Input device and operation button

Abstract

Provided is a novel input device capable of improving operational comfort for a user who is not satisfied with operational comfort of a conventional input device. The controller (2000) includes a main body (2100), a first operation button (2110) attached to the main body, and a second operation button (2120E) attached to a position of the main body different from a position at which the first operation button is attached. The first operation button includes an upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user. The second operation button includes an upper surface portion (2123E) constituting an operation portion operated by a user, and includes an extended portion (2132E) provided at a portion of the upper surface portion of the second operation button and covering a portion of the upper surface portion of the first operation button.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an input device and an operation button. Background Art

[0002] PTL 1 mentioned below discloses an input device that can be used to operate a game device. An input device for processing an application such as a game application is used to input a control signal from a user to the application.

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] PTL 1

[0006] PCT Patent Publication No. WO2014 / 061362 Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] Some users are dissatisfied with the operating comfort of traditional input devices.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a novel input device capable of improving the operational comfort for users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] An input device according to the present disclosure includes a main body, a first operation button attached to the main body, and a second operation button attached to the main body at a position different from the position where the first operation button is attached. The first operation button includes a first upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user. The second operation button includes a second upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user, and includes an extension portion provided at a portion of the second upper surface portion and covering a portion of the first upper surface portion. This configuration enables users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices to operate the input device in a comfortable manner.

[0012] The operation button according to the present disclosure is an operation button attached to the main body and including an upper surface portion pushed by a hand, and includes an extension portion which is provided at a portion of the upper surface portion and covers a portion of the upper surface portion attached to the main body and provided on a different operation button to constitute a portion on which the hand is placed. This configuration enables users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices to operate the input device in a comfortable manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 2 is a floor plan of the controller.

[0015] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which a plurality of second operation buttons and an operation lever are detached from the controller.

[0016] Figure 4A A side view of the second operating button of type A.

[0017] Figure 4B is a perspective view showing the underside of the A-type second operation button.

[0018] Figure 5A It is a side view of the second operating button of type B.

[0019] Figure 5B is a perspective view showing the underside of the B-type second operation button.

[0020] Fig. 6A It is a side view of the C-type second operating button.

[0021] Figure 6B is a perspective view showing the underside of the C-type second operation button.

[0022] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the underside of the D-type second operating button.

[0023] Fig. 8A It is a side view of the E-type second operating button.

[0024] Figure 8B is a perspective view showing the underside of the E-type second operation button.

[0025] Figure 8C It is an exploded perspective view of the E-type second operating button.

[0026] Fig. 9A is a perspective view of the switch unit.

[0027] Fig. 9B is an exploded perspective view showing constituent elements of the switch unit.

[0028] Fig.10 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

[0029] Fig.11 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.

[0030] Fig.12 is along Figure 2 Cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG.

[0031] Fig.13A It is a perspective view of the identification component.

[0032] Fig. 13B A side view of the identified component.

[0033] Fig.14 is a perspective view illustrating a type A second operation button to which an identification member is attached.

[0034] Fig.15 is a perspective view illustrating an E-type second operation button to which an identification member is attached.

[0035] Fig.16 is an exploded perspective view showing the underside of the second operation button and the underside of the marking member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] An example of the controller 2000 constituting the input device will be described below. For example, the controller 2000 may be used as an input device for a game, and is configured to input an operation to an information processing device having a function of executing a game application (game program), such as a server and a console. The controller 2000 may be used as an input device configured to input an operation to an information processing device having a moving image reproduction function, a communication function using the Internet, and other functions. The controller 2000, which may communicate with the information processing device through wired or wireless communication, sends a signal corresponding to the operation input to the controller 2000 from a user to the information processing device.

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the controller 2000, and Figure 2 is a plan view of the controller 2000. Similar to the above-mentioned controller 200, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The controller 2000 shown in FIG. 200B may be used to input a control signal to the console 202 or the server 300. Each constituent element of the controller 2000 described below may also include resin such as plastic, metal, a composite material of these, or the like.

[0038] In the following description it is assumed that Figure 1 The X1 direction and the X2 direction of the X-axis shown in other figures (directions in which the main body 2100 and the rod unit 2200 described below are arranged) correspond to the right direction and the left direction, respectively. It is also assumed that the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction of the Y-axis perpendicular to the X-axis correspond to the front direction and the rear direction, respectively. It is further assumed that Figure 3The Z1 direction and the Z2 direction of the Z axis shown in other figures and perpendicular to the X-axis and the Y-axis (the direction in which the operating rod 2220 described below extends) correspond to the upward direction and the downward direction, respectively. Note that these directions and arrangement positions are specified to illustrate the shapes and relative positional relationships associated with the elements (components, members and parts) of the controller 2000, and are not used to limit the posture of the controller 2000.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the controller 2000 includes a main body 2100 (base) and a rod unit 2200 (analog rod unit), the main body 2100 is the main body of the controller 2000 and is provided as a component arranged with a plurality of operation buttons, and the rod unit 2200 is connected to the main body 2100. The rod unit 2200 is perpendicular to the up and down direction (i.e., Figure 1 The rod unit 2200 is provided adjacent to the main body 2100 in the left-right direction (in the example shown). For example, the main body 2100 and the rod unit 2200 may be provided on a predetermined horizontal plane, such as a floor, a table, and a femoral area of ​​a user. The rod unit 2200 includes a sliding portion 2210 extending in the left-right direction (a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction) and connected to the main body 2100. The rod unit 2200 has a dome shape that expands upward as a whole, and includes an operating rod 2220 provided on the top of a central portion located in the dome shape.

[0040] A storage recess (not shown) is formed at the bottom of the body 2100 to store the sliding portion 2210. The sliding portion 2210 can move relative to the storage recess in the extending direction of the sliding portion 2210. Therefore, the rod unit 2200 can move relative to the body 2100 in the extending direction of the sliding portion 2210. The rod unit 2200 includes a circuit board (not shown) for detecting the movement of the operating rod 2220, and the body 2100 includes a first circuit board 2190 (see Fig.10 ) and a plurality of second circuit boards 2380 (see Fig. 9B and 10 ), for detecting a pressing operation of a plurality of operation buttons attached to the main body 2100. The first circuit board 2190 and the plurality of second circuit boards 2380 are electrically connected to each other through a wire not shown.

[0041] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, a first operation button (central control button) 2110 constituting an operation portion operated by a user and a plurality of second operation buttons 2120 (peripheral control buttons) respectively constituting an operation portion operated by the user are provided on the main body 2100 of the controller 2000 (A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E described below). The main body 2100 has a circular shape in a plan view. The first operation button 2110 and the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 are attached to the main body 2100. The first operation button 2110 also has a circular shape in a plan view. The first operation button 2110 is provided at the central portion of the main body 2100. As shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, a portion of the outer surface of the body 2100 (upper surface portion 2101) is exposed outside the outer peripheral edge C2 of the first operation button 2110. The first operation button 2110 has an upper surface portion that is wider than each of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120, and is formed in a dome shape having a central portion that gradually expands upward. These sizes and shapes of the first operation button 2110 enable the user to easily place his or her hand on the first operation button 2110. The first operation button 2110 can be set as a button on which the user places his or her hand.

[0042] like Figure 2As shown, in a plan view, a plurality of second operation buttons 2120 are arranged along the circumferential edge C2 of the first operation button 2110. The plurality of second operation buttons 2120 in a state of being attached to the main body 2100 are arranged in a circular arc shape along the circumferential edge C2 of the first operation button 2110 in a plan view. Each of the second operation buttons 2120 has an outer peripheral edge 2121 and an inner peripheral edge 2122, and the outer peripheral edge 2121 and the inner peripheral edge 2122 both have a circular arc shape. In a state in which each of the second operation buttons 2120 is attached to the main body 2100, the outer peripheral edge 2121 of the corresponding second operation button 2120 is arranged outside the outer peripheral edge C1 of the main body 2100 and is located outside the main body 2100. In a state in which each second operation button 2120 is attached to the main body 2100, the inner peripheral edge 2122 of each second operation button 2120 is arranged inside the outer peripheral edge C1 of the main body 2100. The plurality of second operation buttons 2120 are respectively formed such that the outer peripheral edge 2121 is longer than the inner peripheral edge 2122, and have a tapered shape in which the width in the circumferential direction of the body 2100 gradually decreases from the outer peripheral edge 2121 to the inner peripheral edge 2122. The side edge of each of the second operation buttons 2120 (the side edge connecting the end of the outer peripheral edge 2121 and the end of the inner peripheral edge 2122) extends toward the center of the body 2100 in the radial direction of the body 2100. Such a shape of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 makes the gaps between the corresponding pairs of adjacent second operation buttons 2120 equal in a state where the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 are attached to the body 2100.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, each peripheral edge 2121 of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 is disposed outside the peripheral edge C1 of the body 2100 to form an arc-shaped outer edge along the peripheral edge C1. The opening H1 formed in each of the upper surface portions of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 is attached with a marking member 2400 (see Fig.13A and Fig. 13B ). The opening H1 of each second operation button 2120 is formed at a position closer to the peripheral edge 2121 of the corresponding second operation button 2120 than the central portion of the corresponding second operation button 2120. The opening H1 is formed at a central position in the width direction (circumferential direction of the body 2100) of the corresponding second operation button. A portion of the opening H1 is formed in the peripheral portion 2131 of the corresponding second operation button 2120.

[0044] like Figure 2As shown, the inner peripheral edge 2122 of each of the A to D type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D among the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 is recessed into a circular arc shape along the outer peripheral edge C2 of the first operation button 2110. Each of the inner peripheral edges 2122 of the A to D type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D is disposed outside the outer peripheral edge C2 of the first operation button 2110 to form an arc-shaped inner edge along the outer peripheral edge C2.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, each of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120A has a peripheral portion 2131 including a peripheral edge 2121. In a state where the second operation button 2120 is attached to the main body 2100, each of the peripheral portions 2131 is disposed outside the peripheral edge C1 of the main body 2100 and extends outward. Such a shape of the second operation button 2120 can expand the upper surface portion constituting the operation surface of the second operation button 2120A. For example, in the case where the operation button is small and has a narrow surface like an operation button of a conventional input device, the operation button may be difficult for some users to operate. In this regard, the widening of the upper surface portion of the second operation button 2120A allows the button to be pressed more easily, thereby improving the operational comfort of the controller 2000 including the second operation button 2120A for users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices. In addition, the lower surface portion of the peripheral portion 2131 of the second operation button 2120 (for example, the following Figure 4A Thus, the user is allowed to lift the second operation button 2120 from the main body 2100 by fitting a hand, a part of the body, a tool, etc., from the lower surface portion of the peripheral portion 2131 of the second operation button 2120. As will be described below, the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 lifted in this manner can be removed from the main body 2100.

