Controller

Abstract

A controller (1, 1 ') is provided with: a housing (2, 2') having an opening (271a, 271a '); a first bearing (11, 11 ') provided inside the housing; a first operation button (4, 4 ') having a first operation surface (411, 411') exposed from the opening, and a first shaft (45, 45 ', 45a) supported by the first bearing so as to be rotatable in a first rotation direction about the axis and movable in a first linear direction; and a first switch (9, 9 ') that is pressed by the first operation button when the first operation button is rotated in the first rotational direction by the rotation of the first shaft and when the first operation button is moved in the first linear direction by the linear movement of the first shaft. The first shaft is disposed further inward than both ends of the first operation surface. When the first shaft is about to rotate in the second rotation direction from the natural state, the first shaft abuts against the first bearing, and therefore the first operation button is limited to rotate in the second rotation direction by an angle larger than the preset angle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to controllers. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, it was known that in controllers, by rotating an operation button, a switch located inside the housing could be pressed using the operation button (e.g., Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-525795).

[0003] In the controller described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-525795, the rotating part of the operation button is located inside the two ends of the operation surface of the operation button, and the operation button can be rotated in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0005] However, depending on the positional relationship between the operating surface, the rotating part, and the switch, the operability of the operating button may deteriorate when it is rotated in a specific direction.

[0006] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the object of the present invention is to suppress the deterioration of the operability of the operation button when the rotating part of the operation button is disposed inside the two ends of the operation surface of the operation button.

[0007] Solution for solving the problem

[0008] The main points of this disclosure are as follows.

[0009] (1) A controller comprising: a housing having an opening; a first bearing disposed inside the housing; a first operation button having a first operating surface exposed from the opening and a first shaft supported on the first bearing in a manner rotatable in a first rotational direction about an axis and rotatable in a first linear direction; and a first switch pressed by the first operation button when the first operation button is rotated in the first rotational direction by rotation of the first shaft and when the first operation button is moved in the first linear direction by linear movement of the first shaft, wherein, when viewed from the axial direction of the first shaft, the first shaft is configured to be located at a position inward of both ends of the first operating surface, the first shaft being configured such that, when the first shaft rotates from its natural state where the first operation button is not operated to a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the first shaft abuts against the first bearing, thereby limiting the first operation button to rotate in the second rotational direction by an angle greater than a predetermined angle.

[0010] (2) According to the controller described in technical solution 1 and described in (1) above, the first bearing has two walls that extend away from the first operating surface and are opposite to each other. When the first shaft and the first bearing are viewed from the axial direction, the straight-line distance between two predetermined points on the outer edge of the first shaft is longer than the distance between the two walls.

[0011] (3) According to the controller described in (1) or (2) above, the first bearing has two walls that extend away from the first operating surface and are opposite to each other, and the first shaft has a first straight portion that extends parallel to one of the two walls in the natural state and a second straight portion that extends parallel to the other of the two walls in the natural state.

[0012] (4) According to the controller described in (3) above, the first axis has a first curved portion extending from the first straight portion and a second curved portion extending from the second straight portion. When the first operation button and the first bearing are viewed from the axial direction, the first curved portion extends in a direction including the direction close to the second straight portion and the direction close to the first operating surface. When the first operation button and the first bearing are viewed from the axial direction, the second curved portion extends in a direction including the direction close to the first straight portion and the direction away from the first operating surface. The straight-line distance connecting the first point on the first curved portion and the second point on the second curved portion is less than or equal to the distance between the two walls.

[0013] (5) According to the controller described in (4) above, the first curved portion and the second curved portion are arcs when viewed from the axial direction.

[0014] (6) The controller according to any one of (1) to (5) above, wherein the controller comprises: a second bearing disposed inside the housing; a second operation button having a second operation surface exposed from the opening and a second shaft supported on the second bearing in a manner rotatable in the second rotational direction and rotatable in the first linear direction; and a second switch pressed by the second operation button when the second operation button is rotated in the second rotational direction by rotation of the second shaft and when the second operation button is moved in the first linear direction by linear movement of the second shaft, wherein when the second operation button is viewed from the axial direction of the second shaft, the second shaft is configured to be located at a position inward of both ends of the second operation surface, and the second shaft is configured such that when the second shaft rotates from its natural state where the second operation button is not operated in the first rotational direction, the second shaft abuts against the second bearing, thereby restricting the second operation button from moving in the first linear direction. The housing has the following features: a front surface with a direction input for user operation; an upper surface positioned above the user when the housing is held by the user with the front facing the user; a left surface positioned to the left when viewed from the user in the same state; and a right surface located opposite the left surface. A first operation button is positioned on the upper surface closer to the left surface than the right surface and extends from the user's left index or middle finger when the housing is held by the user. A second operation button is positioned on the upper surface closer to the right surface than the left surface and extends from the user's right index or middle finger when the housing is held by the user. The first rotation direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the user in the same state, and the second rotation direction is clockwise when viewed from the user in the same state.

[0015] (7) The controller according to (6) above, wherein the controller further comprises: a third operation button disposed on the upper surface in a region extending from the left index finger or left middle finger of the user when the housing is held by the user; and a fourth operation button disposed on the upper surface in a region extending from the right surface of the user than the second operation button and when the housing is held by the user.

[0016] The effects of the invention

[0017] According to the present invention, when the rotating part of the operation button is disposed inside the two ends of the operation surface of the operation button, the deterioration of the operability of the operation button can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a front view of the controller according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a top view of the controller according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 It is along the controller Figure 2 A partial sectional view of line AA.

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of the first shaft and the first bearing.

[0022] Figure 5 It is along the controller Figure 2 A partial sectional view of the BB line.

