Touch input device

Abstract

In a contact-type input device, the operation panel includes an operation portion and a non-operation portion on its surface, a vibration actuator is disposed on the back side in a first portion corresponding to the operation portion, and a fastener for fixing the operation panel is disposed on the back side in a second portion corresponding to the boundary between the operation portion and the non-operation portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to contact input devices. Background Technology

[0002] For example, according to patent documents 1-3, the following structure is known: as a tactile or operational sensation (hereinafter collectively referred to as "tactile sensation"), vibrations generated by an electromagnetic mechanism are imparted to the fingertips or other parts of the operator who come into contact with the operation panel (hereinafter also simply referred to as "panel").

[0003] The vibration actuator described in Patent Document 1 is configured such that a guide shaft is arranged perpendicularly to the panel surface, and a movable magnet and a fixed coil are arranged radially on both the inner and outer sides of the shaft, causing the movable magnet to reciprocate along the guide shaft. Therefore, this device itself requires a certain height. The vibration actuator (vibration presentation device) described in Patent Document 2 is configured such that a central magnetic yoke is arranged perpendicularly to the panel surface, and a movable coil and a fixed magnet are arranged radially on both the inner and outer sides of the shaft. A support portion supporting the panel is arranged around its outer perimeter by a vertical wall, and the movable coil reciprocates along the central magnetic yoke inside the support portion. Therefore, this device itself also requires a certain height. Furthermore, the vibration actuators described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 use magnets (permanent magnets), which presents challenges in terms of manufacturing cost and ease of manufacture.

[0004] The vibration actuator described in Patent Document 3 employs the following structure: plate-shaped magnetic yokes are disposed opposite each other at both ends of an iron core to which a coil is wound; a flat base portion of the iron core assembly and the plate-shaped magnetic yoke are supported and fixed by a plate-shaped elastic portion. In this vibration actuator, the magnetic force generated at both ends of the iron core by energizing the coil attracts the magnetic yoke toward the iron core assembly; and the elastic force generated in the elastic portion by the movement of the magnetic yoke causes the magnetic yoke to vibrate in the opposite direction. Thus, the vibration actuator can be made thinner, and vibration output / tactile feedback of an electromagnetic mechanism without the use of magnets can be achieved.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-070729

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-163854

[0009] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-069447 Summary of the Invention

[0010] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0011] However, in contact-type input devices that receive operator input via a control panel, the aforementioned vibration source, such as a vibration actuator, is located on the back side of the operating surface. The operating surface may not be entirely comprised of the operating area receiving operator input; sometimes there are operating areas and non-operating areas that do not receive operator input. In such cases, it is desirable to ensure the intensity of vibration output to the operating area while suppressing the intensity of vibration output to the non-operating areas.

[0012] The object of the present invention is to provide a contact-type input device that can ensure vibration output to the operating part and suppress vibration transmission to the non-operating part.

[0013] Methods for solving problems

[0014] One embodiment of the contact input device of the present invention is a contact input device having an operation panel and a vibration actuator disposed on the back of the operation panel. The vibration actuator vibrates in the direction perpendicular to the surface upon contact with the operation panel, providing a tactile sensation to the operator.

[0015] The operation panel includes an operation section and a non-operation section on its surface.

[0016] The vibration actuator is disposed on the back side in the first portion corresponding to the operating part.

[0017] The fixing member for securing the operation panel is disposed on the back side at a second portion corresponding to the boundary between the operation section and the non-operation section.

[0018] Invention Effects

[0019] According to the present invention, a contact-type input device is provided that can ensure vibration output to the operating part and suppress vibration transmission to the non-operating part. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figures 1A and 1B are views of the external appearance of the contact input device of Embodiment 1 from the front side and the back side, respectively.

[0021] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the contact input device of Embodiment 1 as viewed from the rear side.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the division of the front or back surface of the operation panel of the contact input device in Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the position sensor in the operation panel of the contact input device according to Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 5This is a top view of the contact input device of Embodiment 1 from the rear side.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the vibration actuator of the contact-type input device according to Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a top view of the vibration actuator.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a bottom view of the vibration actuator.

[0028] Figure 9 This is the front view of the vibration actuator.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a right-side view of the vibration actuator.

[0030] Figure 11 yes Figure 7 A sectional view along the AA line.

[0031] Figure 12 yes Figure 7 BB line sectional view.

[0032] Figure 13 This is an exploded three-dimensional view of the vibration actuator.

[0033] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the movable part and the elastic support part in the vibration actuator.

[0034] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the movable part, the elastic support part, and the base part in the vibration actuator.

[0035] Figure 16A , Figure 16B and Figure 16C This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of the vibration actuator.

[0036] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional view of a modified example of the vibration actuator.

[0037] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view of a modified example of the vibration actuator.

[0038] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the circuit structure of the control unit of the vibration actuator.

[0039] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control system of the contact input device according to Embodiment 1.

[0040] Figure 21This is a top view of the contact input device of Embodiment 2 from the rear side.

[0041] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the position sensor and load sensor in the operation panel of the contact input device of Embodiment 3.

[0042] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control system of the contact input device in Embodiment 3.

[0043] Figure 24 This is a top view of the contact input device of Embodiment 4 from the rear side.

[0044] Figure 25A and Figure 25B This is an exploded perspective view of the contact input device of Embodiment 4, viewed from the rear side and the front side respectively.

[0045] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control system of the contact input device in Embodiment 4.

[0046] Figure 27 This is a top view of the contact input device of Embodiment 5 from the rear side.

[0047] Figure 28 This is an exploded perspective view of the contact input device of Embodiment 5 as viewed from the surface side. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Hereinafter, the apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] In the embodiments described below, an orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is used. The X, Y, and Z directions are assumed to correspond to the short side, long side, and perpendicular direction of the contact input device, respectively. However, the length of the X direction and the length of the Y direction of the contact input device may be the same. Furthermore, in the vibration actuator of the contact input device, the X, Y, and Z directions are assumed to correspond to the left-right, front-back, and up-down directions, respectively, but their correspondence will vary depending on the arrangement of the vibration actuator. Regarding the Z direction, in this embodiment, the positive Z direction (back side or back face) is the direction in which the operator presses during operation, and the negative Z direction (front side or surface face) is the direction in which vibration feedback is given to the operator.

[0050] Furthermore, the shape-related representations used in the descriptions of each embodiment are convenient representations to facilitate understanding of the content. In addition, the shapes used in each embodiment are examples and can be implemented in various ways.

