensation is to be presented.

[0133] [2] Among the plurality of anode electrodes 12 , the anode electrodes 12 other than the anode electrodes 12 in the first state are in the “second state” (ie, are given a floating potential).

[0134] [3] At least one of the cathode electrodes 13 that is within 1.0 mm from the anode electrode 12 in the first state is in the “fourth state” (ie, is given a floating potential).

[0135] [4] Among the plurality of cathode electrodes 13 , the cathode electrodes 13 other than the cathode electrode 13 in the fourth state are in the third state (that is, are given a cathode potential).

[0136] [5] The total area of ​​the anode electrode 12 in the first state and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (i.e., the total area of ​​the electrodes functioning as the anode and the cathode) is 0.7 cm 2 above.

[0137] By satisfying the above conditions [1] to [5], as will be described in detail later in terms of verification results, even when the electrode arrangement pitch is relatively small (specifically, 1.5 mm or less), tactile sensation can be appropriately presented.

[0138] Here, refer to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B An example of control performed by the control unit 20 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense will be described. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B 1 is a diagram showing the states (potentials applied thereto) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 . Fig. 7A The figure shows a case where a portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located at the third row and the second column in the figure presents a tactile sense. Figure 7B The state where the tactile sense is presented in the portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the third row and the third column in the figure is shown. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B , the anode electrode 12 in the first state (ie, given an anode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the left, and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (ie, given a cathode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the right.

[0139] In this example, the area of ​​each tactile sense presentation part 10 is set to 1.103 cm 2 (The width w1 in the horizontal direction and the width w2 in the vertical direction are both 1.050 cm.) The length of each side of the anode electrode 12 is 0.067 cm, and the area is 0.0045 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch was set to 0.1500 cm. For the cathode electrode 13, the length of each side of the outer edge was set to 0.1490 cm, and the area was set to 0.0175 cm 2, the arrangement spacing is set to 0.1500cm. The gap between the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13, and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are all set to 0.0010cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 7 rows and 7 columns, and the number is 49. The cathode electrodes 13 are also arranged in 7 rows and 7 columns, and the number is 49. The outermost surfaces of the anode electrodes 12 and the cathode electrodes 13 are set to ITO layers.

[0140] exist Fig. 7A In the state shown, one anode electrode 12 located at the 3rd row and the 2nd column is in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the nine cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd row and the 1st to the 3rd columns, the 3rd row and the 1st to the 3rd columns, and the 4th row and the 1st to the 3rd columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0141] exist Figure 7B In the state shown, one anode electrode 12 located at the 3rd row and the 3rd column is in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the nine cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd row and the 2nd to the 4th columns, the 3rd row and the 2nd to the 4th columns, and the 4th row and the 2nd to the 4th columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0142] about Fig. 7A The status and Figure 7B In any of the states shown, the shortest distance between the anode electrode 12 functioning as the anode and the cathode electrode 13 functioning as the cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "anode-cathode distance") is 0.1920 cm, and the total area of ​​the anode electrode 12 functioning as the anode and the cathode electrode 13 functioning as the cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "total area of ​​the anode and the cathode") is 0.7045 cm 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] described above are satisfied, so that the tactile sense can be appropriately presented.

[0143] In addition, the control performed by the control unit 20 is not limited to the control Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The above description is an example in which one anode electrode 12 is placed in the first state. Alternatively, two or more anode electrodes 12 may be placed in the first state.

[0144] Reference Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Another example of control performed by the control unit 20 when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense will be described. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B 1 is a diagram showing the states (potentials applied thereto) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 . Fig. 8AThe figure shows a case where the tactile sense is presented in the portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located in the 3rd row and 2nd column and the 4th row and 2nd column in the figure. Figure 8B The figure shows a case where the tactile sense is presented in the portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the 3rd row and 3rd column and the 4th row and 3rd column in the figure. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B , the anode electrode 12 in the first state (ie, given an anode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the left, and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (ie, given a cathode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the right.