[0023] Figure 6 This is the front view of the controller according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a top view of the controller according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 8 It is along the controller Figure 7 A partial sectional view of the CC line.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing a variation of the first axis of the first operation button. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, the same structural elements will be labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0028] <First Implementation Method>

[0029] First, refer to Figures 1-5 The first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is a front view of the controller 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a top view of the controller 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] The controller 1 is roughly rectangular in shape and is held by the user. The user... Figure 1 The direction control controller 1 is shown. Figure 1 The image shows controller 1 on the side opposite the user. (As shown) Figure 1 As shown, the controller 1 includes a housing 2, a display 3, and operating components. In this embodiment, the controller 1 functions as a portable game console, for example, powered by a built-in battery.

[0031] The housing 2 has a generally rectangular shape and forms the outer surface of the controller 1. The housing 2 has a front side 21, a back side 22 located opposite the front side 21, and a side connecting the front side 21 and the back side 22. A display 3 and a direction input section 8 (described later) are provided on the front side 21 of the housing 2, and the front side 21 faces the user when the controller 1 is used by the user. In this specification, the direction of the controller 1 is defined when the user holds the housing 2 with the front side 21 facing the user (hereinafter referred to as the "holding state").

[0032] The housing 2 has an upper surface 23, a lower surface 24, a left surface 25, and a right surface 26 on its sides. When held, the upper surface 23 is located at the top when viewed from the user's perspective, and the lower surface 24 is located opposite the upper surface 23 and is located at the bottom when viewed from the user's perspective. The left surface 25 is located on the left when viewed from the user's perspective, and the right surface 26 is located opposite the left surface 25 and is located on the right when viewed from the user's perspective. In this embodiment, the length of the housing 2 in the left-right direction is longer than its length in the vertical direction, and the controller 1 has a horizontally elongated shape.

[0033] In this embodiment, the upper surface 23 of the housing 2 has a left upper corner portion 231, a right upper corner portion 232, and a horizontal portion 233 between the left upper corner portion 231 and the right upper corner portion 232. The left upper corner portion 231 has a rounded arc shape and is connected to the left surface 25. The right upper corner portion 232 has a rounded arc shape and is connected to the right surface 26. The horizontal portion 233 is a flat surface and is smoothly connected to the left upper corner portion 231 and the right upper corner portion 232. Furthermore, the left upper corner portion 231 and the right upper corner portion 232 may each have a chamfered shape.

[0034] Furthermore, in this specification, "up" refers to the direction from the lower surface towards the upper surface, "down" refers to the direction from the upper surface towards the lower surface, "left" refers to the direction from the right surface towards the left surface, "right" refers to the direction from the left surface towards the right surface, "front" refers to the direction from the back surface towards the front surface, and "back" refers to the direction from the front surface towards the back surface. Therefore, for example, the terms "upper side," "lower side," "right side," "left side," "front side," and "back side" can be replaced with "upper surface side," "lower surface side," "right surface side," "left surface side," "front side," and "back side," respectively. Additionally, the terms "upper and lower direction," "left and right direction," and "front and back direction" can be replaced with "upper and lower direction between the upper and lower surfaces," "left and right direction between the left and right surfaces," and "front and back direction between the front and back surfaces," respectively. Furthermore, the terms "above," "below," "front," and "back" can be replaced with "upper surface side direction," "lower surface side direction," "front side direction," and "back side direction," respectively.

[0035] The housing 2 includes a first housing 27 and a second housing 28, which are formed by combining the first housing 27 and the second housing 28. Figure 2 As shown, the first housing 27 is disposed on the front side of the controller 1, and the second housing 28 is disposed on the rear side of the controller 1. The first housing 27 and the second housing 28 define the internal space of the housing 2 when they are combined. The first housing 27 and the second housing 28 are respectively made of resin, metal, etc., and are formed by injection molding, die casting, etc.

[0036] The display 3 is disposed on the main surface 21 of the housing 2, so that the display surface of the display 3 can be visually recognized by the user and display visual information (characters, images, etc.). In this embodiment, the display 3 is disposed in the central area in the left-right direction of the controller 1. The display 3 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display, etc. In addition, the display 3 may also be a touch panel type display.

[0037] In controller 1, the operating components are arranged such that at least a portion is exposed to the outside of housing 2, and are operated by the user. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the controller 1 has a first operation button 4, a second operation button 5, a third operation button 6, and a fourth operation button 7 as operating components disposed on the upper surface 23 of the housing 2. For example, the third operation button 6 is one of a positive button and a negative button, and the fourth operation button 7 is the other of a positive button and a negative button.

[0038] The first operation button 4 and the third operation button 6 are located on the upper surface 23 in an area closer to the left surface 25 than the right surface 26, that is, in an area to the left of the left-right center line CL of the controller 1. Furthermore, the left-right center line CL of the controller 1 refers to the line that divides the controller 1 in two in the left-right direction.

[0039] The first operation button 4 and the third operation button 6 are arranged adjacent to each other in the left-right direction, with the third operation button 6 located to the right of the first operation button 4. In this embodiment, the first operation button 4 is located at the upper left corner 231 and the horizontal portion 233 of the upper surface 23, and the third operation button 6 is located at the horizontal portion 233 of the upper surface 23. The first operation button 4 and the third operation button 6 are respectively located in the area where the user's left index finger or left middle finger extends when the housing 2 is held by the user (for example, when the user's left hand is placed on the left surface 25 of the housing 2), and are operated by the user's left index finger or left middle finger.

[0040] On the other hand, the second operation button 5 and the fourth operation button 7 are located on the upper surface 23 in a region closer to the right surface 26 than the left surface 25, that is, in a region to the right of the left-right center line CL of the controller 1. The second operation button 5 and the fourth operation button 7 are arranged adjacent to each other in the left-right direction, with the fourth operation button 7 located to the left of the second operation button 5. In this embodiment, the second operation button 5 is located at the upper right corner 232 and the horizontal portion 233 of the upper surface 23, and the fourth operation button 7 is located at the horizontal portion 233 of the upper surface 23. The second operation button 5 and the fourth operation button 7 are respectively located in the region where the user's right index finger or right middle finger extends when the housing 2 is held by the user (for example, when the user's right hand is placed on the right surface 26 of the housing 2), and are operated by the user's right index finger or right middle finger.

