Touch-sensing device and touch-sensing method

Abstract

Touch generation device (1), comprising: a vibration element (3); and a vibration generator (4) which is installed on a rear side (3a) of the vibration element (3), wherein the vibration generator (4) is configured with a magnet (23) comprising a movable core (21) and a coil (22), wherein the movable core (21) is able to move close to and away from the vibration element (3), and the coil (22) is configured to move the movable core (21) towards the vibration element (3) in order to push and deform the vibration element (3) when excited, wherein the coil (22) is configured to move the movable core (21) away from the vibration element (3) when not excited in order to cause the vibration element (3) to vibrate due to an elastic restoring force of the vibration element (3), wherein the probe generating device (1) further comprises: a locking mechanism (24) configured to place the movable core (21) into a rest state in which the movable core (21) rests against the back of the vibration element (3) when the coil (22) is not excited, and a return assist mechanism (41) configured to accelerate a return movement of the movable core (21) with respect to the oscillating element (3) when the coil (22) is not excited, wherein the mounting mechanism (24) is an elastic mounting element (31) configured to push the movable core (21) towards the rear of the vibration element (3).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] This disclosure relates to a touch sensation generating device and a touch sensation generating method. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A device, such as an electronic device, comprising an input element equipped with a touch-generating device, is known. Such a touch-generating device is equipped with a vibration generator on the rear side of a vibrating element. When a user touches the surface of the vibrating element, the device generates a vibration (haptic vibration) at the vibrating element with the vibration generator located on the rear side of the vibrating element. The user can thus feel the vibration as a touch sensation. This makes it possible to provide an immediate sensation (actuation sensation) in response to manipulation of the input element by providing the touch-generating device on the input element as if it were a switch (see patent reference 1). Patent references 2 to 5 describe further touch-sensation generating devices according to the prior art. CITATION LIST Patent Literature Patent literature 1: JP 2015 - 215830 A Patent literature 2: WO 2009 / 145600 A2 Patent literature 3: JP 2004 - 50 154 A Patent literature 4: JPH 10 - 296187 A Patent literature 5: JP 2001 - 300452 A SUMMARY Technical Task

[0003] Since the conventional touch-generating device produces a vibration by directly striking the vibration element with the vibration generator, it disadvantageously produces a loud impact noise. Solution to the task

[0004] To solve the above problem, a probe generation device of this disclosure comprises a vibrating element and a vibration generator installed on a rear side of the vibrating element. The vibration generator is configured with a magnet comprising a movable core and a coil, the movable core being able to move close to and away from the vibrating element. The coil is configured to move the movable core toward the vibrating element to push and deform the vibrating element when excited, while the coil is configured to move the movable core away from the vibrating element when unexcited to cause the vibrating element to vibrate due to an elastic restoring force of the vibrating element. The probe generation device further comprises a locking mechanism configured to return the movable core to a resting state.in which the movable core rests against the rear of the vibration element when the coil is not excited, and comprises a return-assist mechanism configured to accelerate a return movement of the movable core relative to the vibration element when the coil is not excited, wherein the contact mechanism is an elastic contact element configured to press the movable core against the rear of the vibration element. Beneficial effects

[0005] This revelation makes it possible to prevent the generation of a loud impact noise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective overall view of an interior part of a vehicle in which a touch generation device according to an embodiment is used. Fig. 2 is an enlarged detail view of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 A is an overall configuration diagram of a sensor plate with a pressure sensor and a variety of touch switches. Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view in the longitudinal direction of the touch probe device (not excited; at rest). Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view in the longitudinal direction of the touch probe device (excited; operating state). Fig. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view in the longitudinal direction of the touch probe device (not excited; operating state). Fig. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view in the longitudinal direction of the probe generation device without a vibration element. Fig. Figure 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of another example of the touch probe device. Fig. Figure 8A shows a configuration in which the distance between a vibration generator and a touch switch is short. Fig. Figure 8B shows a configuration in which the distance between the vibration generator and the touch switch is long. DESCRIPTION OF A FORM OF EXECUTION

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 to Fig. Section 8B is for the purpose of explaining the embodiment of the present disclosure. First embodiment configuration

[0007] The following describes one configuration of the embodiment.

[0008] A touch generation device 1 of this embodiment is used, for example, in an interior part 2 of a vehicle, as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown.

