Vibration actuator and contact input device

Abstract

A vibration actuator is provided with a plate of a magnetic body, an electromagnet disposed on the plate and having a coil disposed in the center of an iron core, and an elastic body supporting the iron core on both sides of the coil and connected to the plate, and vibrates by displacing one of the coil and the plate so as to approach the other by means of a magnetic force generated by energizing the coil.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application: the application date of the parent application is April 28, 2023, the application number is "2023800348801", and the name of the invention is "Vibration actuator and contact-type input device". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a vibration actuator and a contact-type input device including the vibration actuator. Background Art

[0003] Currently, there is known a structure in which a vibration actuator provides vibration to the fingertips of an operator touching a display screen displayed on a touch panel as a touch-sensitive panel as a touch operation feeling (the feeling of operating with contact) (Patent Document 1).

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a mobile terminal device in which a vibration actuator is mounted on the back of a touch panel via a vibration transmission unit. The vibration actuator of this device includes a movable member within a housing fixed to the vibration transmission unit, and is configured to reciprocate along a guide shaft arranged perpendicular to the touch panel. In the vibration actuator, the movable member strikes the housing in response to an operation on the touch panel. While this may produce an impact sound, the vibration is imparted to the fingertip in contact with the touch panel via the vibration transmission unit.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-070729 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0009] However, in the vibration actuator of Patent Document 1, since the movable element is reciprocated along a guide shaft arranged perpendicular to the display surface of the touch panel, the device itself has a length perpendicular to the display surface, that is, a thickness.

[0010] In this structure, a placement space of a predetermined thickness is required on the back side of the touch panel, which leads to a problem that the mobile terminal device including the touch panel becomes larger.

[0011] Furthermore, the drive circuit of the vibration actuator disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a magnet and two yokes that sandwich the magnet as a movable part, and a bobbin surrounding the movable part and two coils wound around the bobbin as a fixed part. Therefore, assembly is time-consuming. Consequently, there is a demand for further reducing the number of components and improving assembly efficiency.

[0012] An object of the present invention is to provide a vibration actuator and a contact-type input device that are easy to assemble, can be arranged in a space-saving manner, and can vibrate appropriately.

[0013] Solutions to Problems

[0014] The vibration actuator of the present invention adopts the following structure and has:

[0015] A plate of magnetic material;

[0016] an electromagnet disposed on the plate and having a coil disposed in the center of an iron core; and

[0017] an elastic body supporting the iron core on both sides of the coil and connected to the plate,

[0018] Due to the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil, one of the coil and the plate is displaced so as to approach the other and vibrate.

[0019] The contact-type input device of the present invention adopts the following structure, which is a contact-type input device in which the vibration actuator of the above structure is arranged on the back side of the operation surface.

[0020] The coil is energized in response to an operator's contact action on the operation surface, and one of the coil and the plate is displaced toward the other and vibrates, thereby providing a tactile sensation to the operator.

[0021] The effects of the invention are as follows.

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to easily assemble, arrange in a space-saving manner, and vibrate appropriately. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the appearance of a vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 is a top view of the vibration actuator.

[0025] Figure 3 1 is a bottom view of the vibration actuator.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a front view of the vibration actuator.

[0027] Figure 5 It is a right side view of the above-mentioned vibration actuator.

[0028] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Sectional view along line AA.

[0029] Figure 7 yes Figure 2Cross-sectional view along line BB.

[0030] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of a vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the movable portion and the elastic support portion in the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship among a movable portion, an elastic support portion, and a base portion in a vibration actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 11A 、 Figure 11B and Figure 11C It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the vibration actuator.

[0034] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing an example of a drive circuit of an actuator body.

[0035] Figure 13 This is an external perspective view showing an example of a vibration presenting device including a vibration actuator.

[0036] Figure 14 It is a schematic side sectional view showing the main structure of the vibration prompting device.

[0037] Figure 15A and Figure 15B This figure shows the tactile sensation provided by the vibration feedback device in the form of time-series images.

[0038] Figure 16 It is a schematic side sectional view showing a modified example of the vibration prompting device.

[0039] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of another modified example 1 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 1 of the vibration actuator.

[0041] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of another modified example 2 of the vibration actuator.

[0042] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of another modified example 3 of the vibration actuator.

[0043] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of another modified example 4 of the vibration actuator.

[0044] Figure 22This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 4 of the vibration actuator.

[0045] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of another modified example 5 of the vibration actuator.

[0046] Figure 24 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 5 of the vibration actuator.

[0047] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of another modification 6 of the vibration actuator.

[0048] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of another modification 7 of the vibration actuator.

[0049] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of another modification 8 of the vibration actuator.

[0050] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of another modification 9 of the vibration actuator.

[0051] Figure 29 This is a perspective view of an example of a vibration prompting device having another modification example 9 of the vibration actuator.

[0052] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of another modified example 10 of the vibration actuator.

[0053] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of another modified example 11 of the vibration actuator.

[0054] Figure 32 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 11 of the vibration actuator.

[0055] Figure 33 This is a perspective view of another modification 12 of the vibration actuator.

[0056] Figure 34 This is an exploded perspective view of another modification 12 of the vibration actuator.

[0057] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of another modified example 13 of the vibration actuator.

[0058] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of another modified example 14 of the vibration actuator.

[0059] Figure 37 This is a perspective view of another modified example 15 of the vibration actuator.

[0060] Figure 38 It is a diagram for explaining a mounting structure of another modification 15 of the vibration actuator.

[0061] Figure 39 This is a perspective view of another modified example 16 of the vibration actuator.

[0062] Figure 40 This is a perspective view of another modified example 17 of the vibration actuator.

[0063] Figure 41 This is a perspective view of another modified example 18 of the vibration actuator.

[0064] Figure 42 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 18 of the vibration actuator.

[0065] Figure 43 This is a perspective view of another modified example 19 of the vibration actuator.

[0066] Figure 44 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 19 of the vibration actuator.

[0067] Figure 45 This is a perspective view of another modified example 20 of the vibration actuator.

[0068] Figure 46 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 20 of the vibration actuator.

[0069] Figure 47 This is a perspective view of another modified example 21 of the vibration actuator.

[0070] Figure 48 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 21 of the vibration actuator.

[0071] Figure 49 This is a perspective view of another modified example 22 of the vibration actuator.

[0072] Figure 50 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 22 of the vibration actuator.

[0073] Figure 51 This is a perspective view of another modified example 23 of the vibration actuator.

[0074] Figure 52 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 23 of the vibration actuator.

[0075] Figure 53 This is a perspective view of another modified example 24 of the vibration actuator.

[0076] Figure 54 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 24 of the vibration actuator.

[0077] Figure 55This is a perspective view of another modified example 25 of the vibration actuator.

[0078] Figure 56 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 25 of the vibration actuator.

[0079] Figure 57 This is a perspective view of another modified example 26 of the vibration actuator.

[0080] Figure 58 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 26 of the vibration actuator.

[0081] Figure 59 This is a perspective view of another modified example 27 of the vibration actuator.

[0082] Figure 60 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 27 of the vibration actuator.

[0083] Figure 61 This is a perspective view of another modified example 28 of the vibration actuator.

[0084] Figure 62 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 28 of the vibration actuator.

[0085] Figure 63 This is a perspective view of another modified example 29 of the vibration actuator.

[0086] Figure 64 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 29 of the vibration actuator.

[0087] Figure 65 This is a perspective view of another modified example 30 of the vibration actuator.

[0088] Figure 66 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 30 of the vibration actuator.

[0089] Figure 67 This is a perspective view of another modified example 31 of the vibration actuator.

[0090] Figure 68 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 31 of the vibration actuator.

[0091] Figure 69 This is a perspective view of another modified example 32 of the vibration actuator.

[0092] Figure 70 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 32 of the vibration actuator.

[0093] Figure 71 This is a perspective view of another modified example 33 of the vibration actuator.

[0094] Figure 72 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 33 of the vibration actuator.

[0095] Figure 73 This is a perspective view of another modified example 34 of the vibration actuator.

[0096] Figure 74 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 34 of the vibration actuator.

[0097] Figure 75 This is a perspective view of another modified example 35 of the vibration actuator.

[0098] Figure 76 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 35 of the vibration actuator.

[0099] Figure 77 This is a perspective view of another modified example 36 of the vibration actuator.

[0100] Figure 78 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 36 of the vibration actuator.

[0101] Figure 79 This is a perspective view of another modified example 37 of the vibration actuator.

[0102] Figure 80 This is an exploded perspective view of another modified example 37 of the vibration actuator. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0103] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] In this embodiment, an orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is used for description. In the following figures, a common orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is also used to illustrate. Below, the width, depth, and height of the vibration prompting device (contact input device) 1 with a vibration actuator 10 are respectively the lengths in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction, and the width, depth, and height of the vibration actuator 10 are also respectively correspondingly set to the lengths in the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction. In addition, the positive side in the Z direction is the direction in which the operator (operating personnel) is given vibration feedback, and is described as the "plane side" (or "upper side"), and the negative side in the Z direction is the direction in which the operator presses when operating, and is described as the "bottom side" (or "lower side"). In addition, in each component constituting the vibration actuator 10, the surface located at the "plane side" (or "upper side") is described as the "surface" (or "upper surface"), and the surface located at the "back side" (or "lower side") is described as the "back side" (or "lower surface").

[0105] <Overall Structure of Vibration Actuator 10>

[0106] The vibration actuator 10 is preferably provided on an operating device (in this embodiment, referring to a reference to a reference to a user's operating surface) that serves as a vibration prompting portion (operation surface) for the operator to perform a contact operation. Figure 13 The touch input device of the tablet main body 110 shown in FIG. 1 is a vibration prompt device (see FIG. Figure 13 The vibration actuator 10 vibrates the operating device to impart a touch operation feeling (also called "tactile feeling" or "force sense") to the operator who touches the operating device according to the purpose and usage of the operating device.

[0107] The vibration actuator 10 is a flat or thin plate-shaped thin vibration actuator, and is arranged to face the back side of the operation device in the thickness direction when the Z direction is the thickness direction, and to vibrate the operation device.

[0108] The vibration actuator 10 is formed in a thin plate shape and includes a movable portion 20, a base portion (hereinafter also referred to as a "base plate") 30, and a plate-shaped elastic portion 40 serving as an elastic support portion (elastic body) that supports the movable portion 20 so that it can move relative to the base portion 30. The elastic support portion is provided as the plate-shaped elastic portion 40, but is not limited to a plate-shaped portion as long as it supports the movable portion 20 so that it can move relative to the base portion 30.

[0109] In the vibration actuator 10, it is possible to communicate with a vibration prompting portion (eg, a vibration prompting portion) that receives a pressing operation by a user via one of the movable portion 20 and the base portion 30. Figures 14 to 16 The flat panel bodies 110, 110A) are shown connected.

[0110] The vibration actuator 10 vibrates the movable portion 20 relative to the base portion 30 in the Z direction, specifically toward or away from the base portion 30 , and provides the vibration as an operational feeling to the operating device to which the vibration actuator 10 is mounted.