[0051] (Implementation Method 1)

[0052] <Overall Structure of Contact Input Device 1>

[0053] Figures 1A and 1B are views of the external appearance of the contact input device of Embodiment 1 from the front side and the back side, respectively. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the contact input device of this embodiment as viewed from the rear side. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the division of the front or back surface of the operation panel of the contact input device in this embodiment. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the position sensor in the operation panel of the contact input device of this embodiment. Figure 5 This is a top view of the contact input device of this embodiment from the rear side.

[0054] The contact-type input device (hereinafter also simply referred to as "input device") 1 of this embodiment includes: a vibration actuator (hereinafter also simply referred to as "actuator") 2, which is a vibration source that provides feedback as a tactile sensation; an operation panel (hereinafter also simply referred to as "panel") 3, which is the mounting object of the actuator 2; a frame 4, which performs the function of preventing vibration transmission; and a connecting member 5, which connects the panel 3 to the frame 4.

[0055] The panel 3 has an operating portion 3a1 on its surface 3a, which is an area capable of receiving touch input from the operator; and a non-operating portion 3a3, located on the outer periphery of the outer edge 3a2 of the operating portion 3a1, which is an area that cannot receive touch input from the operator. In this embodiment, the outer surface 3a of the panel 3 is seamlessly designed, and the outer edge 3a2, which serves as the boundary line between the operating portion 3a1 and the non-operating portion 3a3, is visually indistinguishable. However, the outer surface 3a of the panel 3 may not be seamless.

[0056] In the back panel 3b, the area corresponding to the operating part 3a1 is the first portion 3b1, and the annular area surrounding the boundary line (outer edge 3a2) between the operating part 3a1 and the non-operating part 3a3 is the second portion 3b3. That is, the second portion 3b3 is the part in the back panel 3b that corresponds to the boundary between the operating part 3a1 and the non-operating part 3a3. The third portion 3b5 extends further outward from the outer edge 3b4 of the second portion 3b3. In the back panel 3b, the area corresponding to the non-operating part 3a3 is divided into the second portion 3b3 and the third portion 3b5.

[0057] In this embodiment, when the contact input device 1 is applied to a touchpad as an indicator device, such as in a laptop computer, the operation portion 3a1 of the panel 3 functions as a touchpad. Furthermore, in this case, the non-operation portion 3a3, which is the outer portion surrounding the operation portion 3a1, typically functions as a palm rest. That is, the non-operation portion 3a3 is a portion where the operator places their hand to stabilize the position of the fingers used for operation, thus creating contact with the operator.

[0058] Furthermore, the types of devices to which the contact input device 1 can be applied are not limited to touchpads. Any device that can accept contact operation input, has a planar operating part, and has a non-operating part on the same surface as the operating part can also be a touchpad or touch panel or other types of devices.

[0059] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, multiple position sensors 3c are arranged in a two-dimensional array on the surface 3a of the panel 3, which can detect which position in the operating part 3a has been subjected to a contact operation. The type of position sensor 3c is not particularly limited, for example, it is an electrostatic capacitive sensor. The multiple position sensors 3c can be arranged in a high-density manner to detect the contact position with high precision, or they can be arranged separately from each other as shown in the figure.

[0060] Actuator 2 is disposed on the first portion 3b1 of the back surface 3b of panel 3. Actuator 2 vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the surface (surface 3a, back surface 3b) according to the operator's contact operation with panel 3, and imparts this vibration to the operating part 3a1 on the surface 3a side from the back surface 3b side, thereby providing tactile sensation to the operator. The internal structure of actuator 2 will be described later. Since it is an electromagnetically driven type that generates vibration in the direction perpendicular to the surface, it can impart vibration to panel 3 with high output.

[0061] In this embodiment, two actuators 2 are disposed in the first part 3b1. More specifically, they are disposed in two of the four division regions DR1, DR2, DR3, and DR4, which divide the length of the first part 3b1 along its long side (Y direction) into four equal parts, located at both ends of the long side direction. That is, although the two actuators 2 are located inside the first part 3b1 corresponding to the operating part 3a1, they are respectively disposed in positions relatively close to the second part 3b3 corresponding to the non-operating part 3a3. In the second part 3b3, as will be described later, the vibration transmission is suppressed by fixing the panel 3 by the frame 4. Therefore, due to this effect, it is more difficult to ensure the output intensity of vibration at the ends of the first part 3b1 compared to the central part. However, in this embodiment, the actuators 2 are disposed at both ends of the long side direction of the first part 3b1, so high output vibration can also be ensured at both ends of the long side direction of the first part 3b1. That is, the vibration transmission to the non-operating part 3a3 that becomes an unnecessary tactile cue can be suppressed, and a wide range of tactile cues can be provided.

[0062] The frame 4 functions as a fastener for fixing the panel 3. The frame 4 is a rigid, frame-shaped plate component, for example, formed by punching the central portion of a metal plate into a ring shape. In this embodiment, the frame 4 is attached to the second portion 3b3 of the back surface 3b of the panel 3 by an adhesive joining member 5, such as double-sided tape. Alternatively, the joining member 5 may be a screw, in which case it can be inserted through a through hole 4a in the frame 4 (see reference). Figure 4 The frame 4 is screwed onto the panel 3 and thus installed on the panel 3.

[0063] The frame 4 has a rectangular outer periphery 4b and a central portion 4c (two central portions 4c in this embodiment), which extends across the first portion 3b1 and supports a pair of opposite sides of the outer periphery 4b, ensuring the rigidity and mechanical strength of the frame 4. The outer periphery 4b is disposed in the second portion 3b3 and has a shape that surrounds the entire circumference of the first portion 3b1. With this shape, it is possible to prevent the vibration input from the actuator 2 to the first portion 3b1 from propagating to the second portion 3b3 and the third portion 3b5, thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration on the surface 3a of the panel 3 from the operating portion 3a1 to the non-contact portion 3a3.

[0064] <Structure of Vibration Actuator 2>

[0065] The structure of the vibration actuator 2 will now be described. Furthermore, in the description of the structure of the vibration actuator 2, the positive side in the Z direction is referred to as the "planar side" or "upper side," and the negative side in the Z direction is referred to as the "bottom side" or "lower side." Moreover, among the components constituting the vibration actuator 2, the surface located on the "planar side" or "upper side" is referred to as the "surface" or "upper surface," and the surface located on the "back side" or "lower side" is referred to as the "back side" or "lower surface."