[0009] As in Fig. 3 (to Fig. 5) shown, the touch generation device 1 comprises a vibration generator 4 on a rear side 3a of a vibration element 3.

[0010] The touch-generating device 1 is a device configured to artificially generate a tactile sensation or feeling. The touch-generating device 1 is configured to provide a finger with a vibration (haptic vibration) as a tactile sensation when the finger touches a front surface 3b of the vibration element 3.

[0011] The vibration element 3 is provided to generate a tactile sensation by means of a vibration. The vibration element 3 is preferably an element having a defined flat shape as its contact surface (front surface 3b). The vibration element 3 can be an independent object or can be attached to a surface of an object to form part of the object. The rear surface 3a of the vibration element 3 is preferably concealed so that the vibration generator 4 cannot be directly seen from the outside.

[0012] The vibration element 3 is preferably formed by an element that vibrates easily, and the vibration element 3 is preferably positioned so that it vibrates easily. The vibration generator 4 is preferably positioned according to the position in which the vibration element 3 vibrates easily. For example, if the vibration element 3 is fixed to an object or an external element, and the surrounding section of the vibration element 3 is close to the fixed point, it is difficult to set it into vibration. On the other hand, a section farther from the fixed point vibrates easily. For this reason, the vibration generator 4 is preferably positioned farther from the fixed point of the vibration element 3 so that the vibration generator 4 can easily set the vibration element 3 into vibration.For example, the vibration generator 4 can be positioned in an intermediate section between fixed points.

[0013] The vibration generator 4 is an actuator configured to generate a vibration at the vibration element 3. The vibration generator 4 is provided singly or multiple times at (a) section(s) of the vibration element 3 where a vibration is desired. The vibration element 3 can generate a vibration at a single point or at a plurality of points. The vibration generator 4 can be attached directly to the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3. Alternatively, the vibration generator 4 can be attached to an object or external element to which the vibration element 3 is attached, such that the vibration generator 4 faces the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3.

[0014] If the vibration generator 4 is attached directly to the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, the section of the vibration element 3 to which the vibration generator 4 is attached acts as a fixed point and hardly vibrates. This results in a small and limited vibration range, and the vibration amplitude also decreases. If the vibration generator 4 is not attached directly to the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, but rather to the object or external element to which the vibration element 3 is attached, the vibration around the vibration generator 4 is not disturbed. This results in a wider vibration range and an increased vibration amplitude. Therefore, it is possible to optimally define and adjust the vibration range and mode of vibration of the vibration element 3 by determining how the vibration generator 4 is installed, depending on the purpose of the probe generation device 1.In this embodiment, the vibration generator 4 is attached to the object or external element to which the vibration element 3 is attached in order to obtain a large vibration over a large area.

[0015] The touch-generating device 1 further comprises the following configuration. (1) The vibration generator 4 is a magnet 23 comprising a coil 22 and a movable core 21 capable of moving close to and away from the vibration element 3. The coil 22 moves the movable core 21 toward the vibration element 3 to push and deform the vibration element 3 when energized, and moves the movable core 21 away from the vibration element 3 when it is not energized to cause the vibration element 3 to vibrate due to the elastic restoring force of the vibration element 3. Here, the movable core 21 can bear against the rear face 3a of the vibration element 3 by means of a contact mechanism 24 when the coil 22 is not energized.

[0016] It should be noted that the vibration element 3 need not deform elastically as long as it is capable of generating a vibration through the magnet 23 (for example, a taut fabric or rope). However, it is preferred to form the vibration element 3 with an elastically deformable element to facilitate vibration generation and to reduce the load on the magnet 23. The amount of deformation of the vibration element 3 caused by the magnet 23 can be small, as long as the user can feel the vibration by touching it with a finger. The vibration element 3 can vibrate at least at the section where the magnet 23 is installed.

[0017] The vibration element 3 preferably has a shape retention property to maintain or store its shape. The vibration element 3 is preferably elastically deformed by the compressive force of the magnet 23 and preferably exhibits such flexibility and toughness that its shape can be restored when the compressive force is released. The vibration element 3 is preferably made of a material that is relatively hard and relatively thin. For example, the vibration element 3 is preferably designed as a thin plate or panel element made of hard resin, metal, or wood.

