Tactile sensation presentation device

Abstract

A tactile sensation presentation device is provided with: a vibration target unit that is operated by a user; and a first vibration unit that vibrates the vibration target unit. The vibration target portion includes: a vibration target member which is vibrated by the first vibration portion and has at least one slit; and an elastic resin having at least a portion that blocks the at least one slit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technology for prompting a tactile sensation. Background Art

[0002] A technology for prompting a vibration-based tactile sensation is described in Patent Document 1.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2011-53745 Summary of the Invention

[0006] A tactile sensation prompting device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the tactile sensation prompting device includes: a vibration target part for a user to operate; and a first vibration part for vibrating the vibration target part. The vibration target part has: a vibration target member that is vibrated by the first vibration part and has at least one slit; and an elastic resin that has at least a part for blocking at least one slit. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0008] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0009] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0010] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0011] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0012] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0013] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0014] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0015] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of a leaf spring member.

[0016] Figure 10 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device.

[0017] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a tactile cue device.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a tactile cue device.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a tactile cue device.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a tactile cue device.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a tactile cue device.

[0022] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a tactile cue device. Detailed implementation

[0023] Figures 1 - 4 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile cue device 1. In Figure 2 it shows an example of the situation of observing the tactile cue device 1 shown from Figure 1 the right side. In Figure 1 it shows an example of the situation of observing the tactile cue device 1 shown from Figure 3 the right side. In Figure 1 it shows an example of the sectional structure of the tactile cue device 1 in the viewing direction A - A. In Figure 4 it shows an example of the sectional structure of the tactile cue device 1 in the viewing direction B - B. The tactile cue device 1 is a device that cues the user with a tactile sensation according to the user's operation on the tactile cue device 1. Hereafter, for the convenience of explanation, the upper side and the lower side of the figure showing the tactile cue device 1 will be respectively regarded as the upper side and the lower side of the tactile cue device 1 to explain the tactile cue device 1. Figure 2 The tactile cue device 1 cues the user with a tactile sensation by vibrating the vibration object part 2 according to the user's operation on the vibration object part 2.

[0024] As Figures 1 - 4 shown, the tactile cue device 1 includes, for example: a vibration object part 2 for the user to operate; a vibration part 7 for vibrating the vibration object part 2; a control part 8 for controlling the vibration part 7; and a housing 9 for supporting the vibration object part 2. The vibration part 7 and the control part 8 are housed in the housing 9. In the tactile cue device 1, according to the user's operation on the vibration object part 2, the vibration part 7 vibrates the vibration object part 2, thereby cueing the user with a tactile sensation.

[0025] The vibrating object part 2 includes, for example: a vibrating object member 3 that is vibrated by a vibrating part 7; an elastic resin 4; and an operation part 5 that is operated by a user. The vibrating object member 3 has at least one slit 35. The elastic resin 4 has at least a part that blocks at least one slit 35. The part that blocks at least one slit 35 may also be, for example, the part filled in at least one slit 35. In this case, it can be said that the elastic member 4 has at least a part filled in at least one slit 35. In Figures 1 - 4 In the example of, for example, one slit 35 is provided in the vibrating object member 3. In addition, in Figures 1 - 4 In the example of, the elastic resin 4 is filled in the slit 35 and covers the surface of the vibrating object member 3.

[0026] The vibrating object member 3 is, for example, plate-shaped. The vibrating object member 3 may also be referred to as a panel or a panel member, for example. The outer shape of the vibrating object member 3 is, for example, a rectangle with rounded corners. The shape of the vibrating object member 3 is not limited to this.

[0027] The vibrating object member 3 is made of resin, for example. The resin constituting the vibrating object member 3 may be polycarbonate or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), for example. The plate-shaped vibrating object member 3 includes, for example, a first surface 31 and a second surface 32 on the side opposite to the first surface 31. The first surface 31 may also be referred to as the first main surface 31, and the second surface 32 may also be referred to as the second main surface 32, for example.

[0028] The slit 35 is, for example, an elongated hole that penetrates the vibrating object member 3 in its thickness direction. The slit 35 may also be referred to as a groove, for example. A U-shaped slit 35 is provided in the vibrating object member 3, for example. The slit 35 is provided in such a way that the two ends of the U shape formed by it face downward. It should be noted that the shape of the slit 35 may not be U-shaped but linear, or a U shape may be formed by arranging a plurality of linear slits.

[0029] The vibrating part 7 is provided on the second surface 32 of the vibrating object member 3, for example. The vibrating part 7 is provided at the central part of the second surface 32, for example. The vibrating part 7 is made of a piezoelectric element, for example. The vibrating part 7 is fixed to the second surface 32 by a bonding member such as double-sided tape or an adhesive. Hereinafter, the vibrating part 7 made of a piezoelectric element may sometimes be referred to as the piezoelectric element 7.

[0030] The piezoelectric element 7 may be a ceramic piezoelectric element or a polymer piezoelectric element, for example. In addition, the piezoelectric element 7 may be a bimorph type or a unimorph type, for example.

[0031] The piezoelectric element 7, for example, has a shape that is longer in one direction. Specifically, the piezoelectric element 7 has a rectangular and elongated plate shape when viewed from above. The piezoelectric element 7 is arranged on the second surface 32 of the vibration target member 3 such that the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7 is parallel to the long side direction of the vibration target member 3. The piezoelectric element 7 undergoes flexural vibration in a manner of bending along its long side direction according to the drive signal supplied from the control unit 8. The plate-shaped piezoelectric element 7 undergoes flexural vibration by alternately repeating a first state in which one main surface is on the outside and it flexes into a mountain shape and a second state in which the other main surface is on the outside and it flexes into a mountain shape. By the piezoelectric element 7 undergoing flexural vibration, the vibration target portion 2 vibrates.