[0111] <Moveable portion 20>

[0112] The movable portion 20 is formed in a rectangular plate shape and has a coil 22, an iron core 24, and a weight portion 26. The coil is formed in a flat shape and is arranged so as to surround the central portion of the iron core 24. In addition, the coil 22 is arranged on the outer periphery of the central portion of the iron core 24 via an insulating material. The insulating material can be, for example, a coating that is applied to the iron core 24 and hardened, or it can be formed as a bobbin-shaped insulating component that is sandwiched between the coil 22 and the iron core 24. As the insulating material, for example, a resin material such as polybutylene terephthalate (Poly Butylene Terephthalate: PBT) can be used, thereby ensuring electrical insulation between the coil 22 and the iron core 24.

[0113] The iron core (magnetic core) 24 is a magnetic material, and its two end portions 24a and 24b in the winding axis direction protrude from the coil 22. In other words, the two end portions 24a and 24b protrude from the wound coil 22. Spring connection portions 241 and 242, which are respectively engaged with the elastic support portion, are provided at the front ends of the two end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24. The iron core 24 is formed into a rectangular plate shape, and the two end portions 24a and 24b are each a wide rectangular plate shape, and are opposite to the base portion 30 on the back side. A weight portion 26 is attached to the surface of the two end portions 24a and 24b, extending from the spring connection portions 241 and 242.

[0114] The weight portion 26 is plate-shaped and is preferably arranged corresponding to the shape of the iron core 24, such as the width (length in the X direction) and the length in the depth direction (length in the Y direction). Its weight can be set arbitrarily, for example, the length of the weight portion 26 in the Y direction, the length in the Z direction, the material, etc. can be adjusted. In this way, the weight portion 26 can adjust the weight of the movable part 20, and the natural vibration frequency can be set by this adjustment. In addition, when the configuration space of the thickness (Z direction) is limited, it can also be in a shape in which the weight increases in the XY direction. For the weight portion 26, when a vibration prompt portion (such as a touchpad body, etc.) that receives a user's pressing operation is installed on the side of the movable part 20, it is preferred to install the vibration prompt portion on the weight portion 26 via a fixing mounting member such as an adhesive, a fastening member, or an adhesive.

[0115] The core 24 is magnetized by energizing the coil 22 and functions as an electromagnet. Both end portions 24a and 24b serve as magnetic poles, generating a magnetic attraction force between the core 24 and the base portion 30, which is a magnetic body in proximity.

[0116] When the coil 22 is energized, the core 24's two ends 24a, 24b, particularly the back surfaces of the two ends 24a, 24b, become planar magnetic pole faces. The core 24 is preferably formed from a soft magnetic material such as silicon steel, permalloy, or ferrite. Alternatively, the core 24 may be formed from electromagnetic stainless steel, sintered materials, MIM (metal injection molding) materials, laminated steel sheets, or electrogalvanized steel sheets (SECC).

[0117] <Base part 30>

[0118] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the base portion 30 supports the movable portion 20 via the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 in the approach and separation directions of the base portion 30. Figure 1The base 30 is movable in the Z direction. The base 30 includes opposing portions 32a and 32b, which are magnetic bodies and are arranged to oppose the ends 24a and 24b of the core 24 with a gap (gap) G therebetween in an opposing direction intersecting the winding axis of the coil 22. The base 30 is a flat member with a predetermined thickness in the Z direction and forms the bottom surface of the vibration actuator 10.

[0119] The base portion 30 includes a base body portion 31 as a magnetic body, provided with opposing portions (magnetic bodies) 32a and 32b arranged opposite to the two end portions 24a and 24b, spring connecting portions 34a and 34b as elastic portion connecting portions, and a fixing portion 36.

[0120] The base body 31 has an opening 38 at its center and is formed into a square frame shape in a plan view. The opening 38 is a space into which the lower portion of the coil 22 is inserted and is formed into a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the coil 22, for example, a square shape.

[0121] In the base body 31, opposing portions 32a and 32b are formed on a pair of mutually opposing and spaced sides 311, and spring fixing portions 34a and 34b are formed on another pair of mutually opposing and spaced sides 312 between the pair of sides 311. The opposing portions 32a and 32b and the spring fixing portions 34a and 34b are formed on the surface of the base body 31, that is, on the side facing the movable portion.

[0122] The pair of side portions 311 and the other pair of side portions 312 are planar bodies, and cutout portions 311a and 312a are formed in the center of the four outer edges constituting the outer periphery of the base body 31. The cutout portions 311a and 312a are used to ensure a partial deformation area for the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 disposed therein.

[0123] The opposing portions (opposing surfaces) 32a and 32b are part of the base portion 30 and constitute a magnetic body arranged opposite to the two end portions 24a and 24b of the core 24 with a gap (gap) G in an opposing direction intersecting the winding axis direction of the coil 22, such as the Z direction.

[0124] The facing portions 32 a and 32 b are attracted to the end portions 24 a and 24 b by the magnetic attraction force generated between the facing portions 32 a and 32 b and the back surfaces of the end portions 24 a and 24 b when the coil 22 is energized.

[0125] The facing portions 32 a and 32 b are formed, for example, at the center of each of the pair of side portions 311 , and are arranged at positions across the opening 38 in the Y direction.

[0126] Since the facing portions 32a and 32b are surfaces facing the entire back surfaces of the two end portions 24a and 24b, magnetic flux can efficiently flow between the back surfaces of the two end portions 24a and 24b.

[0127] The opposing portions 32a and 32b, as part of the base body 31, are ferromagnetic materials, such as iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), or gadolinium (Gd). The opposing portions 32a and 32b, along with the spring connection portions 34a and 34b and the fixing portion 36, constitute the base body 31 and are particularly formed of a metal material (e.g., iron) such as iron, cobalt, or nickel.

[0128] The two end portions 24a and 24b are arranged above the facing portions 32a and 32b (in the Z direction) to be spaced apart and opposed to each other, and have a shape that is bilaterally symmetrical with respect to the respective centers in the X and Y directions.

[0129] The spring connection portions 34 a and 34 b are arranged across the opening 38 in the X direction, and are joined to the other end of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 on the surface side of the base portion 30 .

[0130] The fixing portion 36 fixes the base portion 30. The fixing portion 36 is, for example, fixed via a fastening member (e.g., Figure 13 The screw 170 shown in FIG is fastened to the fastening hole (refer to FIG) of the operating device (vibration prompt part) for the operator to perform the touch operation or the box (configuration part) for configuring the operating device. Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 13 ).

[0131] The fixing portions 36 are formed at the four corners of the base 30 to reliably fasten the base 30 to the object to be fixed. In addition, although the fixing portions 36 are formed at the four corners, any number of fixing portions 36 is acceptable as long as the base 30 can be fixed to the object to be fixed.

[0132] <Plate-shaped elastic portion 40>

[0133] The plate-like elastic portion 40 is plate-shaped, specifically, an elastically deformable leaf spring, and supports the movable portion 20 so that it is movable relative to the base portion 30. The plate-like elastic portion 40 is formed into a thin plate frame having a predetermined thickness (thickness in the Z direction) and is arranged in a layered manner between the base portion 30 and the movable portion 20 in the thickness direction (Z direction).

[0134] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is connected to each of the movable portion 20 and the base portion 30. Furthermore, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed into a frame shape surrounding the base portion 30, with a pair of mutually parallel sides 461 bonded to the movable portion 20, and a pair of mutually opposing sides 462 adjacent to the pair of sides 461 bonded to the base portion 30. Thus, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 supports the movable portion 20 symmetrically and well-balanced in directions (X and Y directions) perpendicular to the opposing direction (vibration direction) relative to the base portion 30.

[0135] Since the plate-like elastic portion 40 is a rectangular frame (here, a thin plate frame), the number of components can be reduced, the overall thickness can be reduced, and the component can be manufactured without bending, etc. In addition, since it is a frame, it can be arranged so that other components do not interfere with each other by arranging other components within the frame.

[0136] Furthermore, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 has a spring constant K sp The setting of can determine the displacement amount and natural frequency of the movable part 20, and when the movable part 20 is driven, that is, when the coil 22 is energized, a mechanical tactile sensation is generated by generating displacement.

[0137] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 includes movable portion-side fixing portions 42a, 42b, base portion-side fixing portions 44a, 44b, and a planar elastic main body portion 46 including an elastically deformable arm portion that connects the movable portion-side fixing portions 42a, 42b and the base portion-side fixing portions 44a, 44b.

[0138] The elastic main body portion 46 connects the movable portion side fixing portions 42 a and 42 b and the base portion side fixing portions 44 a and 44 b so as to be elastically deformable in the Z direction.

[0139] The elastic body 46 includes a deformable arm portion that connects the movable portion-side fixing portions 42a, 42b to the base portion-side fixing portions 44a, 44b. The arm portion is formed, for example, in an L-shape, thereby forming a frame shape surrounding the base portion 30 in a plan view and is deformable in the Z direction on the outer periphery of the base portion 30.

[0140] In the elastic main body portion 46, a pair of parallel side portions 461 are formed by the movable part side fixing portions 42a, 42b and one side of the L-shaped arm portion connected to them in a straight line, and the base part side fixing portions 44a, 44b are formed in another pair of side portions 462 adjacent to the above-mentioned pair of side portions 461 in a manner protruding inward.

[0141] In the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 , the elastic main body portion 46 , the movable portion side fixing portions 42 a and 42 b , and the base portion side fixing portions 44 a and 44 b are arranged on the same plane.

[0142] The movable portion-side fixing portions 42a and 42b are planar and fixed to the movable portion 20. When viewed from above, the movable portion-side fixing portions 42a and 42b are located at the center of a pair of side portions 311 disposed outside the base portion 30. They are fixed to the base portion 20 so that their surfaces contact the spring connection portions 241 and 242 of the core 24 on the back side. The movable portion-side fixing portions 42a and 42b are arranged symmetrically in all directions relative to the center in the X-direction or the center in the Y-direction. The base portion-side fixing portions 44a and 44b are planar and fixed to the base portion 30.

[0143] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 has an arm portion of the elastic main body portion 46 to ensure elasticity. The arm portion may have any shape as long as it connects the movable portion side fixing portions 42a, 42b and the base portion side fixing portions 44a, 44b so as to be displaceable in the Z direction.

[0144] Furthermore, the elastic main body portion 46 may have any shape as long as it is deformed in a well-balanced manner so as to move the movable portion 20 in the Z direction (vibration-providing direction) while being located on the XY plane.

[0145] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 supports the movable portion 20 so that the back surfaces of both ends of the movable portion 20 and the opposing portions 32a, 32b of the base portion 30 face each other in a direction perpendicular to each other, that is, in the vibration direction (Z direction), with a gap G therebetween. The gap G is formed by the thickness (length in the Z direction) of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40.

[0146] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 deforms between the upper surface of the core 24 or coil 22 and the bottom surface of the base 30. Thus, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed into a rectangular frame shape, with movable portion-side fixing portions 42a, 42b and base portion-side fixing portions 44a, 44b disposed in the center of each side of the rectangular frame. When the movable portion 20 is driven, the movable portion-side fixing portions 42a, 42b displace relative to the base portion-side fixing portions 44a, 44b.

