Control unit of a vehicle of the saddle seat type

Abstract

Operating device (10) of a vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type, comprising: a switch box (48, 48A) with several switches and which is provided adjacent to and on the inside in the axial direction of a grip area (38L) held by a rider, and at the left and right ends of a handlebar (14) extending in the direction from left to right of the saddle-type vehicle (12); and a control unit (60, 60A) with which a plurality of function menus of the equipment components (18, 30, 32) included in the vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type are selected, wherein The control unit (60, 60A) has a rotatable selection unit (62, 62A) which forms part of the handle area (38L) and is located adjacent to the switch box (48, 48A), and a rotation detection area (68, 80, 104) provided in the switch box (48, 48A) and which detects the rotation of the selection control unit (62, 62A), and a home button (120) which is provided in front of the switch box (48, 48A) and is held by a switch mounting area (122) which is designed to project obliquely forward in the axial direction from the front of the switch box (48, 48A) towards an outside of the handle area (38L, 38LA), wherein the switch mounting area (122) is integrally provided with the switch box (48, 48A) and the home button (120) is provided on one side of a surface (122a) of the switch mounting area (122) which faces the handle area (38L, 38LA).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an operating device of a saddle seat type vehicle used for operating equipment components such as operating an audio or navigation system, changing a meter display, and changing driving modes.

[0002] As in JP 2007-530335 A, an arrangement is proposed in which a dial-type operating ring, which rotates around the center axis of a handlebar, is mounted at a position on the inside of a grip on the peripheral portion of the handlebar. In a normal saddle-seat-type vehicle, a switch box including one or more control units operated by the rider's finger is mounted adjacent to an inner end portion of a grip of the handlebar. Accordingly, in the case of the above published Japanese translation of PCT International Application No. 2007-530335, the operating ring, which has a larger outer diameter than the grip, is additionally disposed between the inner end portion of the handlebar and the switch box.Thus, in order to operate the control unit provided in the switch box, the control unit must be operated by extending the finger holding the handle over the operating ring, and thus it is difficult to operate the control unit in the switch box.

[0003] In light of the above problem, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. JP 2013-189023A discloses that a rotatable control unit configured to select function menus related to an in-vehicle audio and navigation system is provided in a switch box. This facilitates operations such as selecting a function menu without altering the operability of the other control units in the switch box.

[0004] Otherwise, certain control units can be arranged in a grip area. From this perspective, the following Japanese patent application, publication number JP 2009-56872 A, discloses a gear shift on the handlebar grip with two control units in the lower area of ​​a grip.

[0005] Japanese patent application publication number 2009-56872

[0006] In the technology described in the above-described Japanese patent application publication number 2013-189023, the additional rotary control unit must be provided in a space between the switches in the switching unit. This limits the freedom of arrangement and also requires some consideration during operation to distinguish the rotary control unit from other switches through sensory experience.

[0007] Since the above-mentioned Japanese patent application publication number 2009-56872 provides the handlebar gear shift at the bottom of the grip, it is clearly distinguishable from other shifters. However, the handlebar gear shift is designed to protrude from the bottom of the handlebar grip, causing discomfort for the rider when holding the grip.

[0008] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an operating device of a saddle seat type vehicle which simplifies a plurality of operations such as selecting a function menu of equipment components of the vehicle while conveniently maintaining the operability of the switches arranged in an existing switch box, and simplifies differentiation from existing switches without causing an uncomfortable feeling when holding a handle.

[0009] This object is achieved with the operating device described in claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0010] An operating device (10) of a saddle seat type vehicle (12) according to the present invention has the following features.

[0011] First feature: an operating device (10) of a saddle-seat-type vehicle (12), comprising: a switch box (48, 48A) having a plurality of switches and provided adjacent to and on the inner side in the axial direction of a grip portion (38L) held by a rider, and provided at the left and right ends of a handlebar (14) extending in the left-to-right direction of the saddle-seat-type vehicle (12); and a control unit (60, 60A) for selecting a plurality of function menus of the equipment components (18, 30, 32) included in the saddle-seat-type vehicle (12), the control unit (60, 60A) comprising: a rotatable selection control unit (62, 62A) constituting a component of the grip portion (38L) and provided adjacent to a switch box (48, 48A);and a rotation detection section (68, 80, 104) provided in the switch box (48, 48A) and detecting the rotation of the selection control unit (62, 62A);

[0012] Second feature: The control unit (60) has a setting control unit (64, 64A) for setting a function menu selected by the selection control unit (64, 64A); and the setting control unit (64, 64A) is provided separately from the selection control unit (62, 62A) so as to protrude from the switch box (48, 48A) toward the side of the selection control unit (62, 62A).

[0013] Third feature: The selection control unit (62) has an enlarged diameter portion (66) on the side adjacent to the switch box (48, 48A); a rotation detected body (70) is provided on the enlarged diameter portion (66); and the rotation detecting portion (68, 80) is provided on a wall portion (48a) of the switch box (48) facing the enlarged diameter portion and detects rotation of the rotation detected body (70).