[0032] The elastic resin 4, for example, is in a sheet shape and is provided on the first surface 31 of the vibration target member 3. The elastic resin 4, for example, covers the entire area of the first surface 31. The outer shape of the elastic resin 4 is the same as the outer shape of the vibration target member 3, and for example, is a rectangle with rounded corners. The sheet-shaped elastic resin 4, for example, has a first surface 41 and a second surface 42 on the side opposite to the first surface 41. The first surface 41 can also be said to be the first main surface 41, and the second surface 42 can also be said to be the second main surface 42. The second surface 42 is in contact with the first surface 31 of the vibration target member 3.

[0033] The elastic resin 4 has a portion that blocks the slit 35. The portion that blocks the slit 35 can also be the portion of the elastic resin 4 that is filled in the slit 35. The elastic resin 4 has a protruding portion 40 that protrudes into the slit 35 from the second surface 42 side, and this protruding portion 40 constitutes the portion filled in the slit 35. The protruding portion 40 extends along the long side direction of the slit 35 and exists within the entire range of the long side direction of the slit 35. In the long side direction of the slit 35, the entire area of the slit 35 is filled by the protruding portion 40. On the other hand, in the depth direction (in other words, the height direction) of the slit 35, the slit 35 is partially filled by the protruding portion 40. The protruding portion 40 that protrudes into the slit 35 from the second surface 42 side of the elastic resin 4 does not reach the second surface 32 of the vibration target member 3. In Figure 3 the example, about half of the depth direction (in other words, the height direction) of the slit 35 is filled by the protruding portion 40. It should be noted that the entire area of the depth direction (in other words, the height direction) of the slit 35 can also be filled by the protruding portion 40.

[0034] The elastic resin 4 is, for example, made of a resin that is softer than the vibration target member 3. That is, the elastic resin 4 is, for example, made of a resin having a smaller elastic modulus (such as tensile elastic modulus) than the vibration target member 3. The elastic resin 4 is, for example, made of an elastomer such as silicone resin or polyurethane.

[0035] The housing 9 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped with one face open. The housing 9 can also be said to be in a slightly elongated box shape. The housing 9 can be made of resin, for example, or metal, or other materials. The vibration object member 3 is fixed, for example, to the upper end face of the peripheral wall portion of the housing 9. On the upper end face of the peripheral wall portion of the housing 9, the inner peripheral side region descends one level, and a step is formed in this region. The peripheral end portion of the second face 32 of the vibration object member 3 is fixed, for example, to the bottom face of the step formed on the upper end face of the peripheral wall portion of the housing 9 by a waterproof joint 10. The entire region of the peripheral end portion of the second face 32 is fixed to the housing 9 by the waterproof joint 10. Thus, it is difficult for water or dust to enter the housing 9. The waterproof joint 10 can be a waterproof tape, for example, or a waterproof adhesive. The vibration unit 7 and the control unit 8 are arranged in the space surrounded by the housing 9 and the vibration object member 3, so it can also be regarded that a housing is formed by the housing 9 and the vibration object member 3. In this case, the housing 9 can also be called a support housing, and the vibration object member 3 can be called a vibration housing. In addition, it can also be regarded that a housing is formed by the housing 9 and the vibration object portion 2.

[0036] The operation unit 5 operated by the user is provided, for example, on the first face 41 of the elastic resin 4. The operation unit 5 is composed of a protruding portion that protrudes from the first face 41 of the elastic resin 4 to the outside of the tactile sensation presentation device 1, for example. The operation unit 5 can also be said to be an operation button, for example. The operation unit 5 is formed integrally with the elastic resin 4 from the same material as the elastic resin 4, for example. In this case, it can also be regarded that a part of the elastic resin 4 constitutes the operation unit 5.

[0037] The operation unit 5 is located above the central portion of the first face 41 in the short side direction ( Figure 1 the left - right direction) of the first face 41 of the elastic resin 4. In addition, the operation unit 5 is located at a position above the central portion of the first face 41 in the long side direction ( Figure 1 the up - down direction) of the first face 41. In the tactile sensation presentation device 1, according to the operation of the operation unit 5 by the user, the vibration unit 7 vibrates the vibration object portion 2, thereby presenting a tactile sensation to the user.

[0038] The part composed of the elastic resin 4 and the operation unit 5 and the vibration object member 3 can also be integrally formed by two - color molding, for example. It should be noted that the part composed of the elastic resin 4 and the operation unit 5 and the vibration object member 3 can also be manufactured separately and installed to each other by a joint such as a double - sided tape or an adhesive. This joint can also be a waterproof joint. In addition, the operation unit 5 can be made of a material different from the elastic resin 4. For example, the operation unit 5 can be made of the same material as the vibration object member 3, or other materials such as metal.

[0039] Here, the situation of looking down on the piezoelectric element 7 and the slit 35 from the second surface 32 side of the vibrating object member 3 and looking down and through the operation unit 5 is referred to as the first top view. As Figure 4 shown, in the first top view, the piezoelectric element 7 and the operation unit 5 are arranged along the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7. In addition, as Figure 4 shown, in the first top view, the operation unit 5 is located between the slit 35 and the piezoelectric element 7 in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7. In the first top view, it can also be said that the operation unit 5 is located between the central portion of the piezoelectric element 7 and the slit 35 in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7. In addition, in the first top view, approximately the upper half in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7 is surrounded by the U-shaped slit 35. If the operation unit 5 is operated, specifically, if the operation unit 5 is pressed, the vibrating object member 3 deforms and the piezoelectric element 7 flexes, and as a result, an electromotive force is generated in the piezoelectric element 7.

[0040] The control unit 8 is constituted by, for example, a circuit board formed with a circuit. The control unit 8 can supply a drive voltage to the piezoelectric element 7 to cause the piezoelectric element 7 to flex and vibrate. In addition, the control unit 8 can identify the operation of the operation unit 5 based on the electromotive force generated in the piezoelectric element 7 according to the operation of the operation unit 5. The control unit 8 and the piezoelectric element 7 are electrically connected by a cable.