[0147] The movable portion 20 is supported on both sides by L-shaped arms connecting the movable portion-side fixing portions 42a, 42b to the base portion-side fixing portions 44a, 44b in the elastic main body 46. This allows for stress dispersion during elastic deformation, allowing the movable portion 20 to move in the vibration direction (Z direction) without tilting relative to the base portion 30, thereby improving reliability and stability in the vibration state.

[0148] <Magnetic Circuit of Vibration Actuator 10>

[0149] Figures 11A to 11C is a diagram for explaining the operation of the vibration actuator. Figures 11A to 11C It is shown in Figure 7 In the perspective view of the vibration actuator 10 cut along the line BB, the unillustrated portion of the magnetic circuit also has the same flow M of magnetic flux as that of the illustrated portion.

[0150] Figure 11A 1 is a diagram showing the static state of the vibration actuator 10 (located at the static position SI). Figure 11A The coil 22 of the vibration actuator 10 shown in FIG. 1 is excited to generate a magnetic field, and the two ends 24a and 24b of the core 24 become magnetic poles. For example, Figure 11BIn the iron core 24, one end 24a serves as the north pole, and the other end 24b serves as the south pole. Thus, a magnetic circuit, indicated by the flow of magnetic flux M, is formed between the iron core 24 and the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30. The flow of magnetic flux M in this magnetic circuit flows from the one end 24a toward the opposing portion 32a, from the opposing portion 32a to the opposing portion 32b, and from the opposing portion 32b toward the other end 24b of the iron core 24, flowing through the iron core 24 before exiting from the one end 24a again.

[0151] As a result, based on the principle of an electromagnetic solenoid, the ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 generate a magnetic attraction force KR. Consequently, both ends 24a and 24b are attracted to the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base 30. Since the base 30 is fixed to a housing or the like via the fixing portion 36, the ends 24a and 24b are attracted to and adsorbed by the opposing portions 32a and 32b. In other words, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 deforms, attracting the movable portion 20 toward the base 30. The movable portion 20 is positioned close to the position (KI) where the base 30 is fixed.

[0152] Then, if the power to the coil 22 is removed, the magnetic field disappears, as shown in FIG. Figure 11C As shown, the magnetic attraction KR of the movable portion 20 disappears, releasing the force of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40, which had been deformed toward the base portion 30. This generates a reaction force HR, acting as a spring of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40. Due to this reaction force HR, the movable portion 20 moves toward its original position (the reference position SI in the non-driven, stationary state) (in the positive Z direction, opposite to the attraction direction of the magnetic attraction KR). At this point, the reaction force HR causes the movable portion 20 to move to a position HI, further away from the base portion 30 than the stationary position SI in the stationary state, generating strong vibrations.

[0153] This vibration repeats as the force attenuates, repeatedly vibrating freely. Furthermore, the coil 22 can be repeatedly energized and deenergized, causing the movable portion 20 to reciprocate in the Z direction and generate vibration. Thus, in the vibration actuator 10, the movable portion 20, which is supported relative to the base portion 30 by the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 and suspended therefrom, is mechanically displaced by the magnetic attraction generated between the electromagnet and the opposing portions 32a and 32b, which are magnetic bodies, when energized, and then vibrates freely.

[0154] In this manner, the vibration actuator 10 utilizes the magnetic attraction generated between the iron core 24 and the opposing portions (magnetic bodies) 32a and 32b due to the passage of current through the coil 22, thereby causing the movable portion 20 to move toward the base portion 30. This movement generates vibrations in the movable portion 20 due to the elastic force (acting force) generated by the plate-shaped elastic portion 40, thereby imparting a tactile sensation to the user.

[0155] In the vibration actuator 10, the iron core 24 around which the coil 22 is wound is supported by the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 so as to be movable relative to the base portion 30 in the Z direction, when the coil 22 is inserted into the opening 38 of the base portion 30. The vibration actuator 10 can be constructed by only stacking the thin plate-shaped iron core 24, the position of the coil 22 on the iron core 24, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40, and the height of the base portion 30. Thus, the vibration actuator 10 can be constructed in a thinner plate shape, which can achieve space saving in the configuration space. Moreover, compared with a structure in which a component generating magnetism is arranged in an overlapping manner in the Z direction, such as arranging the coil and the magnet in a manner opposite to each other in the Z direction, and driving the movable portion in the Z direction, this structure has a further thinned structure.

[0156] Furthermore, the plate-shaped iron core 24 is arranged perpendicularly to the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base 30, and the movable portion 20 is held so as to be movable in the vertical direction (the vibration direction) via a plate-shaped elastic portion 40, serving as a leaf spring, disposed between the iron core 24 and the base 30. Thus, the iron core 24 is supported so as to be vibratory, with a space corresponding to the thickness of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 being provided relative to the base 30 as a gap for vibration amplitude.

[0157] The base portion 30 is in the shape of a plate having an opening (opening) 38 through which the coil 22 is inserted in a movably opposite direction. A vibration prompting portion (e.g., a vibration prompting portion) for fixing the base portion 30 to a position that receives a pressing operation by the user is provided around the opening 38 in the base portion 30. Figures 14 to 16 Tablet main body 110, 110A) or a configuration portion configured with a vibration prompt portion (eg Figures 14 to 16 The fixing portion 36 is provided at the bottom 120 of the base 30. The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 extends outside the fixing portion 36 to surround the base 30. This allows the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 to elastically deform without hindering the fixing of the base 30, and ensures a sufficient stroke for the elastic deformation.

[0158] Furthermore, in the vibration actuator 10, the components such as the base portion 30, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40, the movable portion 20 and the weight portion 26 are all assembled in the Z direction, i.e., the thickness direction. Therefore, a vibration actuator can be manufactured that can be easily assembled and is less likely to produce deviations during assembly and can be stably driven.

[0159] Furthermore, the vibration actuator 10 has a structure in which the distance between the core 24 and the base 30 is ensured by the thickness of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40. This eliminates the need for additional components to define the distance between the core 24 and the base 30, further reducing the number of components and achieving size reduction, simplified assembly, and lower costs.

[0160] Furthermore, since the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is a leaf spring manufactured with high thickness precision, variations in the gap between the core 24 and the base portion 30 (specifically, the opposing portions 32a, 32b) are minimized, ensuring a stable gap. Since the ends 24a, 24b of the core 24 are exposed, the weight of the movable portion 20 can be easily increased by utilizing the surface space.

[0161] Furthermore, since vibration is generated by reciprocating the movable portion 20 in a linear manner without using magnets, cost reduction can be achieved compared to a structure using magnets. Furthermore, the number of components can be reduced, and manufacturing can be facilitated.

[0162] According to the vibration actuator 10, it is easy to assemble and realize thinning, thereby saving space and arranging and vibrating appropriately. In addition, the vibration actuator 10 can realize thinning and miniaturization, and can give the appropriate tactile sensation corresponding to the pressing operation of the vibration prompting portion by the user.

[0163] <Driving Principle of Vibration Actuator 10>

[0164] The driving principle of the vibration actuator 10 is briefly described below. The vibration actuator 10 can also be driven by using the following equations of motion and circuit equations, using the resonance phenomenon of pulses. In addition, the action may not be resonance driven but may be manifested on the touch panel of the vibration prompting device 100 (see Figure 13 ) is driven by inputting a current pulse (which may be a single or multiple) via a control unit not shown.

[0165] Furthermore, the movable portion 20 in the vibration actuator 10 performs reciprocating motion based on equations (1) and (2).

[0166] Formula 1

[0167]

[0168] m: mass [kg]

[0169] x(t): displacement [m]

[0170] K f :Thrust constant [N / A]

[0171] i(t): current [A]

[0172] K sp : Spring constant [N / m]

[0173] D: Attenuation coefficient [N / (m / s)]

[0174] Formula 2

[0175]

[0176] e(t): voltage [V]

[0177] R: resistance [Ω]

[0178] L: Inductance [H]

[0179] K e : Back electromotive force constant [V / (rad / s)]

[0180] That is, the mass m [Kg], displacement x(t) [m], thrust constant K of the vibration actuator 10 f [N / A], current i(t) [A], spring constant K sp [N / m], attenuation coefficient D [N / (m / s)], etc. can be changed appropriately within the range that satisfies formula (1). In addition, voltage e(t) [V], resistance R [Ω], inductance L [H], back electromotive force constant K e [V / (rad / s)] can be appropriately changed within the range satisfying the formula (2).

[0181] Thus, the vibration of the vibration actuator 10 is determined by the mass m of the movable part 20 and the spring constant K of the metal spring (a leaf spring in this embodiment) as the plate-shaped elastic part 40. sp Furthermore, the vibration generated by the vibration actuator 10 can be determined by the input voltage (pulse) and the vibration attenuation part ( Figure 14 The attenuation degree of the vibration attenuation part of the vibration damping part (such as the vibration damping part 190 shown in the figure) is set.

[0182] In the vibration actuator 10 , the base portion 30 and the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 are joined together, and the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 and the movable portion 20 are joined together using adhesive, welding, or the like as fastening members. Screws may also be used as fastening members.

[0183] <Drive Circuit of Vibration Actuator 10 >

[0184] Figure 12 An example of a drive circuit for an actuator main body is shown.

[0185] Figure 12The illustrated drive circuit is included in, for example, a control unit. The drive circuit includes a switching element 12 (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor) serving as a current pulse supply, a signal generation unit 14 (voltage pulse application unit), resistors R1 and R2, and Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs).

[0186] In the control unit, the signal generating unit 14 connected to the power supply voltage Vcc is connected to the gate of the switching element 12. The switching element 12 is a discharge switching switch. The switching element 12 and the vibration actuator 10 ( Figure 12 Indicated by [Actuator] in the figure), SBD is connected, and is connected to the vibration actuator 10 to which voltage is supplied from the power supply unit Vact.

[0187] For this vibration actuator 10, when the input of the actuator drive signal is stopped, the vibration actuator 10 releases the applied force, and the applied force causes the movable part 20 to move to the other side (the positive side in the Z direction). The vibration actuator 10 vibrates the movable part 20 by utilizing the input and stop of the actuator drive signal. The vibration actuator 10 does not use a magnet to vibrate the movable part 20.

[0188] In addition, in the embodiment, the actuator drive signal is equivalent to a drive current pulse (also referred to as a "current pulse") supplied to the coil 22 as a drive current for driving the movable part and the operating device. In the vibration actuator 10, if a current pulse is supplied to the coil 22, the movable part 20 moves in one direction and mechanically displaces due to the magnetic attraction between the electromagnet of the movable part 20 and the opposing parts 32a and 32b of the base part 30, and the supply is stopped, and then free vibration is performed. The vibration generated thereby is imparted to the operating device. The plate-shaped elastic part 40 can control the displacement based on the magnetic attraction and the free vibration period.

[0189] Furthermore, an actuator drive signal is generated by inputting a signal from a detection unit that detects an operator's operation. The detection unit may, for example, be a pressure-sensitive sensor that detects pressure generated by the operator's operation as a pressure signal and converts the pressure signal into an electrical signal for output. Furthermore, the detection unit may be a capacitance-type proximity sensor that detects the position of an operator's finger (pressing object) when pressing a vibration notification unit. This proximity sensor detects the position of the operator's finger by detecting capacitive coupling with the operator's finger.