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, the inner peripheral edge 2122E of the E-type second operation button 2120E is disposed outside the outer peripheral edge C2 of the first operation button 2110 and extends to the inside of the body 2100. Fig.12As shown, the E-type second operation button 2120E has an extension portion 2132E, which is included in the upper surface portion 2123E (second upper surface portion) of the E-type second operation button 2120E and covers a portion of the upper surface portion (first upper surface portion) of the first operation button 2110. The A to D-type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D do not overlap with the first operation button 2110 in a plan view, but the extension portion 2132E of the E-type second operation button 2120E overlaps with the first operation button 2110. This configuration increases the size of the upper surface portion 2123E of the E-type second operation button 2120E in the direction toward the center portion of the body 2100. Therefore, this configuration reduces the distance from the E-type second operation button 2120E to the second operation button 2120, which is disposed on the side opposite to the first operation button 2110, between the E-type second operation button 2120E and the corresponding second operation button 2120. Accordingly, the user can easily operate the second operation button 2120E and the second operation button 2120 disposed on the opposite side while placing the hand on the first operation button 2110. The arrangement position of the upper surface portion 2123E of the E-type second operation button 2120 relative to the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110 (e.g., the size of the extension portion 2132E) can be appropriately set according to the ease of use of the user.

[0047] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated example, one of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 attached to the main body 2100 corresponds to the E-type second operation button 2120E. For each of the A-type to D-type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D, the extension portion 2132E overlapping the first operation button 2110 is not shown in the plan view. Accordingly, it is possible to sufficiently leave the exposed areas of the inner sides of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 on the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110.

[0048] Figure 3 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a state of the controller 2000 from which the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 and the operation lever 2200 are disassembled. Figure 3 As shown, each of the plurality of second operating buttons 2120 can be removed from the main body 2100. In addition, the operating rod 2220 can also be removed from the rod unit 2200. For example, an operating rod that can be attached to the rod unit 2200 has a hole at the end of the operating rod. The strap is passed through the hole of the operating rod to allow the user to wear the strap or the wearing tool (e.g., a strip) to which the strap is attached. For users who feel that conventional operating rods are difficult to operate, there is a possibility that this configuration improves the ease and comfort of operation of the operating rod.

[0049] like Figure 3As shown, the main body 2100 includes a plurality of button receiving portions 2301 (pads) outside the first operation button 2110. The plurality of button receiving portions 2301 have the same shape. A plurality of second operation buttons 2120 can be attached to the plurality of button receiving portions 2301, respectively. The plurality of button receiving portions 2301 surround the first operation button 2110 in a plan view. Each of the plurality of button receiving portions 2301 is disposed between an outer peripheral edge C1 of the main body 2100 and an outer peripheral edge C2 of the first operation button 2110. An upper surface portion of the main body 2100 and the plurality of button receiving portions 2301 are inclined from a central portion of the main body 2100 toward an outer side along an upper surface portion of the dome-shaped first operation button 2110 (see Fig.10 ). The plurality of button receiving portions 2301 may be evenly disposed in the circumferential direction along the outer peripheral edge C1 of the first operation button 2110 in a plan view.

[0050] As described below, each bottom portion of the A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E has a shape corresponding to the button receiving portion 2301. The user of the controller 2000 can select a desired second operation button 2120 from the plurality of A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E and attach the selected second operation button 2120 to the portion of the body 2100 provided with the button receiving portion 2301. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the user can change the arrangement of the second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E of the main body 2100. Figure 3 In the example shown, eight button receiving portions 2301 are provided, but the number of button receiving portions 2301 provided in the main body 2100 is not limited to this number. At most, the user of the controller 2000 can attach the same number of second operation buttons 2120 as the number of button receiving portions 2301 that can be provided in the main body 2100 to the main body 2100.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, a plurality of identification information display portions 2111 are provided at the peripheral portion of the first operation button 2110, including the peripheral edge C2 of the first operation button 2110, and each identification information display portion 2111 indicates identification information, such as a number. The identification information display portion 2111 is provided at a position corresponding to the button receiving portion 2301. The identification information display portion 2111 is provided at a position corresponding to the button receiving portion 2301 in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100. Therefore, the user can identify the identification information assigned to the button receiving portion 2301 by checking the identification information indicated by the identification information display portion 2111. Although in Figure 3In the example shown, different numbers "1" to "8" are given as identification information, but the items of identification information are not limited to Arabic numerals, and may be Roman numerals or other types of characters or symbols. In addition, the identification information may be formed in a Braille pattern or by embossing to allow the user to touch and identify the information.

[0052] As will be described below, switches are provided in each of the button receiving portions 2301. Under an application (e.g., a game application) executed by an information processing device (such as a console and a server) communicating with the controller 2000, a switch of the button receiving portion 2301 corresponding to a function of the application can be provided, and the allocation of the switch corresponding to the function can be changed. For example, the user can change the allocation of a predetermined function of the application from being provided in the state corresponding to the control unit 2000 to being provided in the state corresponding to the control unit 2000. Figure 3 The switch of the button receiving part 2301 at the position corresponding to the identification information "1" (the same position in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100) is changed to the switch of the button receiving part 2301 set at the position corresponding to the identification information "2" and adjacent to the switch corresponding to the identification information "1".

[0053] The shapes of the A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E are different. For example, the user can recognize which of the A to E type second operation buttons 2120 the user is currently touching by vision and touch by hand based on the shape differences between the A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E. The structures of the A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E and the button receiving portion 2301 that receives the second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 4A is a side view of the A-type second operation button 2120A, and Figure 4B 21 is a perspective view of the lower side of the A-type second operation button 2120A. Figure 5A is a side view of the B-type second operation button 2120B, and Figure 5B : is a perspective view showing the lower side of the B-type second operation button 2120B. Fig. 6A is a side view of the C-type second operating button 2120C, and Figure 6B : is a perspective view showing the lower side of the C-type second operation button 2120C. Figure 7 : is a perspective view showing the lower side of the D-type second operation button 2120D. Fig. 8A is a side view of the E-type second operation button 2120E, and Figure 8B : is a perspective view showing the lower side of the E-type second operation button 2120E. Figure 8C 21 is an exploded perspective view of the E-type second operation button 2120E, and shows the underside of the E-type second operation button 2120E.

[0055] also, Fig. 9A 23 is a perspective view of a switch unit 2300 which is provided at the periphery of the first operation button 2110 of the body 2100 and includes a button receiving portion 2301 . Fig. 9B is an exploded perspective view showing constituent elements of the switch unit 2300 . Fig.10 is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view is taken along line AA in FIG. Fig.11 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.11 Each of them shows a state where the A-type second operation button 2120A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301. Fig.12 It is along Figure 2 0045] It is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 10 and shows a state where the E-type second operation button 2120E is attached to the button receiving portion 2301.

[0056] First, the A-type second operation button 2120A is described. Figure 4A As shown, the upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second operation button 2120A includes the outer peripheral edge 2121A and the inner peripheral edge 2122A of the second operation button 2120A, and faces upward and diagonally in the radial direction of the body 2100 (the direction from the inner peripheral edge 2122A to the outer peripheral edge 2121A). The upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second operation button 2120A is slightly curved in the up-down direction. Moreover, the lower surface portion 2124A of the A-type second operation button 2120A includes the outer peripheral edge 2121A and the inner peripheral edge 2122A in the same manner as the upper surface portion 2023A. The lower surface portion 2124A of the A-type second operation button 2120A faces downward and diagonally in the radial direction of the body 2100 (the direction from the outer peripheral edge 2121A to the inner peripheral edge 2122A). The outer peripheral edge 2121A of the A-type second operation button 2120A has a thickness greater than that of the inner peripheral edge 2122A. In addition, a slope 2127A is formed on the outer peripheral edge 2121A of the A-type second operation button 2120A. The slope 2127A constitutes the lower surface of the outer peripheral portion 2131 of the second operation button 2120A, and is inclined downward and inward.

[0057] like Figure 4B As shown, an assembly protrusion 2125A is formed on the lower surface portion 2124A of the A-type second operation button 2120A. The assembly protrusion 2125A has a shape corresponding to each of the plurality of button receiving portions 2301 provided on the upper surface portion 2101 of the main body 2100 (see Figure 3). The assembly protrusion 2125A can be attached to any one of the plurality of button receiving portions 2301. The assembly protrusion 2125A of the second operation button 2120A protrudes downward from the lower surface portion 2124A. The plurality of button receiving portions 2301 are respectively recessed downward from the upper surface portion 2101 of the body 2100 to form an assembly recess 2302 for receiving the assembly protrusion 2125A of the second operation button 2120A (refer to Fig. 9A ). The recess-protrusion relationship between the mounting protrusion 2125A and the button receiving portion 2301 may be defined in reverse.

[0058] According to this embodiment, the first assembly portion 2126A (see Figure 4B ) is formed at the central portion of the fitting protrusion 2125A of the second operation button 2120A, and the second fitting portion 2303 (see Fig. 9A ) is formed in the center portion of the button receiving portion 2301 (the center portion of the assembly recess 2302). The second assembly portion 2303 of the button receiving portion 2301 is assembled into the first assembly portion 2126A of the second operation button 2125A in a state where the second operation button 2125A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301. Moreover, the center portions of the assembly protrusions 2125B to 2125E of the B to E type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120E described later are also formed with first engaging portions 2126B to 2126E for respectively assembling the second assembly portion 2303 of the button receiving portion 2301. Note that in Figure 4B and 9A , the first assembly portion 2126A is a recessed portion that is recessed in a direction away from the button receiving portion 2301, and the second assembly portion 2303 is a protrusion that protrudes toward the second operation button 2120A. However, the recess-protrusion relationship between the first assembly portion 2126A and the second assembly portion 2303 can be defined inversely. For example, the first assembly portion 2126A can be a protrusion that protrudes toward the button receiving portion 2301, and the second assembly portion 2303 can be a recessed portion that is recessed in a direction away from the second operation button 2120A. Moreover, with respect to the first assembly portion 2126A and the second assembly portion 2303, each shape of the first assembly portion 2126A and the second assembly portion 2303 is not limited to this shape.

[0059] The B-type second operation button 2120B will be described later. Figure 5A and 5BAs shown, the upper surface portion 2123B and the lower surface portion 2124B of the B-type second operation button 2120B each include an outer peripheral edge 2121B and an inner peripheral edge 2122B. The outer peripheral edge 2121B of the B-type second operation button 2120B includes a slope 2127B. The slope 2127B constitutes the lower surface of the outer peripheral portion 2131 of the second operation button 2120B, and is inclined downward and toward the inside. Unlike the upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second operation button 2120A, the central portion of the upper surface portion 2123B of the B-type second operation button 2120B expands upward. The unfolded shape of the upper surface portion 2123B of the B-type second operation button 2120B can make the B-type second operation button 2120B easier to be operated by some users than the A-type second operation button 2120A. For example, in a certain case, the user operates the second operation button 2120B by sliding the hand that has been placed on the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110 along the upper surface portion of the dome-shaped first operation button 2110. In this process, the user's hand interferes with the upper surface portion 2123B of the second operation button 2120B. Therefore, the pressing applied to the B-type second operation button 2120B can be performed more easily than the operation applied to the A-type second operation button 2120A.