[0041] All functions of the control unit 8 or a part of the functions of the control unit 8 can also be implemented by a hardware circuit that does not require software in the implementation of this function. In addition, as described in more detail below, in order to provide control and processing capabilities for executing various functions, the control unit 8 may also include at least one processor.

[0042] According to various embodiments, at least one processor can also be executed as a single integrated circuit (IC), or multiple integrated circuits (ICs) and / or discrete circuits connected in a communicable manner. At least one processor can be executed according to various known technologies.

[0043] In one embodiment, the processor includes, for example, one or more circuits or units configured to execute one or more data calculation processes or processes by executing instructions stored in a related memory. In other embodiments, the processor may also be firmware (e.g., discrete logic components) configured to execute one or more data calculation processes or processes.

[0044] According to various embodiments, the processor includes one or more processors, controllers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processing devices, programmable logic devices, field programmable gate arrays, or any combination of these devices or structures, or a combination of other known devices and structures, and can also execute the functions described below.

[0045] In this example, the control unit 8 includes, for example, a microcomputer that includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, an A / D converter, an amplifier, and the like. The control unit 8 can also be said to be a control circuit, for example. The control unit 8 can also be said to be a computer device, for example.

[0046] The control unit 8, for example, amplifies the electromotive force (also referred to as the output voltage) generated in the piezoelectric element 7 according to the pressing of the operation unit 5, and sets the amplified electromotive force as a deflection amount level indicating the deflection amount at the piezoelectric element 7. Then, the control unit 8 performs A / D conversion on the deflection amount level, and based on the deflection amount level after A / D conversion, identifies the operation on the operation unit 5. When the control unit 8 identifies the operation on the operation unit 5, it generates a drive signal for driving the piezoelectric element 7, and supplies the generated drive signal to the piezoelectric element 7 to cause the piezoelectric element 7 to flex and vibrate. When the piezoelectric element 7 flexes and vibrates, the vibration target part 2 vibrates and the operation unit 5 vibrates. Thus, for example, a tactile sensation is imparted to the finger pressing the operation unit 5 through vibration.

[0047] The control unit 8 can also, when identifying the operation on the operation unit 5, use at least one of wired communication and wireless communication to notify an external device (also simply referred to as an external device) outside the tactile sensation presentation device 1 that the operation unit 5 has been operated. When notified that the operation unit 5 has been operated, the external device performs a prescribed process. For example, the external device can cause a display unit included in itself to perform a prescribed display, or can control other mechanical devices. In addition, the external device can also use at least one of wired communication and wireless communication to make a prescribed notification to a device other than the external device and the tactile sensation presentation device 1. In addition, when the tactile sensation presentation device 1 includes a display unit, the control unit 8 can also, when identifying the operation on the operation unit 5, cause the display unit to perform a prescribed display. In addition, when the tactile sensation presentation device 1 includes a sound output unit such as a buzzer or a speaker, the control unit 8 can also, when identifying the operation on the operation unit 5, cause the sound output unit to output sound.

[0048] As described above, in the tactile sensation presentation device 1, since the slit 35 is provided in the vibration target member 3, the vibration target member 3 can be easily vibrated. As in this example, even when the vibration target member 3 is fixed to the housing 9 through the waterproof joint 10, the vibration target member 3 can be easily vibrated. In addition, since the elastic resin 4 has a portion filled in the slit 35, the ease of vibration of the vibration target member 3 can be maintained, and it is difficult for water or dust to enter the housing 9 from the slit 35.

[0049] In addition, when the vibration unit 7 is composed of a piezoelectric element as in this example, it is possible to identify the operation on the vibration target unit 2 based on the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7. Therefore, there is no need to separately provide a component such as a touch panel for detecting the operation on the vibration target unit 2 from the vibration unit 7. In addition, even when the tactile sensation presentation device 1 is provided with a touch panel, the operation of the touch panel can be stopped for detecting the operation on the operation unit 5. Therefore, the power consumption of the tactile sensation presentation device 1 provided with a touch panel can be reduced.

[0050] It should be noted that the vibration unit 7 may also be composed of a component other than a piezoelectric element. For example, the vibration unit 7 may be a vibration motor or other component that vibrates the vibration target unit 2. When the vibration unit 7 is composed of a component other than a piezoelectric element, the vibration target member 3 may also be composed of a touch panel that detects a touch operation of a user, for example. In this case, the control unit 8 can identify the operation on the operation unit 5 based on the output signal of the touch panel. In addition, the control unit 8 may also identify the operation on the first surface 41 of the elastic resin 4 based on the output signal of the touch panel, and vibrate the vibration unit 7 according to the identification of the operation to give a tactile sensation to the user.

[0051] In the above example, the elastic resin 4 covers the entire area of the first surface 31 of the vibration target member 3, but it may also cover only a part of the first surface 31. In addition, the elastic resin 4 may not cover the first surface 41 of the vibration target member 3. That is, as long as the elastic resin 4 has a part that blocks the slit 35 without covering the surface of the vibration target member 3. For example, the elastic resin 4 may also be composed of only the part filled in the slit 35. It is sufficient that the elastic resin 4 has at least the part filled in the slit 35.

[0052] When the elastic resin 4 is composed of only the part filled in the slit 35, water or dust may enter the housing 9 from the boundary surface between the inner wall of the slit 35 and the elastic resin 4. In contrast, as in Figures 1 - 4 the example, when the elastic resin 4 is filled in the slit 35 and covers the surface of the vibration target member 3, it is possible to make it more difficult for water or dust to enter the housing 9 from the slit 35.

[0053] The shape and number of the slits 35 are not limited to the above example. Figure 5 and 6 are schematic diagrams showing another example of the slit 35. Figure 5 and 6 are diagrams corresponding to the above Figure 4 In the example of Figure 5 , a linear slit 35 is provided in the vibration target member 3. In Figure 5In the example, in a first top view, the operation unit 5 is also located between the slit 35 and the piezoelectric element 7 in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7.