[0190] <Vibration notification device 100>

[0191] Figure 131 is a top view showing an example of a vibration prompting device having a vibration actuator. Figure 13 In the figure, for convenience of explanation, a planar touch panel body that is pressed by an operator's finger is shown through.

[0192] The vibration prompting device 100 is, for example, a touchpad serving as a pointing device used in place of a mouse in a notebook computer or the like.

[0193] The touchpad, a vibration prompting device 100, is disposed in a rectangular opening provided in a housing of a notebook computer or the like. The touchpad includes a plate-shaped tablet body 110 that is touched with a finger for touch operation, a vibration actuator 10 disposed on the back of the tablet body 110, and a frame 130 surrounding the vibration actuator 10.

[0194] In a touch panel, when a touch operation such as tracing or tapping the tablet body 110 is performed with a finger, the vibration actuator 10 provides vibration that provides a tactile sensation.

[0195] The vibration actuator 10 in the touch panel is installed to directly drive the movable part 20 and the tablet body 110 to impart vibration. Specifically, Figure 14 As shown, the base portion 30 is fixed to the bottom portion 120 of the opening of the case via screws 170 as fasteners, and the movable portion 20 is fixed to the side of the tablet body 110 .

[0196] The tablet body 110 is placed on the bottom 120 via a frame 130 surrounding the vibration actuator 10. The tablet body 110 is placed on the movable part 20 and fixed to the weight part 26 of the movable part 20 at the center via a double-sided tape 160 as a fixing member.

[0197] The outer periphery of the tablet body 110 is attached to the frame 130 via a vibration damper (buffer) 190, allowing the tablet body 110 to move relative to the housing. The vibration damper 190 is formed, for example, from an elastic member, but may be any member capable of supporting the tablet body 110 so that it can be displaced by the driving of the vibration actuator 10.

[0198] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the tactile sensation provided by the vibration feedback device 100 in the form of time-series images. Figure 15A The relationship among the input voltage, the acceleration of the movable part 20, and the displacement of the movable part 20 in a time series when a tactile sensation is generated is shown. Figure 15B is shown with Figure 15A Schematic diagram of corresponding specific operation states. In the touch panel as the vibration notification device 100, a tap operation such as stroking or clicking the tablet body 110 with a finger is performed. This operation is detected by the strain sensor as a pressure-sensitive sensor.

[0199] After the operation is started, as shown in FIG15 , a signal (actuator drive signal) is output to the vibration actuator according to the pressure sensitivity (see FIG15 ). Figure 15A (the input voltage is 0.000V), the movable part 20 and the tablet body 110 attached to it begin to move in the pressing direction (-Z direction). This drives the vibration actuator 10 in this direction. The vibration actuator 10 then increases the acceleration of the movable part 20 and tablet body 110 in this direction, causing the tablet body 110 to move in the pressing direction, i.e., in the direction of pressing down on the tablet body 110, until it reaches the lowest point (S0-p). At this point, the operator's finger experiences a sense of operation, such as a pressing sensation.

[0200] Then, when the vibration actuator 10 becomes non-driven, the reaction force of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 causes the tablet body 110 to move to a position (displacement Sp-p) above the action reference position (the same as the static position SI in Figure 11) serving as the initial position. As a result, a gap is created between the acceleration and the displacement due to the difference in vectors (V1, V2), which can impart a stronger sense of touch to the finger and a sense of touch corresponding to the operation to the operation object. For example, if the operation is to press a switch, the sensation of pressing the switch can be imparted. In addition, since the base portion 30 is fixed to the bottom 120 of the configuration portion of the box serving as the touchpad, which has a relatively high rigidity, the vibration transmitted from the movable portion 20 via the base portion 30 to the bottom (configuration portion) 120 is offset, and its reaction force is transmitted as vibration to the tablet body 110 side. The vibration generated in this way is efficiently transmitted to the user's finger side.

[0201] Furthermore, in the vibration notification device 100, the vibration damping unit 190 is preferably provided between the tablet body 110 and the frame 130 in a pre-flattened, i.e., contracted, state so that the tablet body 110 remains connected to the tablet body 110 even when the movable unit 20 is driven to vibrate (displace or strain). This allows for vibration amplification and vibration damping effects to be achieved using the rebound force of the vibration damping unit 190.

[0202] Furthermore, in the structure of the vibration prompting device 100 , the vibration actuator 10 may be installed so as to indirectly drive the tablet body 110 via the movable portion 20 to impart vibration.

[0203] Figure 16 It is a schematic side sectional view showing a modified example of the vibration prompting device.

[0204] The touch panel as the vibration display device 100A is a component in which the base portion of the vibration actuator 10 in the vibration display device 100 is attached to the tablet body 110 .

[0205] In the vibration notification device 100A, a frame 130 is disposed on the bottom 120 of the opening of the housing, and a flexible tablet body 110A is disposed on the frame 130 .

[0206] The base portion 30 of the vibration actuator 10 is fixed to the back surface of the tablet body 110A in the frame portion 130 via screws 170 inserted into the fixing portion 36 .

[0207] The vibration actuator 10 is arranged such that the movable portion 20 faces downward, and a gap serving as a movable region of the movable portion 20 is formed between the movable portion 20 and the bottom portion 120 .

[0208] In this structure, if a contact operation such as swiping or tapping is performed on the tablet body 110 with a finger, the operation is detected by the pressure-sensitive sensor. Immediately after the operation is started, an input signal (actuator drive signal) is input to the vibration actuator according to the pressure-sensitive touch, and the movable part 20 begins to move in the pressing direction (Z direction). The tablet body 110 is bonded and displaced in the downward direction, reaching the lowest point. Due to the reaction force of the spring, the movable part 20 and the tablet body 110 move to a position above the action reference position as the initial position (the same position as the displacement Sp-p). As a result, a gap is generated between the acceleration and the displacement due to the difference in vectors (V1, V2), which can give a stronger sense of touch to the finger, thereby giving the operating object a sense of touch corresponding to the operation. For example, if it is an operation to press a switch, it can give the feeling of pressing the switch.

[0209] In this manner, in the vibration prompting device 100 , specifically, when an operator's fingertip or other pressing object contacts the touch panel body 110 to perform an operation, the vibration actuator 10 is driven to vibrate accordingly. This vibration provides the operator with a tactile sensation.

[0210] For example, in the case where an electronic device having a touchpad is provided with a display unit such as a liquid crystal display, the vibration actuator 10 can also impart various tactile sensations to the touchpad corresponding to the displayed image operated by the operator. For example, the vibration actuator 10 can also generate vibrations in a manner that imparts the tactile sensation of a mechanical switch corresponding to the image being operated in contact. Mechanical switches include, for example, tactile switches, alternating switches, momentary switches, toggle switches, slide switches, rotary switches, DIP switches, and rocker switches. Furthermore, push-type switches can also impart the tactile sensation of switches with different degrees of depression.

[0211] As described above, in the vibration display device 1 of the present embodiment, realistic tactile expression such as the touch of a switch can be realized by realistic tactile expression based on load detection.

[0212] Other Modifications

[0213] The following other modifications are modifications formed by changing, adding, etc. a part of the structure in the above-mentioned vibration actuator 10. When having the same function as the above-mentioned constituent elements, the same name, the same symbol are marked and the description is omitted. And, hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, the above-mentioned constituent elements are represented by other names. Specifically, for the structure in which the coil 22 is arranged on the iron core 24, the electromagnet D and the plate-shaped elastic part (elastic support part) are referred to as elastomers according to their functions. And, specifically, the plate-shaped base part is referred to as a base, more specifically, as a base plate, the base part side fixed part is referred to as a plate connecting part, the movable part side fixed part is referred to as an iron core connecting part, and the weight part is referred to as a counterweight or a counterweight plate.

[0214] Furthermore, as the material of each component including the components of the above-mentioned embodiment, the coil has a high conductivity, for example, it is made of copper. The iron core is made of a material with a relatively high magnetic permeability (i.e., a ferromagnetic body, referred to as a magnetic body for short), preferably made of SECC, silicon steel plate, SUS, etc. The plate-shaped elastic portion and the elastic body are preferably non-magnetic bodies. As non-magnetic materials constituting the plate-shaped elastic portion and the elastic body, SUS, phosphor bronze, resin, rubber, etc. can also be used. Furthermore, the base portion and the base plate are preferably made of a material with a relatively high magnetic permeability, such as SECC, silicon steel plate, SUS (ferromagnetic SUS), etc. The weight portion, the counterweight, and the counterweight plate are formed of a material with a high specific gravity, phosphor bronze, SUS, tungsten, etc.

[0215] Each of the following vibration actuators has the same basic structure as the vibration actuator 10. Each vibration actuator basically has a magnetic plate, an electromagnet arranged on the plate and formed by arranging a coil in the center of an iron core, and an elastic body supporting the iron core on both sides of the coil and connected to the plate.

[0216] The electromagnet may be in the form of a flat plate, and the elastic body may be in the form of a flat plate. The axis of the coil may be arranged parallel to the plate, and the electromagnet may be supported with a gap therebetween.

[0217] The plate may also have an opening in the area corresponding to the coil that forms part of the vibration space of the electromagnet. In the vibration actuator, the magnetic force generated by energizing the electromagnet causes one of the coils or plates to move toward the other, thereby vibrating. For example, the coil or core may be displaced toward the plate to vibrate, or the plate may be displaced toward the coil or core to vibrate.

[0218] In each vibration actuator, the plate-shaped elastic portion and the spring constant of the elastic body determine the amplitude of the electromagnet D in the space formed between the electromagnet and the plate. The amplitude of the electromagnet in the space formed between the electromagnet D and the plate is determined by the thickness of the elastic body.

[0219] Furthermore, in each vibration actuator, when the elastic body (plate-shaped elastic portion) is a rectangular frame-shaped elastic body (frame), as shown in the vibration actuator 10 of the embodiment, the elastic body may support the core on one opposite side and be connected to the plate on the other opposite side. Furthermore, the elastic body may include a core-connecting portion and a plate-connecting portion, or may be configured to include a pair of core-connecting portions and a pair of plate-connecting portions.

[0220] 1. Other variations 1, 2, and 3

[0221] In the vibration actuator 10 of the above embodiment, the plate-shaped base portion 30 is fixed to the back of the box of the flat body 110, and the electromagnet composed of the coil 22 and the core 24 is vibrated. Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown in the vibration actuator 1010, the plate-shaped elastic body 1040 is configured to include a bent portion 1046 between a pair of connecting portions (i.e., "fixed portion-side fixing portions," also referred to as "plate connecting portions") 1044 connected to the base plate 30 serving as the base portion and a connecting portion (i.e., "movable portion-side fixing portions," also referred to as "core connecting portions") 1042 connected to the iron core 24. The bent portion 1046 (the same applies to the bent portions in other modified examples) determines the amplitude of the electromagnet D within the space formed between the electromagnet D and the base plate 30.

[0222] also, Figure 17 and Figure 18 The vibration actuator 1010 shown differs from the vibration actuator 10 in the structure of the plate-shaped elastic body 1040, but the other structures are the same. The elastic body 1040 is a so-called leaf spring formed in a rectangular frame shape and may be formed of metal or resin.