[0014] Fourth feature: A click mechanism (72, 82) for generating a click feeling at each constant angle in the rotating operation of the selection control unit (62) is provided between the enlarged diameter portion (66) and the switch box (48) facing the enlarged diameter portion (66).

[0015] Fifth feature: The selection control unit (62A) has an insertion portion (100) inserted into the switch box (48A); a rotation-detected body (102) is provided in the insertion portion (100); the rotation-detect portion (104) is provided in the switch box (48A) and detects the rotation of the rotation-detected body (102); and a click mechanism (110) for generating a click feeling at each constant angle in the rotational movement of the selection control unit (62A) is provided between the insertion portion (100) and an inner wall (108) of the switch box (48A).

[0016] According to the first feature of the present invention, the selection control unit used for selecting a plurality of function menus of the equipment component is arranged in a different position than the plurality of switches provided in the switch box normally used in a saddle-seat type vehicle. Accordingly, the driver can be prevented from confusing the operation of the plurality of switches and the operation of the selection control unit. Furthermore, since the selection control unit constitutes a component of the handle, the driver can easily select a function menu by rotating the selection control unit with at least some of the fingers while holding the grip portion.Since a component of the handle is used to function as a selection control unit, there is no need to provide a control unit between the handle portion and the switch box, thus ensuring easy operation of the multiple switches provided in the switch box. Furthermore, since the rotation detection portion for detecting the rotation of the selection control unit is provided in the switch box, there is no need to provide another support member for supporting the rotation detection portion, thus allowing the selection control unit and the switch box to be arranged close to each other in a compact manner.

[0017] According to the second feature of the present invention, since the setting control unit is provided for setting the function menu selected by the selection control unit, the selection and setting of the function menu can be performed by different control units, thereby preventing confusion in operation. Since the setting control unit is provided so as to protrude from the switch box toward the side of the selection control unit, the setting control unit can be arranged near the selection control unit, so that setting can be easily performed after selecting the function menu.

[0018] According to the third feature of the present invention, since the rotation-detecting body is provided in an enlarged diameter portion that prevents contact between the driver's left hand gripping the grip portion and the switch box, there is no need to provide another member for holding the rotation-detecting body. Furthermore, since the rotation-detecting portion is provided in the wall portion of the switch box facing the rotation-detecting body provided in the enlarged diameter portion, the rotation-detecting portion can be provided so that the selection control unit and the switch box are arranged close to each other.

[0019] According to the fourth feature of the present invention, since the click mechanism is designed to generate a click sensation at every constant angle, the driver can feel the operation of the selection control unit. For example, if the click sensation is generated each time the selected function menu is changed, the change of the selected function menu can be recognized tactilely, and thus the function menu can be easily selected.

[0020] According to the fifth feature of the present invention, since the rotation-detecting body, the rotation-detecting section, and the click mechanism are provided in the switch box, into which, for example, dirt or water is less likely to enter, a variety of models and types of the rotation-detecting body, the rotation-detecting section, and the click mechanism can be used. Furthermore, since the click mechanism is provided to generate a click feeling at each constant angle, the driver can feel the operation of the selection control unit. For example, if the click feeling is generated each time the selected function menu is switched, the switching of the selected function menu can be recognized by touch, and thus the function menu can be easily selected. Fig. 1 is a partially enlarged view around a handlebar of the saddle seat type vehicle such as a motorcycle including an operating device according to a first example not according to the present invention. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the main portions of a handle and a switch box constituting the operating device of the first example. Fig. 3 is a view showing a body captured in rotation by Fig. 2 represents. Fig. 4 is a view illustrating a hierarchy of function names of equipment components such as a navigation system and an audio unit displayed on a display area. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the main portions of a handle and a switch box constituting an operating device of a modified example of the first example. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a rotation detection area taken along line VI-VI of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the main portions of a handle and a switch box constituting an operating device of a second example not according to the present invention. Fig. 8 is an overview view of an operating device of a first embodiment according to the present invention. Fig. 9 is an overview view of an operating device of a second embodiment. Fig. 10 is a view illustrating a handle according to a third embodiment.

[0021] In the following, a detailed description will be given of an operating device of a saddle seat type vehicle according to the present invention using examples and preferred embodiments of the invention and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Fig. 1 is a partially enlarged view around a handlebar 14 of the saddle seat type vehicle 12, such as a motorcycle, including an operating device 10 according to a first example. Fig. 1 is a downward view of the vicinity of the handlebar 14 as viewed from the top rear direction of the vehicle, and is substantially the same state as seen by a rider sitting on an unillustrated seat of the saddle seat type vehicle 12. Note that the traveling direction of the saddle seat type vehicle 12 is considered to be the front, while left and right, as well as the top and bottom directions, are described based on the direction seen by the rider sitting on the seat of the saddle seat type vehicle 12, unless otherwise specified.