[0054] In Figure 6 the example, five linear slits 35 are provided in the vibration target member 3. Figure 6 The example of Figure 5 is an example in which four slits 35 are additionally provided in the example of

[0055] In the above example, the vibration unit 7 is directly fixed to the vibration target member 3, but as Figure 7 and 8 shown, the leaf spring member 100 to which the vibration unit 7 is fixed may be fixed to the vibration target member 3. Figure 7 and 8 correspond to the above Figure 3 and 4 respectively. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the leaf spring member 100. Hereinafter, the Figure 7 and 8 shown tactile presentation device 1 is sometimes referred to as the tactile presentation device 1A.

[0056] The leaf spring member 100 can amplify the intensity of the vibration of the piezoelectric element 7 and transmit it to the vibration target member 3. The leaf spring member 100 can also be said to be a vibration amplification member. The leaf spring member 100 is made of, for example, metal. The leaf spring member 100 is plate-shaped and includes, for example, a leaf spring portion 101 and two fixing portions 105. The outer shape of the leaf spring portion 101 is substantially rectangular. The leaf spring portion 101 has fixing portions 102 at both ends thereof. Through holes 102a are provided in each fixing portion 102. Each fixing portion 102 is fixed to the vibration target member 3 by a screw 120.

[0057] The two fixing portions 105 protrude outward from the central portion of the long side direction of the leaf spring portion 101 in opposite directions to each other. The leaf spring portion 101 and the two fixing portions 105 form a cross shape. Through holes 105a are provided in each fixing portion 105. Each fixing portion 105 is fixed to the housing 9 by a screw 130.

[0058] The length of the leaf spring portion 101 is set to be larger than the length of the piezoelectric element 7. The piezoelectric element 7 is fixed to the central portion of the leaf spring portion 101 by a bonding member such as epoxy resin so that the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7 is parallel to the long side direction of the leaf spring portion 101.

[0059] In the tactile sensation presenting device 1A, the housing 9 has two protrusions 900 protruding inwardly therefrom. Threaded holes are provided in each of the protrusions 900. Two fixing portions 105 of the leaf spring member 100 are respectively fixed to the two protrusions 900 of the housing 9 by screws 130. After the screw 130 passes through the through hole 105a of the fixing portion 105, the screw 130 is screwed into the threaded hole of the protrusion 900, thereby threadedly fixing the fixing portion 105 to the protrusion 900.

[0060] In addition, in the tactile sensation presenting device 1A, the vibration target member 3 has two protrusions 300 protruding from the second surface 32 side thereof. Threaded holes are provided in each of the protrusions 300. Two fixing portions 102 at both ends of the leaf spring portion 101 are respectively fixed to the two protrusions 300 by screws 120. After the screw 120 passes through the through hole 102a of the fixing portion 102, the screw 120 is screwed into the threaded hole of the protrusion 300, thereby threadedly fixing the fixing portion 102 to the protrusion 300.

[0061] The operation portion 5 is opposed to the upper fixing portion 102 of the leaf spring portion 101 with the elastic resin 4 and the vibration target member 3 interposed therebetween in the thickness direction of the vibration target portion 2. When the operation portion 5 is pressed, the upper fixing portion 102 of the leaf spring portion 101 is pressed, and the leaf spring portion 101 bends with the fixing portion 105 as a fulcrum. As a result, the piezoelectric element 7 flexes and an electromotive force is generated in the piezoelectric element 7. If the control portion 8 confirms the operation of the operation portion 5 based on the electromotive force generated in the piezoelectric element 7, the piezoelectric element 7 is caused to flex and vibrate. When the piezoelectric element 7 flexes and vibrates, the leaf spring portion 101 flexes and vibrates. As a result, the intensity of the vibration of the piezoelectric element 7 is amplified and transmitted to the vibration target portion 2. Thereby, for example, a tactile sensation can be efficiently presented to a finger touching the operation portion 5.

[0062] In the above example, the tactile sensation presenting device 1 has one operation portion 5, but may have a plurality of operation portions 5. In addition, the tactile sensation presenting device 1 may have a plurality of vibration portions 7. Figures 10 - 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation presenting device 1 having a plurality of operation portions 5 and a plurality of vibration portions 7. Hereinafter, the Figures 10 - 13 tactile sensation presenting device 1 shown may be referred to as a tactile sensation presenting device 1B.

[0063] Figure 11 shows an example of the case of observing the Figure 10 tactile sensation presenting device 1B shown from the right side of Figure 10 . Figure 13 shows an example of Figure 10 the cross-sectional structure of the C-C view of Figure 13 . Figure 11 shows an example of the cross-sectional structure of the D-D view of

[0064] As shown in Figures 10 - 13As shown, the tactile cue device 1B includes, for example, five operation units 5 (also referred to as operation units 5a to 5d), two vibration units 7 (vibration units 7a and 7b), and two slits 35 (also referred to as slits 35a and 35b). The vibration units 7a and 7b are, for example, piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b respectively. The control unit 8 can, for example, vibrate the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b independently. In addition, the control unit 8 can identify which of the operation units 5a to 5d is operated based on the electromotive force at the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b.

[0065] The operation units 5a and 5b are located on the first surface 41 of the elastic resin 4 at positions above the central portion. The operation units 5a and 5b are arranged along the short side direction of the first surface 41. The operation units 5c, 5d, and 5e are located on the first surface 41 at positions below the central portion. The operation units 5c and 5d are arranged along the short side direction of the first surface 41. The operation unit 5e is located below the operation units 5c and 5d. The operation unit 5e is located at the central portion of the first surface 41 in the short side direction of the first surface 41. The operation units 5a and 5c are arranged along the long side direction of the first surface 41, and the operation units 5b and 5d are arranged along the long side direction of the first surface 41.