[0060] like Figure 5B As shown, a fitting protrusion 2125B similar to the fitting protrusion 2125A of the A-type second operating button 2120A is also formed on the lower surface portion 2124B of the B-type second operating button 2120B. This configuration also enables the fitting protrusion 2125B of the B-type second operating button 2120B to be attached to all of the button receiving portions 2301. Moreover, a plurality of holes H2 are formed on the lower surface portion 2124B of the B-type second operating button 2120B. This configuration contributes to the weight reduction of the B-type second operating button 2120B.

[0061] The C-type second operation button 2120C will be described later. Fig. 6A and 6BAs shown, the upper surface portion 2123C and the lower surface portion 2124C of the C-type second operation button 2120C each include an outer peripheral edge 2121C and an inner peripheral edge 2122C. The outer peripheral edge 2121C of the C-type second operation button 2120C includes a slope 2127C. The slope 2127C constitutes the lower surface of the outer peripheral portion 2131 of the second operation button 2120C, and is inclined downward and inward. Unlike the upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second operation button 2120A, the upper surface portion 2123C of the C-type second operation button 2120C faces obliquely upward in the radial direction of the body 2100 (the direction from the outer peripheral edge 2121C to the inner peripheral edge 2122C). The upper surface portion 2123C of the C-type second operation button 2120C is slightly curved in the up-down direction. Also, similar to the lower surface portion 2124A of the A-type second operation button 2120A, the lower surface portion 2124C of the C-type second operation button 2120A faces downward and obliquely downward in the direction from the outer peripheral edge 2121C toward the inner peripheral edge 2122C. Fig. 6A As illustrated, the thickness of the C-shaped second operation button 2120A in the vertical direction gradually increases from the inner peripheral edge 2122 toward the outer peripheral edge 2121 .

[0062] like Figure 1 and Fig. 6A As shown, in a state where a plurality of A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E are attached to the main body 2100, the peripheral edge 2121C of the C type second operation button is located at the highest position. This configuration may enable some users to operate the C type second operation button 2120B more easily than other second operation buttons 2120. For example, in the process of sliding the hand along the upper surface portion of the dome-shaped first operation button 2110 to operate the second operation button 2120C, the user's hand interferes with the peripheral portion 2121C of the second operation button 2120C. In this case, the press applied to the C type second operation button 2120C may be easier to perform than the operation applied to the other second operation buttons 2120 (e.g., the A type second operation button 2120A).

[0063] like Figure 6B As shown, a fitting protrusion 2125C similar to the fitting protrusion 2125A of the A-type second operating button 2120A is also formed on the lower surface portion 2124C of the C-type second operating button 2120C. This configuration also enables the fitting protrusion 2125B of the C-type second operating button 2120C to be attached to all of the button receiving portions 2301. Moreover, a plurality of holes H3 are formed on the lower surface portion 2124C of the C-type second operating button 2120C. This configuration contributes to weight reduction of the C-type second operating button 2120C, similar to the B-type second operating button 2120B.

[0064] The D-type second operation button 2120D will be described later. Similar to the A-type second operation button 2120A, the D-type second operation button 2120D has an upper surface portion that faces upward and diagonally in the radial direction of the body 2100 (the direction from the inner peripheral edge 2122D to the outer peripheral edge 2121D) and is slightly curved in the up-down direction, such as Figure 1 and Figure 7 As shown. The peripheral edge 2121D of the D-type second operation button 2120D includes a slope 2127D. The slope 2127D constitutes the lower surface of the peripheral portion 2131 of the second operation button 2120D, and is inclined downward and inward. The difference between the D-type second operation button 2120D and the A-type second operation button 2120A is that, in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100 to which the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 are attached, the width of the D-type second operation button 2120D is greater than the width of the A-type second operation button 2120A. The larger width of the D-type second operation button 2120D can make the D-type second operation button 2120D easier to push than the A-type second operation button 2120A. In addition, the operation of pressing adjacent buttons simultaneously can be more convenient. Regarding the A to D type second operation button 2120, the outer peripheral edges 2121A to 2121C have the same or substantially the same width in the circumferential direction, and the outer peripheral edge 2121D has the same or substantially the same width as twice the width of the outer peripheral edge 2121A. Similarly, regarding the A to D type second operation button 2120, the inner peripheral edges 2122A to 2122C have the same or substantially the same width in the circumferential direction, and on the other hand, the inner peripheral edge 2122D has the same or substantially the same width as twice the width of the inner peripheral edge 2122A.

[0065] like Figure 7 As shown, two assembly protrusions 2125D similar to the assembly protrusions 2125A of the A-type second operation button 2120A are formed on the lower surface portion 2124D of the D-type second operation button 2120D. The difference between the D-type second operation button 2120D and the A-type second operation button 2120A is that two assembly protrusions 2125D are provided. The two assembly protrusions 2125D arranged on the lower surface portion 2124D of the D-type second operation button 2120D are separated from each other in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100. The D-type second operation button 2120D is attached to the main body 2100 by attaching the two assembly protrusions 2125D to two adjacent button receiving portions 2301 (see Figure 3 ). The user can press the D-type second operation button 2120D to press the buttons respectively provided in two adjacent button receiving portions 2301 (see Fig. 9B ) on one or both of the switches 2381.

[0066] Finally, the E-type second operation button 2120E is described. Similar to the A-type second operation button 2120A, the E-type second operation button 2120E has an upper surface portion 2123E, such as Fig. 8A As shown, the upper surface portion 2123E faces upward and diagonally in the radial direction of the body 2100 (the direction from the inner peripheral edge 2122E to the outer peripheral edge 2121E), and is slightly curved in the up-down direction. Figure 2 As shown, the upper surface portion 2123E of the E-type second operation button 2120E includes an inner peripheral edge 2122E that protrudes toward the central portion of the body 2100 more than the inner peripheral edges 2122 of the other second operation buttons 2120 .

[0067] like Fig. 8A and 8B As illustrated, an extension portion 2132E including an inner peripheral edge 2122E is formed on an upper surface portion 2123E of the E-type second operation button 2120E. Fig.12 As shown, in a state where the second operation button 2120E is attached to the main body 2100 , the extending portion 2132E of the second operation button 2120E covers a portion of the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110 .

[0068] like Figure 8B As shown in the example, the mounting protrusion 2125E is also formed on the lower surface portion 2124E of the E-type second operation button 2120E. Fig.10 and Fig.12 As shown, the respective fitting protrusions 2125A and 2125E of the second operation buttons 2120A and 2120E include an engagement portion 2151 (second engagement portion) that engages with the button receiving portion 2301 near the inner peripheral edges 2122A and 2122E, respectively. Similar to the fitting protrusions 2125A and 2125E, each fitting protrusion 2125B to 2125C of the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120C has an engagement portion 2151 that engages with the button receiving portion 2301.

[0069] like Fig.12As shown, the assembly protrusion 2125E of the E-type second operation button 2120E also includes an engagement portion 2128E (first engagement portion) that engages with the button receiving portion 2301 near the outer peripheral edge 2121E. In addition, a movable portion 2129E is provided on the outer peripheral edge 2121E of the E-type second operation button 2120E, and the movable portion 2129E protrudes to the outside of the second operation button 2120E and is allowed to be pushed toward the inner peripheral edge 2122E. The engagement portion 2128E moves toward the inner peripheral edge 2122E according to the push applied to the movable portion 2129E. The engagement portion 2128E and the movable portion 2129E are only provided on the E-type second operation button 2120E. The engagement portion that engages with the button receiving portion 2301 is not formed on each of the A to D-type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D near the outer peripheral edge 2121 of the assembly protrusions 2125A to 2125D. Furthermore, on each of the A to D type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D, a movable portion that is allowed to be pushed toward the inner peripheral edge 2122 is not provided.

[0070] like Figure 8C As shown, the E-type second operation button 2120E has an outer peripheral edge 2121E, an inner peripheral edge 2122E, and an upper surface portion 2123E (see Fig. 8A ) and an upper member 2140E having a lower surface portion 2124E and a lower member 2150E including a fitting protrusion 2125E. The E-type second operating button 2120E is formed by combining the upper member 2140E and the lower member 2150E in the up-down direction. Similar to the E-type second operating button 2120E, each of the A to D-type second operating buttons 2120A to 2120D can be formed by combining an upper member (e.g., Fig.10 The upper member 2140A shown) and the lower member (e.g., Fig.10 The lower member 2150A shown is formed.

[0071] like Figure 8C As shown, the side surface 2141E of the upper member 2140E of the E-type second operation button 2120E near the inner peripheral edge 2122E is recessed in a circular arc shape along the outer peripheral edge C2 of the A to D-type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120D. This configuration can suppress interference between the lower surface portion 2124E of the E-type second operation button 2120E and the first operation button 2110 when the E-type second operation button 2120E is attached to the button receiving portion 2301 of the body 2100 or when the E-type second operation button 2120E is pushed downward from the body 2100.

[0072] like Figure 8CAs illustrated, the E-type second operation button 2120E has a coupling member 2160E including a coupling portion 2128E and a movable portion 2129E. The coupling member 2160E is disposed between the upper member 2140E and the lower member 2150E. A storage recess 2142E recessed upward from the lower surface portion 2124E is formed in the upper member 2140E. The coupling member 2160E is stored inside the storage recess 2142E. According to the present embodiment, each of the A to D second operation buttons 2120A~2120D does not have a member corresponding to the coupling member 2160E.

[0073] like Figure 8C As shown, the engaging member 2160E has a base 2161E including an engaging portion 2128E and a movable portion 2129E, a fixed portion 2162E disposed away from the base 2161E in a direction toward the inner peripheral edge 2122E, a spring portion 2163E extending in a curved manner from the base 2161E and connected to the fixed portion 2162E, and a stopper portion 2164E extending from the base 2161E toward the inner peripheral edge 2122E. The engaging portion 2128E is a claw portion extending downward from the base 2161E and forming a lower end protruding toward the movable portion 2129E.

[0074] The fixed portion 2162E of the engaging member 2160E is fixed to the storage recess 2142E of the upper member 2140E. In this way, the relative position of the fixed portion 2162E to the upper member 2140E and the lower member 2150E is fixed. When the user pushes the movable portion 2129E toward the inner peripheral edge 2122E, the base 2161E and the engaging portion 2128E formed on the base 2161E move toward the fixed portion 2162E according to the elastic bending of the spring portion 2163E. In this case, the stopper portion 2164E collides with the fixed portion 2162E to limit the excessive push of the movable portion 2129E. When the user releases the movable portion 2129E in this state, the shape of the spring portion 2163E is restored to the initial shape, and the base 2161E and the engaging portion 2128E move in a direction away from the fixed portion 2162E and return to the initial position. As described above, the movable portion 2129E and the engaging portion 2128E are enabled to move relative to the fixed portion 2162E. Therefore, the movable portion 2129E and the engaging portion 2128E are allowed to move relative to the member 2131E and the lower member 2150E.

[0075] The structure of the main body 2100 associated with the button receiving portion 2301 to which the A to E type second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E can be attached will be described. Figure 3As shown, a plurality of button receiving portions 2301 are provided on the main body 2100. The corresponding button receiving portions 2301 are provided on Fig. 9A and 9B The switch unit 2300 shown in FIG. The plurality of button receiving portions 2301 on the main body 2100 and the plurality of switch units 2300 surround the first operation button 2110 .