[0023] The front of the vehicle, the handlebar 14, which controls an unillustrated front wheel of the saddle-seat-type vehicle 12, is covered with a front cover 16, and a meter (equipment component) 18 is arranged in an upper component of the front cover 16. The meter 18 includes: a speedometer 20 for displaying the number of revolutions of a power source, such as an unillustrated internal combustion engine or motor; a speedometer 22 for displaying the speed of the saddle-seat-type vehicle 12; and meter indicators 24, such as a fuel gauge and the like. The meter 18 is a liquid crystal display and is a so-called meter display whose screen display can be switched according to the driver's selection. Note that organic EL may be used for the display instead of liquid crystal. That is, the meter 18 may be an organic EL display.

[0024] The front wheel is pivotally and rotatably supported by a pair of left and right front forks (not shown), and an upper portion of the pair of left and right front forks is connected and fixed to an upper bridge 28, to which a main switch 26 is attached. The upper bridge 28 is rotatably mounted on a steering head tube (not shown) forming a body frame through which a steering stem tube (not shown) extends. The handlebar 14 is fixed to an upper portion of the upper bridge 28.

[0025] A display section (equipment unit) 30a of a navigation system 30 is mounted in the upper center of the upper bridge 28 at the rear of the measuring device 18, while an audio unit (equipment unit) 32 with functions such as an FM / AM tuner, a digital audio playback unit, and an amplifier is arranged at the rear of the display section. The display section 30a is also used, for example, to display a song selected in the audio unit 32 or other function menus. Bass-midrange speakers 34, 34 for reproducing bass-midrange tones from the audio unit 32 are arranged to the left and right of the measuring device 18, and tweeters 36, 36 for reproducing high-frequency tones are arranged between the speakers 34, 34 and the measuring device 18.

[0026] Resin handgrips (grip portions) 38L, 38R to be held by the rider are respectively disposed at the left and right end portions of the handlebar 14. A front brake lever 40R is disposed in front of the right handgrip 38R. The front brake lever 40R is a control unit for applying braking force to the front wheel according to the rider's manual operation. The right handgrip 38R is an acceleration control unit for manually controlling the speed of the saddle-seat type vehicle 12 and is supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the handlebar 14. A clutch lever 40L is provided in front of the left handgrip 38L. The clutch lever 40L is a control unit for disconnecting the transmission of the drive power from the power source to a gear change gear (not shown) according to the rider's manual operation.Specifically, transmission of the driving force from the drive source to the gear change gear is canceled by operating the clutch lever 40L, and the driving force of the drive source is transmitted to the gear change gear by releasing the clutch lever 40L.

[0027] A switch box 42, located adjacent to the handlebar 38R on the inner side of the handlebar 38R in the axial direction, is provided on the right handlebar 14. Various switches for electrical equipment components, such as an engine stop switch 44 and a start switch 46, are provided in the switch box 42. The engine stop switch 44 is a toggle switch that maintains a position on the on or off side until an operating force is applied, and brings the engine to an emergency stop when switched to the off side during operation of the power source. The push-button type start switch 46 is a control unit for starting the engine and starts the engine when operated while the main switch 26 is on and the gear change gear is in the neutral state.

[0028] Furthermore, the operating device 10 of the present invention is provided on the left handlebar 14. The operating device 10 includes a switch box 48 provided on the left handlebar 14 adjacent to the handlebar 38L on the inside of the handlebar 38L in the axial direction. Various switches of the electrical equipment components, such as a horn switch 50, an optical axis shift switch 52, and a turn signal switch 56, are provided in the switch box 48.

[0029] The horn switch 50 is a push-type switch for sounding an unillustrated horn of the saddle-seat-type vehicle 12, and is arranged at approximately the same height as an axis line C of the handle 38L (center axis of the handle 14) in the vertical direction of the vehicle body. The optical axis shift switch 52 is a toggle switch for switching an unillustrated headlight of the saddle-seat-type vehicle 12 to lower or raise the light beam, and is arranged above the horn switch 50. The turn signal switch 56 is a switch operated by tilting it left or right to operate an unillustrated direction indicator (turn signal lamp) of the saddle-seat-type vehicle 12, and is arranged below the horn 50.

[0030] The operating device 10 further includes a control unit 60 for selecting any one of a plurality of function menus of equipment components, such as a navigation system 30 and the audio unit 32. The control unit 60 is also used to select a function menu for changing the display menu displayed on the meter 18 or a function menu for displaying a vehicle settings menu. The control unit 60 includes a rotatable selection control unit 62, which forms a component of the handle 38L, and a setting control unit 64 for setting the function menu selected by the selection control unit 62. Note that a component of the handle 38L that does not form the selection control unit 62 is referred to as a grip portion 38La. The length of the selection control unit 62 may be less than half, or preferably not more than one-third, of the total length of the handle 38L.This can ensure a sufficient length of the grip area 38La so that the driver can conveniently hold the grip area 38La.

[0031] The selection control unit 62 is provided adjacent to the switch box 48 and can be rotated in a first and a second direction to scroll forward or backward through the function menus to be selected. The button-type setting control unit 64 is arranged in the switch box 48 in such a way that it protrudes from the switch box to the side of the selection control unit 62. That is, the selection control unit 62 and the setting control unit 64 are provided separately. Note that the setting control unit 64 is provided below the turn signal switch 56.