[0041] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the controller 1 includes a direction input unit 8 and a button group 30 as operating components provided on the front 21 of the housing 2. The direction input unit 8 is operated by the user when the user inputs a direction, and in this embodiment, it is a simulated joystick. Alternatively, the direction input unit 8 could also be a crosshair or the like. The button group 30 consists of, for example, four buttons: A, B, X, and Y. The direction input unit 8 is located to the left of the left-right center line CL of the controller 1, and the button group 30 is located to the right of the left-right center line CL of the controller 1. The operating components are made of resin, metal, or the like, and are formed by injection molding, die casting, or the like.

[0042] In addition, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first housing 27 has openings 271a-271d for the passage of an operating member disposed on the upper surface 23 of the housing 2, and openings 271e-271i for the passage of an operating member disposed on the front surface 21 of the housing 2. Openings 271a-271d open on the upper surface 23 of the housing 2, and openings 271e-271i open on the front surface 21 of the housing 2.

[0043] in addition, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure and configuration of the operating components shown are merely an example; some operating components may be omitted, or other operating components may be added. For example, the controller 1 may also include additional joystick components different from the direction input unit 8, a capture button for capturing images displayed on the display 3, a home button for displaying the main menu, etc., as operating components provided on the front 21 of the housing 2. Alternatively, the display 3 may be omitted.

[0044] Figure 3 It is along controller 1 Figure 2 A partial sectional view of line AA. (e.g.) Figure 3As shown, the controller 1 includes a first switch 9 and a first spring 10 as internal components. The first switch 9 and the first spring 10 are located in an area closer to the left surface 25 than the right surface 26, with the first switch 9 positioned to the left of the first spring 10. The first switch 9 is located directly below the first operation button 4 within the internal space of the housing 2 and is pressed by the first operation button 4. The first spring 10 is located directly below the first operation button 4 within the internal space of the housing 2 and applies upward force to the first operation button 4.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, the first operation button 4 has a first key top 41, a first base portion 42, a first protrusion 43, a first shaft base portion 44, and a first shaft 45. The first key top 41, the first base portion 42, the first protrusion 43, the first shaft base portion 44, and the first shaft 45 are integrally formed by injection molding, die casting, etc.

[0046] The top 41 of the first key is located at the top of the first operation button 4, and is partially exposed from the housing 2 through the opening 271a of the housing 2. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the top 41 of the first button has a first operating surface 411 exposed from the opening 271a of the housing 2. The first operating surface 411 is located outside the upper surface 23 and extends parallel to the upper surface 23 (horizontal portion 233 and upper left corner portion 231). The first operating surface 411 is contacted by the user's finger (left index finger or left middle finger) when the user operates the first operating button 4.

[0047] The first base portion 42 is located below the top of the first key 41, and the top of the first key 41 protrudes outward from the upper surface of the first base portion 42. The first base portion 42 is larger than the opening 271a of the housing 2 and is disposed in the internal space of the housing 2. The left end of the first base portion 42 abuts against the housing 2 in the natural state when the first operation button 4 is not operated (hereinafter referred to as "the natural state of the first operation button 4").

[0048] The first protrusion 43 has a generally cylindrical shape and protrudes downward from the lower surface of the first base portion 42. The first protrusion 43 is located opposite the first switch 9 within the internal space of the housing 2. The first switch 9 has a first pressable portion 91 extending in a direction approaching the first operating surface 411 and the first protrusion 43. The first protrusion 43 presses the first pressable portion 91 of the first switch 9 when the first operating button 4 is operated. Furthermore, if the first operating button 4 is formed such that the first pressable portion 91 is pressed by the first base portion 42, etc., the first protrusion 43 may be omitted.

[0049] The first shaft base 44 is disposed in the interior space of the housing 2 at a position to the right of the first protrusion 43, protruding downward from the lower surface of the first base portion 42. The first shaft 45 protrudes forward from the front surface of the first shaft base 44. The first shaft 45 is connected to the first base portion 42 and the top of the first key 41 via the first shaft base 44.

[0050] The controller 1 includes a first bearing 11 disposed inside the housing 2. The first bearing 11 is disposed in a region closer to the left surface 25 than the right surface 26, and is disposed to the right of the first switch 9. In this embodiment, the first bearing 11 is formed in the first housing 27 and protrudes rearward from the rear side (back side) of the first housing 27.

[0051] Furthermore, in this specification, the provision of a second element to a first element includes a manner in which the second element is formed on the first element, i.e., the second element is part of the first element, and a manner in which the second element, formed separately from the first element, is mounted on the first element. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first bearing 11 is formed on the back side of the first housing 27, but the first bearing 11 may also be a separate structure from the first housing 27 and mounted on the back side of the first housing 27 by fasteners (e.g., screws), adhesive members (e.g., adhesives, adhesive tapes, etc.).

[0052] The first spring 10 and the first shaft 45 of the first operating button 4 are housed in and supported by the first bearing 11. The first spring 10 is positioned directly below the first shaft 45 within the first bearing 11, applying an upward force to the first shaft 45. One end (lower end) of the first spring 10 is supported by the first bearing 11, and the other end (upper end) of the first spring 10 abuts against the first shaft 45. The first bearing 11 allows the first spring 10 to extend and retract, and restricts the left-right movement of the first spring 10. Alternatively, the first spring 10 may not be positioned directly below the first shaft 45, provided it is configured to apply an upward force to the first operating button 4. That is, the first spring 10 may also be positioned on the right side of the first shaft 45 (e.g., between the right end of the first operating surface 411 and the first shaft 45) or on the left side of the first shaft 45 (e.g., between the left end of the first operating surface 411 and the first shaft 45).