[0223] The elastic body 1040 includes core connection portions 1042a and 1042b serving as movable-side fixing portions, plate connection portions 1044a and 1044b serving as base-side fixing portions, and an elastic main body portion including a zigzag bent portion 1046. The elastic main body portion connects the core connection portions 1042a and 1042b to the base-side fixing portions 1044a and 1044b and elastically deforms.

[0224] The bent portion 1046 is configured as a portion of a side portion that is parallel to the extension direction (axial direction of the iron core 24) of the iron core 24 that constitutes the electromagnet D together with the coil 22 when viewed from above, and is connected to the iron core connecting portions 1042a and 1042b. According to this structure, even when the configuration space of the vibration actuator 1010 is limited, the length that can be elastically deformed can be ensured and elastic deformation can be appropriately performed.

[0225] For example, Figure 19As shown in the elastic body 1140 of the vibration actuator 1110 of another modification 2, the shape of the bent portion 1146 as the bent portion may be a shape having an increased number of bends (returned portions). Figure 19 As shown, the meandering portion 1146 serving as the bent portion may be provided on a pair of opposite sides (opposite sides where the plate connecting portions 1044a and 1044b are provided) extending in the positive and negative Y directions parallel to the axial direction of the core. The vibration actuators 1010 and 1110 displace the electromagnet (coil 22) toward the base plate (base portion) 30 to cause it to vibrate.

[0226] And, as Figure 20 As in the vibration actuator 1210 of the third modification shown in FIG. 1 , the aforementioned bent portions may be provided as meandering portions 1146, which serve as bent portions, on a pair of opposite sides (opposite sides of the core connection portion) in a direction perpendicular to the core axis in a square-shaped elastic body 1240. The vibration actuator 1210 includes an elastic body 1040, a base plate (base portion) 30, and a movable portion 1220 serving as an electromagnet D having a coil 22 and core end portions 24a, 24b.

[0227] Furthermore, the elastic bodies 1040, 1140, 1240 and the plate-like elastic part 40 with each bending portion are rectangular frames, having a shape that supports the iron core on the opposite side of one side and is connected to the base plate (base portion) on the opposite side of the other side. According to this structure, there is no need to provide a component for arranging other components on the inner side of the frame to ensure the deformation area of ​​the elastic body, which can achieve a reduction in the number of components and overall thinning. Furthermore, when manufacturing the vibration actuator, on the basis of canceling the bending process of the component, the vibration actuator itself can be configured to not interfere with other components. In other modifications described below, if there is an elastic part as a rectangular frame, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

[0228] 2. Other Modifications 4

[0229] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This is a perspective view of another modified example 4 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0230] As shown in the vibration actuator 1310, the vibration damper 66 is provided. When the base plate 30 is mounted in the installation target area (such as the device body), the vibration damper 66 is used to attenuate the vibration caused by the leaf spring, which is the plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic body) 40, that is, to dampen the vibration of the leaf spring. The installation target area is also referred to as the area where the target is fixed, and the vibration damper 66 is a vibration-damping component, also referred to as a damping component.

[0231] After the vibration actuator 1310 is fixed to the installation target area, the vibration damper 66 is attached to the plate-like elastic portion 40 so as to be sandwiched between the installation target area and the plate-like elastic portion 40. The vibration damper 66 is arranged on the back side of the two end portions 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 of the movable portion 1320 so as to be adjacent to the back side of the base plate 30 in the plane direction from the position adjacent to the spring connecting portions 241 and 242.

[0232] The vibration damper 66 dampens and reduces the vibration of the electromagnet D (coil core). As long as it can dampen vibration, the vibration damper 66 can be any component, including a thermoplastic elastomer, specifically thermosetting silicone rubber or thermoplastic butyl rubber. The use of the vibration damper 66 ensures that the vibration of the electromagnet D is concentrated within a certain period of time, i.e., damped. This provides feedback of pleasant vibration interruptions as a sense of operation.

[0233] The damper 66 is provided so that its upper surface is fixed to the core and its lower surface is located outside the base body and contacts the mounting target area on the device side.

[0234] 3. Other Modifications 5

[0235] Figure 23 and Figure 24 It is a perspective view of another modification 5 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0236] As shown in the vibration actuator 1410, a flexible resin elastic body 1400 can be used as an elastic body disposed between the base plate 30 and the electromagnet D (the iron core 24 on both sides of the coil 22). The elastic body 1400 is a pair of flat plate-shaped members that support the electromagnet D so that it can be displaced relative to the base plate 30 in a direction perpendicular to the plate surface.

[0237] The vibration actuator 1410 includes a base plate 30 serving as a base portion, and a flat movable portion 20 serving as an electromagnet D, which is arranged on the base plate 30 and includes a coil 22 disposed in the center of an iron core 24. In the vibration actuator 1410, the movable portion 20 is displaced toward the base plate 30 by the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil 22, causing the movable portion 20 to vibrate. Furthermore, a weight portion 26 is appropriately attached to the movable portion 20.

[0238] This structure facilitates assembly, enables a low profile, and allows for space-saving placement while maintaining appropriate vibration. Furthermore, if elastic body 1400 is made of an elastic material such as silicone, its size and material can be easily modified, making its function as a spring easily adjustable. Furthermore, elastic body 1400 can also be formed by applying an elastic material. This can be accomplished simply by applying the elastic material between two components sandwiching elastic body 1400.

[0239] As described above, the elastic body 1400 is a pair of flat elastic members interposed between the base plate 30 and the core 24 . Therefore, no other components are required, and the vibration actuator 1410 can be manufactured without processing the elastic body.

[0240] 4. Other Modifications 6 and 7

[0241] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of another modification 6 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0242] As shown in the figure, in the vibration actuator 1510 , the base plate 1530 may be a plate with high magnetic permeability, and the base plate 1530 may be provided with a fixing hole 1532 .

[0243] The base plate 1530 is fixed to the mounting object (eg, PCB or flat panel 102 ) via the fixing holes 1532 and by fastening members 1534 such as screws or adhesive.

[0244] Furthermore, the position of the fixing hole 1532 provided on the base plate 1530 can be changed. Figure 26 The vibration actuator 1610 shown in FIG. 1 may be configured such that, when the base plate is fixed to the mounting object by an adhesive, there is a base plate 1530 (see FIG. 1530 ). Figure 25 ) Remove the fixing hole 1532 (see Figure 25 ) structure of the base plate 1630. According to this structure, in the base plate 1630, the bonding area with the installation object is increased compared to the case where the fixing holes are present, and it can be securely installed. In addition, according to this structure, since the portion provided with the fixing holes 1532 does not function as a magnetic circuit, the area of ​​the vibration actuator can be reduced accordingly by removing the fixing holes 1532 from the base plate 1630. As a result, the reduction in actuator size and the empty space in the vibration actuator can be effectively used as a spring portion design that configures the spring portion by setting the spring to a zigzag shape and ensures the length of the spring (increase in the deformation area).

[0245] like Figure 27 As shown in the modification 8 of the vibration actuator 1710, it is also possible to connect the vibration actuator 1510 (see Figure 25 ) In the same structure, any one of the fixing holes 1532 is used as the elongated hole 1536. According to this structure, when fixing to an installation object such as the flat plate 102, the fastening member 1534 can be inserted into both the fixing hole 1532 and the elongated hole 1536 to temporarily fix and position it, and it can be fixed at a desired position.

[0246] 5. Other Modifications 9

[0247] Figure 28 It is a perspective view of another modification 9 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0248] As shown in the vibration actuator 1810, the weight portion 26 (see FIG. Figure 1 ) is replaced with a flat-plate counterweight plate 1850 as the weight portion, and an opening 1852 for inserting the coil 22 is provided in the counterweight plate 1850.

[0249] The weight plate 1850 has an opening (opening 1852) in the area of ​​the coil 22. In other words, the weight plate 1850, which is shaped so as not to overlap the coil 22, is fixed to the iron core 24 on both sides of the coil 22 in the electromagnet D. This structure ensures a sufficient movable area for the movable portion 1820 and enables a low profile.

[0250] And, as Figure 29 As shown, the counterweight plate 1850 can also be used as a fixing portion and mounted on the back of the mounting object (e.g., a PCB or tablet 102). According to this structure, the vibration actuator 1810 and the tablet 102 form a tactile prompting device 2310, which can generate vibrations corresponding to operations such as pressing operations on the tablet 102, thereby providing a tactile sensation.

[0251] 6. Other Modifications 10

[0252] Figure 30 It is a perspective view of another modified example 10 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0253] As shown in the figure, the vibration actuator 1910 may replace the weight portion 26 (see FIG. Figure 1 ), a counterweight plate 1950 is provided as a flat-plate weight portion.

[0254] The counterweight plate 1950 is a frame-shaped member having an opening 1952 in the region of the coil 22. In other words, in the electromagnet D having the coil 22 disposed on the iron core 24, the counterweight plate 1950, shaped so as not to overlap with the coil 22, is fixed to the iron core on either side of the coil 22. The opening 1952 is provided in the center of the counterweight plate 1950 to allow the coil 22 to be inserted. This allows the thickness of the vibration actuator 1910 in the vibration direction to be reduced.

[0255] Furthermore, the weight plate 1950 is provided with a substrate opening portion (recessed portion) 1954 that is opened in the region of the coil wiring connection portion (pad) 1902 of the flexible substrate (FPC) 1900 .

[0256] Coil wiring connection portion 1902 connects the wiring of flexible substrate 1900 to coil 22. Multiple substrate openings 1954 are formed continuously in the axial direction of coil 22 in opening portion 1952 of weight plate 1950. Thus, even if weight plate 1950 is positioned in the opposite direction in the coil axis, one of substrate openings 1954 is still open in the region of coil wiring connection portion 1902.

[0257] Furthermore, regardless of the shape of the coil wiring connection portion 1902, the counterweight plate 1950 can be appropriately attached to the iron core 24 while avoiding the coil wiring connection portion 1902. This ensures a sufficient movable area for the movable portion 1920 and reduces the height of the vibration actuator 1910. Furthermore, in the vibration actuator 1910, the surface of the counterweight plate 1950 can be reliably fixed to the back of the operating surface in a surface-to-surface contact state.

[0258] 7. Other variations 11, 12, and 13

[0259] Figure 31 1 is a perspective view showing another modified example 11 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 32 yes Figure 31 An exploded perspective view of the vibration actuator according to another modification 11 is shown.

[0260] As shown in the vibration actuator 2010 , a vibration damper (vibration damping member) 2000 that damps elastic deformation of the plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic body) 40 , that is, damps vibration, may be provided between the weight plate 2050 of the movable portion 2020 and the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 .

[0261] The vibration damper 2000 is interposed between the base portion side fixing portions 44 a and 44 b of the plate-like elastic portion 40 as the core connection portion and the extended surface portions 2054 a and 2054 b extended from the center of the weight plate 2050 in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the core 24 .

[0262] Furthermore, the weight plate 2050 is shaped so as not to overlap with the coil 22. In the electromagnet D having the iron core 24 and the coil 22, the iron core 24 fixed to both sides of the coil 22 (specifically, the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24) constitutes the movable portion 2020. The weight plate 2050 has an opening 2052 formed in the region of the coil 22.