[0145] In this example, the area of ​​each tactile sense presentation part 10 is set to 2.247 cm 2 (The horizontal width w1 and the vertical width w2 are both 1.499 cm.) The length of each side of the anode electrode 12 is 0.058 cm, and the area is 0.0034 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch was set to 0.1500 cm. For the cathode electrode 13, the length of each side of the outer edge was set to 0.1490 cm, and the area was set to 0.0186 cm. 2 , the arrangement spacing is set to 0.1500cm. The gap between the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13, and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are all set to 0.0010cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 10 rows and 10 columns, and the number is 100. The cathode electrodes 13 are also arranged in 10 rows and 10 columns, and the number is 100. The outermost surfaces of the anode electrodes 12 and the cathode electrodes 13 are set to ITO layers.

[0146] exist Fig. 8A In the state shown, the two anode electrodes 12 located at the 2nd column of the 3rd row and the 2nd column of the 4th row are in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the 30 cathode electrodes 13 located at the 1st to 3rd columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state. That is, all cathode electrodes 13 belonging to the same column as the column to which the anode electrodes 12 in the 1st state belong and the columns adjacent to them are in the 4th state.

[0147] exist Figure 8B In the state shown, the two anode electrodes 12 located at the 3rd row and the 3rd column and the 4th row and the 3rd column are in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the 30 cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd to 4th columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state. That is, all cathode electrodes 13 belonging to the same column as the column to which the anode electrodes 12 in the 1st state belong and the columns adjacent to them are in the 4th state.

[0148] about Fig. 8A The status and Figure 8B In any of the states shown, the shortest distance between the anode electrode 12 functioning as the anode and the cathode electrode 13 functioning as the cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "anode-cathode distance") is 0.1965 cm, and the total area of ​​the anode electrode 12 functioning as the anode and the cathode electrode 13 functioning as the cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "total area of ​​the anode and the cathode") is 1.3088 cm 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] described above are satisfied, so that the tactile sense can be appropriately presented.

[0149] In addition, in the tactile presentation device 100 of the present embodiment, as already described, the anode electrode 12 is switched between the first state and the second state, and the cathode electrode 13 is switched between the third state and the fourth state. In contrast, in the tactile presentation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, each electrode is switched between a state of being connected to a power source and a state of being connected to GND. In a configuration in which each electrode is switched between a state of functioning as an anode and a state of functioning as a cathode as in the tactile presentation device of Patent Document 1, the circuit and the drive become complicated, resulting in an increase in the size of the tactile presentation unit or an increase in the manufacturing cost, so that mass production may be reduced. As in the present embodiment, by separately providing an electrode that functions as an anode (anode electrode 12) and an electrode that functions as a cathode (cathode electrode 13), the circuit or the drive can be made relatively simple, and mass production can be improved.

[0150] [Verification results of anode-cathode distance and total anode and cathode area]

[0151] Here, the results of verification regarding the anode-cathode distance and the total area of ​​the anode and cathode are described.

[0152] Verification is done using Fig. 9 A predetermined rectangular wave is input to the pin 2 functioning as an anode among the 20 pins 2, and the pin 2 functioning as a cathode among the 20 pins 2 is connected to GND.

[0153] In the verification of the anode-cathode distance, a rectangular wave with a high level voltage of 40 Vrms, a low level voltage of 0 Vrms, and a duty cycle of 50% was used as a rectangular wave. Table 1 shows seven voltage application patterns (#1 to 7) for the verification of the anode-cathode distance. Fig. 9The 20 pins 2 in the circuit are labeled with pin numbers in order from the leftmost pin 2. In addition, the pin 2 that functions as the anode is marked as "A", and the pin 2 that functions as the cathode is marked as "C".

[0154]

Table 1

[0155]

[0156] Table 2 shows the verification results of the anode-cathode distance. Specifically, for the seven patterns #1 to #7, the anode-cathode distance (cm) and the obtained tactile value (mm) are shown. Here, the tactile value is a feeling value obtained by a person's subjective evaluation. Specifically, it is a value recorded by subjective evaluation of the degree of physical protrusion when the fingertip is given electrical stimulation. In addition, Fig.10 The relationship between the anode-cathode distance (cm) and the tactile value (mm) is shown in FIG.

