Operation device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an operating device with improved assemblability. In the knob unit (30), in the operation shaft (50), the number of teeth of the first gear (52) is the same as the number of protrusions (54A) of the rotating body (54). Furthermore, in the rotating shaft (70), the number of teeth of the second gear (73) is the same as the total number of the slit parts (76A) and the light shielding parts (76B) in the rotating plate (76). That is, the number of teeth of the second gear (73) is the same as the number of detected light interrupters (102) per rotation of the rotating plate (76). As a result, the operation shaft (50) and the rotating shaft (70) can be attached to the support member (40) without using a jig or the like for determining the attachment position of the operation shaft (50) and the rotating shaft (70). Therefore, the assembling performance of the operation device (10) can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an operating device. Background Technology

[0002] The switching device (operating device) described in Patent Document 1 includes: a rotary knob; a shaft integrally rotatably connected to the rotary knob; a first gear integrally rotatably connected to the shaft; a transmission gear meshing with the first gear; a second gear meshing with the transmission gear; and a magnet integrally rotatably connected to the second gear. Thus, when the rotary knob is rotated, the magnet rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the rotary knob. Furthermore, a magnetic sensor is disposed opposite to the outer periphery of the magnet. In the magnet, four S poles and N poles are alternately arranged circumferentially. Thus, when the operator rotates the rotary knob, the magnetic sensor detects the switching of the S and N poles of the magnet opposite the magnetic sensor, thereby detecting the rotational position of the magnet and the rotational position of the rotary knob.

[0003] Furthermore, a control plate constituting the control mechanism is integrally rotatable on the shaft, and multiple control grooves are formed on the outer periphery of the control plate. A ball, subjected to spring force, is inserted into the control groove, and the ball engages with the control plate. Thus, the control mechanism holds the rotary knob at a predetermined rotational position and provides a sense of control when the rotary knob is rotated. In summary, in the above-described switching device, the rotary knob can be held at a predetermined rotational position by the control mechanism, and the predetermined rotational position of the rotary knob can be detected by a magnetic sensor.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-87718

[0007] However, in the aforementioned switching device, there is room for improvement at the following points. Specifically, for example, when the second gear meshes with the transmission gear in a manner offset by one tooth from its normal assembly position, the relative rotational position of the magnet with respect to the magnetic sensor changes. In this case, compared to the case where the second gear is assembled in its normal position, the actual rotational position of the rotary knob deviates from the rotational position detected by the magnetic sensor, thus making it impossible to accurately detect the rotational position of the rotary knob. Therefore, in assembling the first gear, transmission gear, and second gear, it is necessary to use fixtures or the like to determine the positions of these gears before assembling them. Consequently, the assemblability of the aforementioned switching device may deteriorate. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In view of the above facts, the present invention aims to provide an operating device that improves assemblability.

[0009] One or more embodiments of the present invention are operating devices comprising: an operating shaft extending in a first direction, with an operating knob for rotation by an operator located at its midpoint in the longitudinal direction; a first gear rotatably mounted on the operating shaft; a rotating shaft extending in the first direction and disposed on one side of the operating shaft in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; a second gear rotatably mounted on the rotating shaft and directly or indirectly meshing with the first gear; a detection unit rotatably mounted on the rotating shaft; a detection unit for detecting the rotational position of the detection unit; and a control mechanism. The control mechanism provides a responsive feel to the operating knob when the operating shaft rotates. It comprises: a rotating body rotatably mounted on the operating shaft, having a plurality of protrusions arranged circumferentially on its outer periphery; a control member located radially outward of the rotating body, configured to move radially within the rotating body, and having abutment portions disposed between adjacent protrusions; and a force-applying member that applies force to the control member toward the rotating body. The number of teeth on the first gear is the same as the number of protrusions, and the number of teeth on the second gear is the same as the number of detections detected by the detection unit per revolution of the detected unit.

[0010] Invention Effects

[0011] The operating device constructed as described above can improve assemblability. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 These are three views showing the operating device of this embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the operating device as seen from the right rear.

[0014] Figure 3 This is displayed when the panel is removed. Figure 1 A top view of the area surrounding the knob unit of the operating device shown.

[0015] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the interior of the operating device as seen from the right side. Figure 1 (4-4 line sectional view).

[0016] Figure 5 It means Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the interior of the operating device as seen from the right side. Figure 1 (5-5 line sectional view).

[0017] Figure 6 It means Figure 1A cross-sectional view of the interior of the operating device shown, viewed from the left. Figure 1 (6-6 line sectional view).

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 The shown knob unit is viewed from the left side.

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the knob unit shown, viewed from the right rear.

[0020] Figure 9 It is used for explanation Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the assembly process of the rotating axial support member, and is a perspective view showing the state in which the through-shaft portion of the rotating shaft is inserted into the second support hole of the rotating shaft of the support member.

[0021] Figure 10 It means Figure 6 The side view of the assembly state of the rotating shaft after being rotated 45 degrees.

[0022] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0023] 10: Operating device; 40: Support member; 44: Connecting part; 44C: Restricting rib (restricting part); 46: First support part; 48: Second support part; 48B: Second support hole for rotating shaft (support hole); 48D: Engaging pawl; 48E: Pawl part; 48F: Control mechanism receiving part (receiving part); 50: Operating shaft; 52: First gear; 54: Rotating body; 54A: Protrusion; 56: Dial knob (operating knob); 60: Intermediate gear; 70: Rotating shaft; 72: Second support shaft (support shaft part); 73: Second gear; 74: Engaging shaft part; 74A: Guide groove (groove part); 76: Rotating plate (detected part); 76A: Slit part; 76B: Light-shielding part; 80: Control mechanism; 82: Sliding member (control component); 82A: Control protrusion (abutment part); 84: Control spring (force-applying component); 92: Light guide lens (light guide part); 102: Light interruptor (detection part); 106: Second light source (light source). Detailed Implementation

[0024] The operating device 10 of this embodiment will now be described using the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the arrows UP, FR, and RH appropriately shown in the drawings represent the upper side, front side, and right side of the operating device 10, respectively. In the following description, when using the directions up / down, front / back, and left / right, unless otherwise specified, these directions refer to the up / down, front / back, and left / right directions of the operating device 10. Furthermore, the left / right direction corresponds to the first direction of the present invention, the front / back direction corresponds to the second direction of the present invention, and the up / down direction corresponds to the third direction of the present invention.