[0032] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the main portions of the handlebar 38L and the switch box 48 constituting the operating device 10. The selection control unit 62 is rotatable with respect to the handlebar 14 and has an enlarged diameter portion 66 on the side adjacent to the switch box 48. The enlarged diameter portion 66 is formed such that its diameter increases toward the side of the switch box 48, preventing the left hand gripping the handlebar 38L from coming into contact with the switch box 48. The handlebar 38L has a constant diameter except for the enlarged diameter portion 66. A rotation detection portion 68 for detecting the rotation of the selection control unit 62 is provided in the switch box 48 on a wall portion 48a of the switch box 48 facing the enlarged diameter portion 66.

[0033] A rotationally engaged body 70 is provided in the enlarged diameter portion 66. In this example, the rotationally engaged body 70 is provided in an end portion of the enlarged diameter portion 66 on the side of the switch box 48. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the rotationally detected body 70 is a magnetic body formed of an annular ring 70a and a plurality of openings 70b provided continuously along the outer circumference of the ring 70a. The plurality of opening portions 70b are provided to form a circle at intervals of a constant angle θ, in which a center 0 of the annular ring 70a (the rotationally detected body 70) serves as a reference point.

[0034] The rotation detection section 68 is provided facing the rotationally detected body 70 and detects the rotation of the selection control unit 62 by detecting the rotation of the rotationally detected body 70. Although not shown, the rotation detection section 68 includes a magnetic sensor having a magnet configured as a Hall effect sensor and a magnet. The rotation detection section 68 is a known device in which the Hall effect sensor detects variations in the magnetic flux of the magnet that occur between a state in which the opening section 70b faces the Hall effect sensor and a state in which the opening section does not face the Hall effect sensor, thereby detecting the rotation of the rotationally detected body 70.Since the rotation of the selection control unit 62 rotated by the driver also causes the rotation of the body 70 detected in the rotation, the rotation is detected by the rotation detection section 68.

[0035] Furthermore, a click mechanism 72 for generating a click feeling at each constant angle θ in the rotational operation of the selection control unit 62 is provided between the enlarged diameter portion 66 and the switch box 48 facing the enlarged diameter portion 66. The click mechanism 72 is configured with a flat spring 76 provided in a concave portion 74 formed in the wall portion 48a of the switch box 48 on the side of the selection control unit 62 and the rotation-detected body 70. The flat spring 76 is provided so as to face the rotation-detected body 70. The flat spring 76 has a protruding portion 76a protruding from the center thereof toward the rotation-detected body 70.

[0036] When the opening portion 70b of the rotationally engaged body 70 faces the protruding portion 76a, the protruding portion 76a is inserted into the opening portion 70b. Meanwhile, when a component other than the opening portion 70b of the rotationally engaged body 70 faces the protruding portion 76a, the protruding portion 76a is pressed against the biasing force of the flat spring 76. Therefore, the rotation of the selection control unit 62 causes the flat spring 76 to generate a click feeling at every constant angle θ. Note that a click feeling refers to a sound, feeling, or the like caused by pressing a key.

[0037] Fig. 4 is a view illustrating a hierarchy of function menus of equipment components, such as a navigation system 30 and an audio unit 32, displayed on the display section 30a. When the setting control unit 64 is pressed with the left thumb holding the handle 38L while selecting "MAIN MENU," which is a function menu displayed on the display section 30a, the selection of "MAIN MENU" is determined. When "MAIN MENU" is determined, "INFORMATION," "DISPLAY," "SUSPENSION," "RIDING MODE," "NAVIGATION," "AUDIO," and "SETTING," which are subordinate function menus of MAIN MENU, are displayed on the display section 30a.

[0038] "INFORMATION" is a function menu for displaying various driving-related information, "DISPLAY" is a function menu for switching the display menu displayed on the gauge 18, and "SUSPENSION" is a function menu for displaying information related to the suspension, such as damping force and vehicle height. "DRIVE MODE" is a function menu for displaying states related to the engine output characteristics, such as intensive driving mode and rain driving mode, and "NAVIGATION" is a function menu for displaying various information through the navigation system 30. "AUDIO" is the function menu for displaying audio information, and "SETTINGS" is a function menu for setting states of various equipment components.

[0039] Then, the cursor position indicating the selected function menu is further scrolled by rotating the selection control unit 62 with the left index finger and thumb while continuing to grip the handle 38L with the left hand. For example, when the selection control unit 62 is rotated in a first direction, the cursor position is scrolled forward through the function menus, i.e., in the order "INFORMATION" → "DISPLAY" → "SUSPENSION" → "DRIVE MODE" → "NAVIGATION" → "AUDIO" → "SETTINGS" → "INFORMATION." On the other hand, when the selection control unit 62 is rotated in a second direction, the cursor position is scrolled backward through the function menus, i.e., in the order "INFORMATION" → "SETTINGS" → "AUDIO" → "NAVIGATION" → "DRIVE MODE" → "SUSPENSION" → "DISPLAY" → "INFORMATION." The cursor position is changed according to a rotation angle detected by the rotation detection area 68.In other words, the displayed cursor position changes each time the rotation detection area 68 detects a rotation at a certain angle.