[0066] The slit 35a is provided in the vibration object member 3 at a position above the central portion. The slit 35b is provided in the vibration object member 3 at a position below the central portion. The slits 35a and 35b are each, for example, in an E shape. The slit 35a is provided, for example, such that the open ends of the three parallel lines of the E formed thereby face downward. The slit 35b is provided, for example, such that the open ends of the three parallel lines of the E formed thereby face upward.

[0067] The piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b are fixed to the second surface 32 of the vibration object member 3. The piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b are arranged along the short side direction of the second surface 32. The piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b are arranged such that their long side directions are parallel to the long side direction of the second surface 32. When looking down on the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b and the slits 35a and 35b from the second surface 32 side, as Figure 13 shown, the upper end portions of the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b are respectively located in two spaces divided by the three parallel lines of the E formed by the upper slit 35a, and the lower approximately half of the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b are respectively located in two spaces divided by the three parallel lines of the E formed by the lower slit 35b.

[0068] Here, the situation of looking down on the piezoelectric element 7a, the piezoelectric element 7b, the slit 35a, and the slit 35b from the second surface 32 side of the vibration object member 3 and looking down and through the operation units 5a to 5e is referred to as the second top view. As Figure 13As shown, in the second top view, the operation parts 5a and 5b are located above the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b, most of the operation parts 5c and 5d are located below the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b, and the operation part 5e is located below the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b.

[0069] In the second top view, the piezoelectric element 7a and the operation part 5a are arranged along the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7a, and the operation part 5a is located between the piezoelectric element 7a and the slit 35a in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7a. In the second top view, it can also be said that the operation part 5a is located between the central part of the piezoelectric element 7a and the slit 35a in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7a.

[0070] In the second top view, the piezoelectric element 7b and the operation part 5b are arranged along the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7b, and the operation part 5b is located between the piezoelectric element 7b and the slit 35a in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7b. In the second top view, it can also be said that the operation part 5b is located between the central part of the piezoelectric element 7b and the slit 35a in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7b.

[0071] In the second top view, the operation part 5c is located between the central part of the piezoelectric element 7a and the slit 35b in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7a and slightly overlaps with the lower end part of the piezoelectric element 7a. In the second top view, the operation part 5d is located between the central part of the piezoelectric element 7b and the slit 35b in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7b and slightly overlaps with the lower end part of the piezoelectric element 7b. In the second top view, the operation part 5e overlaps with the slit 35b. Specifically, in the second top view, the operation part 5e overlaps with the middle parallel line among the three parallel lines of the "E" formed by the slit 35b.

[0072] The tactile cue device 1B is configured such that the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b varies according to the operated operation part 5. Thus, the control unit 8 can easily identify which operation part 5 among the plurality of operation parts 5 is operated. The amount of deflection of the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b is determined by, for example, the shape of the slit 35 and the positional relationship among the slit 35, the piezoelectric element 7, and the operation part 5.

[0073] When either of the pressing operation parts 5a and 5c is pressed, the piezoelectric element 7a is easily deflected, and the piezoelectric element 7b is hardly deflected. Therefore, when either of the pressing operation parts 5a and 5c is pressed, the electromotive force (also referred to as the first electromotive force) at the piezoelectric element 7a is greater than the electromotive force (also referred to as the second electromotive force) at the piezoelectric element 7b. In addition, in the tactile sensation presentation device 1B, when the pressing operation part 5c is pressed, the piezoelectric element 7a is more easily deflected than when the pressing operation part 5a is pressed with the same intensity. Therefore, the first electromotive force when the pressing operation part 5c is pressed with a certain intensity is greater than the first electromotive force when the pressing operation part 5a is pressed with the same intensity. When the first electromotive force is greater than the second electromotive force to a certain extent, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation part 5a has been operated. On the other hand, when the first electromotive force is much greater than the second electromotive force, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation part 5c has been operated.

[0074] Here, the deflection amount level obtained by the control unit 8 amplifying the first electromotive force is referred to as the first deflection amount level. In addition, the deflection amount level obtained by the control unit 8 amplifying the second electromotive force is referred to as the second deflection amount level. When the value obtained by subtracting the second deflection amount level from the first deflection amount level is equal to or greater than the first threshold value and less than the second threshold value, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation part 5a has been operated. The first threshold value is greater than 0, and the second threshold value is greater than the first threshold value. On the other hand, when the value obtained by subtracting the second deflection amount level from the first deflection amount level is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation part 5c has been operated.

[0075] When either of the pressing operation parts 5b and 5d is pressed, the piezoelectric element 7b is easily deflected, and the piezoelectric element 7a is hardly deflected. Therefore, when either of the pressing operation parts 5b and 5d is pressed, the second electromotive force is greater than the first electromotive force. In addition, in the tactile sensation presentation device 1B, when the pressing operation part 5d is pressed, the piezoelectric element 7b is more easily deflected than when the pressing operation part 5b is pressed with the same intensity. Therefore, the second electromotive force when the pressing operation part 5d is pressed with a certain intensity is greater than the second electromotive force when the pressing operation part 5b is pressed with the same intensity.

[0076] When the second electromotive force is greater than the first electromotive force by a certain degree, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5b has been operated. On the other hand, when the second electromotive force is much greater than the first electromotive force, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5d has been operated. Specifically, when the value obtained by subtracting the first deflection amount level from the second deflection amount level is equal to or greater than the third threshold value and less than the fourth threshold value, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5b has been operated. The third threshold value is greater than 0, and the fourth threshold value is greater than the third threshold value. The third threshold value may be the same as or different from the first threshold value. The fourth threshold value may be the same as or different from the second threshold value. On the other hand, when the value obtained by subtracting the first deflection amount level from the second deflection amount level is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5d has been operated.

[0077] When the operation unit 5e is pressed, the deflection amounts of the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b are substantially the same. Therefore, when the operation unit 5e is pressed, the first electromotive force and the second electromotive force are substantially the same. When the first electromotive force and the second electromotive force are each large to a certain degree and the difference between the first electromotive force and the second electromotive force is very small, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5e has been operated. Specifically, when the first deflection amount level and the second deflection amount level are each equal to or greater than the fifth threshold value and the absolute value of the difference between the first deflection amount level and the second deflection amount level is less than the sixth threshold value, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5e has been operated. The fifth threshold value is greater than 0. The sixth threshold value is less than the first threshold value and the third threshold value and is 0 or more.