[0025] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the operating device 10 is configured to include a housing 20, a panel 22, a knob unit 30, a holder 90, and a base plate 100.

[0026] (Regarding shell 20)

[0027] like Figures 1-6 As shown, the housing 20 is formed into a generally rectangular box shape that opens downward and extends in the left-right direction. The interior of the housing 20 is provided with a substrate receiving portion 20A for accommodating the substrate 100 described later. An inclined wall 20B is provided on the front wall of the housing 20, which protrudes upward from the upper wall of the housing 20. The inclined wall 20B is inclined forward as it tends to the upward when viewed from the side in the left-right direction. At the upper end of the inclined wall 20B, a lower notch 20C is formed in the middle part in the left-right direction for arranging the dial knob 56 described later. The lower notch 20C is formed into a concave shape that opens upward when viewed from the front.

[0028] On the upper surface of the housing 20, a pair of fixed bosses 20D are provided at the midpoint in the front-rear direction. The fixed bosses 20D are generally cylindrical in shape with the vertical direction as the axial direction, protruding upwards from the housing 20. The fixed bosses 20D are respectively positioned on both sides of the housing 20 in the left-right direction relative to the central portion in the left-right direction. On the upper wall of the housing 20, a pair of light source holes 20E are formed through the left and right fixed bosses 20D. The light source holes 20E are generally rectangular in shape with the left-right direction as the longitudinal dimension.

[0029] On the upper wall of the housing 20, a first cylindrical portion 20F is provided in front of the light source hole 20E. The first cylindrical portion 20F is formed into a generally rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction and protruding upward from the housing 20. The interior of the first cylindrical portion 20F is through in the vertical direction. On the upper wall of the housing 20, a second cylindrical portion 20G is provided to the right of the right-side fixing boss 20D. The second cylindrical portion 20G is formed into a generally rectangular cylindrical shape with the longitudinal direction as its length and protrudes upward from the housing 20. On the upper wall of the housing 20, a sensor receiving portion 20H for accommodating the light interruptor 102 (described later) is provided in the middle of the second cylindrical portion 20G in the front-rear direction on the second cylindrical portion 20G. The sensor receiving portion 20H is formed into a generally rectangular box shape that opens downward and protrudes upward from the upper wall of the housing 20. It should be noted that a hole is formed in the housing 20 for communicating between the interior of the second cylindrical portion 20G and the interior of the sensor receiving portion 20H.

[0030] (Regarding panel 22)

[0031] Panel 22 is formed as a generally plate-like structure extending in the left-right direction, and when viewed from the side, it is bent into a generally concave shape that opens downwards. Specifically, panel 22 is configured to include an upper wall 22A extending in the thickness direction of the plate in the vertical direction, a front wall 22B extending obliquely downwards and forwards from the front end of the upper wall 22A, and a rear wall 22C extending obliquely downwards and rearwards from the rear end of the upper wall 22A. The extension length of the rear wall 22C is set to be longer than the extension length of the front wall 22B, and the top end of the rear wall 22C is bent downwards. Furthermore, panel 22 is fitted to housing 20 by snap-fit, covering housing 20 from above. Specifically, the front wall 22B of panel 22 is located above the inclined wall 20B of housing 20.

[0032] At the front end of panel 22, an upper notch 22D is formed at a position corresponding to the lower notch 20C of housing 20. The upper notch 22D appears as a concave shape that opens to the front when viewed from above.

[0033] Panel 22 is formed of a light-transmitting material (in this embodiment, a transparent resin material), and a light-shielding coating is applied to the upper surface of panel 22. Thus, panel 22 is configured to be light-transmitting. The upper wall 22A of panel 22 has a pair of left and right illumination sections 22E. The illumination sections 22E are located above the light source aperture 20E of housing 20. A display section (not shown) is formed in the illumination section 22E, and text, graphics, symbols, markings, etc., without the light-shielding coating, are formed on the display section. Therefore, the display section of illumination section 22E is illuminated by the first light source 104 (described later) through the display section.

[0034] (Regarding knob unit 30)

[0035] like Figures 1 to 8As shown, the knob unit 30 is configured to include a support member 40, an operating shaft 50, an intermediate gear 60, a rotating shaft 70, and a control mechanism 80 (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0036] (Regarding support member 40)

[0037] The support member 40 is configured to include a pair of left and right fixing plates 42, a connecting portion 44, a first support portion 46, and a second support portion 48. The fixing plates 42 constitute the lower end of the support member 40. The fixing plates 42 are formed into approximately rectangular plates with the thickness in the vertical direction and the length in the longitudinal direction, and are respectively disposed on the upper side of the fixing boss 20D of the housing 20. A circular fixing hole 42A is formed through the rear part of the fixing plate 42 in the vertical direction. The fixing hole 42A and the fixing boss 20D are arranged coaxially. Furthermore, the fixing plate 42 (support member 40) is fixed to the housing 20 by screwing a fixing screw (not shown) inserted into the fixing hole 42A and into the fixing boss 20D.