[0066] <Overall Structure of Vibration Actuator 2>

[0067] Vibration actuator 2 is a thin vibration actuator in the form of a flat plate or a thin plate. If the Z direction is set as the thickness direction, it is positioned opposite the back side of the operating device in the thickness direction and is configured to cause the operating device to vibrate.

[0068] The vibration actuator 2 is formed in the shape of a thin plate and includes: a movable part 20, a base part 30, and a plate-shaped elastic part 40 that supports the movable part 20 so that it can move freely relative to the base part 30, serving as an elastic support (elastic body). Furthermore, while the elastic support part is set as a plate-shaped elastic part 40, it is not limited to a plate shape as long as the movable part 20 can be supported so that it can move freely relative to the base part 30. Additionally, the base part 30 is also plate-shaped in this embodiment, and is therefore referred to hereinafter as a "base plate," but it may not be plate-shaped and could be slightly bent. The movable part 20 is also plate-shaped in this embodiment, but it may not be plate-shaped as long as it is thin. The movable part 20, the base part 30, and the plate-shaped elastic part 40 are arranged with their respective plate surfaces along the XY plane, thus the overall structure of the vibration actuator 2 is also a thin plate-shaped structure along the XY plane.

[0069] In the vibration actuator 2, the operation panel 3, which receives the operator's contact operation input, can be connected via either the movable part 20 or the base part 30.

[0070] Regarding the vibration actuator 2, the movable part 20 vibrates in the Z direction, specifically relative to the base part 30, and this vibration is applied as a tactile sensation to the operating device on which the vibration actuator 2 is mounted.

[0071] <Modible Parts 20>

[0072] The movable part 20 is formed into a rectangular plate shape and includes a coil 22, an iron core 24, and a hammer 26. The coil is formed into a flat shape and is arranged to surround the central part of the iron core 24. Furthermore, the coil 22 is disposed on the outer periphery of the central part of the iron core 24 through an insulating material. The insulating material may be, for example, a coating agent applied to and cured on the iron core 24, or it may be configured as a spool-shaped insulating component between the coil 22 and the iron core 24. As the insulating material, for example, a resin material such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is used, thereby ensuring electrical insulation between the coil 22 and the iron core 24.

[0073] The iron core (magnetic core) 24 is a magnetic body, with its two ends 24a and 24b protruding from the coil 22 along the winding axis; that is, the two ends 24a and 24b protrude from the wound coil 22. Spring connecting portions 241 and 242, which engage with the elastic support portion, are respectively provided at the front ends of the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24. The iron core 24 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate, with the two ends 24a and 24b each being a wide rectangular plate, facing the base portion 30 on the back side. Hammer portions 26 extending from the spring connecting portions 241 and 242 are mounted on the surfaces of the two ends 24a and 24b.

[0074] The hammer 26 is plate-shaped and preferably corresponds to the shape of the iron core 24, for example, in terms of its width (length in the X direction) and depth (length in the Y direction). Its weight can be arbitrarily set, for example, by adjusting the length of the hammer 26 in the Y direction, the length in the Z direction, or the material. In this way, the hammer 26 can adjust the weight of the movable part 20, and through this adjustment, a natural vibration frequency can be set. Furthermore, when the space for thickness (Z direction) configuration is limited, it can also be designed with a shape where the weight increases in the XY directions.

[0075] By energizing the coil 22, the iron core 24 is magnetized and functions as an electromagnet. The two ends 24a and 24b are magnetic poles, generating a magnetic attraction between them and a nearby magnetic body, namely the base portion 30. In other words, the movable part 20 has an electromagnet formed by winding the coil 22 around the central portion of the iron core 24.

[0076] By energizing the coil 22, the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24, especially the back sides of the two ends 24a and 24b, become planar magnetic pole surfaces. Furthermore, the iron core 24 is preferably formed of soft magnetic materials such as silicon steel sheet, permalloy, or ferrite. Alternatively, the iron core 24 can also be made of electromagnetic stainless steel, sintered materials, MIM (metal injection molding) materials, laminated steel sheets, or electro-galvanized steel sheets (SECC).

[0077] <Base section 30>

[0078] The base portion 30 supports the movable portion 20 via the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 in the contact separation direction of the base portion 30. Figure 6 The base portion 30 is freely movable in the Z direction. It has opposing magnetic parts 32a and 32b, which are arranged opposite each other in a direction intersecting the winding axis of the coil 22, with a gap (gap) G between the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24. The base portion 30 is a flat component with a predetermined thickness in the Z direction, forming the bottom surface of the vibration actuator 2.

[0079] The base portion 30 has a base main body portion 31 that serves as a magnetic body. Opposing portions (magnetic bodies) 32a and 32b are provided on the base main body portion 31, which are arranged opposite to the two ends 24a and 24b, spring connecting portions 34a and 34b that serve as elastic connecting portions, and a fixing portion 36.

[0080] The base body 31 has an opening 38 in the center, which is square in shape when viewed from above. The opening 38 is a space for the lower part of the coil 22 to be inserted, and is shaped to correspond to the shape of the coil 22, for example, square.

[0081] In the base body 31, opposing portions 32a and 32b are formed on a pair of mutually opposed and separated sides 311, and spring fixing portions 34a and 34b are formed on another pair of mutually opposed and separated 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, i.e., the surface on the movable part side.

[0082] One pair of edges 311 and another pair of edges 312 are planar bodies, and notches 311a and 312a are formed in the central part of the four outer edges that constitute the outer periphery of the base body 31, respectively. The notches 311a and 312a are used to ensure the deformation area of ​​a portion of the plate-shaped elastic part 40.

[0083] Opposing portions (opposing surfaces) 32a and 32b are part of the base portion 30, forming magnetic bodies that are opposed to the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 in a direction intersecting the winding axis direction of the coil 22, for example, in the Z direction with a gap (opening) G between them. The opposing portions 32a and 32b are attracted by the magnetic attraction between themselves and the back surfaces of the two ends 24a and 24b generated by the energization of the coil 22. The opposing portions 32a and 32b are formed, for example, at the central portion of each of a pair of edges 311, and are positioned to sandwich the opening 38 in the Y direction.

[0084] The opposing portions 32a and 32b are surfaces that are completely opposed to the back surfaces of the two ends 24a and 24b, thus enabling efficient flow of magnetic flux between them. The opposing portions 32a and 32b, as part of the base body 31, are made of strongly magnetic materials, such as iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), or gadolinium (Gd). The opposing portions 32a and 32b, together with the spring connecting portions 34a and 34b and the fixing portion 36, form the base body 31, and are particularly formed of metallic materials such as iron, cobalt, and nickel (e.g., iron).