[0076] like Fig. 9A and 9B As shown, each switch unit 2300 includes a base member 2310, a cover member 2320 covering a portion of the base member 2310, a first support member 2330 supporting the base member 2310 from below, an axis member 2340, a magnet 2350 having a flat plate shape, a magnetic body 2360 covering the lower side of the magnet 2350, a second support member 2370 supporting the magnet 2350 and the magnetic body 2360 from below, and a second circuit board 2380, and a switch element 2381 is mounted on the upper surface portion of the second circuit board 2380. The cover member 2320 has a frame shape. An opening H4 is formed at a central portion of the cover member 2320. The button receiving portion 2301 is exposed through the opening H4 of the cover member 2320. An engaging portion 2321 engaged with the first support member 2330 is formed at the lower end of the cover member 2320. The cover member 2320 fixed to the first supporting member 2330 prevents the shaft member 2340 , the magnet 2350 , the magnetic body 2360 , and the second supporting member 2370 disposed between the cover member 2320 and the first supporting member 2330 from being separated from the first supporting member 2330 .

[0077] like Fig. 9B and Fig.10 As shown, the base member 2310 and the shaft member 2340 are provided on the switch unit 2300 between the cover member 2320 and the first support member 2330. A recess is formed on the side (lower side) opposite to the second assembly part 2303 in the base member 2310 as a protrusion of the upper surface part. The magnet 2350 and the magnetic body 2360 are stored in the recess. Moreover, a wall portion 2313 surrounding the second assembly part 2303 is formed on the upper surface part of the base member 2310. A protrusion 2316 protruding toward the outer peripheral edge C1 of the main body 2100 is formed on the base member 2310 outside the wall portion 2313. The protrusion 2316 of the base member 2310 is sandwiched between the cover member 2320 and the first support member 2330 in the up-down direction. This configuration can prevent the separation of the base member 2310 on the outer peripheral edge C1 side of the main body 2100.

[0078] like Fig. 9B and Fig.10As shown, the shaft member 2340 of the switch unit 2300 is disposed on the base member 2310. The shaft member 2340 is attached to the base member 2310 and is rotatable relative to the base member 2310 around a center aligned with the axis Ax1. The shaft member 2340 includes a shaft portion 2341 extending along the axis Ax1 and a coupling portion 2342 located above the axis Ax1. The coupling portion 2342 is a claw portion that extends upward from the shaft portion 2341 to form an upper end that protrudes toward the outer peripheral edge C1 of the body 2100. The coupling portion 2342 extends along the axis Ax1. As shown in FIG. Fig. 9A As shown, the engaging portion 2342 and the wall portion 2313 of the base member 2310 surround the fitting recess 2302 and the second fitting portion 2303 provided on the fitting recess 2302. The engaging portion 2342 may be a recess with which the engaging portion 2151 of the second operation button 2120 is engaged.

[0079] Fig. 9B The second circuit board 2380 of the switch unit 2300 shown is fixed to the first support member 2330 by a fixing device 2390 such as a screw. An opening H5 is formed at the central portion of the first support member 2330. The switch element 2381 is exposed through the opening H5. Moreover, the second support member 2370, the magnetic body 2360, the magnet 2350, the base member 2310, and the cover member 2320 are arranged above the switch element 2381 in this order from below. When the user pushes the second operation button 2120 downward, the second support member 2370 moves downward with the movement of the base member 2310 and the magnet 2350. The switch element 2381 detects that the second operation button 2120 is pressed by the user by detecting the approach of the second support member 2370 or the pressing applied to the switch by the second support member 2370.

[0080] like Fig.10 As shown, the A-type second operation button 2120A is formed by combining an upper member 2140A including a peripheral edge 2121A, an upper surface portion 2123A, etc., and a lower member 2150A including a fitting protrusion 2125A in the upper and lower directions.

[0081] like Fig.10As shown, the upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second operation button 2120A is arranged above the extension line L1 extending along the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110. Similarly, each of the upper surface portions 2123B to 2123E of the B to E-type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120E is also arranged above the extension line extending along the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110. This configuration generates a step between the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110 and the upper surface portions 2123A to 2123E of the second operation buttons 2120A to 2120E. For example, when the user slides the hand from the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110 and moves the hand to any one of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120, the user's hand collides with the corresponding step. In this case, the user can easily recognize the boundary between the first operation button 2110 and the second operation button 2120. In addition, the user recognizes that the hand exceeds the step through the touch of the hand, and can feel that the hand is touching the second operation button 2120. Specifically, during button operation using a portion larger than a fingertip, the switching of the operation target button is easily recognizable. In this way, for users who are dissatisfied with the operation comfort of conventional input devices, the operation comfort of the controller 2000 including the second operation button 2120 is improved.

[0082] The controller 2000 includes a first magnetic structure and a second magnetic structure. The first magnetic structure includes at least two magnetic poles that are away from each other in the circumferential direction (first direction) of the main body 2100. The second magnetic structure includes a magnetic body or magnet facing at least two magnetic poles of the first magnetic structure. According to this embodiment, "magnetic pole" refers to an end face through which magnetic flux enters or leaves, such as one end of a magnet and one end of a magnetic body. The first magnetic structure is arranged on one of the base member 2310 and the second operating button 2120 constituting the button receiving portion 2301, and the second magnetic structure is arranged on the other of the base member 2310 and the second operating button 2120.

[0083] The magnetic force generated by the first and second magnetic structures provided on the base member 2310 and the second operating button 2120 attracts the second operating button 2120 to the button receiving portion 2301. In this case, at least two magnetic poles of the first magnetic structure are away from each other in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100. Therefore, the posture of the second operating button 2120 can be corrected by the magnetic force. The user only needs to arrange the second operating button 2120 in a rough position when attaching the second operating button 2120 to the button receiving portion 2301. Accordingly, the attachment operation of the second operating button 2120 is easy to perform. For example, the user can slide the second operating button 2120 along the upper surface portion of the dome-shaped first operating button 2110, so that the second operating button 2120 moves and is attached to the button receiving portion 2301.

[0084] According to this embodiment, Fig.10 As shown, the base member 2310 has a magnet 2350, and the second operating button 2120 has a magnet 2152. Fig.11 As shown in the example, the magnet 2350 has a magnetic pole (e.g., north pole) N1 on the upper side and a magnetic pole (a magnetic pole opposite to the magnetic pole N1, e.g., south pole) S1 on the lower side. The magnetic pole N1 and the magnetic pole S1 of the magnet 2350 are separated in the up-down direction (the direction in which the second operation button 2120 is pressed, the third direction intersecting the first direction, and the second direction described later).

[0085] For example, the magnetic body 2152 is a metal plate, fixed to the lower member 2150A, and formed from the first fitting portion 2126A ( Figure 4B ) is exposed downward. Each of the second operation buttons 2120B~2120E from B to E also has a magnetic body 2152 fixed to the lower member. The magnetic body 2152 faces the magnet 2350 provided on the lower side of the button receiving portion 2301, and is adsorbed to the button receiving portion 2301 by the magnetic force of the magnet 2350 when the second operation button 2120A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301. In addition, the base member 2310 has a magnetic body, and the second operation button 2120 has a magnet. In addition, the second operation button 2120 may also have a magnet instead of the magnetic body 2152.

[0086] The first magnetic structure includes a U-shaped magnetic body 2360. Fig. 9B and Fig.11 As shown, the magnet 2350 is disposed on the concave portion of the U-shaped magnet 2360. The magnetic body 2360 serves as a so-called magnetizing yoke, which increases the attractive force of the magnet 2350 to attract the magnetic body 2152. At the upper end of the magnetic body 2360, the magnet 2350 generates magnetic forces of the magnetic poles S2 and S3 (e.g., the south pole) opposite to the upper magnetic pole (e.g., the north pole) N1 of the magnet 2350, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 Note that the north-south relationship between magnet 2350 and magnetic body 2360 can be defined in reverse.

[0087] like Fig.11 As shown, the three magnetic poles including the magnetic pole N1 of the magnet 2350, namely the magnetic poles S2, N1 and S3, are arranged in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100 (by Fig. 9A and 11 The buttons are arranged in this order on the button receiving portion 2301 in the direction indicated by the arrow D3 in FIG. Figure 3 and 9AAs shown, the length of the button receiving portion 2301 in the circumferential direction of the body 2100 is greater than the length of the button receiving portion 2301 in the radial direction of the body 2100. The magnetic poles S2, N1, S3 constituting the first magnetic structure are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the button receiving portion 2301.

[0088] This arrangement of the magnetic poles S2, N1, and S3 constituting the first magnetic structure on the button receiving portion 2301 can correct the posture of the second operation button 2120 relative to the button receiving portion 2301 by magnetic force. In this way, the work for attaching the second operation button 2120 to the button receiving portion 2301 can be easily performed. Moreover, compared with the case where a plurality of magnets are arranged in the circumferential direction of the button receiving portion 2301, the number of magnets 2350 arranged on the button receiving portion 2301 can be reduced.

[0089] The first magnetic structure may include multiple magnets. In this case, it is preferred that the multiple magnets on the button receiving portion 2301 are away from each other in the circumferential direction (first direction) of the main body 2100. It is further preferred that the magnetic poles of two adjacent magnets among the multiple magnets are opposite poles. For example, in the case where the upper magnetic pole of one magnet is the north pole, preferably, the upper magnetic pole of the adjacently positioned magnet is the south pole. In the case where the first magnetic structure has multiple magnets, the first magnetic structure may have multiple U-shaped magnets. In this case, the multiple magnets may be respectively arranged in the recesses of the multiple U-shaped magnetic bodies.

[0090] like Fig.10 As shown, the button receiving portion 2301 of the main body 2100 includes a base member 2310 and a shaft member 2340 attached to the base member 2310. The shaft member 2340 extends along the axis Ax1, and includes a shaft portion 2341 including the axis Ax1 and an engagement portion 2342 extending upward from the shaft portion 2341. The engagement portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 is arranged between the first operation button 2110 and the second operation button 2120A, and contacts the second operation button 2120A in a state where the second operation button 2120A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301.

[0091] The assembly protrusion 2125A of the second operation button 2120A includes an engagement portion 2151 at a position near the inner peripheral edge 2122. The engagement portion 2151 of the second operation button 2120A contacts the engagement portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 and engages with the engagement portion 2342 in a state where the second operation button 2120A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301. The engagement portion 2151 constituting a claw portion engages with the engagement portion 2342 also constituting a claw portion. Only one of the engagement portion 2151 and the engagement portion 2342 may be a claw portion, and the other of the engagement portion 2151 and the engagement portion 2342 may be a recessed portion engaged with the claw portion. By the engagement of the engagement portion 2151 with the engagement portion 2342, the second operation button 2120A is prevented from being displaced in a direction away from the button receiving portion 2301. Furthermore, an engaging portion that engages with the engaging portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 is also provided on each of the fitting protrusions 2125B to 2125D of the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120D.