[0038] The connecting portion 44 extends in the left-right direction and, in cross-sectional view viewed from the left-right direction, is formed into a generally V-shaped plate that opens to the rear. The lower end of the connecting portion 44 is connected to the front end of the fixing piece 42, and the connecting portion 44 connects a pair of fixing pieces 42. The lower part of the connecting portion 44 is designated as the lower connecting portion 44A, which is disposed on the rear side of the inclined wall 20B of the housing 20. The upper part of the connecting portion 44 is designated as the upper connecting portion 44B, and the upper end of the upper connecting portion 44B is disposed such that it is separated from the lower side of the opening end of the upper notch 22D in the panel 22. The front surface of the upper connecting portion 44B, in side view, is curved into an arc shape centered on the axis of the operating shaft 50 (described later) (see reference). Figure 4 and Figure 5 Multiple (three in this embodiment) limiting ribs 44C are formed on the front surface of the upper connecting portion 44B as limiting portions. The limiting ribs 44C extend along the short dimension direction of the upper connecting portion 44B and are arranged at predetermined intervals in the left-right direction.

[0039] The first support portion 46 forms the left end of the support member 40. The first support portion 46 is formed as a generally trapezoidal plate with the thickness direction in the left-right direction. The first support portion 46 extends upward from the left end of the fixing piece 42 on the left side and is disposed on the rear side of the inclined wall 20B of the housing 20. The left end of the aforementioned connecting portion 44 is connected to the middle portion in the front-rear direction on the right side of the first support portion 46. A first support hole 46A for an operating shaft (see reference) is formed through the front end of the first support portion 46 in the left-right direction. Figure 8The first support hole 46A for the operating shaft, when viewed from the side, is roughly C-shaped, opening diagonally upward and forward. A circular first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft is formed through the rear end of the first support portion 46 in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 8 A gear support shaft 46C is provided at the midpoint of the first support portion 46 in the front-rear direction. The gear support shaft 46C is formed into a generally cylindrical shape with the left-right direction as the axial direction, and protrudes to the left from the first support portion 46.

[0040] The second support portion 48 forms the right end of the support member 40. The second support portion 48 is formed as a generally trapezoidal plate with the thickness direction in the left-right direction. The second support portion 48 extends upward from the right end of the right-side fixing piece 42 and is positioned on the rear side of the inclined wall 20B of the housing 20. The right end of the aforementioned connecting portion 44 is connected to the middle portion in the front-rear direction on the left side of the second support portion 48. A second support hole 48A for an operating shaft (see reference) is formed through the front end of the second support portion 48 in the left-right direction. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The second support hole 48A for the operating shaft, like the first support hole 46A for the operating shaft, is roughly C-shaped and opens obliquely upward and forward when viewed from the side. The diameter of the second support hole 48A for the operating shaft and the diameter of the first support hole 46A for the operating shaft are set to be the same, and the second support hole 48A for the operating shaft and the first support hole 46A for the operating shaft are arranged coaxially.

[0041] A circular second support hole 48B for a rotating shaft is formed through the rear end of the second support portion 48 in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 8 and Figure 9 The diameter of the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft is set to be smaller than the diameter of the first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft, and the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft and the first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft are arranged coaxially. At the rear end of the second support portion 48, a connecting groove 48C is formed on the upper side of the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft. The connecting groove 48C extends in the vertical direction and passes through in the vertical direction. Thus, the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft opens upward through the connecting groove 48C. It should be noted that the diameter of the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft is set to be larger than the width of the connecting groove 48C.

[0042] At the rear end of the second support portion 48, a pair of engaging claws 48D are provided on both sides of the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft in the front-rear direction. The engaging claws 48D are formed into a generally rectangular column shape, extending from the second support portion 48 to the right, and are configured to be elastically deformable in the front-rear direction. At the top end of the engaging claws 48D, there is a claw portion 48E that protrudes inward in the front-rear direction.

[0043] A control mechanism receiving portion 48F is provided at the front of the second support portion 48 as a receiving portion for accommodating the control mechanism 80 (described later). The control mechanism receiving portion 48F is formed in a generally box-shaped manner, opening obliquely upward and forward, and protrudes to the right from the second support portion 48. A support pin 48G (see reference) is formed on the bottom wall of the control mechanism receiving portion 48F. Figure 6 The support pin 48G protrudes from the bottom wall toward the opening side of the control mechanism receiving part 48F.

[0044] (Regarding operating axis 50)

[0045] like Figures 2-5 As shown, the operating shaft 50 is formed as a generally stepped cylinder with its axial direction in the left-right direction. Fitting shaft portions 50A are formed at both ends of the operating shaft 50 along its longitudinal direction. The diameter of the fitting shaft portions 50A is smaller than the diameter of the other parts of the operating shaft 50. Furthermore, the fitting shaft portions 50A are inserted into the first support hole 46A and the second support hole 48A for the operating shaft of the support member 40, and are supported by the first support hole 46A and the second support hole 48A for the operating shaft to enable rotation.

[0046] At the left end (one end) of the operating shaft 50, a first gear 52 is integrally provided on the left side (left-right direction side) of the mating shaft portion 50A on the left side. A gear portion 52A composed of multiple gear teeth is provided on the outer periphery of the first gear 52. The gear portion 52A is formed in such a way that it covers the entire circumference of the first gear 52, and the number of teeth of the gear portion 52A is set to 10.

[0047] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 8 As shown, at the right end (the other end) of the operating shaft 50, on the right side of the mating shaft portion 50A (the other side in the left-right direction), a rotating body 54 constituting the control mechanism 80 described later is provided. The rotating body 54 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape with the left-right direction as its axial direction. A plurality of protrusions 54A (10 in this embodiment) are formed on the outer periphery of the rotating body 54, and the plurality of protrusions 54A are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotating body 54. Thus, the number of protrusions 54A of the rotating body 54 and the number of teeth of the first gear 52 are set to be the same.

[0048] like Figures 1-5As shown, a dial knob 56, serving as an operating knob, is provided radially outward at the midpoint of the left-right direction of the operating shaft 50. The dial knob 56 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape with the left-right direction as its axial direction. Furthermore, the operating shaft 50 is embedded in the dial knob 56, and the dial knob 56 is integrally rotatably connected to the operating shaft 50. The dial knob 56 is disposed between the first support portion 46 and the second support portion 48 of the support member 40, and is rotatably exposed to the outside of the operating device 10 from the lower side notch 20C of the housing 20 and the upper side notch 22D of the panel 22. In addition, the limiting rib 44C of the upper connecting portion 44B of the aforementioned support member 40 is disposed adjacent to the radially outward side of the dial knob 56, and is located obliquely rearward and below the dial knob 56. Thus, when the dial knob 56 is pressed rearward by the operator, causing the operating shaft 50 to flex and deform rearward, the dial knob 56 abuts against the limiting rib 44C. Therefore, it becomes a configuration that suppresses the deformation of the operating shaft 50 to the radially outward by limiting rib 44C.