[0078] If the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5a has been operated, for example, only the piezoelectric element 7a among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b is vibrated. Thereby, for example, a tactile sensation can be given to the finger touching the operation unit 5a. In addition, if the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5c has been operated, for example, only the piezoelectric element 7a among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b is vibrated. Thereby, for example, a tactile sensation can be given to the finger touching the operation unit 5c. It should be noted that if the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5a has been operated, it may vibrate only the piezoelectric element 7b among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b, or may vibrate both the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b. The same applies to the case where the operation unit 5c has been operated.

[0079] If the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5b has been operated, for example, only the piezoelectric element 7b among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b is vibrated. Thereby, for example, a tactile sensation can be given to the finger touching the operation unit 5b. In addition, if the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5d has been operated, for example, only the piezoelectric element 7b among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b is vibrated. Thereby, for example, a tactile sensation can be given to the finger touching the operation unit 5d. It should be noted that if the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5b has been operated, it may vibrate only the piezoelectric element 7a among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b, or may vibrate both the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b. The same applies to the case where the operation unit 5d has been operated.

[0080] When the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5e is operated, for example, it vibrates both the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b. Thereby, for example, a tactile sensation can be imparted to the finger touching the operation unit 5e. It should be noted that when the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5e is operated, it may vibrate only the piezoelectric element 7a among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b, or may vibrate only the piezoelectric element 7b among the piezoelectric elements 7a and 7b.

[0081] The tactile sensation presenting device 1B may also not include a part of the operation units 5a to 5d. For example, the tactile sensation presenting device 1B may not include the operation unit 5e. Additionally, the tactile sensation presenting device 1B may not include the operation units 5b, 5d, and 5e. In this case, the piezoelectric element 7b is not required, and the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5a is operated when the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7a reaches a certain level, and recognizes that the operation unit 5c is operated when the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7a is quite large. Specifically, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5a is operated when the first flexure amount level is equal to or greater than the seventh threshold and less than the eighth threshold. The seventh threshold is greater than 0, and the eighth threshold is less than the seventh threshold. On the other hand, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5c is operated when the first flexure amount level is equal to or greater than the eighth threshold.

[0082] Furthermore, the tactile sensation presenting device 1B may not include the operation units 5a, 5c, and 5e. In this case, the piezoelectric element 7a is not required, and the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5b is operated when the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7b reaches a certain level, and recognizes that the operation unit 5d is operated when the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7b is quite large. The specific recognition operation of the control unit 8 is the same as the case where the tactile sensation presenting device 1B does not include the operation units 5b, 5d, and 5e.

[0083] Moreover, the tactile sensation presenting device 1B may not include the operation units 5c, 5d, and 5e. In this case, the control unit 8, for example, recognizes that the operation unit 5a is operated when the value obtained by subtracting the second flexure amount level from the first flexure amount level is equal to or greater than the first threshold. On the other hand, the control unit 8, for example, recognizes that the operation unit 5b is operated when the value obtained by subtracting the first flexure amount level from the second flexure amount level is equal to or greater than the third threshold.

[0084] In addition, the tactile sensation presenting device 1B may not include the operation units 5a, 5b, and 5e. In this case, the control unit 8, for example, recognizes that the operation unit 5c is operated when the value obtained by subtracting the second flexure amount level from the first flexure amount level is equal to or greater than the second threshold. On the other hand, the control unit 8, for example, recognizes that the operation unit 5d is operated when the value obtained by subtracting the first flexure amount level from the second flexure amount level is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold.

[0085] The tactile cue device 1 may also include a stopper 200 that prevents deformation of the vibrating member 3 when the operation unit 5 is operated. Figure 14 It shows an example of a case where a stopper 200 is provided in the Figures 1 - 4 tactile cue device 1 shown. Figure 14 It is a diagram corresponding to the above Figure 3 . Hereinafter, the Figure 14 tactile cue device 1 shown may sometimes be referred to as the tactile cue device 1C.

[0086] The stopper 200 is, for example, cylindrical or prismatic and is erected on the inner surface of the housing 200. There is a gap between the upper end surface of the stopper 200 and the second surface 32 of the vibrating member 2. The stopper 200 is, for example, integrally formed with the housing 200 from the same material as the housing 200. It should be noted that the stopper 200 and the housing 200 may also be manufactured separately and mounted to each other by a bonding member such as double-sided tape or an adhesive. In addition, the stopper 200 may be made of a material different from that of the housing 9.

[0087] The operation unit 5 faces the upper end surface of the stopper 200 with the elastic resin 4 and the vibrating member 3 interposed therebetween in the thickness direction of the vibrating member 2. When the operation unit 5 is pressed, the second surface 32 of the vibrating member 3 contacts the upper end surface of the stopper 200, and the deformation of the vibrating member 3 stops. The stopper 200 can also be said to be a part that prevents displacement of the vibrating member 3 when the operation unit 5 is pressed.

[0088] In this example, the user of the tactile cue device 1C presses the operation unit 5 until the vibrating member 3 contacts the stopper 200. When the operation unit 5 is pressed until the vibrating member 3 contacts the stopper 200, the control unit 8 recognizes that the operation unit 5 has been operated based on the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7, and vibrates the piezoelectric element 7 to give a tactile sensation to the user.

[0089] In this way, since the tactile cue device 1C includes the stopper 200 that prevents deformation of the vibrating member 3 when the operation unit 5 is operated, the vibrating member 3 is not easily deformed excessively.