[0018] “Moving close to and away from” means a movement in which the movable core 21 approaches the vibration element 3 and moves away from the vibration element 3.

[0019] The magnet 23 is an electromagnetic actuator comprising the rod-shaped movable core 21 and the coil 22, which is wound around the movable core 21 to enclose it. An electromagnetic force is generated by the magnet 23 by exciting the coil 22, causing the movable core 21 to move axially (or longitudinally) towards one side (i.e., towards the vibrating element 3) with respect to the coil 22 (this movement can be called the "protruding movement"). This pushes and deforms the vibrating element 3. The electromagnetic force disappears when the coil 22 is not excited, causing the movable core 21 to return to the other side (i.e., in the opposite direction to the vibrating element 3) (this movement can be called the "return movement"). This returns the vibrating element 3 to its original position due to its own elastic restoring force.Here, it is also possible to use the weight of the movable core 21 to move the vibrating element 3. The movable core 21 extends axially beyond both edges of the coil 22. When the coil 22 is energized, the movable core 21 extends considerably further from the coil 22 on one side (i.e., the protruding side) than on the other side (i.e., the retracting side).

[0020] The magnet 23 is configured to house the coil 22 within a cylindrical housing 25, and the coil 22 is positioned coaxially with the housing 25. The movable core 21 can protrude outwards from at least one side of the housing 25. The magnet 23 is installed such that the movable core 21 is oriented in one direction above the vibration element 3, in particular in one direction perpendicular to the vibration element 3, and one side of the housing 25 is oriented towards the rear 3a of the vibration element 3. The magnet 23 can adjust the protruding amount of the movable core 21 according to the power supplied to the coil 22.

[0021] The housing 25 has a base on the side opposite the vibrating element 3 (i.e., the other side of the housing 25). A first chamber 26 is formed between the other end of the coil 22 and the base 25a of the housing 25. The first chamber 26 is longer in the axial direction than the range of motion of the end section (other end section) of the movable core 21 on the other side, and the other end section of the movable core 21 moves in the axial direction while being accommodated in the first chamber 26.

[0022] The housing 25 is separated by a partition 25b on the side near the vibration element 3 (i.e., one side of the housing 25). The partition 25b is provided parallel to the base 25a. The coil 22 is accommodated in a space between the partition 25b and the base 25a of the housing 25, and one end of the coil 22 is attached to the other surface of the partition 25b. The other end of the coil 22 defines the first space 26.

[0023] The section of the housing 25 that is closer to the vibration element 3 than the partition 25b forms an extension section 25c, which extends to a position on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3. The edge of the extension section 25c is provided with a flange section 25d. The flange section 25d can be abutting the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 or can be separated from it by a gap.

[0024] For the flange section 25d to bear against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, the flange section 25d may or may not be attached to the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3. If the flange section 25d is not attached to the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, or if the flange section 25d is provided separately from the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, the housing 25 is mounted on an element different from the vibration element 3. In this case, a damping element may be provided on the surface of the flange section 25d facing the vibration element 3 to absorb the shock at the vibration element 3.

[0025] A second chamber 27 is formed in the extension section 25c (or flange section 25d), i.e., between the partition 25b and the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3. The axial dimension of the second chamber 27 is determined such that the end section (front section) of the movable core 21 projects outside the flange section 25d on one side when it is fully extended, while the end section of the movable core 21 is contained within the flange section 25d on one side when it is fully retracted.

[0026] To further describe the movable core 21 of the touch-generating device 1, the end section (front section) of the movable core 21 is separated on one side from the rear 3a of the vibration element 3 and is not attached to or engaged with the rear 3a of the vibration element 3.

[0027] Without the engagement mechanism 24, the front section of the movable core 21 is retracted (in the non-excited state) and positioned away from the rear 3a of the vibration element 3. With the engagement mechanism 24, the front section of the movable core 21 is pressed by the engagement mechanism 24 so that it extends from one end of the housing 25 to its maximum protruding position, as shown in Fig. 6 is shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the front section of the movable core 21 is held down by the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, so that it is retracted to an intermediate position between the maximum protruding position and the maximum retracted position and waits in a state in which it rests against the rear side 3a (rest state).