[0053] In its natural state, the first shaft 45 abuts against the upper sidewall of the first bearing 11 under the force of the first spring 10. Therefore, the first shaft 45 is supported by the first bearing 11 via the first spring 10, and the first bearing 11 restricts the upward movement of the first shaft 45. On the other hand, when a downward force is applied to the first shaft 45 by operating the first operation button 4, the first shaft 45 moves downward against the force of the first spring 10. As a result, the first operation button 4 sinks down, and the first operation button 4 presses the first switch 9 via the first protrusion 43.

[0054] Furthermore, the first axis 45 serves as the rotation center of the first operation button 4, which rotates relative to the housing 2 around the first axis 45. To effectively generate a force that rotates the first axis 45, it is preferable to press the first operation surface 411 from a position away from the first axis 45. Therefore, to facilitate rotation of the first axis 45, it is considered to position the first axis 45 to the right of the first operation surface 411. However, in this case, the left-right length of the first operation button 4 increases, and the space for mounting the first operation button 4 becomes larger.

[0055] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the first operation button 4 is viewed from the axial direction of the first axis 45, the first axis 45 is positioned inside the two ends of the first operation surface 411. This reduces the space required to install the first operation button 4 compared to positioning the first axis 45 outside the two ends of the first operation surface 411.

[0056] However, in this configuration, the first operating surface 411 can be pressed on both the left and right sides of the first shaft 45. Therefore, for example, if the first shaft 45 has a simple cylindrical shape, the first shaft 45 can rotate freely in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, when viewing the first switch 9 and the first operation button 4 from the axial direction of the first axis 45, the first switch 9 is positioned further inward than both ends of the first operating surface 411 and further to the left than the first axis 45. In this case, when the first axis 45 is rotated by lowering the right end of the first operating surface 411, that is, when the first axis 45 is rotated clockwise from the user's perspective while in the holding state, the first operation button 4 rotates clockwise around the position where the left end of the first base portion 42 abuts against the housing 2. As a result, the first protrusion 43 of the first operation button 4 moves towards the first switch 9. However, since the distance between the fulcrum of the first operation button 4 when rotating and the point of action of the first protrusion 43 pressing the first switch 9 is short, the rotation of the first operation button 4 is unlikely to facilitate the downward movement of the first protrusion 43. Therefore, when the first operation button 4 is rotated clockwise to press the first switch 9 by the first protrusion 43, the right end of the first operation surface 411, which is operated by the fingertip, sinks into the opening 271a of the housing 2, which may worsen the operability of the first operation button 4. To prevent this, it is also considered to increase the thickness of the top 41 of the first button so that the first operation surface 411 is further away from the upper surface 23 of the housing 2. However, this design change increases the vertical length of the controller 1, which hinders the miniaturization of the controller 1.

[0058] On the other hand, when the first shaft 45 is rotated by lowering the left end of the first operating surface 411, that is, when the first shaft 45 rotates counterclockwise as viewed from the user while in the holding state, the first operating button 4 rotates counterclockwise around the position where the first shaft 45 abuts against the first bearing 11. As a result, the first protrusion 43 of the first operating button 4 moves closer to the first switch 9. Similarly to the right end of the first operating surface 411, when the first operating button 4 rotates counterclockwise until the first protrusion 43 presses the first switch 9, the left end of the first operating surface 411 lowers into the opening 271a of the housing 2. However, unlike the right end of the first operating surface 411 operated by the fingertip, when the left end of the first operating surface 411 operated by the part between the first and third joints of the finger lowers into the opening 271a, the operability of the first operating button 4 does not cause discomfort. Therefore, when the first shaft 45 rotates counterclockwise, the first switch 9 can be pressed using the first operating button 4 without degrading the operability of the first operating button 4.

[0059] Therefore, the first shaft 45 is configured to be supported on the first bearing 11 in a manner that allows it to rotate in a first rotational direction about the axis and move in a first linear direction. When the first shaft 45 is to rotate from the natural state of the first operation button 4 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the first shaft 45 abuts against the first bearing 11, thereby limiting the first operation button 4 from rotating in the second rotational direction by an angle greater than a predetermined angle. The first switch 9 is pressed by the first operation button 4 when the first operation button 4 rotates in the first rotational direction due to the rotation of the first shaft 45, and when the first operation button 4 moves in the first linear direction due to the linear movement of the first shaft 45. Thus, even when the rotating portion of the first operation button 4 (in this embodiment, the first shaft 45) is located inside both ends of the first operation surface 411, the deterioration of the operability of the first operation button 4 can be suppressed.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first rotation direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the user's perspective while the device is held, the second rotation direction is clockwise when viewed from the user's perspective while the device is held, and the first linear direction is downward. Alternatively, the first linear direction could be diagonally downward, etc. In this case, when the first operation button 4 is pressed in a linear motion, the first axis 45 moves diagonally downward.

[0061] The following describes an example of the specific shape of the first shaft 45 used to limit rotation in one direction. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of the first shaft 45 and the first bearing 11. Figure 4 The diagram shows the first shaft 45 and the first bearing 11 viewed from the axial direction of the first shaft 45. Additionally, in... Figure 4 The first spring 10 is omitted in the text.

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, the first bearing 11 has a left side wall 111, a right side wall 112, an upper side wall 113, and a lower side wall 114. The left side wall 111, the right side wall 112, the upper side wall 113, and the lower side wall 114 define a storage space for accommodating the first shaft 45 and the first spring 10.

[0063] The left side wall 111 and the right side wall 112 extend away from the upper surface 23 and the first operating surface 411, while the upper side wall 113 and the lower side wall 114 extend parallel to the upper surface 23 (horizontal portion 233). The left side wall 111 and the right side wall 112 are opposite to each other and extend parallel to each other. The direction in which the left side wall 111 and the right side wall 112 extend is the same as the first linear direction of the linear movement of the first axis 45, which is downward in this embodiment.