[0040] Note that the selected function menu can be changed each time the rotation detection area 68 detects a constant angle θ. For example, the timing at which the click sensation is generated by the click mechanism 72 can be synchronized with the timing at which the cursor position is changed.

[0041] Then, when the setting control unit 64 is pressed while any one of “INFORMATION”, “DISPLAY”, “SUSPENSION”, “DRIVE MODE”, “NAVIGATION”, “AUDIO” and “SETTINGS” is selected, information on the selected function menu is displayed.

[0042] Thus, according to the first example, the selection control unit 62 used to select a plurality of function menus of the equipment components such as the navigation system 30 and the audio unit 32 is arranged at a different position than the plurality of switches provided in the switch box 48 normally used in the saddle-seat-type vehicle 12. Accordingly, the driver can be prevented from confusing the operation of the plurality of switches in the switch box 48 and the operation of the selection control unit 62.

[0043] The selection control unit 62 forms a component of the handle 38L. Thus, the driver can easily select a function menu by rotating the selection control unit 62 with at least some of the fingers (such as the index finger and thumb) while holding the handle 38L. Furthermore, since a component of the handle 38L is used to function as the selection control unit 62, there is no need to provide a control unit between the handle 38L and the switch box 48, and thus easy operation of the multiple switches provided in the switch box 48 can be ensured.

[0044] Furthermore, since the rotation detecting portion 68 for detecting the rotation of the selection control unit 62 is provided in the switch box 48, there is no need to provide another support member for supporting the rotation detecting portion 68, and thus the selection control unit 62 and the switch box 48 can be arranged close to each other in a compact manner.

[0045] Since the setting control unit 64 is provided for setting the function menu selected by the selection control unit 62, the selection and setting of the function menu can be performed by different control units, thereby preventing confusion in operation. Since the setting control unit 64 is provided so as to protrude from the switch box 48 toward the side of the selection control unit 62, the setting control unit 64 can be arranged near the selection control unit 62, so that the setting can be easily performed after selecting the function menu.

[0046] Since the rotation-detected body 70 is provided in an enlarged diameter portion that prevents contact between the driver's left hand gripping the handle 38L and the switch box 48, there is no need to provide another member for holding the rotation-detected body 70. Furthermore, since the rotation-detect portion 68 is provided in the wall portion 48a of the switch box 48 facing the rotation-detected body 70 provided in the enlarged diameter portion 66, the rotation-detect portion 68 can be provided so that the selection control unit 62 and the switch box 48 are arranged close to each other.

[0047] Since the click mechanism 72 is designed to generate a click feeling at each constant angle θ, the driver can feel the operation of the selection control unit 62. For example, if the click feeling is generated each time the selected function menu is changed, the change of the selected function menu can be recognized by touch, and thus the function menu can be easily selected.

[0048] In a modified example of the first example, a click mechanism 82 having a rotation detection section 80 for detecting the rotation of a selection control unit 62 is provided instead of the rotation detection section 68 and the click mechanism 72 of the first example. Note that in the modified example, a configuration having a similar function to that of the first example is assigned the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted unless otherwise necessary.

[0049] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of main portions of a handle 38L and a switch box 48 constituting an operating device 10 of the modified example. The rotation detection portion 80 is provided on a wall portion 48a of a switch box 48 facing an enlarged diameter portion 66 (rotation detected body 70). The rotation detection portion 80 is provided in a concave portion 84 formed in the wall portion 48a of the switch box 48 on the side of the selection control unit 62. The rotation detection portion 80 and the rotation detected body 70 constitute a click mechanism 82 for generating a click feeling at each constant angle θ in the rotation operation of the selection control unit 62.

[0050] Next, the rotation detection section 80 will be described in detail. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a rotation detection area 80 taken along line VI-VI of Fig. 5. It should be noted that the Fig. 6 shown directions front and rear as well as left and right from the viewpoint of a driver sitting on the seat of the saddle seat type vehicle 12.

[0051] The rotation detection section 80 includes a pivot shaft 90 and a pivot member 92 with pivot arms 92a, 92b extending to both the front and rear sides from the pivot shaft 90. A flat spring 94 is attached to the left side surface of the pivot member 92. The flat spring 94 has a protruding portion 94a protruding from the center thereof toward the rotation-detected body 70, and the protruding portion 94a is located on the left side of the pivot shaft 90. A two-button type switch 96a, 96b is provided on the right side of the pivot member 92, and the switch 96a is located on the pivot arm 92a side, while the switch 96b is located on the pivot arm 92b side.