[0049] (Regarding intermediate gear 60)

[0050] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the intermediate gear 60 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape with the left-right direction as its axial direction. The intermediate gear 60 is externally mounted to the gear support shaft 46C of the support member 40 and is supported by the gear support shaft 46C to allow rotation. That is, the intermediate gear 60 is disposed on the left side of the first support portion 46 of the support member 40. A gear portion 60A composed of multiple gear teeth is provided on the outer periphery of the intermediate gear 60, and the gear portion 60A is formed in such a way that it covers the entire circumference of the intermediate gear 60. The gear portion 60A meshes with the gear portion 52A of the first gear 52 in the operating shaft 50.

[0051] (Regarding the rotation axis 70)

[0052] like Figures 2-8 As shown, the rotating shaft 70 is formed as a generally stepped cylinder with its axial direction in the left-right direction. The diameter of the rotating shaft 70 is set to be smaller than the diameter of the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft of the support member 40. A first support shaft portion 71 is provided at the left end of the rotating shaft 70. The first support shaft portion 71 is inserted from the right side into the first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft of the first support portion 46 and is supported by the first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft to be rotatable. A flange portion 71A is formed at the right end of the outer periphery of the first support shaft portion 71, extending radially outward. The flange portion 71A is disposed adjacent to the right side of the first support portion 46 of the support member 40. Thus, the movement of the rotating shaft 70 to the left is restricted by the flange portion 71A.

[0053] A second support shaft portion 72, serving as a support shaft portion, is provided at the right end of the rotating shaft 70. The second support shaft portion 72 is inserted from the right side into the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft of the second support portion 48, and is supported by the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft to be rotatable. Thus, the rotating shaft 70 is rotatably connected to the support member 40 at the rear side of the operating shaft 50.

[0054] On the outer periphery of the rotating shaft 70, a pair of stepped portions 70A are formed on the left side of the second support shaft portion 72. The stepped portions 70A, when viewed from above, are concave and open outwards in the rear-to-rear direction. The portion of the rotating shaft 70 with the stepped portions 70A is configured as a through-shaft portion 70B. The rear-to-rear dimension of the through-shaft portion 70B is set to be smaller than the width of the communicating groove 48C of the support member 40, and the through-shaft portion 70B is configured to be able to pass through the communicating groove 48C. Therefore, when the rotating shaft 70 is assembled to the support member 40, the through-shaft portion 70B is inserted from the communicating groove 48C into the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft (for...). Figure 9 The state shown is referred to below as the initial assembly state. From the initial assembly state, the rotating shaft 70 is slid to the left, whereby the first support shaft portion 71 is inserted into the first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft of the first support portion 46, and the second support shaft portion 72 is inserted into the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft of the second support portion 48.

[0055] At the left end of the rotating shaft 70, a second gear 73 is integrally rotatably provided on the left side of the first support shaft portion 71. A gear portion 73A, consisting of multiple gear teeth, is provided on the outer periphery of the second gear 73. The gear portion 73A is formed so as to cover the entire circumference of the second gear 73, and the number of teeth in the gear portion 73A is set to 8. The gear portion 73A meshes with the gear portion 60A of the intermediate gear 60. Thus, when the operator rotates the dial knob 56, the rotating shaft 70 and the operating shaft 50 rotate in conjunction.

[0056] A engaging shaft portion 74 protruding to the right from the second support shaft portion 72 is provided at the right end of the rotating shaft 70. The diameter of the engaging shaft portion 74 is larger than the diameter of the second support shaft portion 72, and the engaging shaft portion 74 is disposed adjacent to the right side of the second support portion 48 of the support member 40. The engaging claw 48D of the aforementioned support member 40 is disposed close to the outer side of the engaging shaft portion 74 in the front-rear direction. A pair of guide grooves 74A (see reference) are formed on the outer periphery of the left side of the engaging shaft portion 74. Figure 9 The guide groove 74A opens radially outward and to the left of the engaging shaft portion 74. The groove width (vertical dimension) of the guide groove 74A is set to be slightly larger than the vertical dimension of the engaging claw 48D, so that the claw portion 48E of the engaging claw 48D is configured to be inserted into the guide groove 74A.

[0057] Here, when the rotating shaft 70 slides to the left from its initial assembly state, the claw portion 48E of the engaging claw 48D is inserted into the guide groove 74A, and the claw portion 48E engages with the guide groove 74A in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft 70. This configuration restricts the relative rotation of the rotating shaft 70 relative to the support member 40. In other words, it is configured to determine the assembly position of the rotating shaft 70. Furthermore, when the rotating shaft 70 slides further to the left from its insertion state into the guide groove 74A, the engaging claw 48D elastically deforms in the front-rear direction, thereby engaging the engaging shaft portion 74 between the pair of engaging claws 48D through a snap-fit ​​engagement. Specifically, the claw portion 48E and the engaging shaft portion 74 are arranged adjacent to each other on the right side of their outer peripheries, and the claw portion 48E and the engaging shaft portion 74 engage in the left-right direction. Thus, the movement of the rotating shaft 70 to the right is restricted by the engaging claw 48D.