[0028] When the coil 22 is energized, the front section of the movable core 21 is forced to advance beyond the position of the rear 3a of the oscillating element 3 in the normal state to the maximally protruding position, as shown in Fig. Figure 4 illustrates this. As the movable core 21 protrudes due to the excitation, the vibrating element 3 is pressed and deformed into a shape in which it protrudes towards the front relative to the shape in the rest state. Here, the position of the front section of the movable core 21 is identical to that shown in Figure 4. Fig. 6 is shown.

[0029] It should be noted that any means can be used as the mounting mechanism 24, as long as it is possible to position the movable core 21 on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 in the rest state. The mounting mechanism 24 is preferably configured as described below.

[0030] (2) The mounting mechanism 24 can be an elastic mounting element 31 which presses the movable core 21 towards the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3.

[0031] As the mounting mechanism 24 (or mounting component), another actuator (drive component) similar to that of the magnet 23 can be used. However, the elastic mounting element 31 is preferably used to simplify the construction of the vibration generator 4.

[0032] The elastic contact element 31 is an element (elastic element) that presses the movable core 21 against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 by means of an elastic force. The elastic contact element 31 can be installed such that the compressive force is essentially released when the movable core 21 is in contact with the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3. Alternatively, the elastic contact element 31 can be installed such that the movable core 21 is pressed against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 with the elastic force that allows the vibration element 3 to maintain its shape.“The elastic force that enables the vibration element 3 to maintain its shape” means that the deformation of the vibration element 3 is prevented to such an extent that it cannot be seen from the outside when the movable core 21 rests on the vibration element 3 due to the elastic force of the elastic support element 31 in the rest state.

[0033] As described above, if the vibration generator 4 is not covered by the vibration element 3, the movable core 21 is pressed through the elastic support element 31 and advances to the position of the back side 3a of the vibration element 3 in the undeformed state, as indicated by the dash-column line, or to the maximum protruding position beyond the position of the back side 3a of the vibration element 3 in the undeformed state (see Fig. 6) When the vibration element 3 is arranged on the vibration generator 4 under such a condition, the movable core 21 is held down by the vibration element 3 and positioned at an intermediate position in the movable area, while resting against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 (rest state), as shown in Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. Since the elastic force of the elastic support element 31 is determined as described above, the vibration element 3 does not deform due to the elastic force of the elastic support element 31, which is applied to the vibration element 3 by the movable core 21. The shape of the vibration element 3 is thus essentially maintained in the same form as before the application of the elastic force. It follows that the shape of the vibration element 3 is not adversely affected.

[0034] The elastic support element 31 can be a spring or an elastic body. The spring can be a compression spring, such as a coil spring. The elastic body can be an elastic material, such as rubber. In these cases, it is preferred to form the elastic support element 31 with an elastic element that exhibits an elastic force that is less than the deformation force of the vibration element 3 (i.e., elastic force of the elastic support element 31 < deformation force of the vibration element 3). Furthermore, the elastic support element 31 is configured such that it does not interfere with the elastic return of the vibration element 3.

[0035] Alternatively, the shape of the vibration element 3, which is deformed by the elastic force of the elastic support element 31 in the rest state, can be defined as the initial shape of the vibration element 3. In such a case, it is possible to use an elastic element as the elastic support element 31 that exhibits a greater elastic force than the shape retention force of the vibration element 3.

[0036] The elastic mounting element 31 can be installed on the return side of the magnet 23 (i.e., in the first space 26) or on the forward side of the magnet 23 (i.e., in the second space 27).

[0037] When the elastic support element 31 is installed on the return side of the magnet 23, the elastic support element 31 is arranged between the bottom of the housing 25 and a first flange section 35, which is provided at or near the end of the movable core 21 on the returned side, as shown in Fig. 3 shown.

[0038] When the elastic mounting element 31 is installed on the projecting side of the magnet 23, the elastic mounting element 31 is arranged between the separator 25b and a second flange section 36, which is provided integrally at the end or near the end of the movable core 21 on the projecting side, as shown in the variant in Fig. 7 shown.

[0039] If the elastic support element 31 is formed from a spring (coil spring), the spring can be mounted outside the movable core 21. If the elastic support element 31 is formed from an elastic material such as rubber, the elastic material can be formed in a ring shape to be mounted outside the movable core 21.

[0040] (3) A return assist mechanism 41 can be provided to accelerate the return movement of the movable core 21 with respect to the vibrating element 3 when the coil 22 is not excited.