[0263] In this manner, the spring connecting portions 241 and 242 of the movable portion 2020 at both ends of the iron core 24 are connected to the movable portion-side fixing portions 42a and 42b on a pair of opposite sides of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40. Meanwhile, the counterweight plate 2050 is connected to the base portion-side fixing portions 44a and 44b on another pair of opposite sides of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 via the vibration damper 2000. This allows the thickness of the vibration actuator 2010 to be reduced by an amount corresponding to the thickness of the vibration damper 2000, thereby damping the vibration of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40. Furthermore, the base portion-side fixing portions 44a and 44b are disposed and fixed to the base plate.

[0264] Furthermore, in the vibration actuator of this embodiment, the vibration damper 2000 may also be provided between the counterweight and the base plate, or between the counterweight and the mounting object of the fixed base plate, thereby being able to control the vibration of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 in a braking manner and to cause it to vibrate appropriately.

[0265] Figure 33 1 is a perspective view of another modified example 12 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 34 yes Figure 33 The exploded perspective view of the vibration actuator shown, Figure 35 This is a perspective view of another modified example 13 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0266] like Figure 33 and Figure 34 As shown in the vibration actuator 2110 of another modification 12, the vibration absorber 2100 may be sandwiched between the weight plate 2150 and the base plate 30. In the vibration actuator 2110, the vibration absorber 2100 may be attached to either the weight plate 2150 or the base plate 30.

[0267] In the vibration actuator 2110, the vibration absorber 2100 is configured such that a plate-shaped spring piece 2154, which is independently deformable, abuts against the main body of the counterweight plate 2150 relative to the counterweight plate 2150. The spring piece 2154 is formed by cutting into a predetermined position of the counterweight plate 2150, in this case, a corner of the rectangular counterweight plate 2150 including a square. The spring piece 2154 is formed in a portion of the main body of the counterweight plate 2150 so as to be elastically deformable.

[0268] Therefore, in the vibration absorber 2100 , when the weight plate 2150 moves with the movement of the movable part 2120 , the spring piece 2154 and the vibration absorber 2100 are deformed by the movement, which can suppress the resonance of the plate-shaped elastic part 40 during vibration, thereby achieving appropriate vibration.

[0269] And, as Figure 35As shown, the vibration absorber 2200 may be interposed between a weight plate 2050 having an opening 2052 and a mounting surface 102a of an installation object (eg, a flat plate 102) to which the vibration actuator 2210 is mounted.

[0270] The vibration damper 2200 is attached to the back surfaces (surface facing the base plate 30 ) of both end portions 2056 a and 2056 b of the weight plate 2050 arranged on the electromagnet D (coil core) having the coil 22 arranged in the center of the core in the movable portion 2220 .

[0271] The two end portions 2056a and 2056b are arranged to protrude further toward the core axis than the two end portions of the iron core within the coil 22. When the electromagnet D moves toward the base plate 30 in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the base plate 30 via the plate-shaped elastic portion 40, the electromagnet D follows the movement. As a result, the damper 2200 on the back surface of the two end portions 2056a and 2056b moves toward the mounting surface 102a of the mounting target (e.g., the flat plate 102) and abuts against it, achieving the same operational effects as the dampers 2000 and 2100 described above.

[0272] 8. Other Modifications 14

[0273] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of another modified example 14 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0274] As shown in the vibration actuator 2410, the coil 2422 arranged around the iron core 24 in the movable portion 2420 may be an air-core coil, which is provided on the outer periphery of a plate-shaped bobbin 2400 having slits on both sides for passing the iron core 24. By inserting and attaching the coiled bobbin 2400 to the iron core 24, the coil can be easily arranged around the central portion of the iron core 24.

[0275] Alternatively, a bobbin may be provided with flanges forming raised edges at both ends separated in the axial direction. This flanged bobbin may be attached to the core 24, and the coil may be placed in the center of the core by directly winding the coil between the bobbin's flanges. This arrangement of the coil between the flanges creates a coil 2422 of a predetermined width, allowing the coil to be accurately placed on the core at the desired width and the amount of coil winding to be adjusted during winding.

[0276] 9. Other variations 15

[0277] Figure 37 This is a perspective view of another modified example 15 of the vibration actuator according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0278] As shown in the vibration actuator 2610, a strain sensing portion 2600 may be provided on the plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic support portion) 40. Specifically, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 includes the strain sensing portion 2600. For example, the strain sensing portion 2600 is disposed in a portion of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 that deforms due to deformation. The deformed portion is the connection between the base-side fixing portion 44b and the elastic main body portion 46 including the elastically deformable arm portion.

[0279] Strain detection unit 2600 detects the strain generated by the load applied to the connection portion functioning as a strain body when vibration actuator 2610 is driven, i.e., vibrated. Thus, for example, vibration actuator 2610 can be driven based on the detection results to impart vibration to the attached device. For example, when an operating device such as a tablet or touch panel is operated, the operator (also referred to as an operator) can be given a tactile sensation through the operating device, thereby achieving tactile feedback.

[0280] In addition, each of the above-mentioned vibration actuators (e.g., vibration actuator 2610) can also be a contact-type input device used in a manner that a base plate is fixed to an installation object such as a flat panel or PCB and an operating surface connected to the movable portion on the upper side is given vibration. The contact-type input device energizes the coil 22 and vibrates the electromagnet D according to the operator's contact action on the operating surface, thereby providing a tactile prompt to the operator (operator). In addition, the operating surface can also be a display, an operating panel, or a touchpad.

[0281] And, as Figure 38 As shown, each of the aforementioned vibration actuators (e.g., vibration actuator 2610) may be used in a state where the base plate 30 is fixed to the mounting object 103 with the base plate 30 facing upward and the movable portion 20 is suspended with the movable portion facing downward. For example, in this state of the vibration actuator 2610, the strain detection unit 2600 can detect the displacement of the movable portion and output this detection as an additional signal to the control unit, etc., thereby enabling feedback control of the timing of acceleration and braking generated to change the vibration.

[0282] Furthermore, in the case of a structure in which a counterweight plate is provided on the side of the electromagnet D having the coil core, the counterweight plate may be directed upward and the base plate may be directed downward to be fixed to the mounting object by the counterweight plate. In other variations of the vibration actuator, either the base plate or the electromagnet is disposed on the back side of the operating surface.

[0283] 10. Other Modifications 16

[0284] Figure 39 16 is a perspective view of another modified example 16 of the vibration actuator of one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 38), that is, the device body as the installation object and the vibration imparting object become a state of being suspended on the other side. At this time, there is no restriction on the direction of separation due to dead weight, etc.

[0285] In contrast, Figure 39 Like the vibration actuator 2910 shown, a restriction mechanism 290 may be provided to restrict movement of the base plate 2930 and the movable portion (specifically, the electromagnet D formed by arranging the coil 22 on the iron core) 2920 in a direction of relative separation.

[0286] The limiting mechanism 290 includes, for example, a movable engaging portion 2957 provided on the movable portion side and a movement limiting portion 2937 provided on the base plate side. When the movable portion and the base plate move in a direction of relative separation, the movable engaging portion 2957 engages with the movement limiting portion 2937 to limit movement in the separation direction. The limiting mechanism 290 can be provided at the four corners of the vibration actuator when viewed from above, for example, at diagonal positions in a rectangular vibration actuator 2920 when viewed from above.

[0287] Furthermore, vibration actuator 2910 is constructed similarly to vibration actuator 1810, with movable portion 2920 being formed by attaching a counterweight plate 2950 to an electromagnet D. Counterweight plate 2950 includes a movable engaging portion 2957 at the distal end of a portion of a rectangular plate-shaped main body 2951 having an opening 2952 at its center that protrudes laterally from a portion of the outer periphery and is bent toward base plate 2930. Meanwhile, a movement restricting portion 2937 is located on the opposite side of base plate 2930 relative to movable engaging portion 2957, spaced apart from movable engaging portion 2957.

[0288] Furthermore, the movement restricting portion 2937 is made of metal because it is integrally formed with the base plate 2930. The movement engaging portion 2957 is a non-magnetic body because it is the weight plate 2950 and may be formed of resin or the like.

[0289] The separation distance between the base plate 2930 and the movable part 2920 is limited by the limiting mechanism 290, so that the base plate 2930 and the movable part 2920 will not separate more than necessary and will not separate from each other. Figure 38 When the vibration actuator 2610 is mounted on a mounting object 103 such as a PCB or a flat panel, the vibration actuator 2910 can function properly even when mounted and suspended by the base plate 2930. Furthermore, the same applies to the case where the vibration actuator 2610 is mounted on the movable portion 2920; the base plate 2930 and the movable portion 2920 do not separate more than necessary, and the vibration actuator 2910 can function properly.

[0290] 11. Other Modifications 17

[0291] In the vibration actuator 10 of the embodiment (see Figures 1 to 10 ) in which the plate-shaped base portion 30 is fixed to the back of the box of the flat body 110 and the electromagnet D composed of the coil 22 and the iron core 24 is vibrated is described. However, as Figure 40 As shown in the vibration actuator 3210, the iron core 24 (electromagnet D) and the weight portion 26 can be fixed to the box (e.g., the flat plate body 110) via the fastening member 3212, thereby vibrating the base plate (base portion) 30. In the vibration actuator 3210, the fastening member (screw, rivet, etc.) 3212 penetrates the plate connecting portion of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 as a frame-shaped elastic body and the weight portion 26 and is attached to the flat plate body 110.

[0292] 12. Other variations 18

[0293] Figure 41 1 is a perspective view of another modified example 18 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 42 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 18.

[0294] As shown in the figure, the leaf spring 3340, which serves as a plate-shaped elastic portion, can also be configured so that the frame-shaped arm portion 48 connected to the base plate 3330 is located inside the base plate 3330 rather than outside the periphery. Specifically, the base-side fixing portions 44a and 44b connecting the frame-shaped leaf spring 3340 to the base plate 3330 are located outside the frame-shaped portion rather than inside. In this case, to ensure sufficient vibration space for the leaf spring 3340, a flat spacer 600 can be interposed between the base plate 3330 and the leaf spring 3340. The spacer 600 regulates the amplitude of the electromagnet D within the space formed between the electromagnet D and the base plate 3330.

[0295] 13. Other variations 19

[0296] Figure 43 1 is a perspective view of another modified example 19 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 44 This is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 19.

[0297] As shown in the vibration actuator 3410, the electromagnet core (the portion other than the central portion where the coil 22 is located and where the counterweight 3450 is mounted) and the spring 3446 of the elastic deformation portion 3440 may be formed integrally with the same component. The spring 3446 has a zigzag shape, and to ensure a vibration space for the spring 3446, a flat spacer 60 is preferably interposed between the base plate 3430 and the spring 3446.

[0298] Furthermore, either the base plate 3430 or the spring 3446 can be deformed to increase its height. The above structure can reduce the number of components. The thickness of the vibration actuator 3410 can also be adjusted by providing the spacer 60 .

[0299] 14. Other Modifications 20

[0300] Figure 45 2 is a perspective view of another modified example 20 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 46 It is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 20.

[0301] As shown in the vibration actuator 3510, a pair of springs (elastic bodies) 3540 can also support the two ends of the iron core 24 separated in the core axis direction in the movable part 3520 including the electromagnet D, and the above-mentioned springs 3540 can be installed on the base plate 3530 via a pair of spacers 62.