[0058] A connecting shaft portion 75 protruding to the right from the engaging shaft portion 74 is provided at the right end of the rotating shaft 70. The diameter of the connecting shaft portion 75 is smaller than the diameter of the engaging shaft portion 74. A rotating plate 76 serving as the detection portion is provided at the right end of the connecting shaft portion 75. The rotating plate 76 is formed into a circular plate with its thickness direction in the left-right direction. The rotating plate 76 is housed within the second cylindrical portion 20G of the housing 20 and is positioned to the right of the control mechanism receiving portion 48F of the support member 40. The diameter of the rotating plate 76 is set such that, when viewed from the side, the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76 overlaps with the control mechanism receiving portion 48F (more specifically, the sliding member 82 of the control mechanism 80 described later).

[0059] A plurality of slit portions 76A (four in this embodiment) are formed on the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76. The slit portions 76A are formed as generally fan-shaped recesses opening radially outward from the rotating plate 76, and are arranged at equal intervals (every 90 degrees) in the circumferential direction of the rotating plate 76. Thus, on the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76, light-shielding portions 76B are provided between adjacent slit portions 76A in the circumferential direction, and the slit portions 76A and light-shielding portions 76B are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction of the rotating plate 76. That is, the same number of light-shielding portions 76B as the slit portions 76A are formed on the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76. Therefore, in the rotating shaft 70, the number of teeth of the second gear 73 is set to be the same as the total number of the plurality of slit portions 76A and light-shielding portions 76B in the rotating plate 76. It should be noted that in the rotating plate 76, the width of the slit 76A is set such that the length of the circumferential slit 76A of the rotating plate 76 is the same as the length of the light-shielding portion 76B. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotating shaft 70 is mounted to the support member 40 such that the light-shielding portion 76B protrudes outward in both the vertical and horizontal directions relative to the rotating shaft 70. Figure 6 The state shown is referred to below as the first assembly state of the rotating plate 76.

[0060] (Regarding the control mechanism 80)

[0061] like Figure 6 As shown, the control mechanism 80 is configured to include a rotating body 54 located at the right end of the operating shaft 50, a sliding member 82 serving as a control element, and a control spring 84 serving as a force-applying element. The rotating body 54 is located on the opening side of the control mechanism receiving portion 48F of the support member 40. The sliding member 82 is received in the control mechanism receiving portion 48F and is disposed radially outward of the rotating body 54. Specifically, the sliding member 82 is received in the control mechanism receiving portion 48F in a manner that allows it to move in the direction of contact / separation from the rotating body 54. The sliding member 82 is formed as a generally U-shaped block that opens radially outward of the rotating body 54. A control protrusion 82A serving as an abutment portion is provided on the top wall of the sliding member 82 (the wall portion opposite to the rotating body 54). The control protrusion 82A protrudes from the top wall of the sliding member 82 toward the rotating body 54 and is formed as a generally semi-circular shape when viewed from the side. The control protrusion 82A is disposed between adjacent protrusions 54A in the circumferential direction of the rotating body 54. A support pin 82B is provided on the top wall of the slider 82, protruding to the side opposite to the rotating body 54.

[0062] The control spring 84 is a compression coil spring. The control spring 84 is disposed within the slider 82. One end of the control spring 84 is engaged with the support pin 48G of the control mechanism receiving portion 48F, and the other end of the control spring 84 is engaged with the support pin 82B of the slider 82. The control spring 84 exerts a force on the slider 82 in a direction approaching the rotating body 54. As a result, the control protrusion 82A abuts against the outer periphery of the rotating body 54, thereby holding the rotating body 54 (operating shaft 50 and dial knob 56) in place. Figure 6 The initial rotation position is shown. Furthermore, when the operating shaft 50 rotates, the control protrusion 82A passes over the protrusion 54A of the rotating body 54, thus creating a configuration where the dial knob 56 is held in a predetermined rotation position by the control mechanism 80 and a sense of control is provided to the dial knob 56. Here, the number of protrusions 54A on the rotating body 54 is 10; therefore, in this embodiment, there are 10 rotation positions for each revolution of the dial knob 56.

[0063] (Regarding cage 90)

[0064] like Figures 2-5As shown, the retainer 90 is formed as a generally rectangular box shape that opens downwards and forwards. The retainer 90 is assembled to the housing 20 between the first support portion 46 and the second support portion 48 of the support member 40, covering the middle portion of the rotation shaft 70 along its long dimension from above. At the rear of the retainer 90, a pair of left and right retainer cylinder portions 90A are formed at positions corresponding to the light source hole portion 20E of the housing 20. The retainer cylinder portions 90A are generally rectangular and located behind the first cylinder portion 20F of the housing 20. The front wall of the retainer cylinder portion 90A slopes downwards and backwards, and the left and right side walls of the retainer cylinder portion 90A slope downwards and towards each other.

[0065] A light guide lens 92, serving as a light guide, is integrally provided at the front end of the upper wall of the retainer 90. The light guide lens 92 is formed of a light-transmitting material and extends in the left-right direction. The light guide lens 92 is disposed between the edge of the upper notch 22D of the panel 22 and the connecting portion 44 of the support member 40, and is located on the rear side of the upper part of the dial knob 56 (see reference). Figure 4 and Figure 5 ).

[0066] (Regarding substrate 100)

[0067] like Figures 2-6 As shown, the substrate 100 is formed into a generally rectangular plate with its thickness along the vertical direction and its length along the horizontal direction. The substrate 100 is housed within the substrate receiving portion 20A of the housing 20 and fixed to the upper wall of the housing 20. A light interruptor 102, serving as a detection portion, is provided on the upper surface of the substrate 100 and is housed within the sensor receiving portion 20H of the housing 20. The light interruptor 102 has a light-emitting portion (not shown) disposed on one side of the left-right direction of the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76 in the rotating shaft 70 and a light-receiving portion (not shown) disposed on the other side of the left-right direction of the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76. The light-emitting portion irradiates light toward the light-receiving portion, and the light-receiving portion receives light passing through the slit portion 76A of the rotating plate 76. Thus, the rotational position of the rotating plate 76 (rotating shaft 70) and the dial knob 56 (operating shaft 50) is detected by the light interruptor 102. Specifically, the rotational position of the rotating plate 76 is detected by switching between the slit portion 76A and the light-shielding portion 76B disposed between the light-emitting portion and the light-receiving portion. Here, four slit portions 76A and light-shielding portions 76B are formed on the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76, so the number of rotational position detections of the rotating plate 76 by the light interruptor 102 for each rotation of the rotating plate 76 is 8.