[0157]

Table 2

[0158]

[0159] From Table 2 and Fig.10 It can be seen that from the viewpoint of obtaining a suitable tactile value, the distance between the anode and the cathode is preferably larger than 0.1 cm (i.e., 1 mm). Fig.10 It is understood that from the viewpoint of obtaining a greater tactile value, the anode-cathode distance is more preferably 0.15 cm (ie 1.5 mm) or more and 0.35 cm (ie 3.5 mm) or less, and most preferably about 0.25 cm (ie about 2.5 mm).

[0160] In the verification of the total area of ​​the anode and cathode, a rectangular wave with an arbitrary high-level voltage, 0 Vrms low-level voltage, and a duty cycle of 50% was used as a rectangular wave. Table 3 shows the seven voltage application patterns (#8 to 14) that were verified for the total area of ​​the anode and cathode.

[0161]

Table 3

[0162]

[0163] Table 4 shows the verification results of the total area of ​​the anode and cathode, specifically, the total area of ​​the anode and cathode (cm 2 ) and the resulting tactile value (mm). Fig.11 , the relationship between voltage (Vrms) and tactile value (mm) is shown.

[0164]

Table 4

[0165]

[0166] From the viewpoint of safety, the voltage applied between the anode and the cathode is preferably 35 Vrms or less. In addition, from the viewpoint of presenting a sufficient sense of touch, the sense of touch value is preferably 0.8 mm or more. Fig.11 It can be seen that in order to obtain a tactile value of 0.8 mm or more at a voltage of 35 Vrms or less, the total area of ​​the anode and cathode is preferably 0.7 cm 2 above.

[0167] It can be understood from these verification results that by satisfying the above conditions [1] to [5], tactile presentation can be appropriately performed.

[0168] [Comparative Example]

[0169] A tactile presentation device according to a comparative example will be described below.

[0170] First, refer to Fig.12 and Fig.13 The configuration of the tactile presentation unit 810 included in the tactile presentation device of Comparative Example 1 will be described. Fig.12 is a top view showing the tactile presentation unit 810, Fig.13 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile sense presenting unit 810 .

[0171] The area of ​​the tactile presentation part 810 is 1 cm 2 (The horizontal width and the vertical width are both 1 cm.) The tactile sense presenting unit 810 includes a plurality of anode electrodes 812 arranged in a matrix and a single cathode (common cathode) 813. Each anode electrode 812 is square, and the common cathode 813 has a shape surrounding all the anode electrodes 812.

[0172] In addition, the tactile sense presenting unit 810 further includes a plurality of gate wirings GL, a plurality of source wirings SL, and a plurality of TFTs 814. The plurality of TFTs 814 are respectively provided corresponding to each of the plurality of anode electrodes 812. The gate electrode and the source electrode of each TFT 814 are respectively electrically connected to the corresponding gate wiring GL and the corresponding source wiring SL.

[0173] A predetermined anode potential (power supply potential) is applied to the anode electrode 812 from the source line SL via the TFT 814. The common cathode 813 is always electrically connected to GND (that is, always applied with a cathode potential).

[0174] Thirty-six anode electrodes 812 arranged in 6 rows and 6 columns are surrounded by a common cathode 813. The length of one side of each anode electrode 812 is 0.08 cm, and the area of ​​each anode electrode 812 is 0.0064 cm. 2The arrangement pitches p1a and p1b are 0.15 cm. The gap between the anode electrode 812 and the common cathode 813 is 0.001 cm.

[0175] Reference Fig.14A and Fig. 14B An example of control performed when the tactile sense presenting unit 810 presents tactile sense will be described. Fig.14A and Fig. 14B 1 is a diagram showing the states (potentials applied thereto) of the anode electrode 812 and the common cathode 813 of the tactile sense presenting unit 810 . Fig.14A The figure shows a case where a portion of the tactile sense presenting unit 810 corresponding to the anode electrode 812 located at the second row and the second column in the figure presents a tactile sense. Fig. 14B The state where the portion of the tactile sense presenting section 810 corresponding to the anode electrode 812 located at the 2nd row and 3rd column in the figure is made to present a tactile sense is shown. Fig.14A and Fig. 14B In FIG. 8 , the anode electrode 812 to which the anode potential is applied is hatched with a slant toward the lower left, and the common cathode 813 to which the cathode potential is applied is hatched with a slant toward the lower right.