[0302] The illustrated spacer 62 is interposed between the plate-side fixing portion 3542, which is continuous with the elastically deformed bent portion 3546 of the spring 3540, and the base plate 3530, thereby connecting the two. Furthermore, the bent portion 3546 is fixed to both ends of the core 24 along with the counterweight plate 50 using fastening members 172. With this structure, the facing surfaces of the core 24 and the base plate and the fixing portion of the spring 3540 and the base plate are oriented in the same direction, thereby reducing the width of the product.

[0303] Furthermore, the weight plate 50 is formed in a shape that does not overlap with the coil 22, and has an opening portion 52 for arranging the coil 22 and a substrate opening portion (recess) 54 that is open in the region of the coil wiring connection portion 1902 connected to the coil 22. Thus, the thickness of the vibration actuator 3510 in the vibration direction becomes thinner.

[0304] 15. Other Modifications 21

[0305] Figure 47 2 is a perspective view of another modified example 21 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 48 This is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 21.

[0306] As shown in the figure, the vibration actuator 3610 can also replace the frame-shaped elastic body (see Figure 8 etc.) A plate-shaped elastic body (rubber sheet) 80 is arranged between the base plate 30 and the electromagnet D (specifically, the spring connection parts 241 and 242 at both ends of the iron core 24 around which the coil is wound).

[0307] The iron core 24 is configured to vibrate using the plate-shaped elastic body (rubber plate) 80. The vibration actuator 3610 includes a weight plate 50 (see Figure 45and Figure 46 ) instead of the weight portion 26 (see Figure 8 ), the weight plate 50 is fixed to the iron core 24 at both ends of the coil 22. The weight plate 50 is a frame-shaped member having an opening (opening 52) in the area of ​​the coil 22, and has an opening 54 in the area of ​​the coil wiring connection portion 1902. In the plate-shaped elastic body (rubber plate) 80, the fastening member 172 (see Figure 47 ) The spring connection parts 241 and 242 at both ends of the iron core and the two ends of the counterweight plate 50 are fastened to the base plate 30. According to this structure, the same effect as the vibration actuator 1410 can be obtained, and the actuator can be made low-profile, making it easier to manufacture.

[0308] 16. Other variations 22 and 23

[0309] Figures 49 to 52 It is a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of other modified examples 22 and 23 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 49 to 52 In the vibration actuators 3710 and 3810 shown, in order to ensure the vibration space of the electromagnet D, it is also considered not to adjust according to the thickness (length in the Z direction) of the elastically deformed frame springs 3746 and 3846, but to perform bending processing on the base plate 3730 or the elastic body (plate-shaped elastic part) 3840 having the frame spring 3846 itself.

[0310] That is, the amplitude of the electromagnet D in the space formed between the electromagnet D and the base plates 3730 and 3830 is determined by the height of the base plate 3730 or the elastic body 3840 (the plate side fixing portion 3844 connected to the frame spring 3846) increased by bending.

[0311] In vibration actuator 3710, the height of the connection point with elastic body 3740 is increased by the bent portion 3734 of base plate 3730. Furthermore, in vibration actuator 3810, the height of frame spring 3846 is increased by the stepped bent portion 3845. This structure allows the width and height of the vibration space to be determined differently based on the optimal elastic body material and spring constant, thereby increasing design freedom. Furthermore, since no additional components are required to increase the height, the number of components can be reduced.

[0312] 17. Other variations 24

[0313] Figure 53 2 is a perspective view of another modified example 24 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 54 It is an exploded perspective view of this other modification example 24.

[0314] It is also possible to construct an actuator without providing an opening in the base plate as the base portion, as in the illustrated vibration actuator 3910. The base plate 3930 is formed on the base portion 30 (see Figure 8 ) in the structure without the shape of the opening portion of the high magnetic permeability base plate. The base plate 3930 is arranged on the electromagnet D having the coil 22 in the center of the plate-shaped core 24.

[0315] Furthermore, the elastic body 3940 as a frame surrounding the base plate 3930 is connected to the base plate 3930 in a state of supporting the plate-shaped iron core 24. In this structure, the electromagnet D of the movable part 20 vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the plate surface of the iron core 24 by the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil 22. In this case, the distance between the coil 22 and the base plate 30 needs to be adjusted. Figure 53 The spacer 62 shown in FIG. 1 is provided, or the base plate 30 or the elastic body 3940 itself is bent (see FIG. 1 ). Figures 49 to 52 The spacer 62 is interposed between the base plate 3930 and the plate-side connecting portion of the elastic body 3940 .

[0316] 18. Other variations 25, 26, and 27

[0317] Figures 55 to 60 25 to 27 are perspective views and exploded perspective views of other modified examples 25 to 27 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 55 and Figure 56 As in the illustrated vibration actuator 4010 , the electromagnet D may be formed by winding the coil 22 around the bobbin 28 formed on the core 24 .

[0318] like Figure 57 and Figure 58 As shown in the vibration actuator 4110, the frame-shaped elastic body (see Figure 8 and Figure 9 ) 4140 is divided into (divided bodies 441, 442). The divided bodies 441, 442 are connected to the electromagnet D and the counterweight 50 at one end 441a, 442a and the other end 441b, 442b, respectively.

[0319] And, as Figure 59 and Figure 60 As in the vibration actuator 4210 shown, the base plate 4230 may be made of a non-magnetic material, and a rectangular frame-shaped yoke 64 may be provided on the base plate 4230 to surround the opening to form a magnetic path for the electromagnet D. The yoke 64 may be formed so that a pair of opposite sides 642, 644 forming the frame face the magnetic pole portion of the electromagnet D at the top and bottom.

[0320] 19. Other variations 28

[0321] Figure 61 2 is a perspective view of another modified example 28 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 62 : is an exploded perspective view of the other modified example 28. Figure 61 and Figure 62 As shown in the vibration actuator 4310, an electromagnet D0 can also be formed as an electromagnet with a coil 22 mounted on the outside of the central portion, and the two end portions 4324a and 4324b of the plate-shaped iron core 4324 around which the coil 22 is wound can be formed to protrude in a direction perpendicular to the winding direction of the coil 22. In addition, the iron core 4324, like the iron core 24, has a magnetic body with the coil 22 mounted on the outside of the central portion, and spring connection portions 241 and 242 protruding in the direction of the core axis are provided at the two end portions 4324a and 4324b, respectively. According to this structure, the area opposite the base plate 30, that is, the area forming the magnetic path, is also increased, which can achieve a magnetic path with higher magnetic efficiency.

[0322] 20. Other variations 29, 30, 31, 32, 33

[0323] Figures 63 to 66 It is a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of other modified examples 29 and 30 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0324] like Figures 63 to 66 As shown in the vibration actuators 4410 and 4510, a plurality of iron core coils (iron core 4424, coil 4422, iron core 4524, coil 4522), i.e., a plurality of electromagnets D1 and D2, may be arranged in parallel and supported by a frame-shaped elastic body 40. This structure can maintain the generated magnetic force constant and achieve a low-profile vibration actuator 4410 or 4510.

[0325] Figures 67 to 70 It is a perspective view and an exploded perspective view respectively of other modified examples 31 and 32 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0326] As in the vibration actuators 4610 and 4710 of other modified examples 31 and 32 shown in the drawings, a plurality of electromagnets D3 and D4 (iron core 4624, coil 4622, iron core 4724, coil 4722) may be arranged in parallel.

[0327] The vibration actuators 4610 and 4710 are respectively formed by sandwiching flat elastic bodies (made of the same material as the elastic body 1400 ) 4640 and 4740 between a plurality of electromagnets D3 and D4 and base plates 4630 and 4730 instead of the frame-shaped elastic member.

[0328] Base plates 4630 and 4730, along with weights 4650 and 4750, have shapes that do not overlap with coils 4622 and 4722, respectively. With this structure, the tactile sensation obtained by the vibration actuator can be subtly adjusted by appropriately changing and adjusting the size and number of electromagnets D3 and D4 and the shape and arrangement of elastic bodies D3 and D4.

[0329] Figure 71 3 is a perspective view of another modified example 33 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 72 This is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 33.

[0330] As shown in the figure, the vibration actuator 4810 of another modification 33 may also be configured to include a movable portion 4820 formed by assembling an electromagnet D5 formed by winding a coil 4822 around a rectangular thin plate-shaped iron core 4824 into a rectangular frame shape. A plurality of elastic bodies 4840 are provided between the movable portion 4820 and the base plate 4830 and at the four corners of the assembled frame, and the movable portion 4820 is movably supported by each of the elastic bodies 4840.

[0331] In this structure, base plate 4830 has the notch 4832 that becomes the retreat portion of coil 22, and coil 22 is configured in notch 4832. In addition, movable part 4820 has the H-shaped counterweight 4850 of the shape that avoids each coil 4822 on the part of frame-shaped electromagnet D5. Counterweight 4850 is configured between a pair of electromagnets that are separated and parallel in the X direction, and is fixed by the iron core 4824 of each of a pair of electromagnets D5-1 that are separated and parallel in the Y direction. According to this structure, it is possible to realize low-profile, miniaturization of vibration actuator 4810 itself, and it is possible to set the area (range of intensity) of the sense of touch obtained by the vibration of actuator to be larger.

[0332] As shown in the figure, the vibration actuator 4810 of another modification 33 may also be configured to include a movable portion 4820 formed by assembling an electromagnet D5 formed by winding a coil 4822 around a rectangular thin plate-shaped iron core 4824 into a rectangular frame shape. A plurality of elastic bodies 4840 are provided at the four corners of the frame-shaped portion assembled between the movable portion 4820 and the base plate 4830, and the movable portion 4820 is supported by the elastic bodies 4840 so as to be freely movable.

[0333] In this structure, base plate 4830 has the notch 4832 that becomes the retreat portion of coil 22, and coil 22 is configured in notch 4832. And, movable part 4820 has the H-shaped counterweight 4850 of the shape that avoids each coil 4822 on the part of frame-shaped electromagnet D5. Counterweight 4850 is configured between a pair of electromagnets separated and parallel in the X direction, and is fixed by the iron core 4824 of each of a pair of electromagnets D5-1 separated and parallel in the Y direction. According to this structure, it is possible to realize the low profile, miniaturization of vibration actuator 4810 itself, and it is possible to set the area (range of intensity) of the sense of touch obtained by the vibration of actuator to be larger.

[0334] 21. Other variations 34

[0335] Figure 73 3 is a perspective view of another modified example 34 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 74 This is an exploded perspective view of another variation 34. As in the illustrated vibration actuator 4910, the base plate 4930, the elastic body 4940, and the counterweight 4950 are circular, and the core 4924 is formed into a shape having branch core portions 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c extending radially in three directions from the center.

[0336] Coil 4922 is located (externally attached) at the center of each of the branch cores 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c. Coil 4922 and the branch cores 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c together constitute electromagnet D6. Spring connectors 241a, 241b, and 241c are provided at the distal ends of each of the branch cores 4924a, 4924b, and 4924c. Electromagnet D6 is connected to elastic body 4940 via spring connectors 241a, 241b, and 241c.