[0092] like Fig.10 As shown, relative to at least two magnetic poles included in the first magnetic structure (for example, three magnetic poles generated by the magnet 2350 and the U-shaped magnetic body 2360), the engaging portion 2151 of the second operating button 2120A is located in a direction toward the central portion of the main body 2100 (a second direction, a direction intersecting the first direction in which the at least two magnetic poles are away from each other). The second operating button 2120A can be pressed in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The engaging portion 2151 of the second operating button 2120A is away from the magnetic pole of the first magnetic structure in the second direction (a direction intersecting the first direction in which the at least two magnetic poles are away from each other and a third direction corresponding to the direction in which the second operating button 2120A is pressed). This configuration can prevent the second operating button from being separated from the main body 2100 when the second operating button 2120A is pressed on the side opposite to the side where the engaging portion 2151 is provided.

[0093] The second operation button 2120A straddles the outer peripheral edge of the button receiving portion 2301 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the engaging portion 2151 is positioned relative to the at least two magnetic poles included in the first magnetic structure (a direction toward the outer peripheral edge C1 of the body 2100). Figure 3 In the plan view of FIG. 21 , the second operation button 2120A covers the entire area of ​​the button receiving portion 2301. Fig.10As shown, the second operation button 2120A includes a first part A1 and a second part A2. The first part A1 corresponds to a side where the engaging part 2151 is set relative to at least two magnetic poles of the first magnetic structure. The second part A2 is a part corresponding to a side opposite to the first part A1 relative to at least two magnetic poles of the first magnetic structure. The width of the second part A2 in the radial direction (second direction) of the main body 2100 is greater than the width of the first part A1. In a plan view, the second part A2 is wider than the first part A1. Accordingly, the user can push the second part A2 more easily than the first part A1.

[0094] like Fig.10 As shown, a gap D1 is formed between the outer peripheral portion C1 of the body 2100 and the second operation button 2120A. Therefore, when the user presses the second operation button 2120A at a position near the outer peripheral edge 2121A (e.g., the second portion A2), the portion near the inner peripheral edge 2122A of the second operation button 2120A (e.g., the first portion A1) is pushed upward. Note here that the engaging portion 2151 engages with the engaging portion 2342 of the button receiving portion 2301 at a portion of the second operation button 2120A near the inner peripheral edge 2122A. This configuration can effectively prevent the second operation button 2120A from being separated from the button receiving portion 2301. In addition, the width of the second portion of each of the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120D is also greater than the width of the first portion in the radial direction of the body 2100, and the second portion is a portion corresponding to a side opposite to the first portion, and the first portion corresponds to a side where the engaging portion 2151 is provided. This configuration can also effectively prevent the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120D from being separated from the button receiving portion 2301.

[0095] The engaging portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 is moved toward the Fig.10 2120A is pushed to the position indicated in (hereinafter referred to as the locked position). When the second operation button 2120A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301, the engaging portion 2342 is arranged in the locked position, engaging with the engaging portion 2151 of the second operation button 2120A. When the user lifts the outer peripheral edge 2121A of the second operation button 2120A in this state, the engaging portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 is pushed by the second operation button 2120A. In this case, the entire shaft member 2340 rotates around the center aligned with the axis Ax1. As a result, the engaging portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 moves from being aligned with the axis Ax1 to being aligned with the axis Ax2. Fig.10The locked position corresponding to the illustrated initial position is moved to the unlocked position (a position closer to the first operation button 2110 than the locked position). In this way, the second operation button 2120A can be removed from the button receiving portion 2301. The user can easily remove the second operation button 2120A from the button receiving portion 2301 by lifting the outer peripheral edge 2121A of the second operation button 2120A upward. Each of the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120D can also be easily removed from the button receiving portion 2301 by lifting the corresponding outer peripheral edge 2121.

[0096] like Fig.10 As shown, a slope 2127A is formed on the peripheral edge 2121A, and the slope 2127A extends downward from the outer edge of the peripheral edge 2121A of the A-type second operation button 2120A and toward the central part of the main body 2100. When the user lifts the peripheral edge 2121A of the second operation button 2120A upward and pushes the slope 2127A, the second operation button 2120A moves upward and toward the central part of the main body 2100. As the second operation button 2120A moves toward the central part of the main body 2100, the engaging portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 is pushed by the second operation button 2120A and moves to the unlocked position. In this state, the second operation button 2120A can be removed from the button receiving portion 2301. In other words, the slope 2127A formed on the peripheral edge 2121A of the second operation button 2120A facilitates the removal of the second operation button 2120A. Furthermore, inclined surfaces 2127B to 2127D extending downward and toward the central portion of the body 2100 are also formed on the peripheral edges 2121B to 2121D of the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120D. This configuration also facilitates removal of the B to D type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120D.

[0097] like Fig.10 As shown, the button receiving portion 2301 including the base member 2310 and the shaft member 2340 is pushed upward by the switch of the switch element 2381. The outer edge of the button receiving portion 2301 contacts the cover member 2320, which has a frame shape and includes an opening H4 (see Fig. 9B ). The protrusion 2316 of the base member 2310 (see Fig. 9B) is provided at the outer edge of the button receiving portion 2301 on one side (the end of the body 2100 close to the edge C1), and the protrusion 2343 protruding from the shaft portion 2341 of the shaft member 2340 in the direction toward the center portion of the body 2100 (the direction intersecting the up-down direction and the axis Ax1) is provided at the outer edge on the other side (the end of the body 2100 close to the center portion). The protrusion 2316 of the base member 2310 and the protrusion 2343 of the shaft member 2340 are in contact with the cover member 2320 fixed to the body 2100. According to the push applied to one side or the other side of the outer edge of the button receiving portion 2301, the button receiving portion 2301 can be moved downward, wherein the fulcrum is located on the side opposite to the side to which the push has been applied. Therefore, the switch of the switch element 2381 can be operated by two pushes applied to one side and the other side of the outer edge of the button receiving portion 2301.

[0098] like Fig.12 As illustrated, the E-type second operation button 2120E is formed by combining an upper member 2140E and a lower member 2150E in the up-down direction. A joint member 2160E is provided between the upper member 2140E and the lower member 2150E. Fig.12 As shown, a magnetic body 2152, such as a metal plate, is also formed on the lower member 2150E of the E-type second operation button 2120E. This configuration allows the magnetic body 2152 to be attracted to the button receiving portion 2301 by the magnetic force of the magnet 2350 provided on the button receiving portion 2301, thereby facilitating the attachment of the E-type second operation button 2120E to the button receiving portion 2301. Moreover, a plurality of magnetic poles are provided on the button receiving portion 2301 in the circumferential direction of the main body 2100. Therefore, when the E-type second operation button 2120E is attached to the button receiving portion 2301, the posture of the E-type second operation button 2120E can be corrected.

[0099] like Fig.12 As illustrated, the extension portion 2132E including the inner peripheral edge 2122E of the E-type second operation button 2120E covers the area including the outer peripheral edge C2 of the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110. Between the extension portion 2132E and the upper surface portion of the first operation button 2110, a gap D2 is provided in the up-down direction. The gap D2 is larger than the movable range of the second operation button 2120E (i.e., the movable range of the button receiving portion 2301). This configuration prevents interference between the extension portion 2132E and the first operation button 2110 when the E-type second operation button 2120E is pressed.

[0100] like Fig.12As shown, the E-type second operation button 2120E includes a peripheral portion 2131E disposed outside the peripheral edge C1 of the body 2100 and extending outward. Figure 2 As shown, each of the A-type second operation buttons 2120A to the D-type second operation buttons 2120D further includes a peripheral portion 2131 (eg, Fig.10 The outer peripheral portion 2313A of the A-type second operation button 2120A shown).

[0101] like Figure 2 As illustrated, the width of the extension portion 2132E of the E-type second operation button 2120E is smaller than the width of the peripheral portion 2131E. This configuration facilitates the layout of a plurality of operation buttons including the E-type second operation button 2120E of the main body 2100. Fig.12 As shown, similar to the A-type second operation button 2120A, the fitting protrusion 2125E of the E-type second operation button 2120E includes an engagement portion 2151 (second engagement portion) near the inner peripheral edge 2122E (near the extension portion 2132E). In a state where the second operation button 2120E is attached to the button receiving portion 2301, the engagement portion 2151 engages with the engagement portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340. For example, even in a case where the user pushes down a portion of the second operation button 2120E close to the outer peripheral portion 2131E and pushes up the extension portion 2132E on the side opposite to the pushed portion, this configuration can effectively prevent the E-type second operation button 2120E from being separated from the button receiving portion 2301.

[0102] Furthermore, the E-type second operation button 2120E includes an engagement portion 2128E (first engagement portion) at a position near the outer peripheral edge 2121E. The engagement portion 2128E is provided on the side of the second operation button 2120E opposite to the extension portion 2132E. The base member 2310 constituting the button receiving portion 2301 is provided with an engagement portion 2315. The engagement portion 2315 of the button receiving portion 2301 is formed below the wall portion 2313 (see Fig. 9B). The engaging portion 2128E of the second operation button 2120E engages with the engaging portion 2315 of the base member 2310 in a state where the second operation button 2120E is attached to the button receiving portion 2301. This configuration can prevent the E-type second operation button 2120E from being separated from the button receiving portion 2301. In particular, the engaging portion 2128E of the E-type second operation button 2120E engages with the button receiving portion 2301 at a position close to the peripheral portion 2131E. This configuration can effectively prevent the E-type second operation button 2120E from being separated from the button receiving portion 2301 even in a case where the user pushes downward the extending portion 2132E that largely protrudes toward the first operation button 2110 and pushes upward the peripheral portion 2131E on the side opposite to the extending portion 2132E.

[0103] like Fig.12 As shown, the movable portion 2129E is provided on the outer peripheral portion 2131E of the second operation button 2120E. When the user pushes the movable portion 2129E toward the inner peripheral edge 2122, the engaging portion 2128E of the second operation button 2120E moves away from the engaging portion 2128E. Fig.12 The locked position corresponding to the illustrated initial position is moved to the unlocked position (a position closer to the inner peripheral edge 2122 than the locked position). The user can release the engagement of the engagement portion 2128E of the second operation button 2120E and the engagement portion 2315 of the base member 2310 by pushing the movable portion 2129E. When the user raises the outer peripheral edge 2121E of the second operation button 2120E in this state, the engagement portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340 is pushed by the second operation button 2120E and moved to the unlocked position. In this way, the second operation button 2120E can be removed from the button receiving portion 2301.

[0104] like Fig.12As shown, a slope 2135E is formed on the outer surface of a movable portion 2129E provided on the outer peripheral edge 2121A of the E-type second operating button 2120A. The slope 2135E extends downward from the outer edge of the outer surface and toward the central portion of the body 2100. When the user pushes the slope 2135E, the second operating button 2120E moves upward and diagonally toward the central portion of the body 2100. As the second operating button 2120E moves toward the central portion of the body 2100, the second operating button 2120E can push the engaging portion 2342 of the shaft member 2340. In this way, the second operating button 2120E can be removed from the button receiving portion 2301. In other words, the slope 2135E formed on the movable portion 2129E of the second operation button 2120E can release the engagement between the two engagement portions 2128E, 2342 and the second operation button 2120E according to a series of actions for pushing the movable portion 2129E, thereby facilitating the removal of the second operation button 2120E.