[0041] It should be noted that “when the coil 22 is not excited” means that the electromagnetic force applied to the movable core 21 to generate an oscillation of the oscillating element 3 is removed. The return motion includes a case in which the movable core 21 is not separated from the oscillating element 3 and a case in which the movable core 21 is separated from the oscillating element 3, as in Fig. Figure 5 illustrates this. If the movable core 21 is not separated from the vibration element 3, a vibration can be generated, for example, by a deformation or displacement of the vibration element 3, which follows the movement of the movable core 21. If the movable core 21 is separated from the vibration element 3, a vibration can be generated, for example, by a deformation or displacement of the vibration element 3 without following the movement of the movable core 21.

[0042] It should be noted that any means can be used as a return aid mechanism 41 (or return aid) as long as it is possible to increase the speed of the return movement of the movable core 21 with respect to the vibration element 3. The return aid mechanism 41 is preferably configured as described below.

[0043] (4) The return assist mechanism 41 can be an elastic retracting element 51 configured to push the movable core 21 in the direction away from the vibration element 3.

[0044] Another actuator (drive element) similar to that of the magnet 23 can be used as the return assist mechanism 41. However, it is preferred to use the elastic retracting element 51 as the return assist mechanism 41 in order to simplify the construction of the vibration generator 4.

[0045] The elastic retracting element 51 is provided without interfering with the elastic return of the vibration element 3. In the operating state, the elastic retracting element 51 is deformed by the magnet 23 and accumulates an elastic force, while the movable core 21 extends due to excitation of the coil 22. The elastic retracting element 51 can be made of an elastic element exhibiting an elastic force that is weaker than the elastic force of the elastic mounting element 31 (i.e., elastic force of the elastic retracting element 51 < elastic force of the elastic mounting element 31), so that the elastic retracting element 51 is deformed by the elastic force of the elastic mounting element 31 in the rest state.Alternatively, the elastic retracting element 51 can be installed in such a way that the compressive force of the elastic retracting element 51 and that of the elastic support element 31 are essentially released.

[0046] The elastic retracting element 51 can be a retraction spring or a retracting elastic body. The retraction spring can be a coil spring or a compression spring. The retracting elastic body can be rubber or another type of elastic material.

[0047] The elastic retracting element 51 can be installed on the retracting side of the magnet 23 (i.e., in the first space 26) or on the protruding side of the magnet 23 (i.e., in the second space 27).

[0048] When the elastic retracting element 51 is installed on the retracting side of the magnet 23, the elastic retracting element 51 is arranged between the other end of the coil 22 and the first flange section 35, which is provided in the middle of the end of the movable core 21 on the retracting side, as shown in Fig. 3 shown.

[0049] When the elastic retracting element 51 is installed on the projecting side of the magnet 23, the elastic retracting element 51 is arranged between the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 and the second flange section 36, which is provided integrally at the end or near the end of the movable core 21 on the projecting side, as in one variant in Fig. 7 shown.

[0050] If the elastic retracting element 51 is formed from a retraction spring (coil spring), the retraction spring can be mounted outside the movable core 21. If the elastic retracting element 51 is formed from an elastic material such as rubber, the elastic material can be formed in a ring shape to be mounted outside the movable core 21.

[0051] (5) As in Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the vibration element 3 can be provided on an inner part 2 installed on a vehicle 60.

[0052] The vibration element 3 can be provided on an interior part 2 installed in a room of a building, or on the interior part 2 installed on the vehicle 61. The interior part 2 refers to a device, object, or decorative element provided in a room or vehicle interior. The vibration element 3 can be installed on a component that forms the surface design of the interior part 2. Alternatively, as long as it is possible to feel the tactile sensation, the vibration element 3 can be installed inside the interior part 2 so that it is not visible from the outside.

[0053] An example of the interior part 2, which is installed inside (the interior of) the vehicle 21, is an interior trim panel 62 (vehicle interior trim) such as a dashboard and a center console. Furthermore, an additional interior part 2, such as a base panel or a cover, can be attached to the interior part 2. The interior part 2, such as the dashboard, center console, base panel, and cover, has a complex three-dimensional shape in terms of design.

[0054] In this embodiment, the inner part 2, such as the dashboard and center console, or the additional inner part 2 attached to the inner part 2, is used as the vibration element 3.