[0337] The elastic body 4940 is not a rectangular frame as in the above-described embodiment, but rather a circular frame surrounding the circular base plate 4930. The elastic body 4940 has zigzag portions (bends) arranged along the circumferential direction, and at the zigzag portions, the spring connecting portions 241a, 241b, 241c and the base plate 4930 are alternately connected in the circumferential direction.

[0338] In this way, the vibration actuator 4910 can be circular in shape, and vibration larger than the component area can be obtained. In addition, an electromagnet can be formed by arranging two or four or more branch core parts 4924a to 4924c radially and arranging coils on each of the branch core parts.

[0339] 22. Other variations 35

[0340] Figure 75It is the stereogram of other modification 35 of the vibration actuator of an embodiment of the present invention, the exploded stereogram of this other modification 35.As shown in the figure, the vibration actuator 5010 is constituted as, elastic body is made into many pairs of coil springs 5040, is clamped between the core end 24a, 24b of base plate 30 and electromagnet D, supports the core end 241, 242 of electromagnet D.In this vibration actuator 5010, the counterweight 50 of the shape that is not overlapped with the coil is fixed to the iron core (core end 24a, 24b) of the two side portions of coil.According to this structure, by using coil spring 5040, can obtain low cost and the higher actuator 5010 of durability.

[0341] In this way, since the elastic body is a pair (or pairs) of flat elastic components sandwiched between the base plate 30 and the core ends 24a and 24b, no other components are required, and the vibration actuator 1410 can be manufactured without processing the elastic body.

[0342] 23. Other variations 36

[0343] Figure 77 36 is a perspective view of another modified example 36 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 78 This is an exploded perspective view of another modification example 36.

[0344] As shown in the figure, a weight 5150 for increasing the tactile sensation obtained by the vibration actuator 5110 may be arranged on the back side (the base plate 5130 side) of the iron core 5124 .

[0345] In the iron core 5124, in order to reduce the height (thickness in the Z direction) of the vibration actuator 5110, the iron core ends 5124a and 5124b are bent to form steps so that the height position of the iron core ends 5124a and 5124b is higher than the main body bottom surface 5124c of the iron core 5124.

[0346] By placing and fixing a pair of opposite sides 5152 of the counterweight 5150 on the steps formed by the core ends 5124a and 5124b, the surface of the core 5124 (the surface of the core ends 5124a and 5124b) and the surface of the coil 5122 become the surface of the vibration actuator. This allows the vibration actuator 5110 to be made lower-profile compared to a structure in which the surface portion of the coil, the core ends 5124a and 5124b, and the thickness of the counterweight 5150 are sequentially stacked.

[0347] 24. Other variations 37

[0348] Figure 79 3 is a perspective view of another modified example 37 of the vibration actuator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8037. As shown in the figure, in order to increase the sense of touch obtained by the vibration actuator 5210, a rectangular parallelepiped shaped counterweight 5250 is mounted on the iron core 5224 in the movable portion 5220. The counterweight 5250 is dividedly arranged on the iron core ends 5224a and 5224b at the position of the coil 5222 portion avoiding the center of the iron core 5224. According to this structure, the height of the vibration actuator 5210 can be kept low and sufficient vibration can be obtained.

[0349] 25.Other structures

[0350] Furthermore, in each vibration actuator including a weight portion, a counterweight, or a counterweight plate, an electrostatic capacitance detection portion may be provided between the weight portion, the counterweight, or the counterweight plate and the base plate.

[0351] The electrostatic capacitance detection unit may also be configured, for example, Figure 32 In the vibration actuator 2010 shown, by replacing one side with the vibration damper 2000 and being installed on one side of the weight part, counterweight or counterweight plate and base plate, the change of the electrostatic capacitance of the other side relative to one side is detected. The electrostatic capacitance detection part can be any part as long as it detects the relative distance between a part of the weight part, counterweight or counterweight plate and a part of the base plate. Thus, the movable part can detect the pressing operation of the operator, and the vibration actuator generates a vibration corresponding to the operation via the control unit and gives it to the operator.

[0352] Furthermore, each vibration actuator of the modified example is replaced by Figure 13 The vibration actuator 10 shown can be used and mounted on a touch panel. Each vibration actuator of the modified example is basically fixed to the product box side via a base plate, a weight plate, or a weight portion, and can be assembled into a product.

[0353] Furthermore, when each of the aforementioned vibration actuators is placed on the back of an operating surface to form a contact-type input device, the operating surface can also be formed by using a magnetic plate itself, or by directly attaching an electromagnet to the back of the operating surface. In this configuration, the coil is energized in response to the operator's contact with the operating surface, and one side of the coil (electromagnet) and the base plate (plate) moves toward the other, vibrating. This allows the operator to directly provide a tactile sensation, more effectively imparting a sense of touch.

[0354] For example, in each of the above-mentioned vibration actuators, the operating surface may be configured as a counterweight. In this case, the operating surface is pasted with a counterweight, and the core is installed in the operating surface itself with a structure having a step that avoids the coil.

[0355] Furthermore, in a vibration actuator that uses the operating surface as a counterweight, an elastic member such as a rubber sheet or a vibration damper may be used in place of the elastic body. For example, in this structure, an electromagnet and an opposing magnetic material may be positioned at opposing positions between the operating surface and the housing, and an elastic member may be positioned and secured between the operating surface and the housing, thereby forming the operating surface and housing as a whole as an actuator.

[0356] Furthermore, the back of the operating surface may also be configured to have the shape and function of a plate. In this case, the plate connection portion (base body side fixing portion) of the elastic body is connected to the back, but the plate connection portion may also be connected at a position higher than the back to ensure the deformation area of ​​the elastic body itself in the thickness direction. Furthermore, in order to ensure this deformation area, a step portion (e.g. Figure 50 The bending part 3734) is connected to the elastic body (plate connecting part). In addition, the elastic body itself (plate connecting part) can also be processed to change the height of the bending part (for example Figure 51 According to this structure, the number of components can be reduced by the amount that the plate (base plate) is not provided.

[0357] Furthermore, when the elastic body itself is mounted on the back surface, in order to ensure the elastic deformation area (area in the thickness direction) of the elastic body, a spacer (see Figure 54 The area of ​​the elastic body can be appropriately changed according to the height of the spacer. In addition, the operation surface can also be a display, an operation panel or a touch pad, for example.

[0358] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the above descriptions are merely examples of suitable embodiments of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. In other words, the above descriptions of the structure of the device and the shapes of its components are merely examples, and it goes without saying that various modifications and additions to the above examples are possible within the scope of the present invention.

[0359] The present application incorporates all disclosures of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-074823 filed on April 28, 2022, including the specification, claims, drawings, and abstract.

[0360] Industrial applicability

[0361] The vibration actuator and contact-type input device of the present invention have the effects of being easy to assemble, being configured in a space-saving manner, and being able to vibrate appropriately, and are useful as components for, for example, PCBs, touch panels, operation panels, and the like.

[0362] Explanation of symbols

[0363] 1—Vibration prompt device (contact input device), 10, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410, 1510, 1610, 1710, 1810, 1910, 2010, 2110, 2210, 2310, 2610, 2910, 3210, 3410, 3510, 3610, 3710, 3810, 3910, 4010, 4110, 4210, 4310, 4410, 4510, 4610, 4710, 4810, 4910, 5010, 5110, 5210—Vibration actuator, 12— Switching element, 14—Signal generating portion, 20, 1320, 1820, 1920, 2020, 2920—Moving portion, 22—Coil, 24—Iron core (magnetic core), 24a—One end portion, 24b—Other end portion, 26—Weight portion, 30—Base portion (base, base plate), 32a, 32b—Opposing portion, 34a, 34b—Spring fixing portion, 36—Fixing portion, 38, 1852—Opening portion, 40, 1040, 1246—Plate-shaped elastic portion (elastic body), 42a, 42b, 1042a, 1042b—Moving portion side fixing portion (iron core connecting portion), 44a, 44 b, 1044a, 1044b—base side fixing portion (plate connecting portion), 46—elastic main body, 48—arm portion, 60, 62—spacer, 100, 100A—vibration prompt device, 102—installation object, 110, 110A—flat plate body, 120—bottom, 130—frame, 160—double-sided tape, 170—screw, 172—fastening component, 190—vibration reduction portion (buffer portion), 241, 242—spring connecting portion, 311, 461, 462—a pair of side portions, 311a, 312a—cut portion, 312—another pair of side portions, 441, 442—split body , 1042—connecting portion, 1046—bending portion, 1146—zigzag shape portion, 1400—elastic body, 1530, 1630, 2930, 3330, 3430, 3530, 3730, 3830, 4230, 4630, 4730, 4830, 4930, 5130—base plate, 1532—fixing hole, 1534—fastening component, 1536—long hole, 1850, 1950, 2050, 2150, 2950—counterweight plate, 1900—flexible substrate, 1902—coil wiring connection portion, 2000, 2100, 2200—vibration absorber.

Claims

1. A vibration actuator, characterized in that: have: A plate of magnetic material; an electromagnet disposed on the plate and having a coil disposed in the center of an iron core; and an elastic body supporting the iron core on both sides of the coil and connected to the plate, Due to the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil, one of the coil and the plate is displaced so as to approach the other and vibrate.

2. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The plate has an opening that becomes a part of the vibration space of the electromagnet in a region corresponding to the coil.

3. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The plate, the electromagnet and the elastic body are all in the shape of flat plates.

4. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of electromagnets are arranged in parallel or formed into a rectangular shape.

5. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The elastic body is a rectangular frame that supports the iron core at one opposite side and is connected to the plate at the other opposite side.

6. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The elastic body includes a pair of core connection portions and a pair of plate connection portions.

7. The vibration actuator according to claim 6, characterized in that The elastic body is connected to the plate by arranging the plate connection portion, and the iron core is connected to the iron core connection portion.

8. The vibration actuator according to claim 6, characterized in that The elastic body includes a bent portion between one of the pair of core connection portions and one of the pair of plate connection portions.

9. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The elastic body is a pair of flat elastic members or a plurality of pairs of coil springs interposed between the plate and the iron core.

10. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein In the electromagnet, weights having a shape that does not overlap with the coil are fixed to the core on both sides of the coil.

11. The vibration actuator according to claim 10, characterized in that A vibration damping member is provided between the iron core or the counterweight and the plate or the region where the vibration actuator is to be mounted.

12. The vibration actuator according to claim 10, characterized in that The weight is a frame-shaped member having an opening in the region of the coil.

13. The vibration actuator according to claim 10, characterized in that The weight has an opening in the region of the coil wiring connection portion.

14. The vibration actuator according to claim 10, characterized in that An electrostatic capacitance detection unit is provided between the weight and the plate.

15. The vibration actuator according to claim 1, wherein The elastic body includes a strain detection portion.

16. A contact-type input device, comprising: a vibration actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 15 disposed on the back side of an operating surface; The coil is energized in response to an operator's contact action on the operation surface, and one of the coil and the plate is displaced toward the other and vibrates, thereby providing a tactile sensation to the operator.

17. The contact-type input device according to claim 16, wherein: Either the plate or the electromagnet is disposed on the back side of the operation surface.

18. The contact-type input device according to claim 16, wherein: The back side of the operation surface has the shape and function of the plate.

19. The contact-type input device according to claim 16, wherein: The operation surface is a display, an operation panel or a touch panel.

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