[0176] In Comparative Example 1, the total area of ​​the anode and cathode is approximately 0.7643 cm 2 , more than 0.7cm 2 , but the distance between the anode and cathode is 0.001cm, which is smaller than 0.1cm. Therefore, even if the applied voltage is 40Vrms, which is higher than 35Vrms, the touch sensation cannot be felt. It is believed that the reason is that due to the small distance between the anode and cathode, the current flows preferentially on the skin surface and does not reach the receptor.

[0177] Next, refer to Fig.15 The configuration of the tactile sense presentation unit 910 included in the tactile sense presentation device of Comparative Example 2 will be described. Fig.15 FIG. 9 is a top view showing the tactile presentation unit 910. The equivalent circuit of the tactile presentation unit 910 can be connected to Figure 6 The equivalent circuits shown are the same, so illustration is omitted here.

[0178] The area of ​​the tactile presentation part 910 is 1.2 cm 2 The tactile presentation unit 910 includes a plurality of anode electrodes 912 arranged in a matrix and a plurality of cathode electrodes 913 arranged in a matrix. Each anode electrode 912 is square-shaped, and each cathode electrode 913 is also square-shaped. In the tactile presentation unit 910, the electrode columns of the anode electrodes 912 and the electrode columns of the cathode electrodes 913 are alternately arranged.

[0179] The anode electrode 912 can be switched between a state where an anode potential is applied and a state where a floating potential is applied. The cathode electrode 913 can be switched between a state where a cathode potential is applied and a state where a floating potential is applied.

[0180] The length of one side of the anode electrode 912 is 0.14 cm and the area is 0.0196 cm 2 The arrangement pitches p1a and p1b are 0.30 cm and 0.15 cm respectively. The cathode electrode 913 also has a side length of 0.14 cm and an area of ​​0.0196 cm 2 The arrangement pitches p2a and p2b are 0.30 cm and 0.15 cm respectively. The gap between the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913, the gap between adjacent anode electrodes 912, and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 913 are all 0.001 cm.

[0181] Reference Fig.16A and Fig. 16B An example of control when the tactile sense presenting unit 910 presents tactile sense will be described. Fig.16A and Fig. 16B 1 and 2 are diagrams showing the states (potentials applied thereto) of the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913 of the tactile sense presenting unit 910 . Fig.16A The figure shows a case where a portion of the tactile sense presenting unit 910 corresponding to the anode electrode 912 located at the third row and the first column in the figure presents a tactile sense. Fig. 16B The case where the portion of the tactile sensation presenting unit 910 corresponding to the anode electrode 912 located in the third row and second column (the third row and third column when the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913 are not distinguished) in the figure is made to present a tactile sensation. Fig.16A and Fig. 16B In FIG. 1 , the anode electrode 912 to which the anode potential is applied is hatched with a slant toward the lower left, and the cathode electrode 913 to which the cathode potential is applied is hatched with a slant toward the lower right.

[0182] In Comparative Example 2, although the distance between the anode and cathode is larger than 0.1 cm, the total area of ​​the anode and cathode is approximately 0.5292 cm 2 , than 0.7cm 2 Therefore, the sense of touch cannot be felt.

[0183] [Implementation Method 2]

[0184] Reference Fig.17 The tactile presentation device 200 in this embodiment is described. Fig.171 is a top view schematically showing the tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 200. The following description will focus on the differences between the tactile presentation device 200 of this embodiment and the tactile presentation device 100 of Embodiment 1. The block diagram, cross-sectional view, and equivalent circuit diagram showing the tactile presentation device 200 are the same as those of the tactile presentation device 100 of Embodiment 1, and therefore are not shown here.