[0064] The upper side wall 113 and the lower side wall 114 are opposite to each other and extend parallel to each other. In this embodiment, the upper side wall 113 and the lower side wall 114 extend in the left-right direction. The upper side wall 113 connects the upper end of the left side wall 111 and the upper end of the right side wall 112, and the lower side wall 114 connects the lower end of the left side wall 111 and the lower end of the right side wall 112. The first shaft 45 is disposed between the left side wall 111 and the right side wall 112, and the left side wall 111 and the right side wall 112 function as sliding surfaces of the first shaft 45 when the first shaft 45 moves in a first linear direction (in this embodiment, a downward direction).

[0065] exist Figure 4 In this example, the first shaft 45 has a first straight section 451, a second straight section 452, a third straight section 453, a fourth straight section 454, a first curved section 455, and a second curved section 456. The first straight section 451, the second straight section 452, the first curved section 455, and the second curved section 456 constitute the outer edge of the first shaft 45. Alternatively, at least one of the third straight section 453 and the fourth straight section 454 may be omitted.

[0066] The first straight section 451, in its natural state, faces the left wall 111 and extends parallel to it. The second straight section 452, in its natural state, faces the right wall 112 and extends parallel to it. The first straight section 451 and the second straight section 452 can guide the movement of the first shaft 45 in a first straight direction, making the movement of the first shaft 45 in the first straight direction smooth. In addition, when the first shaft 45 slides against the left wall 111 and the right wall 112 due to the movement of the first shaft 45 in the first straight direction, the first straight section 451 and the second straight section 452 can suppress the application of local forces to the first shaft 45.

[0067] In the natural state of the first operation button 4, the third straight section 453 abuts against the upper side wall 113 by the force of the first spring 10 and extends parallel to the upper side wall 113. The first spring 10 applies an upward force to the first operation button 4 via the first shaft 45. At this time, the third straight section 453 is in contact with the upper side wall 113 and the left end of the first base section 42 abuts against the housing 2, thus suppressing the positional displacement of the first operation button 4 in its natural state. The fourth straight section 454 is opposite to the lower side wall 114 in the natural state of the first operation button 4 and extends parallel to the lower side wall 114.

[0068] A first curved portion 455 extends from a first straight portion 451, connecting the first straight portion 451 to a third straight portion 453. When viewed from the axial direction of the first axis 45, the first curved portion 455 extends along a direction including both a direction approaching the second straight portion 452 and a direction approaching the first operating surface 411. A second curved portion 456 extends from the second straight portion 452, connecting the second straight portion 452 to a fourth straight portion 454. When viewed from the axial direction of the first axis 45, the second curved portion 456 extends along a direction including both a direction approaching the first straight portion 451 and a direction away from the first operating surface 411.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first shaft 45 is configured such that, when viewed from the axial direction of the first shaft 45 and the first bearing 11, the straight-line distance between two predetermined points on the outer edge of the first shaft 45 is longer than the distance between the left wall surface 111 and the right wall surface 112. Therefore, when the first shaft 45 rotates, the first shaft 45 reliably abuts against the first bearing 11, thereby stopping the rotation of the first shaft 45.

[0070] exist Figure 4In the example, the longest straight-line distance among any two points on the outer edge of the first axis 45 is the straight-line distance L2 connecting the upper right point and the lower left point of the first axis 45. This distance L2 is longer than the distance L1 between the left wall 111 and the right wall 112. Therefore, by having the upper right point of the first axis 45 abut against the right wall 112 and the lower left point of the first axis 45 abut against the left wall 111, the rotation of the first axis 45 is restricted. Furthermore, the straight-line distance connecting the lower end of the first straight section 451 and the upper end of the second straight section 452 can also be longer than the distance L1 between the left wall 111 and the right wall 112.

[0071] If the user presses down on the portion of the first operating surface 411 that is to the right of the first axis 45, the first axis 45 will rotate clockwise. When the first axis 45 rotates clockwise, the upper right point of the first axis 45 is closest to the right wall 112, and the lower left point of the first axis 45 is closest to the left wall 111. That is, the straight-line distance L2 connecting the point on the outer edge of the first axis 45 closest to the left wall 111 when the first axis 45 rotates clockwise and the point on the outer edge of the first axis 45 closest to the right wall 112 when the first axis 45 rotates clockwise is longer than the distance L1 between the left wall 111 and the right wall 112. Therefore, in Figure 4 In the example, the first shaft 45 abuts against the first bearing 11 when rotating clockwise, thus restricting the clockwise rotation of the first shaft 45.

[0072] On the other hand, the straight-line distance (e.g., distance L3) connecting the first point on the first curved section 455 and the second point on the second curved section 456 is shorter than the distance L1 between the left wall 111 and the right wall 112. Figure 4 In the example, in the natural state of the first operation button 4, the point on the first curved part 455 closest to the left wall 111 is selected as the first point, and in the natural state of the first operation button 4, the point on the second curved part 456 closest to the right wall 112 is selected as the second point.

[0073] If the user presses the portion of the first operating surface 411 that is to the left of the first shaft 45, the first shaft 45 will rotate counterclockwise. Specifically, if the user presses the portion of the first operating surface 411 that is to the left of the first switch 9, the first shaft 45 will only rotate counterclockwise. If the user presses the portion of the first operating surface 411 between the first switch 9 and the first shaft 45, the first shaft 45 will move in a first linear direction and rotate counterclockwise. When the first shaft 45 rotates counterclockwise, the first curved portion 455 is closest to the left wall 111, and the second curved portion 456 is closest to the right wall 112. That is, the straight-line distance (e.g., distance L3) connecting the point on the outer edge of the first shaft 45 closest to the left wall 111 and the point on the outer edge of the first shaft 45 closest to the right wall 112 when the first shaft 45 rotates counterclockwise is shorter than the distance L1 between the left wall 111 and the right wall 112. Therefore, in Figure 4 In this example, the first shaft 45 rotates counterclockwise without contacting the first bearing 11. Furthermore, the distance L3 can also be equal to the distance L1. In this case, the first curved portion 455 and the second curved portion 456 contact the left wall surface 111 and the right wall surface 112 respectively, and the first shaft 45 rotates counterclockwise.