[0052] When the opening portion 70b of the rotationally detected body 70 faces the protruding portion 94a, the protruding portion 94a is inserted into the opening portion 70b, and thus the switch 96a, 96b is not pressed by the pivot member 92. In this state, when the rotationally detected body 70 moves in an arrow direction X1 (forward), the protruding portion 94a is pushed forward, so that the pivot arm 92a pivots to move to the right. Thus, when the rotationally detected body 70 moves in the arrow direction X1, the switch 96a is pressed. Then, as the rotationally detected body 70 continues to rotate, the protruding portion 94a faces a component other than the opening portion 70b of the rotationally detected body 70 and is pressed against the biasing force of the flat spring 94.When the next opening portion 70b faces the protruding portion 94a, the pressure of the switch 96a is released. Thus, when the rotationally detected body 70 rotates in the direction of the arrow X1, the switch 96a is pressed each time the rotationally detected body 70 rotates at a constant angle θ, and a click feeling is generated.

[0053] Similarly, when the rotationally detected body 70 rotates in a direction opposite to the arrow direction X1 (backward), the switch 96b is pressed each time the rotationally detected body 70 rotates at a constant angle θ, and a click sensation is generated. Accordingly, the selected function menu can be switched forward each time the switch 96a is pressed, and the selected function menu can be switched back each time the switch 96b is pressed. In this case, the arrow direction X1 is the first direction, and the direction opposite to the arrow direction X1 is the second direction.

[0054] Similar effects to those of the first example can be achieved by a modified example. Note that in the modified example, the rotation-detected body 70 does not need to be a magnetic body and may be made of a synthetic resin. Furthermore, the rotation-detected body 70 may be integrally formed with the selection control unit 62A made of synthetic resin.

[0055] Next, a second example will be described. Note that in an operating device 10 of the second example, a configuration having a similar function to that of the first example is assigned an A after the reference numeral, and description thereof will be omitted unless otherwise necessary. Furthermore, configurations different from the operating device 10 are assigned the same reference numeral as in the first example.

[0056] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the main portions of a handlebar 38LA and a switch box 48A constituting the operating device 10 of the second example. A selection control unit 62A of a control unit 60A has an insertion portion 100 inserted into the switch box 48A. The insertion portion 100 is inserted into the switch box 48A along an outer cylindrical surface of a handlebar 14 from an end portion of an enlarged diameter portion 66A on the side of the switch box 48A. A rotation-engaged body 102 formed in a circular flange shape is provided at the front end of the engagement portion 100. Therefore, the rotation-engaged body 102 is rotated along with the rotation of the selection control unit 62A.A plurality of opening portions 102a are provided in a continuous manner at an outer peripheral end portion of the rotationally detected body 102 in the outer peripheral direction of the rotationally detected body 102. As in the case of the embodiment shown in FIG. Fig. 3, a plurality of opening portions 102a are provided to form a circle at constant intervals at an angle θ by using the center of the body 102 detected in rotation as a reference point.

[0057] A light-emitting element 104a and two light-receiving elements 104b serving as the rotation detection portion 104 are provided in the switch box 48A. The light-emitting element 104a and the two light-receiving elements 104b are provided to face each other with the rotation-detected body 102 interposed therebetween, and they are arranged such that the opening portion 102a of the rotation-detected body 102 is located between the light-emitting element 104a and the light-receiving element 104b. The two light-receiving elements 104b are arranged parallel and adjacent to each other along the rotation direction of the rotation-detected body 102.In the second example, the light-emitting element 104a is mounted on a stay 106 provided in the switch box 48, and the two light-receiving elements 104b are mounted on an inner wall 108 of the switch box 48A facing the rotation-detected body 102.

[0058] The light-emitting element 104a emits light toward the two light-receiving elements 104b. When the opening portion 102a of the rotationally sensed body 102 is located on the optical path of the light emitted toward the light-receiving elements 104b from the light-emitting element 104a, the light-receiving elements 104b receive the light emitted by the light-emitting element 104a. Instead, when the opening portion 102a is not located on the optical path of the light emitted toward the light-receiving elements 104b from the light-emitting element 104a, the light emitted by the light-emitting element 104a is shielded by the rotationally sensed body 102, and thus the light-receiving elements 104b do not receive any light emitted by the light-emitting element 104a.For this reason, there are states in which the light-receiving elements 104b receive and do not receive the light from the light-emitting element 104a while the rotationally detected body 102 rotates at a constant angle θ. Accordingly, the selected function menu can be changed each time the light-receiving elements 104b transition from the state in which they do not receive light to the state in which they receive light.

[0059] Here, when the two light-receiving elements 104b transition from the light-receiving state to the state where they do not receive light, the first light-receiving element 104b that can no longer receive light differs depending on the rotation direction of the rotating body 102. Specifically, the light-receiving element 104b located on the side opposite to the rotation direction of the rotating body 102 can no longer receive light first, and then the light-receiving element 104b on the side of the rotating direction can no longer receive light. Accordingly, the rotation direction of the rotating body 102 can be determined depending on the first of the two light-receiving elements 104b that can no longer receive light.Note that the function menus to be selected are scrolled forward when the body 102 detected in rotation rotates in a first direction, and the function menus to be selected are scrolled back when the body 102 detected in rotation rotates in a second direction.