[0085] Above the opposing portions 32a and 32b (in the Z direction), the two ends 24a and 24b are separately and oppositely arranged. The spring connecting portions 34a and 34b, which are symmetrical about their respective centers in the X and Y directions, are arranged such that they clamp the opening 38 in the X direction. They are joined to the other end of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 on the surface side of the base portion 30.

[0086] The fixing part 36 fixes the base part 30. The fixing part 36 is, for example, a fixing hole (see reference) of the operating device (panel 3) that is fixed to the operator's contact operation via a fixing member. Figure 7 , Figure 8 ).

[0087] The fixing parts 36 are formed at the four corners of the base part 30, which can reliably fix the base part 30 to the fixed object. In addition, although the fixing parts 36 are formed at the four corners, the number of fixing parts 36 can be arbitrary as long as the base part 30 can be fixed to the fixed object.

[0088] As described above, the base portion 30 is a flat plate with its surface arranged along an XY plane parallel to the operation panel 3. It has an opening 38 that allows relative movement between the electromagnet of the movable portion 20 and the magnetic body of the base portion 30 when the coil 22 is disposed inside during vibration. With this structure, a portion of the increased thickness in the movable portion 20 due to the coil 22 can be absorbed through the opening 38 of the base portion 30. Therefore, a thin overall structure of the vibration actuator 2 can be ensured, and it also helps to reduce the overall thinness of the contact input device 1 that mounts the vibration actuator 2.

[0089] <Plate-shaped elastic part 40>

[0090] The plate-shaped elastic part 40 is plate-shaped, specifically, it is an elastically deformable leaf spring that movably supports the movable part 20 on the base part 30. The plate-shaped elastic part 40 is formed as a thin plate frame with a predetermined thickness (thickness in the Z direction), and is arranged in layers between the base part 30 and the movable part 20 in the thickness direction (Z direction).

[0091] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is connected to both the movable portion 20 and the base portion 30. Furthermore, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed as a rectangular frame surrounding the base portion 30. One pair of parallel sides 461 are engaged with the movable portion 20, and another pair of opposing sides 462 adjacent to the pair of sides 461 are engaged with the base portion 30. In other words, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 supports the electromagnet of the movable portion 20 on one pair of opposite sides, and is connected to the base portion 30, which is a magnetic body, on the other opposite side. Thus, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 symmetrically and balancedly supports the movable portion 20 in directions perpendicular to the opposing direction (vibration direction) (X and Y directions) relative to the base portion 30. Because the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is a rectangular frame (here, a thin plate frame), it is possible to reduce the number of parts, achieve overall thinning, and eliminate the need for bending processes in manufacturing. Furthermore, since it is a frame, other components can be arranged within the frame without interfering with them. Additionally, the plate-shaped elastic section 40 allows the displacement and natural vibration frequency of the movable section 20 to be determined by setting the spring constant.

[0092] The plate-shaped elastic part 40 has: movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b; base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b; and a planar elastic main body part 46, which includes an arm that connects the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b and allows for elastic deformation.

[0093] The elastic main body 46 connects the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b and the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b in a manner that allows for elastic deformation in the Z direction.

[0094] The elastic main body 46 has a deformable arm that connects the movable part side fixing parts 42a, 42b to the base part side fixing parts 44a, 44b. The arm is formed, for example, in an L-shape, thereby forming a frame shape that surrounds the base part 30 when viewed from above, and is deformable in the Z direction on the outer periphery of the base part 30.

[0095] In the elastic main body 46, a pair of parallel side portions 461 are formed by movable side fixing portions 42a and 42b and one side of the L-shaped arm that is linearly connected to them. Another pair of side portions 462 adjacent to this pair of side portions 461 are formed by base side fixing portions 44a and 44b in a way that protrudes inward.

[0096] In the plate-shaped elastic part 40, the elastic main body part 46, the movable part side fixing parts 42a and 42b, and the base part side fixing parts 44a and 44b are arranged on the same plane.

[0097] Movable part side fixing parts 42a and 42b are planar and fixed to the movable part 20. In the elastic main body part 46, when viewed from above, the movable part side fixing parts 42a and 42b are provided at the center of a pair of side portions 311 arranged on the outer side of the base part 30, and are fixed to the spring connecting parts 241 and 242 of the iron core 24 via the back side surface. The movable part side fixing parts 42a and 42b are arranged symmetrically in each direction relative to the center in the X direction or the center in the Y direction. Base part side fixing parts 44a and 44b are planar and fixed to the base part 30.

[0098] The plate-shaped elastic part 40 has an arm with an elastic main body 46 to ensure elasticity. The shape of this arm can be any shape, as long as it is a shape that allows the movable part-side fixing parts 42a and 42b and the base part-side fixing parts 44a and 44b to be freely connected in the Z direction. In addition, the elastic main body 46 can be any shape, as long as it is formed to deform well in a balanced manner by moving in the Z direction (vibration imparting direction) when the movable part 20 is located in the XY plane.

[0099] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 supports the movable portion 20 by positioning the back sides of both ends of the movable portion 20 and the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30 in a mutually perpendicular direction, i.e., the vibration direction (Z direction), with a gap G between them. The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 forms the gap G according to its thickness (length in the Z direction).

[0100] The plate-shaped elastic portion 40 deforms between the upper surface of the iron core 24 or coil 22 and the bottom surface of the base portion 30. Thus, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is formed into a rectangular frame shape, with movable part-side fixing portions 42a and 42b and base portion-side fixing portions 44a and 44b disposed at the center of each side constituting the rectangular frame. When the movable part 20 is driven, the movable part-side fixing portions 42a and 42b are displaced relative to the base portion-side fixing portions 44a and 44b.

[0101] The movable part 20 is supported on both sides of the elastic main body part 46 by L-shaped arms connected to the movable part-side fixing parts 42a, 42b and the base part-side fixing parts 44a, 44b. Therefore, stress dispersion during elastic deformation can be achieved, and the movable part 20 can move in the vibration direction (Z direction) without tilting relative to the base part 30, thereby improving the reliability and stability of the vibration state.

[0102] The base portion 30, the movable portion 20 (especially the iron core 24 which functions as an electromagnet when the coil 22 is energized), and the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 are all flat plates arranged parallel to the operation panel 3. When either the iron core 24 or the base portion 30 is in a neutral position in the vertical direction, the entire plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is located within the gap G between the base portion 30 and the iron core 24 in the vertical direction (see reference). Figure 12 (etc.). According to this structure, while ensuring the stroke of the movable part 20 in the vertical direction, the base part 30, the movable part 20 and the plate-shaped elastic part 40 arranged in a stacked manner have a small volume in the vertical direction. Therefore, it is possible to ensure the overall thin structure of the vibration actuator 2, and it is also possible to help to make the overall thinness of the contact input device 1 that mounts the vibration actuator 2.