[0074] In addition, Figure 4 In the example, the first curved portion 455 and the second curved portion 456 are arcs when viewed from the axial direction of the first shaft 45. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first shaft 45 from getting stuck on the wall of the first bearing 11, and to make the counterclockwise rotation of the first shaft 45 smoother.

[0075] In addition, Figure 4 In the example, considering the dimensional deviations between the first shaft 45 and the first bearing 11, a gap is provided between the first shaft 45 and the first bearing 11. Specifically, in the natural state of the first operation button 4, a gap is provided between the first straight portion 451 and the left wall surface 111, and a gap is provided between the second straight portion 452 and the right wall surface 112. Therefore, the first shaft 45 can rotate clockwise by the amount of this gap. However, the angle by which the first shaft 45 can rotate clockwise is less than a predetermined angle, which is smaller than the angle by which the first shaft 45 can rotate counterclockwise. Alternatively, the gaps can be removed, so that in the natural state of the first operation button 4, the first straight portion 451 contacts the left wall surface 111, and the second straight portion 452 contacts the right wall surface 112. In this case, the angle by which the first shaft 45 can rotate clockwise is zero.

[0076] Alternatively, in the natural state of the first operation button 4, the first base portion 42 of the first operation button 4 can abut against the housing 2 instead of the first shaft 45 abutting against the upper side wall 113 of the first bearing 11. In this case, the upper side wall 113 of the first bearing 11 can also be omitted.

[0077] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first axis 45 is positioned inwards from both ends of the first operating surface 411, thus allowing the third operating button 6 to be positioned adjacent to the first operating button 4 in the left-right direction. For example... Figure 2 As shown, when the third operation button 6 is positioned to the right of the first operation button 4, the user tends to operate the right end of the first operation button 4 near the third operation button 6 when performing consecutive button operations from the third operation button 6 to the first operation button 4. In contrast, in this embodiment, the clockwise rotation of the first axis 45 when the right end of the first operation button 4 is pressed is restricted. Therefore, the deterioration of the operability of the first operation button 4 during consecutive button operations can be suppressed, and consecutive button operations from the third operation button 6 to the first operation button 4 can be performed smoothly.

[0078] Figure 5 It is along controller 1 Figure 2 A partial sectional view of the BB line. (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown, the controller 1 includes a second switch 12 and a second spring 13 as internal components. The second switch 12 and the second spring 13 are disposed in a region closer to the right surface 26 than the left surface 25, with the second switch 12 positioned to the right of the second spring 13.

[0079] The second switch 12 is disposed directly below the second operation button 5 within the internal space of the housing 2 and is pressed by the second operation button 5. The first switch 9 and the second switch 12 have the same shape and are disposed symmetrically with respect to the left and right center lines CL of the controller 1. The first switch 9 and the second switch 12 are mounted, for example, on a base plate housed in the housing 2. The first switch 9 and the second switch 12 are, for example, tactile switches. Alternatively, the first switch 9 and the second switch 12 may have different shapes.

[0080] The second spring 13 is disposed directly below the second operation button 5 within the internal space of the housing 2, applying an upward force to the second operation button 5. The first spring 10 and the second spring 13 have the same shape and are disposed symmetrically with respect to the left and right center lines CL of the controller 1. The first spring 10 and the second spring 13 are, for example, compression coil springs. Alternatively, the first spring 10 and the second spring 13 may have different shapes. Furthermore, the first operation button 4 and the second operation button 5 may replace the springs or, based on the springs, be subjected to an upward force by other elastic bodies or other structures. For example, if the first switch 9 and the second switch 12 are tactile switches, the first operation button 4 and the second operation button 5 may be subjected to an upward force by a rounded top; if the first switch 9 and the second switch 12 are rubber switches, the first operation button 4 and the second operation button 5 may be subjected to an upward force by a rubber key.

[0081] The first operation button 4 and the second operation button 5 are positioned symmetrically with respect to the left and right center lines CL of the controller 1, and have shapes that are symmetrical with respect to the left and right center lines CL. That is, the second operation button 5, like the first operation button 4, has a second key top 51, a second base portion 52, a second protrusion 53, a second shaft base portion 54, and a second shaft 55. The second key top 51, the second base portion 52, the second protrusion 53, the second shaft base 54, and the second shaft 55 are integrally formed by injection molding, die casting, or the like. The second key top 51, like the first key top 41, has a second operating surface 511 exposed from the opening 271b of the housing 2.

[0082] The controller 1 includes a second bearing 14 disposed inside the housing 2. The second bearing 14 houses a second spring 13 and a second shaft 55. The second bearing 14 is located in a region closer to the right surface 26 than the left surface 25, and is positioned to the left of the second switch 12. The first bearing 11 and the second bearing 14 have the same shape and are positioned symmetrically with respect to the left and right center lines CL of the controller 1.

[0083] The second switch 12, the second spring 13, the second bearing 14, and the second operating button 5 have the same features as the first switch 9, the first spring 10, the first bearing 11, and the first operating button 4, and perform the same functions as the first switch 9, the first spring 10, the first bearing 11, and the first operating button 4. For example, when the second operating button 5 is viewed from the axial direction of the second shaft 55, the second shaft 55 is configured to be located inside the two ends of the second operating surface 511.

[0084] Furthermore, the second shaft 55 is configured to be supported on the second bearing 14 in a manner that allows it to rotate in a second rotational direction and move in a first linear direction. When the second shaft 55 is to rotate in the first rotational direction (opposite to the second rotational direction) from its natural state where the second operation button 5 has not been operated, the second shaft 55 abuts against the second bearing 14, thereby limiting the rotation of the second operation button 5 in the first rotational direction to an angle greater than a predetermined angle. As described above, in this embodiment, the first rotational direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the user's perspective while the button is held, the second rotational direction is clockwise when viewed from the user's perspective while the button is held, and the first linear direction is downward. The second switch 12 is pressed by the second operation button 5 when the second operation button 5 rotates in the second rotational direction via the rotation of the second shaft 55, and when the second operation button 5 moves in the first linear direction via the linear movement of the second shaft 55. Based on these features, the second operation button 5 achieves the same effect as the first operation button 4.