[0060] A click mechanism 110 for generating a click feeling at each constant angle in the rotation of the selection control unit 62A is provided between the insertion portion 100 and the inner wall 108 of the switch box 48A. The click mechanism 110 is configured from a flat spring 114 provided on the inner wall 108 of the switch box 48A and the rotation-locked body 102. The flat spring 114 is provided facing the opening portion 102a of the rotation-locked body 102. The flat spring 114 has a protruding portion 114a protruding from the center thereof toward the rotation-locked body 102.

[0061] When the opening portion 102a of the rotationally detected body 102 faces the protruding portion 114a, the protruding portion 114a is inserted into the opening portion 102a. Meanwhile, when a component other than the opening portion 102a of the rotationally detected body 102 faces the protruding portion 114a, the protruding portion 114a is pressed against the biasing force of the flat spring 114. Thus, the rotation of the selection control unit 62A causes the flat spring 114 to generate a click feeling at each constant angle θ.

[0062] According to the second example, the selection control unit 62A used to select a plurality of function menus for equipment components is arranged in a different position than the plurality of switches provided in the switch box 48A, which are normally used in a saddle-seat type vehicle 12. Accordingly, the driver can be prevented from confusing the operation of the plurality of switches in the switch box 48A and the operation of the selection control unit 62A.

[0063] The selection control unit 62A forms a component of the handle 38LA. Thus, the driver can easily select a function menu by rotating the selection control unit 62A with at least some of the fingers (such as the index finger and thumb) while holding the handle 38LA. Furthermore, since a component of the handle 38LA is used to function as the selection control unit 62A, there is no need to provide a control unit between the handle 38LA and the switch box 48A, and thus easy operation of the multiple switches provided in the switch box 48A can be ensured.

[0064] Since the rotation detecting portion 104 for detecting the rotation of the selection control unit 62A is provided in the switch box 48A, there is no need to provide another support member for holding the rotation detecting portion 104, and thus the selection control unit 62A and the switch box 48A can be arranged close to each other in a compact manner.

[0065] Since a setting control unit 64A is provided for setting the function menu selected by the selection control unit 62A, the selection and setting of the function menu can be performed by different control units, thereby preventing confusion in operation. Since the setting control unit 64A is provided so as to protrude from the switch box 48A toward the side of the selection control unit 62A, the setting control unit 64A can be arranged near the selection control unit 62A, allowing easy setting after selecting the function menu.

[0066] Since the rotation-detecting body 102, the rotation-detecting section 104, and the click mechanism 110 are provided in the switch box 48A, into which, for example, dirt or water are less likely to enter, a variety of models and types of the rotation-detecting body 102, the rotation-detecting section 104, and the click mechanism 110 can be used. Furthermore, since the click mechanism 110 is designed to generate a click feeling at each constant angle θ, the driver can feel the operation of the selection control unit 62A. For example, if the click feeling is generated each time the selected function menu is changed, the change of the selected function menu can be recognized by touch, and thus the function menu can be easily selected.

[0067] Note that instead of the rotation detection section 104 in the second example, the rotation detection section 68 with the magnetic sensor with a magnet, which consists of a Hall effect sensor and the magnet, may also be used, as described in the first example. Furthermore, instead of the rotation detection section 164 and the click mechanism 110, the click mechanism 82 with the rotation detection section 80 may be used to detect the rotation of the selection control unit 62, as shown in the modified example of the first example.

[0068] Next, a first embodiment of the invention will be described. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the first embodiment includes a home button 120 for returning to a home screen (initial screen) of a function menu. When the home button 21 is pressed, a screen is displayed on the display area 30a, or the measuring device 18 returns to the home screen. In an operating device 10 of the first embodiment, a configuration having a similar function to that in the first or second embodiment is assigned the same reference numeral, and descriptions thereof are omitted unless otherwise necessary. Note that a clutch lever 40L in Fig. 8 was omitted.

[0069] The home button 120 is provided in front of a switch box 48 (48A) and is held by a switch support portion 122 formed to protrude obliquely forward toward the outside of the handle 38L (38LA) in the axial direction from the front of the switch box 48 (48A). The switch support portion 122 is provided integrally with the switch box 48 (48A). The home button 120 is provided on the side of the surface 122a of the switch support portion 122 facing the handle 38L (38LA). Accordingly, the home button 120 is held by the switch support portion 122 such that it can be arranged in front of the handle 38L (38LA). This allows the driver to operate the home button 120 with, for example, the left index finger while holding the handle 38L (38LA).

[0070] Furthermore, the first embodiment includes a setting control unit 124 instead of the setting control unit 64 (64A) of the first or second example. That is, in the first embodiment, a control unit 60 (60A) includes a selection control unit 62 (62A) and the setting control unit 124. Like the home button 120, the setting control unit 124 is held by the switch support portion 122 and is provided on the side of the surface 122a of the switch support portion 122. Accordingly, the setting control unit 124 is held by the switch support portion 122 so that it can be arranged in front of the handle 38L (38LA). This allows the driver to operate the setting control unit 124 with the left index finger while holding the handle 38L (38LA).

[0071] Thus, effects similar to those of the first example (including the modified example) and the second example can be achieved by the first embodiment. The first embodiment also simplifies returning to the home screen of a function menu.