[0103] <Magnetic circuit of vibration actuator 2>

[0104] Figures 16A-16C This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of a vibration actuator. Furthermore, Figures 16A-16C It means to indicate Figure 7 A perspective view of the vibration actuator 2 with the BB line cut off. The unshown part of the magnetic circuit also has the same magnetic flux flow M as the shown part.

[0105] Figure 16A This diagram shows the static state (stationary position SI) of the vibration actuator 2. When current flows through... Figure 16A When the coil 22 of the vibration actuator 2 is activated, the iron core 24 is energized and generates a magnetic field, with the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 becoming magnetic poles. For example, in Figure 16B In the core 24, one end 24a is the N pole and the other end 24b is the S pole. Thus, a magnetic circuit with a magnetic flux flow M is formed between the core 24 and the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30. The magnetic flux flow M in this magnetic circuit flows from one end 24a to the opposing portion 32a, from the opposing portion 32a to the opposing portion 32b, and from the opposing portion 32b to the other end 24b of the core 24, before exiting again from one end 24a through the core 24.

[0106] Therefore, according to the principle of an electromagnetic solenoid, the two ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24 generate a magnetic attraction KR. Consequently, the two ends 24a and 24b are pulled closer together by the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30. The base portion 30 is fixed to the housing or the like via the fixing portion 36; therefore, the two ends 24a and 24b are pulled closer and attracted to the opposing portions 32a and 32b. That is, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 deforms, and the movable portion 20 is pulled closer towards the base portion 30. The movable portion 20 is positioned close to the location (KI) where the base portion 30 is fixed.

[0107] Then, when the energizer to coil 22 is removed, the magnetic field disappears, as shown below. Figure 16C As shown, the magnetic attraction KR of the movable part 20 disappears, and the force of the plate-shaped elastic part 40, which deforms towards the base part 30, is released. That is, a reaction force HR, which is the spring of the plate-shaped elastic part 40, is generated. Through the reaction force HR of the plate-shaped elastic part 40, the movable part 20 moves towards its original position (position SI in the non-driven stationary state, which serves as the reference position) in a manner that moves in the positive Z direction, opposite to the attraction direction of the magnetic attraction KR. At this time, the movable part 20 moves to a position HI, which is displaced away from the base part 30 compared to the stationary position SI in the stationary state, by means of the reaction force HR, thereby generating a stronger vibration.

[0108] The vibration decays as the force decreases and then repeats freely. Alternatively, the coil 22 can be repeatedly energized and de-energized, causing the movable part 20 to reciprocate in the Z direction and generate vibration. Thus, in the vibration actuator 2, the movable part 20, which is supported on the base 30 and suspended by the plate-shaped elastic part 40, is mechanically displaced by the magnetic attraction generated between the electromagnet and the opposing parts 32a and 32b, which are magnetic bodies, when energized, and then vibrates freely.

[0109] In this way, the vibration actuator 2 moves the movable part 20 toward the base part 30 by the magnetic attraction generated between the iron core 24 and the opposing parts (magnetic bodies) 32a and 32b due to the energization of the coil 22. This movement generates vibration of the movable part 20 through the elastic force generated by the plate-shaped elastic part 40, which provides tactile sensation to the operator.

[0110] In the vibration actuator 2, the iron core 24 with the coil 22 wound around it is supported by the plate-shaped elastic part 40 and is movable in the Z direction relative to the base part 30 with the coil 22 inserted through the opening 38 of the base part 30. The vibration actuator 2 can be constructed solely of the thin plate-shaped iron core 24, the portion of the coil 22 on the iron core 24, the stacked plate-shaped elastic part 40, and the height of the base part 30. Thus, the vibration actuator 2 can be constructed as a thin plate, achieving space-saving in the arrangement space. In addition, compared with structures where components that generate magnetic force and drive the movable part in the Z direction are stacked in the Z direction, such as arranging the coil and magnet opposite each other in the Z direction, this structure has a further thinner structure.

[0111] Furthermore, the plate-shaped iron core 24 is arranged perpendicularly to the opposing portions 32a and 32b of the base portion 30, and the movable portion 20 is held in a position to move freely in the vertical direction (vibration direction) via a leaf spring, i.e., a plate-shaped elastic portion 40, disposed between the iron core 24 and the base portion 30. Thus, the iron core 24 is supported on the base portion 30 with a gap that ensures the thickness of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is used for amplitude vibration.

[0112] The base portion 30 is a plate-shaped part with an opening 38 through which the coil 22 can be freely inserted in the opposite direction. Around the opening 38, a fixing portion 36 is provided in the base portion 30 to fix the base portion 30 to the operation panel 3 that receives the operator's contact operation input. A plate-shaped elastic portion 40 extends outside the fixing portion 36 in a manner that surrounds the base portion 30. Therefore, without hindering the fixing of the base portion 30, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 can elastically deform, and the stroke for this elastic deformation can be ensured.

[0113] Furthermore, in the vibration actuator 2, all the components such as the base part 30, the plate-shaped elastic part 40, the movable part 20, and the hammer part 26 are assembled in the Z direction, that is, the thickness direction. Therefore, they can be easily assembled, and a vibration actuator that is not prone to assembly deviations and can be driven stably can be manufactured.

[0114] Furthermore, the vibration actuator 2 has a structure that ensures the distance between the core 24 and the base portion 30 through the thickness of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40. As a result, no other components are needed to form the distance between the core 24 and the base portion 30, which can further reduce the number of components and further reduce size, simplify assembly, and lower cost.

[0115] Furthermore, the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 is a leaf spring with high manufacturing precision in thickness, thus suppressing deviations in the gap between the iron core 24 and the base portion 30 (specifically, the opposing portions 32a and 32b) and ensuring a stable gap. Since the structures are structures with exposed surfaces at both ends 24a and 24b of the iron core 24, the weight on the movable portion 20 side can be easily increased using the surface space.

[0116] Furthermore, since vibration is generated by reciprocating linearly of the movable part 20 without using magnets, the cost can be reduced compared to structures using magnets. Additionally, the number of parts can be reduced, making manufacturing easier.