[0055] (6) The vibration generator 4 can be provided around a push-button switch 65 which is installed on the inner part 2.

[0056] It is generally known that there are vehicles 61 that are equipped with a switch panel on the dashboard or center console, which forms interior part 2. Generally, the switch panel is provided separately from interior part 2, such as the dashboard and center console, or from additional interior part 2, such as the underbody panel and trim, and includes a switch button (actual button) that is pressed with a finger on the surface of the switch panel.

[0057] In this embodiment, a switch made of a touch sensor (touch switch 65) is provided on the other side at the rear 3a of the inner part 2, such as the dashboard and the cover installed on the dashboard. Thus, the dashboard or the cover itself forms the switch panel. The touch sensor is a sensor that detects contact or proximity with respect to the front surface 3b of the vibration element 3 and functions as a switch. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2A by way of example, the touch switches 65 can be integrally mounted on a single plate element 67. The plate element 67 can be made of an insulating resin. The touch switches 65 can, for example, be self-capacitive touch sensors, which can be formed with a single electrode. In addition, a pressure sensor 68 of the electrostatic capacitance type, which is capable of storing a capacitance between two electrodes (oscillation-side electrode 68a and receiving-side electrode 68b), or an IC 69 for detecting a change in capacitance of the touch switches 65 and / or the pressure sensors 68 of the electrostatic capacitance type, can be provided at an edge of the single plate element 67.

[0058] The electrostatic capacitance pressure sensor 68 is formed by folding a protruding piece 68c of the plate element 67, which is attached to the oscillation-side electrode 68a and the receiving-side electrode 68b, such that it faces the oscillation-side electrode 68a and the receiving-side electrode 68b at a distance. It should be noted that a spacer can be provided between the oscillation-side electrode 68a and the receiving-side electrode 68b to maintain the distance between them. The spacer can be an elastic body, such as rubber, that can store capacitance.

[0059] The electrostatic capacitance pressure sensor 68 has a higher sensitivity than the touch switch 65. The electrostatic capacitance pressure sensor 68 can be provided in a one-to-many relationship with respect to the plurality of touch switches 65. In such a case, the electrostatic capacitance pressure sensor 68 detects its offset in the pressure direction in response to a change in the gap between the oscillation-side electrode 68a and the receiving-side electrode 68b. The plurality of touch switches 65 makes it possible to detect a touch position. By detecting both the offset in the pressure direction and the touch position to determine the pressure manipulation, it is possible to prevent false detection.

[0060] The plate element 67, configured as above, is arranged on the rear of the inner part 2, such as the dashboard. The individual plate element 67 is equipped with a line 67a for electrically connecting the electrostatic capacitance pressure sensor 68, the touch switches 65, and the IC 69. Accordingly, it is possible to omit a separate switch panel and physical switch buttons that are pressed by a finger. In this embodiment, a plurality of touch switches 65 are provided near the center of the dashboard in the vehicle width direction 64 as manipulation switches for an air conditioning system. However, the arrangement of the touch switches 65 is not limited to this.

[0061] By providing the touch generation device 1 together with the touch switches 65 on the interior part 2 (for example, dashboard or panel) in the vehicle 61 and by activating the touch generation device 1 in response to the touch switches 65, the switch panel is obtained which is able to generate a touch sensation in response to the input at the touch switches 65.

[0062] The dashboard or panel can be equipped with a plurality of touch switches 65. The touch generation device 1 can be provided in a one-to-one relationship for each touch switch 65 or in a one-to-many relationship with respect to the plurality of touch switches 65. The touch generation device 1 is provided at a suitable position in an area where the vibration can be felt when any of the touch switches 65 is touched on the vibration element 3. As shown in Fig. 8A and Fig. As shown in Figure 8B, the vibration generator 4 of the touch-generating device 1 can change the pressure deformation values ​​α, β depending on the touch switches 65 (α < β). By changing the pressure deformation values ​​α, β, the vibration values ​​of the vibrating element 3 vary. If the pressure deformation value α is small, the vibration value of the vibrating element 3 is small. If the pressure deformation value β is large, the vibration value of the vibrating element 3 is large. The pressure deformation values ​​α, β of the vibration generator 4 of the touch-generating device 1 with respect to the vibrating element 3 can be changed according to distances L1, L2 from the touch switches 65. In particular, the compressive deformation amounts α, β of the vibration generator 4 of the touch generation device 1 with respect to the vibration element 3 can be reduced if the distances L1, L2 (L1 < L2) from the touch switches 65 decrease (i.e.The compressive deformation amount α is specified for distance L1, and the compressive deformation amount β is specified for distance L2. The compressive deformation amounts with respect to the vibration element 3 are adjusted by the preceding amounts of the movable core 21.