[0068] A pair of first light sources 104 are provided on the upper surface of the substrate 100. The first light sources 104 are LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or similar, and are disposed within the light source aperture 20E of the housing 20. Furthermore, when viewed from above, the first light sources 104 are disposed within the holder cylinder 90A of the holder 90. The light emitted by the first light sources 104 illuminating the illumination portion 22E of the panel 22 (see reference) Figure 5 (arrow BM1). Thus, the display section of the illumination section 22E of the panel 22 is illuminated by the first light source 104.

[0069] A second light source 106, such as an LED, is provided on the upper surface of the substrate 100. The second light source 106 is disposed inside the lower end of the first cylindrical portion 20F of the housing 20. That is, the aforementioned light guide lens 92 and the second light source 106 are disposed between the first support portion 46 and the second support portion 48 of the support member 40 when viewed from above, and are also disposed between the dial knob 56 and the rotation shaft 70. The second light source 106 illuminates the emitted light upwards. Specifically, the light emitted by the second light source 106 enters the light guide lens 92 of the holder 90 and exits forward from the light guide lens 92 (see reference). Figure 4 (arrow BM2). Thus, the outer periphery of the dial knob 56 is illuminated by light emitted from the light guide lens 92.

[0070] (Effects)

[0071] Next, the assembly process of the knob unit 30 in the operating device 10 will be described, and the function and effect of this embodiment will be explained.

[0072] In the knob unit 30, the operating shaft 50 and the control mechanism 80 are first assembled to the support member 40. Specifically, the slider 82 and the control spring 84 of the control mechanism 80 are housed within the control mechanism receiving portion 48F of the support member 40. Furthermore, the operating shaft 50, which is positioned obliquely forward and upward relative to the support member 40, is moved obliquely backward and downward, so that the fitting shaft portion 50A of the operating shaft 50 is inserted into the first support hole 46A and the second support hole 48A for the operating shaft of the support member 40. Thus, the operating shaft 50 and the control mechanism 80 are assembled to the support member 40. With the operating shaft 50 assembled to the support member 40, the control protrusion 82A of the slider 82 of the control mechanism 80 is positioned between adjacent protrusions 54A of the rotating body 54. Therefore, the operating shaft 50 is positioned in its initial rotational position, and the relative rotation of the operating shaft 50 with respect to the support member 40 is restricted.

[0073] Next, the intermediate gear 60 is assembled from the left side onto the gear support shaft 46C of the support member 40, and the gear portion 60A of the intermediate gear 60 meshes with the gear portion 52A of the first gear 52.

[0074] Next, the rotating shaft 70 is assembled to the support member 40. Specifically, the through shaft portion 70B of the rotating shaft 70 is inserted from above into the communicating groove 48C of the support member 40, bringing the rotating shaft 70 to its initial assembly state. The rotating shaft 70 in its initial assembly state is slid to the left, causing the first support shaft portion 71 to be inserted from the right into the first support hole 46B for the rotating shaft of the first support portion 46, and the second support shaft portion 72 to be inserted from the right into the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft of the second support portion 48. Furthermore, as the rotating shaft 70 slides to the left, the claw portion 48E of the engaging claw 48D of the support member 40 is inserted into the guide groove 74A of the rotating shaft 70, and the claw portion 48E engages with the guide groove 74A in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft 70. Thus, the rotating shaft 70 is positioned in the orientation of the rotating plate 76 in its first assembly state. In this state, the rotating shaft 70 is slid further to the left, causing the gear portion 73A of the second gear 73 to mesh with the gear portion 60A of the intermediate gear 60, thereby assembling the rotating shaft 70 with the rotating plate 76 in the first assembly state. In summary, the assembly of the knob unit 30 is completed.

[0075] Regarding the knob unit 30, in the operating shaft 50, the number of teeth on the first gear 52 is the same as the number of protrusions 54A on the rotating body 54. Furthermore, in the rotating shaft 70, the number of teeth on the second gear 73 is the same as the combined number of slits 76A and light-shielding portions 76B in the rotating plate 76. That is, the number of teeth on the second gear 73 is the same as the number of detections detected by the light-blocking device 102 per revolution of the rotating plate 76. Therefore, the operating shaft 50 and the rotating shaft 70 can be assembled onto the support member 40 without using fixtures or the like to determine their assembly positions. This improves the assemblability of the operating device 10. This point will be explained below.

[0076] As described above, regarding the knob unit 30, in the operating shaft 50, the number of teeth (10) of the first gear 52 is the same as the number of protrusions (10) of the rotating body 54. Therefore, the angle (36 degrees) between adjacent gear teeth in the first gear 52 is the same as the angle (36 degrees) between adjacent protrusions 54A in the rotating body 54. Therefore, at the initial rotational position of the operating shaft 50, the state of the second gear 73 as observed from the left is always... Figure 7 The state shown. That is, through the operation of the control mechanism 80, even if the operating shaft 50 rotates from the initial rotational position to the specified rotational position, the state of the second gear 73 observed from the left side remains unchanged. Figure 7 The state shown. Therefore, in this state, the intermediate gear 60 is engaged with the first gear 52, so the state of the intermediate gear 60 as observed from the left is always the same. Figure 7 The state shown.

[0077] Furthermore, as described above, regarding the knob unit 30, the number of teeth (8) of the second gear is the same as the total number (8) of the slit portion 76A and the light-shielding portion 76B in the rotating plate 76. Therefore, the angle (45 degrees) between adjacent gear teeth in the second gear 73 becomes the same. Thus, when the rotating shaft 70 rotates the second gear 73 by one tooth, the rotating plate 76 changes from its first assembled state to a state after rotating 45 degrees (as described above). Figure 10 The state shown is hereinafter referred to as the second assembly state. Furthermore, when the rotating shaft 70 is further rotated by one tooth of the second gear 73, the rotating plate 76 rotates 45 degrees from the second assembly state to return to the first assembly state. That is, when the second gear 73 meshes with the intermediate gear 60, the rotating shaft 70 is assembled in such a way that the rotating plate 76 is in either the first or second assembly state.