[0117] The vibration actuator 2 is easy to assemble and can be made thin, thus allowing for space-saving configuration and appropriate vibration. In addition, the vibration actuator 2 can be made thin and small, and can provide appropriate tactile feedback corresponding to the operator's pressing operation on the control panel 3.

[0118] Furthermore, regarding the use of current pulses to induce resonance in a vibration actuator to drive a movable part, for example, Patent Document 3 explains its driving principle by combining motion equations and circuit equations. This driving principle can be applied to this embodiment.

[0119] <Example of a modified structure for vibration actuator 2>

[0120] The structure of the vibration actuator 2 is not limited to the structure described above, and various modifications can be made to implement it. Here, a modified example of the structure of the vibration actuator 2 is shown.

[0121] Figure 17 and Figure 18 These are perspective views and exploded perspective views of a modified example of a vibration actuator.

[0122] In the vibration actuator 2A illustrated here, no opening is provided in the base plate 3930, which serves as the base portion 30. The base plate 3930 is located within the base portion 30 (see reference 2017). Figure 8 The structure is designed with a high-permeability base plate without any openings. An electromagnet D with a coil 22 in the center of the plate-shaped iron core 24 is disposed on the base plate 3930.

[0123] Furthermore, the elastic body 3940, which serves as the frame surrounding the base plate 3930, is connected to the base plate 3930 while 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 due to the magnetic force generated by energizing the coil 22. In this case, the distance between the coil 22 and the base plate 30 can be adjusted by providing the spacer 62 shown in FIG. 53. The spacer 62 is provided between the plate-side connection portion of the base plate 3930 and the elastic body 3940.

[0124] <Drive circuit for vibration actuator 2>

[0125] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the circuit structure of the control unit of the vibration actuator in Embodiment 1.

[0126] Figure 19 The drive circuit shown is included in the control section of the vibration actuator 2. The drive circuit includes a switching element 152, composed of a MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor), serving as a current pulse supply unit; a signal generation unit 154, serving as a voltage pulse application unit; resistors R1, R2; and SBDs (Schottky barrier diodes). This drive circuit is an example of the specific structure of the actuator driver 174, which will be described later.

[0127] A signal generation unit 154, connected to the power supply voltage Vcc, is connected to the gate of a switching element 152. The switching element 152 is a discharge switching switch. The switching element 152 is connected to the vibration actuator 2 (in... Figure 19(Referring to as [actuator] in the text), specifically the coil 22 of the vibration actuator 2 is connected. A voltage is applied to the vibration actuator 2 from the power supply unit Vact. Therefore, the switching element 152 is turned on and off by controlling the gate voltage of the signal generation unit 154. When the switching element 152 is turned on, current flows, and the coil 22 in the vibration actuator 2 is energized.

[0128] Furthermore, the control unit may include: an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that controls the entire device, including the contact-type input device 1 that houses the vibration actuator 2; a main storage unit such as RAM (Random Access Memory) that operates as the working area of ​​the arithmetic processing unit; and an auxiliary storage unit such as flash memory or hard disk that stores the operation program of the arithmetic processing unit. This structure, including the arithmetic processing unit, main storage unit, and auxiliary storage unit, is an example of the specific structure of the microcomputer 173 described later. The arithmetic processing unit reads various control programs and accompanying data (hereinafter, various control programs and various data are collectively referred to as "programs") from the auxiliary storage unit and stores them in the main storage unit. It then uses the data to execute the control programs and realize various functions of the vibration alert device. For example, the data may include pulse waveform data representing various patterns such as multiple different vibration decay periods and multiple different vibration intensities. Various control programs may include the following: when information representing the operator's contact operation is input, the pulse waveform data used to generate the actuator drive signal that produces the vibration corresponding to the input information is read out, and the actuator drive signal is generated according to the read pulse waveform data.

[0129] Furthermore, the auxiliary storage device can also be a storage medium that can be attached to and detached from the vibration alert device. Additionally, the control unit can be configured to communicate with external devices, and programs can be downloaded from external sources to the control unit (either the main storage device or the auxiliary storage device) via a communication network.

[0130] The aforementioned primary and secondary storage devices are examples of non-transitory computer-readable storage media.

[0131] <Control System of Contact Input Device 1>

[0132] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control system of the contact input device 1.

[0133] Figure 20The control system of the contact input device 1 shown includes: two actuators 2, an operation panel 3, a microcomputer 173, and two actuator drivers 174. Furthermore, in each vibration actuator 2, the coil 22 of the movable part 20 is functionally assembled into the control system.

[0134] The operation panel 3 has a position sensor 3c that receives contact operations performed by the operator on the operation panel 3 and outputs a signal (operation position detection signal) indicating the contact position. The position sensor 3c outputs the operation position detection signal to the microcomputer 173.

[0135] The microcomputer 173 controls one or both of the actuator drivers 174 based on the operation position detection signal to generate vibration at the position corresponding to the contact operation. The actuator drivers 174 controlled by the microcomputer 173 supply drive current to the coil 22 of the corresponding actuator 2 as an actuator drive signal.

[0136] The actuator 2, which receives drive current from the actuator driver 174, transmits vibration to the operation panel 3, causing it to vibrate and thus providing a tactile sensation to the operator who operates the operation panel 3. In this way, based on the position detected by the position sensor 3c, the coil 22 of the appropriate actuator 2 is energized, and the operation panel 3 is vibrated at the appropriate position, thereby achieving a realistic tactile sensation similar to that of a switch.

[0137] <Summary of Implementation Method 1>

[0138] As explained above, according to this embodiment, the contact input device 1 has an operation panel 3 and a vibration actuator 2 disposed on the back surface 3b of the operation panel 3. The vibration actuator 2 vibrates in the vertical direction of the surface when the operation panel 3 is touched, providing tactile feedback to the operator. In this contact input device 1, the operation panel 3 includes an operation portion 3a1 and a non-operation portion 3a3 on its surface 3a. The vibration actuator 2 is disposed on the back surface 3b in a first portion 3b1 corresponding to the operation portion 3a1. A frame 4 that fixes the operation panel 3 is disposed on the back surface 3b in a second portion 3b3 corresponding to the boundary between the operation portion 3a1 and the non-operation portion 3a3. With this structure, high vibration output to the operation portion 3a1 can be ensured in the operation panel 3, and vibration transmission to the non-operation portion 3a3 can be suppressed. That is, unnecessary tactile feedback to fingers touching areas that do not receive contact input (non-operation portion 3a3) can be suppressed, while necessary tactile feedback is provided to fingers operating the operation portion 3a1. Excellent tactile feedback is provided to the operator.