[0105] like Fig.10 As shown, the A-type second operation button 2120A is not provided with an engagement portion that engages with the engagement portion 2315 of the base member 2310. A guided inclined surface 2133A is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the assembly protrusion 2125 of the second operation button 2120A to be guided by the wall portion 2313 of the base member 2310 (see FIG. Fig. 9A and 9B The guided slope 2133A is inclined downward from the outer edge of the fitting protrusion 2125A (the outer edge near the outer peripheral edge 2121A) and toward the inner peripheral edge 2122A.

[0106] like Fig. 9A As shown, a guide slope 2314 extending downward and toward the second assembly portion 2303 is formed inside the wall portion 2313, which is provided on the upper surface portion of the base member 2310 and surrounds the second assembly portion 2303. The guided slope 2133A of the assembly protrusion 2125A formed on the second operation button 2120A abuts against the guide slope 2314 and slides along the guide slope 2314. In this way, the assembly protrusion 2125A can be guided to the inner side of the wall portion 2313 according to the sliding. This configuration can facilitate the attachment of the A-type second operation button 2120A to the button receiving portion 2301. Moreover, the guided slopes 2133B to 2133E are also formed on the assembly protrusions 2125B to 2125E of the B to E-type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120E, respectively. This configuration can also facilitate each of the B to E type second operation buttons 2120A to the button receiving portion 2301.

[0107] like Figure 4BAs shown, the first fitting portion 2126A is formed on the central portion of the fitting protrusion 2125A. A wall surface 2134A is formed on the first fitting portion 2126A. The wall surface 2134A of the first fitting portion 2126A is a surface perpendicular to the bottom surface of the fitting protrusion 2125A. The wall surface 2134A of the first fitting portion 2126A may be a surface that is more perpendicular to the bottom surface of the fitting protrusion 2125A than the guided inclined surface 2133A. Fig. 9A As illustrated, a second fitting portion 2303 (second fitting portion) protruding upward is formed on the central portion of the button receiving portion 2301. A wall surface 2304 is also formed on the second fitting portion 2303. The wall surface 2304 of the second fitting portion 2303 is a surface perpendicular to the bottom surface of the button receiving portion 2301 (the bottom surface of the fitting recess 2302). The wall surface 2304 of the second fitting portion 2303 may be a surface more perpendicular to the bottom surface of the button receiving portion 2301 than the guide slope 2314.

[0108] When the second operation button 2120A is attached to the button receiving portion 2301, the wall surface 2134A of the first assembly portion 2126A collides with the wall surface 2304 of the second assembly portion 2303. This configuration can suppress the second operation button 2120A from moving along the bottom surface of the button receiving portion 2301 (the bottom surface of the assembly recess 2302). Moreover, the wall surfaces 2134B to 2134E are also formed on the recesses 2126B to 2126E of the assembly protrusions 2125B to 2125E of the B to E type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120E, respectively. This configuration can also suppress each of the B to E type second operation buttons 2120B to 2120E from moving along the bottom surface of the button receiving portion 2301.

[0109] Fig.13A is a perspective view of a marking member 2400 attached to the second operation button 2120 . Fig. 13B 2400 is a side view of the marking member 2400. The marking member 2400 can be made of materials such as resin and rubber. Figure 1 As illustrated, the opening H1 is formed on the upper surface portion of each of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 (eg, the upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second button 2120A). The marking member 2400 is detachably attached to the opening H1 of each of the second operation buttons 2120.

[0110] like Fig.13A As shown, the marking member 2400 includes a top portion 2401, which indicates a mark including a character string, a number, a symbol, or a combination of these. Fig. 13BAs shown, the marking member 2400 includes a fitting protrusion 2403 that protrudes downward from the top portion 2401 and engages with the opening H1 of the second operating button 2120. Fig.13A The top portion 2401 in the example shown in FIG. 2 has a circular shape, but the top portion 2401 may have a rectangular shape, such as a square shape or other shapes. Fig.13A In the example illustrated in FIG. 24 , a symbol of a “circle” is given to the top portion 2401 as identification information. The identification information is not limited to symbols, and may be numbers (Arabic numerals or Roman numerals) or other types of characters. The identification information given to the top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 may be of a type different from the type indicated by the identification information display portion 2111 provided on the first operation button 2110. In addition, the identification information given to the top portion 2401 may be formed in Braille or by embossing to allow the user to touch and identify the information.

[0111] The marking member 2400 can be attached to the inner side of the opening H1 of the second operating button 2120 and can be removed from the opening H1. The assembly protrusion 2403 of the marking member 2400 includes a first extension portion 2403a and a second extension portion 2403b, which have the same length and each extend downward and form a flanged lower end. A gap D2 is formed between the first extension portion 2403a and the second extension portion 2403b in the width direction of the marking member 2400. When the first extension portion 2403a and the second extension portion 2403b are bent toward the gap D2, the entire width of the assembly protrusion 2403 is reduced. This configuration enables the user to insert the assembly protrusion 2403 into the interior of the opening H1 formed in the upper surface portion of the second operating button 2120, or remove the assembly protrusion 2403 from the opening H1.

[0112] Fig.14 21 is a perspective view illustrating an A-type second operation button 2120A to which a marking member 2400 is attached. Fig.15 2 is a perspective view illustrating an E-type second operation button 2120E to which a marking member 2400 is attached. Figure 2 As shown, the opening H1 is formed at a position closer to the edge of the upper surface portion of each second operation button 2120 than the center portion of the upper surface portion of the corresponding second operation button 2120. Fig.14 and Fig.15 As illustrated, the marking member 2400 is detachably attached to a position closer to the edge of the upper surface portion than the center portion of the upper surface portion of the second operation button 2120. This configuration facilitates pressing at the center portion of the upper surface portion of the second operation button 2120.

[0113] The second operation button 2120 includes a peripheral portion 2121 disposed outside the peripheral edge C1 of the body 2100 and extending outward. Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, at least a portion of the top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 overlaps a portion of the peripheral portion 2121 of the second operation button 2120. The user can recognize the touch at the portion near the peripheral edge 2121E of the second operation button and the touch at the center portion in the width direction of the second operation button 2120 by, for example, touching the marking member 2400 while operating the second operation button 2120. In this way, the user can more easily check that the finger or the like is placed at a given starting position.

[0114] In addition, if Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, the top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 has a circular shape, and a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the top portion 2401 overlaps with a portion of the outer peripheral edge 2121 of the second operation button 2120. This configuration enables the user to easily insert a fingertip (the tip of a nail) or the like into the space between the top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 and the second operation button 2120, and remove the marking member 2400 from the second operation button 2120. The top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 may have a portion that crosses the outer peripheral edge 2121 of the second operation button 2120 and reaches the outside of the second operation button 2120. In addition, the outer edge of the top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 may have a portion that overlaps with the inner peripheral edge 2122 of the second operation button 2120. This configuration may also facilitate the removal of the marking member 2400.

[0115] like Fig.14 and 15 As shown, the top portion 2401 of the marking member 2400 includes a lower surface portion 2402 , and in a state where the marking member 2400 is attached to the second operation button 2120 , the lower surface portion 2402 faces the upper surface portion of the second operation button 2120 . Fig.14 The upper surface portion 2123A of the A-type second button 2120A illustrated in FIG. 2 is slightly curved in the vertical direction. Fig.15 The upper surface portion 2123E of the E-type second button 2120E illustrated in the example is also slightly curved in the up-down direction. Unlike these portions, the lower surface portion 2402 of the marking member 2400 is flat in the up-down direction. Accordingly, a small gap is generated between the upper surface portion of the second operation button 2120 and the lower surface portion 2402 of the marking member 2400. The user can insert a fingertip or the like into the gap. This configuration can facilitate the removal of the marking member 2400 from the second operation button 2120.

[0116] Fig.15 The marking member 2400 shown in FIG. Fig.14 The marking member 2400 illustrated in FIG. 2 is different in that a symbol of “square” is given to the top portion 2401 instead of a symbol of “circle”. The user can attach the marking member 2400 to which the desired identification information is given to each of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120. The user can attach the marking member 2400 to which the mark corresponding to the function set by the application (e.g., game application) executed by the information processing device such as the console and the server is given to the second operation button 2120. The user can recognize the function of the second operation button 2120 in the application by confirming the marking member 2400 attached to the second operation button 2120. Moreover, the user changes the arrangement of the plurality of second operation buttons 2120 in some cases, or changes the allocation of the switch of the button receiving portion 2301 corresponding to the function of the application. Even in these cases, the difference between the function set by the application and the function indicated by the mark of the marking member 2400 can be suppressed by changing the marking member 2400 attached to the second operation button 2120.

[0117] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, modifications of the above-described embodiment may also be included in the configuration within the scope of the present invention.

[0118] Fig.16 It is a disassembled perspective view showing the lower side of the second operating button 3200 and the lower side of the marking member 3400, the second operating button 3200 being a partial modification of the second operating button 2120 (e.g., type A second operating button 2120A) described in the present embodiment, and the marking member 3400 being a partial modification of the marking member 2400 described in the present embodiment. Fig.16 The second operation button 3200 shown in the figure can be attached to the main body 2100 described in the embodiment. Fig.16 The marking member 3400 shown in FIG. 1 may be attached to the second operating button 3200 shown in the figure. Fig.16 As shown, the opening H2 is formed in the outer peripheral edge 3201 of the second operation button 3200. Fig.16 In the example illustrated in FIG. 2 , the opening H2 is a hole penetrating the button 3200 in the up-down direction. The marking member 3400 is detachably attached to the opening H2 of the second operation button 3200 .

[0119] The marking member 3400 can be manufactured using materials such as resin and rubber. Fig.16As shown, the marking member 3400 includes a top portion 3401 having a plate shape and a fitting protrusion 3403 that protrudes downward from the top portion 3401 and fits into the opening H2 of the second operation button 3200. Identification information (mark) such as characters, symbols, numbers, character strings combining these, etc. is given to the upper surface of the top portion 2401. The identification information given to the top portion 3401 may be Braille or formed by embossing to allow the user to touch and recognize the information. In addition, although Fig.16 The top portion 3401 in the example shown in FIG. 3 has a circular (disc) shape, but the top portion 3401 may have a rectangular shape, such as a square shape or other shapes.

[0120] like Fig.16 As shown, the top portion 2401 of the marking member 3400 has a flat lower surface portion 3402. In a state where the marking member 3400 is attached to the second operating button 3200, the lower surface portion 3402 of the marking member 3400 faces the upper surface portion of the second operating button 3200. Although the lower surface portion 3402 of the marking member 3400 is flat, the upper surface portion of the second operating button 3200 may be curved. This configuration may form a slight gap between the upper surface portion of the second operating button 3200 and the lower surface portion 3402 of the marking member 3400. The user can remove the marking member 3400 from the second operating button 3200 by inserting a fingertip or the like into the gap.