[0072] In a second embodiment, an operating device 10 has a home button 130 and a setting control unit 132 instead of the home button 120 and the setting control unit 124 of the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9. Note that in the second embodiment, a configuration having a similar function to that in the first embodiment is assigned the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted unless otherwise necessary. It should be noted that a clutch lever 40L in Fig. 9 was omitted.

[0073] The operating device 10 includes a touchscreen liquid crystal display 134, and the home button 130 and the setting control unit 132 are configured to be displayed on the liquid crystal display 134. The liquid crystal display 134 is supported by a switch support portion 122 and is provided on the side of a surface 122a of the switch support portion 122 facing a handle 38L (38LA). Accordingly, the liquid crystal display 134 is supported by the switch support portion 122 such that it can be arranged in front of the handle 38L (38LA). This allows the driver to operate the home button 130 and the setting control unit 132 with, for example, the left index finger while holding the handle 38L (38LA). Note that in the second embodiment, a control unit 60 (60A) includes a selection control unit 62 (62A) and the setting control unit 132.

[0074] Thus, the second embodiment can achieve similar effects to those of the first embodiment. Note that the buttons may be provided on a touchscreen that does not have a display function and can be operated by touch.

[0075] In the first and second examples and the first and second embodiments, the handle 38L (38LA) has a substantially constant diameter except for the enlarged diameter portion 66 (66A). However, in a third embodiment, a selection control unit 62 (62A) may have a correspondingly larger diameter than a handle portion 38La (38LaA), as shown in Fig. 10. This simplifies the detection of the position of the selection control unit 62 (62A) while the handle 38L (38LA) can be held appropriately. 10 Control device 12 Saddle seat type vehicle 14 handlebar 18 Measuring device 30 Navigation system 30a Display area 32 audio unit 38L, 38LA, 38R handle 40L clutch lever 42, 48, 48A switch box 48a Wall area 60, 60A control unit 62, 62A selection control unit 64, 64A, 124, 132 Determination control unit 66, 66A Area with enlarged diameter 68, 80, 104 Rotation detection range 70, 102 Body captured in rotation 70b, 102a Opening area 72, 82, 110 click mechanism 74, 84 Concave area 76, 94, 114 flat spring 100 insertion area 108 Interior wall 120, 130 HOME button 122 Switch mounting area 122a area 134 Liquid crystal display (LCD)

Claims

[1] Operating device (10) of a vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type, comprising: a switch box (48, 48A) having a plurality of switches and provided adjacent to and on the inside in the axial direction of a grip portion (38L) held by a rider, and provided at the left and right ends of a handlebar (14) extending in the left-to-right direction of the saddle seat type vehicle (12); and a control unit (60, 60A) for selecting a plurality of function menus of the equipment components (18, 30, 32) contained in the saddle seat type vehicle (12), wherein the control unit (60, 60A) comprises a rotatable selection unit (62, 62A) which forms part of the handle area (38L) and is provided adjacent to the switch box (48, 48A), and a rotation detection area (68, 80, 104) provided in the switch box (48, 48A) and detecting the rotation of the selection control unit (62, 62A), and a home button (120) provided in front of the switch box (48, 48A) and held by a switch support portion (122) formed to protrude obliquely forward toward an outer side of the grip portion (38L, 38LA) in the axial direction from the front of the switch box (48, 48A), wherein the switch support portion (122) is provided integrally with the switch box (48, 48A), and the home button (120) is provided on a side of a surface (122a) of the switch support portion (122) facing the grip portion (38L, 38LA). [2] Operating device (10) of a vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type according to claim 1, wherein: the control unit (60) has a key-type setting control unit (64, 64A) for setting a function menu selected by the selection control unit (62, 62A); and the setting control unit (64, 64A) is provided separately from the selection control unit (62, 62A) such that it protrudes from the switch box (48, 48A) toward the side of the selection control unit (62, 62A). [3] Operating device (10) of the vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein: the selection control unit (62) has an enlarged diameter portion (66) on the side adjacent to the switch box (48, 48A); a body (70) captured in rotation is provided in an enlarged diameter region (66); and the rotation detection area (68, 80) is provided on a wall area (48a) of the switch box (48) facing an enlarged diameter area, and detects the rotation of the body (70) detected in the rotation. [4] Operating device (10) of a vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type according to claim 3, wherein: a click mechanism (72, 82) for generating a click feeling at each constant angle in the rotation process of the selection control unit (62) is provided between the enlarged diameter portion (66) and the switch box (48) facing the enlarged diameter portion (66). [5] Operating device (10) of a vehicle (12) of the saddle seat type according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein: the selection control unit (62A) has an insertion portion (100) inserted into the switch box (48A); a rotationally captured body (102) is provided in the enlarged insertion area (100); the rotation detection area (104) is provided in the switch box (48A) and detects the rotation of the body (102) detected in rotation; and a click mechanism (110) for generating a click feeling at each constant angle in the rotation process of the selection control unit (62A) is provided between the insertion area (100) and an inner wall (108) of the switch box (48A).

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