[0090] It should be noted that in the above-described tactile cue device 1B, the stopper 200 may also be provided. In this case, the stopper 200 is provided, for example, such that the head of the screw 120 that fixes the upper fixing portion 102 of the leaf spring member 100 to the vibrating member 3 faces the upper end surface of the stopper 200 with a gap therebetween. When the operation unit 5 is pressed, the head of the screw 120 contacts the upper end surface of the stopper 200, and the deformation of the vibrating member 3 stops.

[0091] In addition, in the above-described tactile sensation prompting device 1C, a plurality of stoppers 200 respectively corresponding to the plurality of operation units 5 may be provided. In this case, with respect to each operation unit 5, the deformation of the vibration target member 3 when the operation unit 5 is operated is blocked by the stopper 200 corresponding to the operation unit 5.

[0092] In addition, in the case where a plurality of stoppers 200 respectively corresponding to the plurality of operation units 5 are provided, the height positions of the plurality of stoppers 200 may also be set to be different from each other. Figure 15 and 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the tactile sensation prompting device 1 including two operation units 5 and two stoppers 200 respectively corresponding to the two operation units 5. Figure 15 and 16 The shown tactile sensation prompting device 1 (also referred to as the tactile sensation prompting device 1D) is relative to Figures 1 - 4 The shown tactile sensation prompting device 1 is a device in which one operation unit 5, one slit 35, and two stoppers 200 are added. Figure 15 and 16 are respectively corresponding to Figure 3 and 4 corresponding diagrams.

[0093] The tactile sensation prompting device 1D has an operation unit 5 (also referred to as the upper operation unit 5) located at a position above the central part and an operation unit 5 (also referred to as the lower operation unit 5) located at a position below the central part on the first surface 31 of the elastic resin 4. The upper operation unit 5 and the lower operation unit 5 are arranged along the long side direction of the first surface 31.

[0094] The tactile sensation prompting device 1D includes a stopper 200 (also referred to as the upper stopper 200) that blocks the deformation of the vibration target member 3 when the upper operation unit 5 is operated and a stopper 200 (also referred to as the lower stopper 200) that blocks the deformation of the vibration target member 3 when the lower operation unit 5 is operated. The upper operation unit 5 faces the upper end surface of the upper stopper 200 with the elastic resin 4 and the vibration target member 3 interposed therebetween in the thickness direction of the vibration target portion 2. When the upper operation unit 5 is pressed, the second surface 32 of the vibration target member 3 touches the upper end surface of the upper stopper 200, and the deformation of the vibration target member 3 stops. The lower operation unit 5 faces the upper end surface of the lower stopper 200 with the elastic resin 4 and the vibration target member 3 interposed therebetween in the thickness direction of the vibration target portion 2. When the lower operation unit 5 is pressed, the second surface 32 of the vibration target member 3 touches the upper end surface of the lower stopper 200, and the deformation of the vibration target member 3 stops.

[0095] The height position of the upper stopper 200 is, for example, higher than the height position of the lower stopper 200. The height position of the stopper 200 can also be said to be the position of the upper end (in other words, the upper end face) of the stopper 200. In this example, the distance between the upper stopper 200 and the vibration object member 3 when the vibration object portion 2 is not operated is smaller than the distance between the lower stopper 200 and the vibration object member 3 when the vibration object portion 2 is not operated. In addition, the length of the gap between the upper stopper 200 and the vibration object member 3 when the vibration object portion 2 is not operated is smaller than the length of the gap between the lower stopper 200 and the vibration object member 3 when the vibration object portion 2 is not operated. In addition, the press-in amount of the upper operation portion 5 until the vibration object member 3 contacts the upper stopper 200 is smaller than the press-in amount of the lower operation portion 5 until the vibration object member 3 contacts the lower stopper 200. The press-in amounts of the upper operation portion 5 and the lower operation portion 5 affect the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7.

[0096] The haptic presentation device 1D has a slit 35 (also referred to as an upper slit 35) located at a position above the central portion and a slit 35 (also referred to as a lower slit 35) located at a position below the central portion on the second surface 32 of the vibration object member 3. The upper slit 35 and the lower slit 35 are each, for example, U-shaped. The upper slit 35 and the lower slit 35 have the same shape and are arranged symmetrically above and below the center of the second surface 32.

[0097] When the piezoelectric element 7 and the upper slit 35 are viewed from the second surface 32 side, approximately the upper half in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7 is surrounded by the U-shaped upper slit 35. In addition, when the piezoelectric element 7 and the lower slit 35 are viewed from the second surface 32 side, approximately the lower half in the long side direction of the piezoelectric element 7 is surrounded by the U-shaped lower slit 35.

[0098] In the tactile cue device 1D, the height positions of the upper stopper 200 and the lower stopper 200 are different from each other. As a result, the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the upper operation unit 5 is operated is different from the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the lower operation unit 5 is operated. Specifically, since the height position of the upper stopper 200 is higher than the height position of the lower stopper 200, the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the upper operation unit 5 is operated (that is, the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the upper operation unit 5 is operated and the vibrating object member 3 contacts the upper stopper 200) is smaller than the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the lower operation unit 5 is operated (that is, the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the lower operation unit 5 is operated and the vibrating object member 3 contacts the lower stopper 200). It should be noted that in the tactile cue device 1D, assuming that the height positions of the upper stopper 200 and the lower stopper 200 are the same as each other, the shape and position of each slit 35 are set so that the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the upper operation unit 5 is operated is the same as the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the lower operation unit 5 is operated.

[0099] In the tactile cue device 1D, since the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the upper operation unit 5 is operated is different from the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 when the lower operation unit 5 is operated, the control unit 8 can confirm which of the upper operation unit 5 and the lower operation unit 5 is operated based on the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7. For example, when the deflection amount level based on the electromotive force at the piezoelectric element 7 is equal to or higher than the seventh threshold value and less than the eighth threshold value, the control unit 8 identifies that the upper operation unit 5 is operated. On the other hand, when the deflection amount level is equal to or higher than the eighth threshold value, the control unit 8 identifies that the lower operation unit 5 is operated.