[0121] like Fig.16 As shown, the assembly protrusion 3403 of the marking member 3400 extends downward (relative to the lower surface portion 3402 of the marking member 3400). Fig.16 The assembly protrusion 3403 may have a cylindrical shape. The assembly protrusion 3403 includes a first protrusion 3403a and a second protrusion 3403b protruding from the outer circumferential surface of the assembly protrusion 3403 along the lower surface portion 3402, respectively. The first protrusion 3403a protrudes in a first direction intersecting the up-down direction, and the second protrusion 3403b protrudes in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b are located in opposite directions relative to the axis Ax2, which is the axis of the assembly protrusion 3403, extending in the up-down direction, and sandwiched between the first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b. The width V of the first protrusion 3403a in the circumferential direction of the assembly protrusion 3403 and the width V of the second protrusion 3403b in the same direction may be equal to each other. The first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b may have the same shape and size. Note that three or more protrusions or one protrusion may be formed on the fitting protrusion 3403 .

[0122] like Fig.16As shown, the opening H2 has a circular shape, and a plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h are formed in the peripheral edge below the opening H2. Each recess 3201a to 3201h is recessed in a direction intersecting the up-down direction. Each recess 3201a to 3201h is recessed to the outside of the edge of the opening H2. Fig.16 In the example shown, eight recesses are provided. Alternatively, the number of recesses formed in the edge of the opening H2 may be more than eight or less than eight. For example, the number of recesses formed in the edge of the opening H2 may be four.

[0123] like Fig.16 As shown, each of the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h formed in the outer peripheral edge of the opening H2 may have a width W in a direction along the edge of the opening H2. The widths W of the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h may be equal. The plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h may have the same size. Fig.16 In the example shown, eight recesses are provided, and the angle formed by two adjacent recesses and the center of the opening H2 has 45 degrees. In the case where four recesses are formed in the outer peripheral edge of the opening H2, the angle formed by two adjacent recesses and the center of the opening H2 may have 90 degrees.

[0124] The sizes of the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h correspond to the sizes of the first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b. More specifically, the width W of the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h is slightly larger than the width V of the first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b. This configuration enables each of the first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b of the assembly protrusion 3403 to engage with any one of the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h.

[0125] Also, for example, a plurality of recesses may be formed in the peripheral edge of the fitting protrusion 3403. In this case, at least one protrusion protruding to the center of the opening H2 and fitted into any one of the plurality of recesses of the fitting protrusion 3403 may be formed in the peripheral edge of the opening H2.

[0126] When the first and second protrusions 3403a, 3403b are assembled to any one of the multiple recesses 3201a~3201h, it is possible to inhibit the marking member 3400 from rotating in the circumferential direction of the axis Ax2. Moreover, the marking member 3400 can be attached to the second operating button 3200 so that the first protrusion 3403a and the second protrusion 3403b of the marking member 3400 face any one of multiple directions (from the center of the opening H2 to the direction of multiple recesses 3201a to 3201h). This configuration enables the identification information, such as characters and symbols, given to the top portion 3401 of the marking member 3400 to face multiple directions relative to the second operating button 3200. For example, the bottom of the identification information such as characters can face forward or backward relative to the second operating button 3200, face the left direction or the right direction, or face the diagonal direction of the front-back direction and the left-right direction.

[0127] like Figure 3 As shown, a plurality of button receiving portions 2301 formed on the main body 2100 are arranged along the peripheral edge of the dome-shaped first operating button 2110. Accordingly, the plurality of second operating buttons 3200 attached to the plurality of button receiving portions 2301 face different directions. For example, in a case where the second operating button 3200 is attached to the button receiving portion 2301 located on the front side of the main body 2100, the peripheral edge 3201 of the second operating button 3200 faces forward. On the other hand, in a case where the second operating button 3200 is attached to the button receiving portion 2301 located on the rear side of the main body 2100, the peripheral edge 3201 of the second operating button 3200 faces rearward. Figure 3 In the example shown, the main body 2100 has eight button receiving portions 2301. Therefore, with eight second operation buttons 3200 attached to the eight button receiving portions 2301, the respective peripheral edges 3201 of the second operation buttons 3200 face eight directions, i.e., front, rear, left direction, right direction, left front direction, left rear direction, right front direction, and right rear direction.

[0128] The number of directions that the peripheral edges 3201 of the plurality of second operation buttons 3200 attached to the body 2100 face and the number of directions from the center of the opening H2 formed in each second operation button 3200 toward the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h may be equal. This configuration enables the identification information given to the plurality of marking members 3400 attached to the plurality of second operation buttons 3200 to face the same direction. Furthermore, the direction that the peripheral edges 3201 of the plurality of second operation buttons 3200 face and the direction from the center of the opening H2 toward the plurality of recesses 3201a to 3201h may be equal.

[0129] In order to attach multiple marking members 3400 to multiple second operation buttons 3200 attached to the main body 2100, the user can attach the marking members 3400 so that the multiple identification information faces the same direction. For example, the multiple marking members 3400 can be attached so that the bottom of the multiple identification information faces the front of the user. This configuration enables the user to easily identify the multiple identification information. Specifically, the user can easily identify the function of the second operation button 2120 set by an application (e.g., a game application) executed by an information processing device such as a console or a server.

[0130] (1-1)

[0131] As described above, the input device described in this embodiment includes a main body, a first operation button including an upper surface portion on which a hand is placed and attached to the main body, and a plurality of second operation buttons arranged along the outer edge of the first operation button and attached to the main body. The plurality of second operation buttons respectively include peripheral portions extending across the peripheral edge of the main body and outward. For users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices, this configuration improves the operational comfort of the input device.

[0132] (1-2)

[0133] The input device described in this embodiment includes a main body, a first operation button attached to the main body to constitute a portion for placing a hand, and a plurality of second operation buttons arranged along the outer edge of the first operation button and attached to the main body. Each of the upper surface portions of the plurality of second operation buttons is arranged above an extension line extending along the upper surface portion of the first operation button. This configuration improves the operational comfort of the input device for users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices.

[0134] (1-3)

[0135] In the input device of (1-1) or (1-2) above, the plurality of second operation buttons are detachably attached to the body. For example, a user can select a desired second operation button from a plurality of types of second operation buttons and attach the selected second operation button to the body. In addition, the peripheral portion of each second operation button spans over the outer edge of the body and extends to the outside of the body. Accordingly, the user can remove the second operation button by fitting the fingertips, the back of the hand, etc. against the peripheral portion.

[0136] (1-4)

[0137] In the input device of (1-3) above, the main body includes an engaging portion that engages with each of the plurality of second operating buttons. The engaging portion can be arranged between the first operating button and the second operating button, and contacts the second operating button when the second operating button is attached to the main body. The engaging portion can move between a locked position where the engaging portion engages with the second operating button and an unlocked position that is closer to the first operating button than the locked position. The user can easily remove the second operating button from the main body by lifting the outer peripheral edge of the second operating button upward.

[0138] (1-5)

[0139] In the input device of (1-4) above, the body includes a shaft member rotatable about a center aligned with an axis intersecting the up-down direction and the direction toward the center portion of the body. The engaging portion may be provided on the shaft member.

[0140] (1-6)

[0141] In the input device of (1-4) or (1-5) above, each of the plurality of second operation buttons may include an inclined surface extending downward from the peripheral portion of the corresponding second operation button and toward the central portion of the main body. When the user presses the inclined surface of any one of the second operation buttons, the corresponding second operation button moves toward the central portion of the main body. As a result, the engaging portion is pushed by the second operation button and moves to the unlocked position. In this way, the second operation button can be removed from the button receiving portion.

[0142] (2-1)

[0143] The input device described in this embodiment includes a main body, which includes a switch and a button receiving part for pushing the switch, an operation button attached to the button receiving part by magnetic force, a first magnetic structure, which is provided on one of the button receiving part and the operation button and includes at least two magnetic poles arranged away from each other in a first direction, and a second magnetic structure, which is provided on the other of the button receiving part and the operation button and includes a magnetic body or a magnet facing at least two magnetic poles. The operation button includes a first engaging part, which is located in a second direction intersecting the first direction relative to the at least two magnetic poles and is engaged with the button receiving part. This configuration can attract the second operation button to the button receiving part by magnetic force and correct the posture of the second operation button. Accordingly, it is easy to perform the operation for attaching the second operation button to the button receiving part. In addition, when the second operation button is pressed on the side opposite to the side where the engaging part is provided, the second operation button can be prevented from being separated from the main body.

[0144] (2-2)

[0145] In the input device of (2-1) above, the operation button is allowed to be pressed in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction.

[0146] (2-3)

[0147] In the input device of (2-2) above, the first magnetic mechanism includes a magnet. The third direction may be a direction in which magnetic poles of the magnet included in the first magnetic mechanism are away from each other.

[0148] (2-4)

[0149] In the input device of any one of (2-1) to (2-3) above, the operation button crosses the outer peripheral edge of the button receiving portion in a direction opposite to the direction in which the first engaging portion is located relative to the at least two magnetic poles. Even if the user presses the second operation button at a portion crossing the outer peripheral edge of the button receiving portion, the second operation button can be prevented from separating from the button receiving portion by the engagement of the engaging portion with the button receiving portion on the side opposite to the pressed portion.

[0150] (2-5)

[0151] In the input device of (2-1) or (2-4) above, the operation button includes a first part corresponding to a side where the first engaging part is set relative to the at least two magnetic poles and a second part corresponding to a side opposite to the first part relative to the at least two magnetic poles. The second part may have a width greater than a width of the first part in the second direction. The second operation button engages with the button receiving part at the first part where the engaging part is set. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the first part from separating from the button receiving part and the second operation button from separating from the button receiving part when the user presses the second part.

[0152] (2-6)

[0153] The first magnetic structure of any one of (2-1) to (2-5) above further includes at least one U-shaped magnetic body. At least one magnet may be disposed in a recess of at least one U-shaped magnetic body. This configuration may increase the suction force of the magnet for attracting the magnetic body. In addition, this configuration may reduce the number of magnets disposed on the button receiving portion.

[0154] (2-7)

[0155] In the input device of any one of (2-1) to (2-6) above, the operation button includes an assembly protrusion, and the assembly protrusion includes the first magnetic structure or the second magnetic structure. The button receiving portion may include an assembly recess for receiving the assembly protrusion. The guided inclined surface may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the assembly protrusion. This configuration can guide the assembly protrusion of the second operation button to the assembly recess of the button receiving portion, thereby facilitating the attachment of the second operation button to the button receiving portion.

[0156] (2-8)

[0157] In the input device of any one of (2-1) to (2-7) above, the assembly protrusion of the operation button includes a first assembly portion, which is a protrusion protruding toward the button receiving portion or a recessed portion recessed in a direction away from the button receiving portion. The button receiving portion may include a second assembly portion, which is a protrusion assembled with the first assembly portion and protruding toward the operation button or a recessed portion recessed in a direction away from the operation button. The outer peripheral surface of the first assembly portion may include a vertical surface or a surface that is more vertical than the guided inclined surface. This configuration can suppress the second operation button from moving along the bottom surface of the button receiving portion when the second operation button is attached.