[0085] <Second Implementation Method>

[0086] The controller in the second embodiment is essentially the same as the controller in the first embodiment, except for the points described below. Therefore, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below focusing on the parts that differ from the first embodiment.

[0087] Figure 6 This is a front view of the controller 1' according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a top view of the controller 1' according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The controller 1' has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and is held by the user. Figure 6 The direction indicated by the controller 1' is controlled by the controller 1'. Figure 6 The image shows the side of controller 1' opposite the user.

[0088] Similar to the first embodiment, the housing 2' of the controller 1' has a front 21', a back 22', and a side, with the side having an upper surface 23', a lower surface 24', a left surface 25', and a right surface 26'. The housing 2' comprises a first housing 27' and a second housing 28', formed by combining the first housing 27' and the second housing 28'. In the second embodiment, the vertical length of the housing 2' is longer than its horizontal length, and the controller 1' has a longitudinally elongated shape.

[0089] In the second embodiment, the controller 1' has a first operation button 4' as an operating member disposed on the upper surface 23' of the housing 2'. The first operation button 4' is disposed in the central area of ​​the controller 1' in the left-right direction. For example, the controller 1' is held by one of the user's hands (left or right hand), and the first operation button 4' is operated by the user's fingers (index or middle finger).

[0090] Additionally, the controller 1' includes a direction input unit 8' as an operating member located on the front 21' of the housing 2'. The direction input unit 8' is operated by the user when the user inputs a direction, for example, it is an analog joystick. Alternatively, the direction input unit 8' can also be a D-pad or the like. Furthermore, as an operating member located on the front 21' of the housing 2', the controller 1' can replace the direction input unit 8' or include other operating members (e.g., a button group, other joystick members, a home button, etc.) based on the direction input unit 8'.

[0091] Figure 8 It is along controller 1' Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view along the CC line. The controller 1' has a first switch 9' and a first spring 10' as internal components. The first switch 9' is disposed directly below the first operation button 4' within the internal space of the housing 2' and is pressed by the first operation button 4'. The first switch 9' is, for example, mounted on a base plate housed in the housing 2'. The first switch 9' is, for example, a tactile switch.

[0092] The first spring 10' is disposed directly below the first operating button 4' within the internal space of the housing 2', applying an upward force to the first operating button 4'. The first spring 10' is, for example, a compression coil spring. Alternatively, the first operating button 4' may replace the spring or, based on the spring, be subjected to an upward force by other elastic bodies or other structures. For example, if the first switch 9' is a tactile switch, the first operating button 4' may be subjected to an upward force by a rounded top; if the first switch 9' is a rubber switch, the first operating button 4' may be subjected to an upward force by a key rubber.

[0093] like Figure 8 As shown, the first operation button 4' has a first key top 41', a first base portion 42', a first protrusion 43', a first shaft base portion 44', and a first shaft 45'. The first key top 41', the first base portion 42', the first protrusion 43', the first shaft base 44', and the first shaft 45' are integrally formed by injection molding, die casting, or the like.

[0094] The controller 1' has a first bearing 11' disposed inside the housing 2'. The first bearing 11' houses a first spring 10' and a first shaft 45'. In this embodiment, it is envisioned that the controller 1' is held by the user's left hand. Therefore, the first bearing 11' is positioned to the right of the first switch 9', so that the first switch 9' is positioned to the left of the first shaft 45'.

[0095] The first switch 9', the first spring 10', and the first bearing 11' each have the same features as the first switch 9, the first spring 10, and the first bearing 11 in the first embodiment, and function in the same way as the first switch 9, the first spring 10, and the first bearing 11. The first operation button 4' has the same features as the first operation button 4 in the first embodiment, except that the first button top 41' and the first base portion 42' do not have a curved portion along the curved upper surface portion, and functions in the same way as the first operation button 4. For example, when the first operation button 4' is viewed from the axial direction of the first shaft 45', the first shaft 45' is configured to be located inside the two ends of the first operation surface 411'.

[0096] Furthermore, the first shaft 45' is configured to be supported on the first bearing 11' in a manner that allows it to rotate in a first rotational direction and move in a first linear direction. When the first shaft 45' is to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction from its natural state of not having operated the first operation button 4', the first shaft 45' abuts against the first bearing 11', thereby limiting the first operation button 4' from rotating in the second rotational direction by an angle greater than a predetermined angle. In the controller 1', the first rotational direction is counterclockwise as viewed from the user in the holding state, the second rotational direction is clockwise as viewed from the user in the holding state, and the first linear direction is downward. The first switch 9' is pressed by the first operation button 4' when the first operation button 4' rotates in the first rotational direction via the rotation of the first shaft 45', and when the first operation button 4' moves in the first linear direction via the linear movement of the first shaft 45'. Based on these features, the first operation button 4' achieves the same effect as the first operation button 4 in the first embodiment.

[0097] Alternatively, the housing 2' may also have a horizontally elongated shape. Furthermore, an operating member such as a direction input section may be provided on the front 21' of the housing 2'. Alternatively, the upper surface 23' of the housing 2' may have an upper left corner and a horizontal portion, and the first operating button 4' may have the same shape as the first operating button 4 in the first embodiment. Additionally, assuming the controller 1' is held by the user's right hand, the first switch 9' may be positioned to the right of the first shaft 45', and the first shaft 45' may have the same shape as the second shaft 55' of the second operating button 5 in the first embodiment. That is, the first rotation direction allowing the first shaft 45' to rotate may be clockwise when viewed from the user's perspective while held, and the second rotation direction restricting the rotation of the first shaft 45' may be counterclockwise when viewed from the user's perspective while held.