[0100] In this way, by making the height positions of the plurality of stoppers 200 corresponding to the plurality of operation units 5 different from each other, the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7 corresponding to the operated operation unit 5 can be adjusted.

[0101] It should be noted that in the above-described tactile cue device 1B, when a plurality of stoppers 200 corresponding to the plurality of operation units 5 are provided, the height positions of at least a part of the plurality of stoppers 200 can be different from each other. For example, the height position of the stopper 200 corresponding to the operation unit 5c can also be set to be smaller than the height position of the stopper 200 corresponding to the operation unit 5a. In this case, since the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7a when the operation unit 5c is operated is greater than the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7a when the operation unit 5a is operated, the control unit 8 can more easily identify which of the operation units 5a and 5c has been operated. As another example, the height position of the stopper 200 corresponding to the operation unit 5d can also be set to be smaller than the height position of the stopper 200 corresponding to the operation unit 5b. In this case, since the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7b when the operation unit 5d is operated is greater than the amount of deflection of the piezoelectric element 7b when the operation unit 5b is operated, the control unit 8 can more easily identify which of the operation units 5b and 5d has been operated.

[0102] As described in detail above, the tactile cue device has been described. However, the above description is illustrative in all respects, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In addition, the above various examples can be combined and applied as long as they do not conflict with each other. Moreover, it can be understood that countless examples that are not illustrated can be conceived without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0103] The present disclosure includes the following content.

[0104] In one embodiment, (1) a tactile cue device includes: a vibration object part for a user to operate; and a first vibration part for vibrating the vibration object part. The vibration object part has: a vibration object member that is vibrated by the first vibration part and has at least one slit; and an elastic resin that has at least a part for blocking the at least one slit.

[0105] (2) Based on the tactile cue device in (1) above, the elastic resin is filled in the at least one slit and covers the surface of the vibration object member.

[0106] (3) Based on the tactile cue device in (2) above, the first vibration part is constituted by a first piezoelectric element.

[0107] (4) Based on the tactile cue device in (3) above, the tactile cue device is provided with a control unit that identifies an operation on the vibration object part based on the electromotive force at the first piezoelectric element and vibrates the first piezoelectric element according to the identification of the operation on the vibration object part.

[0108] (5) Based on the tactile cue device in (4) above, the vibration object part has a first operation part and a second operation part operated by the user. The amount of deflection of the first piezoelectric element when the first operation part is operated is different from the amount of deflection of the first piezoelectric element when the second operation part is operated. The control part identifies which of the first operation part and the second operation part is operated based on the electromotive force at the first piezoelectric element.

[0109] (6) Based on the tactile cue device in (5) above, the tactile cue device is provided with: a first stopper that stops the deformation of the vibration object member when the first operation part is operated; and a second stopper that stops the deformation of the vibration object member when the second operation part is operated. The distance between the first stopper and the vibration object member when the vibration object part is not operated is different from the distance between the second stopper and the vibration object member when the vibration object part is not operated.

[0110] (7) Based on any one of the tactile cue devices in (4) to (6) above, the tactile cue device is provided with a second piezoelectric element that vibrates the vibration object member. The vibration object part has a third operation part and a fourth operation part operated by the user. The amount of deflection of the first piezoelectric element when the third operation part is operated is greater than the amount of deflection of the second piezoelectric element when the third operation part is operated. The amount of deflection of the second piezoelectric element when the fourth operation part is operated is greater than the amount of deflection of the first piezoelectric element when the fourth operation part is operated. The control part identifies which of the third operation part and the fourth operation part is operated based on the electromotive forces at the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element.

[0111] Description of reference numerals:

[0112] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D Tactile cue device

[0113] 2 Vibration object part

[0114] 3 Vibration object member

[0115] 4 Elastic resin

[0116] 5, 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e Operation part

[0117] 7, 7a, 7b Vibration part

[0118] 35 Slit

[0119] 200 Stopper.

Claims

1. A tactile prompting device, wherein, The haptic cue device includes: a vibration target part for a user to operate; and a first vibration part that vibrates the vibration target part, wherein the vibration target part has: a vibration target member that is vibrated by the first vibration part and has at least one slit; and an elastic resin having at least a part that blocks the at least one slit.

2. The tactile prompting device according to claim 1, wherein, The elastic resin is filled in the at least one slit and covers the surface of the vibration target member.

3. The tactile prompting device according to claim 2, wherein, The first vibration part is constituted by a first piezoelectric element.

4. The tactile prompting device according to claim 3, wherein, The haptic cue device includes a control part that identifies an operation on the vibration target part based on an electromotive force at the first piezoelectric element and vibrates the first piezoelectric element according to the identification of the operation on the vibration target part.

5. The tactile prompting device according to claim 4, wherein, The vibration target part has a first operation part and a second operation part operated by the user, wherein a flexure amount of the first piezoelectric element when the first operation part is operated is different from a flexure amount of the first piezoelectric element when the second operation part is operated, and the control part identifies which of the first operation part and the second operation part is operated based on the electromotive force at the first piezoelectric element.

6. The tactile prompting device according to claim 5, wherein, The haptic cue device includes: a first stopper that stops deformation of the vibration target member when the first operation part is operated; and a second stopper that stops deformation of the vibration target member when the second operation part is operated, wherein a distance between the first stopper and the vibration target member when the vibration target part is not operated is different from a distance between the second stopper and the vibration target member when the vibration target part is not operated.

7. The tactile prompting device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein, The haptic cue device includes a second piezoelectric element that vibrates the vibration target member, wherein the vibration target part has a third operation part and a fourth operation part operated by the user, wherein a flexure amount of the first piezoelectric element when the third operation part is operated is greater than a flexure amount of the second piezoelectric element when the third operation part is operated, wherein a flexure amount of the second piezoelectric element when the fourth operation part is operated is greater than a flexure amount of the first piezoelectric element when the fourth operation part is operated, and the control part identifies which of the third operation part and the fourth operation part is operated based on the electromotive forces at the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element.

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