[0078] Furthermore, the light interruptor 102 detects the rotational position of the rotating plate 76 based on the switching of the slit portion 76A and the light-shielding portion 76B disposed between the light-emitting portion and the light-receiving portion. Therefore, regardless of whether the rotating plate 76 rotates from the first assembly state or the second assembly state, the rotation angle at which the light interruptor 102 detects the switching of the slit portion 76A and the light-shielding portion 76B is the same. Therefore, even assuming that the rotating shaft 70 is assembled in the second assembly state, the rotational position of the rotating shaft 70 and the operating shaft 50 can be detected by the light interruptor 102 in the same way as in the first assembly state of the rotating plate 76. In summary, the operating shaft 50 and the rotating shaft 70 can be assembled onto the support member 40 without using fixtures or the like for positioning the operating shaft 50 and the rotating shaft 70.

[0079] Furthermore, the first gear 52 is located at the left end of the operating shaft 50, and the rotating body 54 is located at the right end of the operating shaft 50. The second gear 73 is located at the left end of the rotating shaft 70, and the rotating plate 76 is located at the right end of the rotating shaft 70. The rotating plate 76 is positioned offset to the right relative to the control mechanism 80, and when viewed from the left-right direction, the outer periphery of the rotating plate 76 overlaps with the sliding member 82 of the control mechanism 80. Therefore, compared to a configuration where the positions of the rotating plate 76 and the control mechanism 80 are aligned in the left-right direction, the diameter of the rotating plate 76 can be increased. This allows for a longer length of the circumferential slit portion 76A and the light-shielding portion 76B of the rotating plate 76. Consequently, the accuracy of the rotational position detection of the rotating plate 76 performed by the light interrupter 102 can be improved.

[0080] Furthermore, the mating shaft portion 50A of the operating shaft 50 and the first support shaft portion 71 of the rotating shaft 70 are supported by the first support portion 46 of the support member 40 to enable rotation, and the intermediate gear 60 is supported by the gear support shaft 46C of the first support portion 46 to enable rotation. Additionally, the mating shaft portion 50A of the operating shaft 50 and the second support shaft portion 72 of the rotating shaft 70 are supported by the second support portion 48 of the support member 40 to enable rotation. Furthermore, the first support portion 46 and the second support portion 48 are connected by a connecting portion 44. Therefore, the operating shaft 50, the rotating shaft 70, and the intermediate gear 60 can be assembled onto a single support member 40, thereby unitizing the knob unit 30.

[0081] Furthermore, the first gear 52, the intermediate gear 60, and the second gear 73 are disposed on the left side of the first support portion 46, the rotating body 54 and the rotating plate 76 are disposed on the right side of the second support portion 48, and the dial knob 56 is disposed between the first support portion 46 and the second support portion 48. Additionally, a light guide lens 92 is provided on the rear side of the dial knob 56, and a second light source 106 is provided on the lower side of the light guide lens 92 to illuminate it. When viewed from above, the light guide lens 92 and the second light source 106 are disposed between the first support portion 46 and the second support portion 48, and between the dial knob 56 and the rotating shaft 70. This suppresses interference between the lighting mechanism (light guide lens 92 and second light source 106) for illuminating the dial knob 56 and the first gear 52, the intermediate gear 60, the second gear 73, the rotating body 54, and the rotating plate 76, and allows the lighting mechanism to be disposed on the rear side of the dial knob 56.

[0082] Furthermore, a limiting rib 44C is provided at the connecting portion 44 of the support member 40. The limiting rib 44C is arranged adjacent to the radially outer side of the dial knob 56 and is located diagonally rearward and below the dial knob 56. Therefore, when the dial knob 56 is pressed rearward by the operator, causing the operating shaft 50 to flex rearward, the dial knob 56 abuts against the limiting rib 44C, thereby suppressing the radially outward deformation of the operating shaft 50. Thus, the protective performance of the operating shaft 50 is improved.

[0083] Furthermore, a control mechanism receiving portion 48F is provided in the second support portion 48 of the support member 40, in which the sliding member 82 and the control spring 84 constituting the control mechanism 80 are received. Thus, the control mechanism 80 can be effectively received by the second support portion 48 at the right end of the support operating shaft 50 and the right end of the rotation shaft 70, and the control mechanism 80 can be centrally arranged at the right end of the support member 40.

[0084] Furthermore, the rotating shaft 70 has a second support shaft portion 72 that is inserted into the second support hole 48B for the rotating shaft from the right side of the support member 40, and a locking shaft portion 74 disposed on the right side of the second support shaft portion 72. Additionally, the support member 40 is provided with a locking claw 48D disposed on the outer side of the locking shaft portion 74 in the front-rear direction, and the locking claw 48D has a claw portion 48E disposed adjacent to the right side of the outer periphery of the locking shaft portion 74. Moreover, a guide groove 74A is formed on the outer periphery of the left side of the locking shaft portion 74, configured to allow the claw portion 48E to be inserted. When the claw portion 48E is inserted into the guide groove 74A, the relative rotation of the rotating shaft 70 with respect to the support member 40 is restricted. Therefore, when the rotating shaft 70 in its initial assembly state slides to the left, the rotational position of the rotating shaft 70 can be determined by the claw portion 48E and the guide groove 74A. That is, the position of the rotating shaft 70 can be determined with the rotating plate 76 in a first assembly state, and the rotating shaft 70 can be assembled to the support member 40. Therefore, the assemblability of the rotating shaft 70 can be improved.