[0158] (2-9)

[0159] In the input device of any one of (2-1) to (2-8) above, the main body may include a cover member having an opening through which the button receiving portion is exposed upward. The central portion of the button receiving portion may be pushed upward by the switch. The outer edge of the button receiving portion may contact the cover member. This configuration enables the switch to be operated by two pushes applied to an end portion on one side of the button receiving portion and an end portion on the other side of the button receiving portion.

[0160] (2-10)

[0161] The operation button described in this embodiment is an operation button attached to the main body by magnetic force, and includes a first magnetic structure and a first engaging portion, wherein the first magnetic structure includes at least two magnetic poles separated from each other in a first direction or a second magnetic structure including a magnetic body or a magnet facing the at least two magnetic poles, and a first engaging portion located in a second direction intersecting the first direction relative to the at least two magnetic poles and engaged with the main body. This configuration attracts the second operation button to the main body by magnetic force, thereby facilitating the work of attaching the second operation button to the main body.

[0162] (3-1)

[0163] The input device described in this embodiment includes a main body, a first operation button attached to the main body, and a second operation button attached to the main body at a position different from the position where the first operation button is attached. The first operation button includes a first upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user. The second operation button includes a second upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user, and includes an extension portion provided at a portion of the second upper surface portion and covering a portion of the first upper surface portion. This configuration enables users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices to operate the input device in a comfortable manner.

[0164] (3-2)

[0165] In the input device of (3-1) above, the second operation button may be a push button. A gap larger than the push distance of the second operation button may be formed between the lower surface of the extension portion and the first upper surface portion. This configuration can suppress interference between the second operation button and the first operation button caused by pressing the second operation button.

[0166] (3-3)

[0167] In the input device of (3-1) or (3-2) above, a plurality of buttons are arranged along the outer edge of the first operation button and attached to the body. One of the plurality of buttons may be a second operation button. This configuration can sufficiently create an exposed area inside the plurality of second operation buttons on the upper surface of the first operation button.

[0168] (3-4)

[0169] In the input device of (3-1) to (3-3) above, the main body includes a button receiving portion to which the second button is attached. The second operation button may include a peripheral portion that extends across the peripheral edge of the main body and outward. The extension portion may have a width that is smaller than a width of the peripheral portion. This configuration facilitates the layout of the operation buttons of the main body.

[0170] (3-5)

[0171] In the input device of (3-3) above, the plurality of buttons are detachably attached to the main body. A user can change the arrangement of the plurality of buttons provided on the main body and including the second operation button.

[0172] (3-6)

[0173] In the input device of any one of (3-1) to (3-5) above, the main body may include a switch and a button receiving portion for pushing the switch. The second operation button may include a first engaging portion engaged with the button receiving portion. The first engaging portion may be provided at a position on the second operation button on the side opposite to the extending portion. This configuration can prevent the portion of the second operation button on the side opposite to the extending portion from being separated from the button receiving portion when the user presses the extending portion of the second operation button.

[0174] (3-7)

[0175] In the input device of (3-6) above, the second operation button includes a peripheral portion extending outward across the peripheral edge of the body. The second operation button may include a second engaging portion, which is provided at a position near the extending portion on the second operation button and engages with the button receiving portion. This configuration can prevent the second operation button from being separated from the button receiving portion at a portion near the extending portion when the user presses the second operation button at a portion near the peripheral portion.

[0176] (3-8)

[0177] In the input device of (3-6) or (3-7) above, the second operation button includes a movable portion, which is provided on the peripheral portion to release the engagement of the first engagement portion. The user can release the engagement of the engagement portion with the button receiving portion and remove the second operation button by moving the movable portion.

[0178] (3-9)

[0179] In the input device of any one of (3-1) to (3-8) above, the first operation button may be arranged in the central part of the body. The extension portion may extend toward the central part of the body. The second operation button may include a peripheral portion that extends outward across the peripheral edge of the body. This configuration can increase the size of the second operation button in a plan view and enable a user to easily press the second operation button.

[0180] (3-10)

[0181] The second operation button described in the present embodiment is an operation button attached to the main body and including an upper surface portion pushed by a hand, and includes an extension portion provided at a portion of the upper surface portion and covering a portion of the upper surface portion, the upper surface portion being attached to the main body and provided on a different operation button to constitute a portion on which the hand is placed. This configuration enables users who are dissatisfied with the operational comfort of conventional input devices to operate the input device in a comfortable manner.

[0182] (4-1)

[0183] The input device described in the present embodiment includes a main body, a plurality of operation buttons, and a marking member, wherein the plurality of operation buttons are attached to the main body and each operation button includes an upper surface portion that allows downward pressing, each of the marking members includes a top portion indicating a mark, based on which a user identifies the function of the corresponding operation button assigned to the plurality of operation buttons, and the marking member is detachably attached to the plurality of operation buttons. Each of the plurality of operation buttons includes an opening formed in the upper surface portion. The marking member includes an assembly protrusion that protrudes downward from the top portion and is assembled with the opening, respectively. This configuration enables the user to identify the function assigned to the second operation button by checking the mark indicated by the marking member. In addition, even in the case where the function of the second operation button is changed under the application, the user can change the marking member of the second operation button to identify the correct function assigned to the second operation button.

[0184] (4-2)

[0185] The input device described in the present embodiment includes a main body, a plurality of operation buttons and a marking member, wherein the plurality of operation buttons are attached to the main body and each operation button includes an upper surface portion that allows downward pressing, each of the marking members includes a top portion of an indicating mark, based on which a user identifies the function of the corresponding operation button assigned to the plurality of operation buttons, and the marking member is detachably attached to the plurality of operation buttons. Each of the marking members is detachably attached to a position closer to the edge of the upper surface portion than the center portion of the upper surface portion. This configuration enables a user to identify the function assigned to a second operation button by checking the mark indicated on the marking member. Moreover, the marking member is attached to a position closer to the edge of the upper surface portion than the center portion of the upper surface portion of the second operation button. Accordingly, the user can easily press the center portion of the upper surface portion of the second operation button.

[0186] (4-3)

[0187] In the input device of (4-1) or (4-2) above, the plurality of operation buttons are detachably attached to the body. Even if the user changes the arrangement of the second operation button on the body, the user can change the marking member of the second operation button to identify the correct function assigned to the second operation button.

[0188] (4-4)

[0189] In the input device of any one of (4-1) to (4-3) above, a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the top portion overlaps a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the operation button. This configuration enables a user to easily insert a fingertip or the like into the space between the top portion of the marking member and the second operation button and remove the marking member from the second operation button.

[0190] (4-5)

[0191] In the input device of any one of (4-1) to (4-4) above, the top portion includes a lower surface portion facing the upper surface portion when the marking member is attached to the operation button. Each of the upper surface portions can be curved in the up-down direction. Each of the lower surface portions can be flat in the up-down direction. This configuration can form a gap between the top portion of the marking member and the second operation button, and facilitates removal of the marking member from the second operation button.

[0192] (4-6)

[0193] In the input device of any one of (4-1) to (4-5) above, each of the plurality of operation buttons includes a peripheral portion extending outward across the peripheral edge of the body. At least a portion of the top portion may overlap a portion of the peripheral portion. This configuration enables a user to recognize a touch at a portion near the peripheral portion of the second operation button by touching the marking member when the user is performing the second operation.

[0194] (4-7)

[0195] In the input device of any one of (4-1) to (4-6) above, the marking member includes an assembly protrusion that protrudes downward from the top portion and is assembled with the opening. Each of the openings may include a plurality of recesses formed along the edge of the opening. The assembly protrusion may also include at least one protrusion that is assembled with any one of the plurality of recesses. This configuration can suppress the rotation of the marking member in the circumferential direction of the axis of the assembly protrusion. In addition, this configuration enables the mark assigned to the top portion of the marking member to face multiple directions relative to the second operating button. For example, by attaching a plurality of the marking members to a plurality of second operating buttons so that the bottom of the marks of each of the plurality of marking members faces the front of the user, the user can easily identify a plurality of marks.

[0196] (4-8)

[0197] In the input device of any one of (4-1) to (4-6) above, the marking member includes an assembly protrusion protruding downward from the top portion and assembled with the opening. Each assembly protrusion may include a plurality of recesses. Each of the openings may include at least one protrusion formed along the edge of the opening and assembled into at least any one of the plurality of recesses. This configuration can also suppress the rotation of the marking member in the circumferential direction of the axis of the assembly protrusion. In addition, this configuration enables the mark assigned to the top portion of the marking member to face multiple directions relative to the second operating button. For example, by attaching a plurality of the marking members to a plurality of the second operating buttons in a manner such that the bottom of the marks of each of the plurality of marking members faces the front of the user, the user can easily identify a plurality of marks.

[0198] It should be understood that the subject matter encompassed by the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments shown and described in detail in this specification, but only by the claims.

Claims

1. An input device, comprising: main body; a first operating button attached to the main body; and a second operation button attached to the main body at a position different from the attachment position of the first operation button, wherein the first operation button includes a first upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user, and The second operation button includes a second upper surface portion constituting an operation portion operated by a user, and includes an extending portion provided at a portion of the second upper surface portion and covering a portion of the first upper surface portion.

2. The input device according to claim 1, in, The second operation button is a push button; and A gap greater than a pushing distance of the second operation button is formed between the lower surface of the extending portion and the first upper surface portion.

3. The input device according to claim 1, in, A plurality of buttons are arranged along an outer edge of the first operation button and attached to the body, and One of the plurality of buttons is a second operation button.

4. The input device according to claim 1, in, the body including a button receiving portion to which a second button is attached, The second operation button includes a peripheral portion that extends across the peripheral edge of the body and outwardly, and The width of the extension portion is smaller than the width of the peripheral portion.

5. The input device according to claim 3, in, A plurality of buttons are detachably attached to the body.

6. The input device according to claim 1, in, The main body includes a switch and a button receiving portion for pushing the switch. The second operation button includes a first engaging portion engaged with the button receiving portion, and The first engaging portion is provided at a position on the second operating button at a side opposite to the extending portion.

7. The input device according to claim 6, in, The second operation button includes a peripheral portion that extends across the peripheral edge of the body and outwardly, and The second operation button includes a second engagement portion that is provided on the second operation button at a position close to the extending portion and engages with the button receiving portion.

8. The input device according to claim 6, in, The second operation button includes a movable portion provided on the outer peripheral portion to release engagement of the first engagement portion.

9. The input device according to claim 1, in, The first operation button is arranged at the center part of the main body, The extension portion extends toward a central portion of the body, and The second operation button includes a peripheral portion that straddles the peripheral edge of the body and extends outward.

10. An operation button attached to a main body and including an upper surface portion to be pressed by hand, the operation button comprising: An extension portion is provided at a portion of an upper surface portion and covers a portion of the upper surface portion, which is attached to the main body and provided on various operation buttons to constitute a portion on which a hand is placed.

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