[0098] <Other Implementation Methods>

[0099] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and various modifications and changes can be made. For example, the housings 2 and 2' may also include three or more components (e.g., front component, back component, and connecting component, etc.) and are formed by combining these components.

[0100] Alternatively, in the first embodiment, similar to the second embodiment, the upper surface 23 of the housing 2 may only have a horizontal portion, and the first operation button 4 may have the same shape as the first operation button 4'. In this case, the second operation button 5, which has a shape symmetrical to the first operation button 4, can also be changed in the same way. Furthermore, the third operation button 6 and the fourth operation button 7 may be omitted in the controller 1.

[0101] Furthermore, the first axis 45 of the first operation button 4 can also have other shapes as long as it is configured to restrict rotation in one direction. For example, it can also be like... Figure 9 As shown in the variant example, in the first axis 45a, the first straight section 451 and the second straight section 452 are omitted, the first curved section 455 and the fourth straight section 454 are connected by a curved section, and the second curved section 456 and the third straight section 453 are connected by a curved section. In this case, the clockwise rotation of the first axis 45a is also limited by the portion of the straight-line distance L2 connecting the upper right point and the lower left point of the first axis 45a. Alternatively, the first straight section 451 and the second straight section 452 can also be omitted, and the first axis 45 has an elliptical shape in which the straight-line distance between two predetermined points on the outer edge of the first axis 45 is longer than the distance between the left wall 111 and the right wall 112. Furthermore, the shapes of the second axis 55 of the second operation button 5 and the first axis 45' of the first operation button 4' can also be changed in the same way.

[0102] Alternatively, the first operation button 4 can also be configured such that the axis of the first shaft 45 extends in a direction other than the front-back direction. For example, the first operation button 4 can also be configured such that the axis of the first shaft 45 extends in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the second operation button 5 and the first operation button 4' can also be modified in the same way.

[0103] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0104] 1, 1': Controller; 2, 2': Housing; 4, 4': First operating button; 9, 9': First switch; 11, 11': First bearing; 45, 45', 45a: First shaft; 411, 411': First operating surface; 271a, 271a': Opening.

Claims

1. A controller, wherein The controller has the following features: A shell having an opening; A first bearing is disposed inside the housing; A first operating button has a first operating surface exposed from the opening and a first shaft supported on the first bearing in a manner that allows it to rotate in a first rotational direction about an axis and move in a first linear direction. as well as The first switch is pressed by the first operation button when the first operation button is rotated in the first rotation direction by the rotation of the first shaft, and when the first operation button is moved in the first linear direction by the linear movement of the first shaft. When the first operation button is viewed from the axial direction of the first axis, the first axis is configured to be located inside the two ends of the first operation surface. The first shaft is configured such that when the first shaft is to rotate from its natural state (when the first operation button is not operated) to a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the first shaft abuts against the first bearing, thereby limiting the first operation button to rotate an angle greater than a predetermined angle in the second rotation direction.

2. The controller according to claim 1, wherein, The first bearing has two opposing walls that extend away from the first operating surface. When viewed from the axial direction, the straight-line distance between two designated points on the outer edge of the first shaft is longer than the distance between the two walls.

3. The controller according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first bearing has two opposing walls that extend away from the first operating surface. The first shaft has a first straight portion that extends parallel to one of the two walls in the natural state and a second straight portion that extends parallel to the other of the two walls in the natural state.

4. The controller according to claim 3, wherein, The first shaft has a first curved portion extending from the first straight portion and a second curved portion extending from the second straight portion. When viewed from the axial direction, the first operation button and the first bearing extend in a direction encompassing both the direction approaching the second straight portion and the direction approaching the first operating surface. Similarly, when viewed from the axial direction, the second curved portion extends in a direction encompassing both the direction approaching the first straight portion and the direction away from the first operating surface. The straight-line distance connecting the first point on the first curved section and the second point on the second curved section is less than or equal to the distance between the two walls.

5. The controller according to claim 4, wherein, The first curved portion and the second curved portion are arcs when viewed from the axial direction.

6. The controller according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The controller has the following features: The second bearing is disposed inside the housing; The second operating button has a second operating surface exposed from the opening and a second shaft supported on the second bearing in a manner that allows it to rotate in the second rotational direction and move in the first linear direction. as well as The second switch is pressed by the second operation button when the second operation button is rotated in the second rotation direction via the rotation of the second shaft, and when the second operation button is moved in the first linear direction via the linear movement of the second shaft. When viewed from the axial direction of the second axis, the second axis is configured to be located further inward than both ends of the second operating surface. The second shaft is configured such that, when the second operation button is to rotate from its natural state (when not in operation) towards the first rotation direction, the second shaft abuts against the second bearing, thereby limiting the rotation of the second operation button in the first rotation direction by an angle greater than the predetermined angle. The housing has: On the front, there is a direction input section operated by the user; The upper surface, which is located at the top when viewed from the user with the front facing the user while the housing is held by the user; The left surface, which is located on the left when viewed from the user in the stated state; as well as The right surface, which is located on the opposite side of the left surface. The first operation button is located on the upper surface closer to the left surface than the right surface, and in the area where the user's left index or middle finger extends when the housing is held by the user. The second operation button is located on the upper surface closer to the right surface than the left surface, and in the area where the user's right index or middle finger extends when the housing is held by the user. The first rotation direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the user in the state, and the second rotation direction is clockwise when viewed from the user in the state.

7. The controller according to claim 6, wherein, The controller also features: The third operation button is located on the upper surface, on the right side of the upper surface, and in the area where the user's left index or left middle finger extends when the housing is held by the user. as well as A fourth operation button is disposed on the upper surface, on the left side of the upper surface, and in the area where the user's right index or right middle finger extends when the housing is held by the user.

Images