[0185] The tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 200 includes a plurality of anode electrodes 12 arranged in a matrix and a plurality of cathode electrodes 13 arranged in a matrix. In the present embodiment, the arrangement pitch of the plurality of cathode electrodes 13 is larger than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes 12. That is, the arrangement pitch p2a of the cathode electrodes 13 along the row direction is larger than the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction, and the arrangement pitch p2b of the cathode electrodes 13 along the column direction is larger than the arrangement pitch p1b of the anode electrodes 12 along the column direction.

[0186] In the present embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is less than the number of anode electrodes 12 (specifically, 1 / 4), and each cathode electrode 13 has a shape that surrounds four anode electrodes 12 in a plan view. The number of anode electrodes 12 surrounded by each cathode electrode 13 is not limited to four.

[0187] In the tactile presentation device 200 of this embodiment, the control unit (not shown) controls the tactile presentation unit 10 so as to satisfy the conditions [1] to [5] described above, thereby enabling appropriate tactile presentation.

[0188] Here, refer to Fig.18A , Fig.18B as well as Fig.18C An example of control performed when the tactile sense presenting unit 10 presents tactile sense will be described. Fig.18A , Fig.18B as well as Fig.18C 1 is a diagram showing the states (potentials applied thereto) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 .

[0189] Fig.18A The case where the portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located at the 5th row and the 4th column in the figure is made to present a tactile sense is shown. Fig.18B The figure shows a case where a portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located at the 5th row and the 5th column in the figure presents a tactile sense. Fig.18C The state where the tactile sense is presented in the portion of the tactile sense presenting section 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located at the 5th row and the 7th column in the figure is shown. Fig.18A , Fig.18B as well as Fig.18C , the anode electrode 12 in the first state (ie, given an anode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the left, and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (ie, given a cathode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the right.

[0190] In this example, each tactile sense presentation part 10 is square in shape, and its area is set to 1.103 cm 2 (The horizontal width and the vertical width were both 1.050 cm.) The length of each side of the anode electrode 12 was 0.032 cm, and the area was 0.0010 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch was set to 0.0750 cm. For the cathode electrode 13, the length of each side of the outer edge was set to 0.149 cm, and the area was set to 0.0176 cm. 2 , the arrangement pitch is set to 0.1500 cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 14 rows and 14 columns, and the number is 196. The cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in 7 rows and 7 columns, and the number is 49. The gap between the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13, and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are all set to 0.001 cm.

[0191] exist Fig.18A In the state shown, one anode electrode 12 located at the 5th row and the 4th column is in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the nine cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd row and the 1st to the 3rd columns, the 3rd row and the 1st to the 3rd columns, and the 4th row and the 1st to the 3rd columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0192] exist Fig.18B In the state shown, one anode electrode 12 located at the 5th row and the 5th column is in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the nine cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd row and the 2nd to the 4th columns, the 3rd row and the 2nd to the 4th columns, and the 4th row and the 2nd to the 4th columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0193] exist Fig.18C In the state shown, one anode electrode 12 located at the 5th row and the 7th column is in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the nine cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd row and the 3rd to the 5th columns, the 3rd row and the 3rd to the 5th columns, and the 4th row and the 3rd to the 5th columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0194] about Fig.18A The status shown, Fig.18B The status shown and Fig.18CIn any of the states shown, the distance between the anode and cathode is 0.1720 cm, and the total area of ​​the anode and cathode is 0.7050 cm 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] described above are satisfied, so that the tactile sense can be appropriately presented.

[0195] In addition, in the present embodiment, the arrangement pitch of the cathode electrodes 13 is larger than the arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12, and the number of the cathode electrodes 13 is less than the number of the anode electrodes 12. Therefore, the fineness of the tactile sensation that can be presented can be improved and the number of the cathode electrodes 13 to be controlled can be reduced, so the circuit or the drive can be made simpler.

[0196] [Implementation method 3]

[0197] Reference Fig.19 The tactile presentation device 300 in this embodiment is described. Fig.19 1 is a top view schematically showing the tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 300. The following description will focus on the differences between the tactile presentation device 300 of this embodiment and the tactile presentation device 100 of Embodiment 1. The block diagram, cross-sectional view, and equivalent circuit diagram showing the tactile presentation device 300 are the same as those of the tactile presentation device 100 of Embodiment 1, and therefore are not shown here.