[0085] It should be noted that, in the above description, during the assembly of the knob unit 30, after assembling the operating shaft 50 and the control mechanism 80 to the support member 40 and the intermediate gear 60 to the support member 40, the rotating shaft 70 is then assembled to the support member 40. However, the assembly process of the knob unit 30 can be appropriately modified. For example, it is also possible to assemble the operating shaft 50 and the control mechanism 80 to the support member 40 and the rotating shaft 70 to the support member 40, and then assemble the intermediate gear 60 to the support member 40. Alternatively, it is also possible to assemble the rotating shaft 70 to the support member 40 and the operating shaft 50 and the control mechanism 80 to the support member 40, and then assemble the intermediate gear 60 to the support member 40. In this case, the rotating shaft 70 is also assembled to the support member 40 in such a way that the rotating plate 76 is in either the first or second assembly state.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the intermediate gear 60 is disposed between the first gear 52 and the second gear 73. However, in the knob unit 30, the intermediate gear 60 may be omitted, or multiple intermediate gears may be disposed between the first gear 52 and the second gear 73. When the intermediate gear 60 is omitted in the knob unit 30, the second gear 73 directly meshes with the first gear 52. In this case, for example, the rotating shaft 70 may be configured such that it extends to the left of the second gear 73, and the rotating plate 76 is located at the left end of the rotating shaft 70. Furthermore, regardless of whether the intermediate gear 60 is omitted in the knob unit 30 or multiple intermediate gears are present in the knob unit 30, the rotating shaft 70 is assembled to the support member 40 in either the first or second assembly state of the rotating plate 76.

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a guide groove 74A is formed in the rotating shaft 70, but the guide groove 74A may also be omitted from the rotating shaft 70. In this case, the rotating shaft 70 is also assembled to the support member 40 in such a way that the rotating plate 76 is in a first assembly state or a second assembly state.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first gear 52 and the rotating body 54 are integrally formed on the operating shaft 50. Alternatively, the first gear 52 and the rotating body 54 can be formed separately from the operating shaft 50, and the first gear 52 and the rotating body 54 can be rotatably connected to the operating shaft 50 integrally.

[0089] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second gear 73 is integrally formed on the rotating shaft 70. Alternatively, the second gear 73 and the rotating shaft 70 can be formed separately, or the second gear 73 can be integrally rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 70.

Claims

1. An operating device comprising: An operating shaft extends in a first direction and has an operating knob at the middle of its longitudinal dimension for rotation by the operator. The first gear is integrally rotatably mounted on the operating shaft; A rotation axis extends in the first direction and is disposed on one side of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction relative to the operating axis; The second gear is integrally rotatably mounted on the rotating shaft and meshes directly or indirectly with the first gear; The part to be detected is integrally rotatably mounted on the rotating axis; The detection unit detects the rotational position of the detected part; and The control mechanism provides a controllable feel to the operating knob as the operating shaft rotates. The control mechanism has: A rotating body is integrally rotatably mounted on the operating shaft, and has a plurality of protrusions arranged circumferentially on the outer periphery of the operating shaft; A control member is provided on the radially outer side of the rotating body, configured to be movable in the radial direction of the rotating body, and has an abutment portion disposed between adjacent protrusions; as well as The force-applying component applies a force to the regulating component towards the rotating body side. The number of teeth on the first gear is the same as the number of protrusions. The number of teeth on the second gear is the same as the number of detections performed by the detection unit per revolution of the detected unit.

2. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein, The part to be detected is a circular plate with the first direction being the thickness direction, having a plurality of slits arranged in the rotation direction of the part to be detected and a plurality of light-shielding parts disposed between adjacent slits in the rotation direction. The detection unit is a light interruptor. The number of teeth on the second gear is the same as the combined number of teeth on the slit and the light-shielding portion.

3. The operating device according to claim 2, wherein, The first gear is located at one end of the operating shaft, and the rotating body is located at the other end of the operating shaft. The second gear is located at one end of the rotating shaft, and the detection part is located at the other end of the rotating shaft. The detected part is positioned at a position offset relative to the control mechanism in the first direction, and when viewed from the first direction, the outer periphery of the detected part overlaps with the control mechanism.

4. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein, The operating device includes a support member extending in the first direction. The support member is configured to include: The first support portion, which constitutes one end of the support member in the first direction, supports one end of the operating shaft and the rotating shaft so that they can rotate; The second support portion, constituting the other end of the support member in the first direction, supports the other end of the operating shaft and the rotating shaft so that they can rotate; and The connecting part connects the first support part and the second support part.

5. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein, The first gear and the second gear are disposed on one side of the first support portion in the first direction. The rotating body and the detected part are disposed on the other side of the second support in the first direction. The operating knob is located between the first support portion and the second support portion. A light guide portion for illuminating the operation knob is provided on one side in the second direction. A light source is provided on a third upward side relative to the light guide portion, which is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction, to illuminate the light guide portion. When viewed from the third direction, the light guide and the light source are disposed between the first support and the second support, and are located on the other side of the rotation axis in the second direction.

6. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein, The operating knob is formed in a cylindrical shape with the first direction as its axis. The connecting part is located radially outside the operating knob. A limiting part is provided at the connecting part, and the deformation of the operating axis radially outward is limited by the operating knob abutting against the limiting part.

7. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein, The second support portion is provided with a receiving portion for accommodating the control mechanism.

8. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein, The rotating shaft has: The support shaft portion is inserted from the other side in the first direction into a support hole formed in the second support portion and is supported by the support hole; and The engaging shaft portion is located on the other side of the support shaft portion in the first direction, and its diameter is larger than that of the support shaft portion. The second support portion is provided with an engaging claw disposed radially outside the engaging shaft portion, the engaging claw having a claw portion disposed adjacent to the other side of the engaging shaft portion in the first direction. A groove is formed on one side of the engaging shaft portion in the first direction, which is configured to allow the claw to be inserted. When the claw is inserted into the groove, the relative rotation of the rotating shaft with respect to the support member is restricted.

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