[0139] Furthermore, the vibration actuator 2 mounted on the contact input device 1 includes: a base portion 30, which is arranged parallel to the operation panel 3; an electromagnet, which is arranged opposite the base portion 30 in the vertical direction and is formed by winding a coil 22 in the center of an iron core 24; and a plate-shaped elastic portion 40 capable of elastic deformation, which supports the electromagnet (coil 22, iron core 24) and is connected to the base portion 30. Through the magnetic force of the electromagnet (coil 22, iron core 24) generated by energizing the coil 22, one of the electromagnets (coil 22, iron core 24) or the base portion 30 is displaced in one direction in the vertical direction, and through the elastic force of the plate-shaped elastic portion 40 generated by its elastic deformation, it vibrates in two directions in the vertical direction. With this structure of an electromagnetic vibration actuator 2 that vibrates in the vertical direction, the desired tactile feedback can be provided with higher output.

[0140] (Implementation Method 2)

[0141] Hereinafter, Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, this embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components common to Embodiment 1, and detailed descriptions are omitted. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that only one vibration actuator 2 (refer to...) is disposed in the central portion of the first region 3a1 of the contact input device 1. Figure 21 Even with this structure, the effects described in Embodiment 1 can be achieved. Furthermore, by minimizing the number of vibration actuators 2, these effects can be achieved at a low cost.

[0142] (Implementation Method 3)

[0143] Hereinafter, Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, this embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components common to Embodiment 1, and detailed descriptions are omitted. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that, in addition to the position sensor 3c capable of detecting the position of the contact operation, a load sensor capable of detecting the load of the contact operation is also provided in the operation panel 3. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the position sensor 3c and the load sensor are collectively referred to as "position-load sensor 3d". Figure 22 As shown, the position of the position load sensor 3d is the same as the position of the position sensor 3c described in Embodiment 1.

[0144] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control system of the contact input device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0145] Figure 23 The control system of the contact input device 1 shown has: two actuators 2, an operation panel 3, a microcomputer 173, and two actuator drivers 174.

[0146] The operation panel 3 accepts the contact operation of the operator on the operation panel 3, and outputs a signal (operation position detection signal) indicating the contact position of the contact operation and a signal (operation load detection signal) indicating the operation load of the contact operation to the microcomputer 173 from the position load sensor 3d.

[0147] The microcomputer 173 controls one or both of the actuator drivers 174 based on the operating position detection signal and the operating load detection signal, so as to generate vibration at a position and intensity corresponding to the contact operation. The actuator drivers 174 controlled by the microcomputer 173 supply driving current to the coil 22 of the corresponding actuator 2 as an actuator driving signal.

[0148] The actuator 2, receiving drive current from the actuator driver 174, transmits vibration to the operation panel 3, causing it to vibrate and thus providing tactile feedback to the operator who operates the operation panel 3. In this way, based on the position and load detected by the position load sensor 3d, energizing the coil 22 of the appropriate actuator 2 imparts vibration to the operation panel 3 at the appropriate position and intensity, thereby achieving a more realistic tactile feedback. Furthermore, by selectively driving the appropriate actuator 2 considering not only the detection result of the contact operation position but also the detection result of the load, malfunctions of the actuator 2 can be suppressed, thus improving operational accuracy.

[0149] (Implementation Method 4)

[0150] Hereinafter, Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, this embodiment is essentially the same as Embodiment 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for the constituent elements common to Embodiment 1, and detailed descriptions are omitted. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 lies in the shape of the frame 4 on which the load sensor 4d is disposed and the shape of the frame 4 at the position where the load sensor 4d is disposed. Therefore, in the description of this embodiment, the focus will be on the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0151] like Figure 24 , Figure 25A and Figure 25BAs shown, in the contact input device 1 of this embodiment, the frame 4 has protrusions 4e protruding inward from each of the four corners of the outer periphery 4b. Furthermore, a C-shaped slit is formed in each protrusion 4e. In other words, the tongue 4f defined by the slits is connected to the outer periphery 4b in a cantilevered manner. Therefore, if the tongue 4f is subjected to pressing pressure, the frame 4 can undergo localized deformation at the portion where the tongue 4f is connected to the outer periphery 4b. Furthermore, the tongue 4f supports the load sensor 4d at the portion connected to the outer periphery 4b.

[0152] Thus, the frame 4 has a protrusion 4e protruding from the second part 3b3 to the first part 3b1. The protrusion 4e cantileveredly supports the load sensor 4d that detects the load of the contact operation. Therefore, a structure that detects the load of the contact operation without performing overly complex processing on the frame 4 can be realized, and the improved motion accuracy described in Embodiment 3 can be achieved. Furthermore, it is preferable to arrange a spacer 4g between the tongue 4f and the back surface 3b of the operation panel 3 to reliably transmit the load of the contact operation applied to the operation panel 3 to the tongue 4f.

[0153] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control system of the contact input device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0154] Figure 26 The control system of the contact input device 1 shown includes two actuators 2, an operation panel 3, a microcomputer 173, two actuator drivers 174, an amplifier 171, an ADC 172, and multiple load sensors 4d. Furthermore, the amplifier 171 and ADC 172 are arranged correspondingly to each load sensor 4d, but... Figure 26 For simplicity, only one load sensor 4d, amplifier 171, and ADC172 are represented in the text.

[0155] The operation panel 3 receives the operator's touch operation input on the operation panel 3, and outputs a signal (operation position detection signal) indicating the contact position of the touch operation from the position sensor 3c to the microcomputer. In addition, the load sensor 4d outputs a signal (operation load detection signal) indicating the operation load of the touch operation to the microcomputer 173 via the amplifier 171 and ADC 172.

[0156] The microcomputer 173 controls one or both of the actuator drivers 174 based on the operating position detection signal and the operating load detection signal, so as to generate vibration at a position and intensity corresponding to the contact operation. The actuator drivers 174 controlled by the microcomputer 173 supply driving current to the coil 22 of the corresponding actuator 2 as an actuator driving signal.

[0157] The actuator 2, receiving drive current from the actuator driver 174, transmits vibration to the operation panel 3, causing it to vibrate and thus providing tactile feedback to the operator operating the operation panel 3. In this way, based on the position and load detected by the position sensor 3c and the load sensor 4d, energizing the coil 22 of the appropriate actuator 2 imparts vibration to the operation panel 3 at the appropriate position and intensity, thereby achieving a more realistic tactile feedback. Furthermore, by selectively driving the appropriate actuator 2 considering not only the detection result of the contact operation position but also the detection result of the load, malfunctions of the actuator 2 can be suppressed, thus improving operational accuracy.