[0198] In the tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 300, a plurality of anode electrodes 12 are arranged in a matrix, and a plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in a row and a plurality of columns (here, 10 columns). The arrangement pitch p2a of the cathode electrodes 13 along the row direction is the same as the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction. Since the plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in a row and a plurality of columns, the arrangement pitch of the cathode electrodes 13 along the column direction is not specified.

[0199] In addition, in the present embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is less than the number of anode electrodes 12, specifically, 1 / 10. Each cathode electrode 13 has a shape in which the long side direction is defined in the column direction (i.e., extends in the column direction as a whole). In addition, it can also be said that each cathode electrode 13 has a shape that surrounds 10 anode electrodes 12 when viewed from above.

[0200] In the tactile presentation device 300 of this embodiment, the control unit (not shown) controls the tactile presentation unit 10 so as to satisfy the conditions [1] to [5] described above, thereby enabling appropriate tactile presentation.

[0201] Here, refer to Fig. 20A , Fig. 20B as well as Fig. 20CAn example of control performed when the tactile sense presenting unit 10 presents tactile sense will be described. Fig. 20A , Fig. 20B as well as Fig. 20C 1 is a diagram showing the states (potentials applied thereto) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 of the tactile sense presenting unit 10 .

[0202] Fig. 20A The case where the tactile sensation is presented in the tactile sensation presenting portion 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located at the 2nd row and 2nd column, the 4th row and 2nd column, the 5th row and 2nd column, the 7th row and 2nd column, the 8th row and 2nd column, and the 9th row and 2nd column in the figure is shown. Fig. 20B The diagram shows a situation where the tactile sensation is presented in the portion of the tactile sensation presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located at the 3rd row and 3rd column, the 5th row and 3rd column, the 6th row and 3rd column, the 8th row and 3rd column, the 9th row and 3rd column, and the 10th row and 3rd column in the figure. Fig. 20C The figure shows a state where the tactile sensation is presented in the portion of the tactile sensation presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located at the 1st row and 4th column, the 4th row and 4th column, the 6th row and 4th column, the 7th row and 4th column, the 9th row and 4th column, and the 10th row and 4th column. Fig. 20A , Fig. 20B as well as Fig. 20C , the anode electrode 12 in the first state (ie, given an anode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the left, and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (ie, given a cathode potential) is marked with a hatching line tilted downward to the right.

[0203] In this example, each tactile sense presentation part 10 is square in shape, and its area is set to 2.235 cm 2 (The horizontal width is 1.490 cm, and the vertical width is 1.500 cm.) The length of each side of the anode electrode 12 is 0.050 cm, and the area is 0.0025 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch is set to 0.1500 cm. The length of the cathode electrode 13 along the row direction is set to 0.140 cm, the length along the column direction is set to 1.500 cm, and the area is set to 0.1610 cm. 2 , the arrangement pitch along the row direction is set to 0.1500 cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 10 rows and 10 columns, and the number is 100. The cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in 1 row and 10 columns, and the number is 10. The gap between the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13, and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are all set to 0.01 cm.

[0204] exist Fig. 20AIn the state shown, the six anode electrodes 12 located at the 2nd row and the 2nd column, the 4th row and the 2nd column, the 5th row and the 2nd column, the 7th row and the 2nd column, the 8th row and the 9th row and the 2nd column are in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the three cathode electrodes 13 located at the 1st to the 3rd columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0205] exist Fig. 20B In the state shown, the six anode electrodes 12 located at the 3rd row and 3rd column, the 5th row and 3rd column, the 6th row and 3rd column, the 8th row and 3rd column, the 9th row and 3rd column, and the 10th row and 3rd column are in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. In addition, the three cathode electrodes 13 located at the 2nd to 4th columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0206] exist Fig. 20C In the state shown, the six anode electrodes 12 located at the 4th column of the 1st row, the 4th column of the 4th row, the 4th column of the 6th row, the 4th column of the 7th row, the 4th column of the 9th row, and the 4th column of the 10th row are in the 1st state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the 2nd state. In addition, the three cathode electrodes 13 located at the 3rd to 5th columns are in the 4th state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the 3rd state.