[0158] (Implementation Method 5)

[0159] Hereinafter, Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, this embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 4. Therefore, in this embodiment, the constituent elements common to Embodiments 1 and 4 are labeled with the same reference numerals as in Embodiments 1 and 4, and their detailed descriptions are omitted. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 4 is that an attenuating material 4h is provided between the outer periphery 4b of the frame 4 and the operation panel 3, and an attenuating material 4i is also provided between the central portion 4c of the frame 4 and the operation panel 3 (see reference 4h). Figure 27 and Figure 28 ).

[0160] Depending on the rigidity and other materials of the operation panel 3, it is also conceivable that the frame 4 alone may not be sufficient to suppress the transmission of vibrations to the non-operational part 3a3. In contrast, in this embodiment, by dissipating the damping material 4h to the outer peripheral part 4b, even if vibrations are transmitted to the non-operational part 3a3, they can be moderately attenuated. Therefore, the vibration margin convergence becomes good, and an excellent tactile feel can be provided.

[0161] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the damping material 4i is disposed in the central portion 4c of the frame 4. Depending on the fixation condition of the frame 4 and the operation panel 3, it is also conceivable that the degree of vibration transmission inhibition of the frame 4 may become uneven, resulting in different tactile sensations depending on the operation position. In contrast, in this embodiment, by distributing the damping material 4i in the central portion 4c, vibration is damped in the most easily movable position, i.e., near the center. This reduces the difference in tactile sensation between easily movable positions and difficult-to-move positions, thus suppressing uneven tactile sensation.

[0162] Furthermore, uneven tactile sensation can also be suppressed by adjusting the drive current value according to the position of the contact operation. However, by arranging the attenuation material 4i in the central part 4c as in this embodiment, the adjustment range of the drive current can be reduced, and thus, the suppression of uneven tactile sensation can be easily achieved.

[0163] Furthermore, the structure of the contact input device 1 in this embodiment includes the structure described in embodiment 4, but even without the structure of embodiment 4, attenuating materials 4h and 4i can be added to the structure of embodiment 1.

[0164] The embodiments of the present invention have been specifically described above, but the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Various modifications and alterations to the specific examples described in the above embodiments are possible within the scope of the spirit of the present invention as defined in the claims.

[0165] The entire contents of the specification, drawings and abstract contained in Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-074842, filed on April 28, 2023, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0166] Industrial availability

[0167] The contact-type input device of the present invention can be appropriately used in input devices having a planar operating part, such as a touchpad.

[0168] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0169] 1. Contact input device

[0170] 2 Vibration actuator

[0171] 3. Operation Panel

[0172] 3a surface

[0173] 3a1 Operations Department

[0174] 3a2, 3b2, 3b4 Outer edge

[0175] 3a3 Non-operational section

[0176] 3b Back

[0177] 3b1 Part 1

[0178] 3b3 Part Two

[0179] 3b5 Part Three

[0180] 3C position sensor

[0181] 3D position load sensor

[0182] 4 Framework

[0183] 4a Through hole

[0184] 4b Peripheral part

[0185] 4c Central Department

[0186] 4D load sensor

[0187] 4e Protrusion

[0188] 4f tongue slice

[0189] 4g spacer

[0190] 4h, 4i attenuation materials

[0191] 5. Connecting components

[0192] 152 Switching elements

[0193] 154 Signal Generation Unit

[0194] 171 Amplifier

[0195] 172 ADC

[0196] 173 Microcomputer

[0197] 174 Actuator Driver

[0198] DR1, DR2, DR3, and DR4 are used to divide the region.

Claims

1. A contact-type input device comprising an operation panel and a vibration actuator disposed on the back of the operation panel, wherein the vibration actuator vibrates in a direction perpendicular to the surface upon contact with the operation panel, thereby providing a tactile sensation to the operator, characterized in that, The operation panel includes an operation section and a non-operation section on its surface. The vibration actuator is disposed on the back side in a first portion corresponding to the operating part. The fixing member for securing the operation panel is disposed on the back side at a second portion corresponding to the boundary between the operation section and the non-operation section.

2. The contact input device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener has a frame with a shape that is disposed on the second part and surrounds the entire circumference of the first part.

3. The contact input device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vibration actuator has: A magnetic element, which is arranged parallel to the operation panel; An electromagnet, which is arranged opposite the magnetic body in the direction perpendicular to the surface, and is formed by winding a coil in the center of the iron core; and An elastic body capable of elastic deformation supports the electromagnet and is connected to the magnetic body. One of the electromagnet and the magnetic body is displaced in one direction perpendicular to the plane by the magnetic force of the electromagnet generated by the energization of the coil, and vibrates in two directions perpendicular to the plane by the elastic force of the elastic body generated by the elastic deformation of the elastic body.

4. The contact input device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The magnetic body is a flat plate with its surface arranged parallel to the operation panel, and has an opening that allows relative movement between the electromagnet and the magnetic body when the coil is arranged inside during vibration.

5. The contact input device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The magnet, the electromagnet, and the elastic body are each a flat plate with its surface arranged parallel to the operation panel. When one of the electromagnet and the magnet is in a neutral position in the vertical direction of the surface, the entire elastic body is located in the gap between the magnet and the electromagnet in the vertical direction of the surface.

6. The contact input device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic body is a rectangular frame that surrounds the magnetic body and the electromagnet, supporting the electromagnet on one pair of opposite sides and connecting to the magnetic body on the other pair of opposite sides.

7. The contact input device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vibration actuator is located at a central position within the first portion.

8. The contact input device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The vibration actuators are disposed at multiple locations within the first part.

9. The contact input device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The multiple locations refer to the two locations at the two ends of the four regions that divide the first part into four equal parts along its long side.

10. The contact input device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The contact input device also has: A position sensor and a load sensor respectively detect the position and load of the contact operation; and The control unit selectively drives the vibration actuators at the plurality of locations based on the detection results of the location and the detection results of the load.

11. The contact input device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fastener has a protrusion in the frame that extends from the second portion toward the first portion, the protrusion supporting a load sensor that detects the load of the contact operation in a cantilevered state.

12. The contact input device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The contact input device also includes an attenuating material disposed between the outer periphery of the frame and the operation panel.

13. The contact input device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame has a central section that extends across the center of the first part. The contact input device further includes an attenuating material disposed between the central portion of the frame and the operation panel.

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