[0207] about Fig. 20A The status shown, Fig. 20B The status shown and Fig. 20C In any of the states shown, the distance between the anode and cathode is 0.2050 cm, and the total area of ​​the anode and cathode is 1.1420 cm 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] described above are satisfied, so that the tactile sense can be appropriately presented.

[0208] In this embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is smaller than the number of anode electrodes 12. Therefore, the fineness of tactile sensation that can be presented can be improved and the number of cathode electrodes 13 to be controlled can be reduced, so the circuit and the drive can be simplified.

[0209] The number of cathode electrodes in the fourth state is not limited to the case of a plurality as illustrated in the embodiment, but may be 1. For example, in the third embodiment, when the distance between the anode electrode in the first column and the cathode electrode in the second column is greater than 1.0 mm, when the anode electrode in the first column is driven, the cathode electrode within a distance of 1.0 mm from the anode electrode in the first column is only the cathode electrode in the first column, and this cathode electrode becomes the cathode electrode in the fourth state.

[0210] [About electrode materials]

[0211] As the material of the anode electrode 12, for example, gold, platinum or titanium can be suitably used. In addition, carbon-based materials such as conductive carbon black, carbon nanotubes, and graphene, or conductive metal oxides such as ITO (indium tin oxide) are also suitable. If these materials are used as the material of the anode electrode 12, electrolysis of the anode electrode 12 can be prevented.

[0212] The material of the cathode electrode 13 is not particularly limited, and various conductive materials can be used. From the viewpoint of mass productivity, it is preferable to use the same material as that of the anode electrode 12 as the material of the cathode electrode 13 .

[0213] Industrial Applicability

[0214] The embodiments of the present invention can be widely applied to a tactile presentation device that presents tactile sensation through electrical stimulation.

Claims

1. A tactile presentation device, comprising: at least one tactile sense presenting unit, each of which presents a tactile sense through electrical stimulation; and a control unit, which controls the at least one tactile presentation unit, The tactile presentation device is characterized in that: Each of the at least one tactile presentation parts comprises: a support having a major surface; A plurality of anode electrodes are disposed on the main surface of the support and arranged in a matrix with an arrangement pitch of 1.5 mm or less; and A plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged on the main surface of the support body in a manner that does not overlap with the plurality of anode electrodes when viewed from above, and are arranged at an arrangement pitch greater than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has an area larger than the area of ​​each of the plurality of anode electrodes, and the control unit Each of the plurality of anode electrodes can be independently switched between a first state in which an anode potential is applied and a second state in which a floating potential is applied, and Each of the plurality of cathode electrodes can be independently switched between a third state in which a cathode potential is applied and a fourth state in which a floating potential is applied, and when the tactile sense presenting unit presents a tactile sense, The control unit controls the tactile presentation unit so that Any at least one anode electrode among the plurality of anode electrodes is in the first state, The anode electrodes other than the anode electrodes in the first state among the plurality of anode electrodes are in the second state, At least one cathode electrode at a distance within 1.0 mm from the anode electrode in the first state among the plurality of cathode electrodes is in the fourth state, The cathode electrodes other than the cathode electrode in the fourth state among the plurality of cathode electrodes are in the third state, and The total area of ​​the anode electrode in the first state and the cathode electrode in the third state is 0.7 cm 2 above.

2. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of anode electrodes are formed of gold, platinum, titanium, a carbon-based material, or a conductive metal oxide.

3. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The arrangement pitch of the plurality of cathode electrodes is larger than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes.

4. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is less than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

5. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is smaller than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

6. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape surrounding at least one anode electrode among the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

7. The tactile presentation device according to claim 6, wherein: Each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape surrounding two or more anode electrodes among the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

8. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged in a matrix.

9. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged in a row and a plurality of columns, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape in which a long side direction is defined in a column direction.

10. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The at least one tactile sense presenting unit presents a tactile sense to the tip of each finger through electrical stimulation.

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