[0063] The portion of the dashboard or bezel equipped with the touch switches 65 forms a display 66. The display 66 is designed to facilitate understanding of how to manipulate the touch switches 65. The display 66 may partially encompass a thin, translucent section within the bezel, while the bezel has a thickness that prevents light from passing through. The transparent resin portion of the display 66 may be embedded using a two-color molding process. The display 66 can be illuminated by means of transparent electrodes forming the touch switches and by placing a light source directly on the side of the rear 3a of the display 66, or by means of a light-guiding element.

[0064] It should be noted that the interior part 2 of the vehicle 61, on which the tactile generating device 1 is installed, is not limited to this. The interior part 2 could, for example, be a steering wheel or a seat. If the tactile generating device 1 is provided at the seat, the vibration element 3 could, for example, be a seat frame. The seat frame is covered with padding material and a cover to be invisible from the outside. The vibration generated by the tactile generating device 1 should be sufficiently strong to be transmitted through the padding material and the cover to the surface of the seat.

[0065] (7) A touch generation method using the touch generation device 1 will be described below. The touch generation method generates a vibration at a vibrating element 3 by means of a vibration generator 4, which is installed on a rear side 3a of the vibrating element 3, so that the user feels a touch sensation. The vibration generator 4 is a magnet 23 comprising a movable core 21, which is able to move close to and away from the vibrating element 3, and a coil 22, which, when excited, pushes the movable core 21 towards the vibrating element 3. As described in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the movable core 21 is pressed against the vibration element 3 in order to press and deform the vibration element 3 upon excitation. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the movable core 21 moves away from the vibration element 3 to allow the vibration element 3 to return to its original shape when not excited. Accordingly, the vibration generator 4 induces a vibration in the vibration element 3 due to its own elastic restoring force.

[0066] In a state where the vibration generator 4 is unexcited before generating a vibration, a contact mechanism 24 (for example, the elastic contact element 31) can contact the movable core 21 against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, as shown in Fig. 3 shown.

[0067] In a state in which the coil 22 is unexcited, the return movement of the movable core 21 with respect to the oscillating element 3 can be accelerated by a return aid mechanism 41 (for example, the elastic retracting element 51).

[0068] The touch generation method can generate a vibration (touch generation) on (for example, near the touch switches 65 of) an inner part 2 that is installed on a vehicle 61 using the vibration element 3. Operation

[0069] The operation of this embodiment will be described below.

[0070] The touch-generating device 1 comprises the vibration element 3 and the vibration generator 4 and generates a vibration at the vibration element 3 with the vibration generator 4, which is installed on the rear 3a of the vibration element 3, when the front 3b of the vibration element 3 is touched. Accordingly, the touch-generating device 1 provides the vibration of the vibration element 3 as a touch sensation or emphasizes the touch sensation. This makes it possible to artificially provide a user who touches the front 3b of the vibration element 3 with an actual sensation (a sensation of actuation, as if you were actually pressing something).

[0071] Preferably, an elastically deformable element is used as the vibration element 3. This makes the vibration of the vibration element 3 generated by the vibration generator 4 large, in order to make it easier for the user to feel the tactile sensation.

[0072] The touch generation device 1 can, for example, be linked to an input device such as the touch switch 65. This allows the user to feel a tactile sensation (actuation sensation) in response to an input at the touch switch 65. If the touch generation device 1 is equipped with a plurality of touch switches 65, for example, the touch generation device 1 generates a vibration at the vibration element 3 with the vibration generator 4, which is installed on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, in response to a touch at any of the touch switches 65. This makes it possible to generate a tactile sensation. In this case, the compressive deformation values ​​α, β of the vibration generator 4 with respect to the vibration element 3 can be changed according to the distances L1, L2 from the touch switches 65.In addition, the touch generation device 1 can be used independently, for example to attract attention with vibration. Effects

[0073] In accordance with the embodiment, it is possible to achieve the following technical effects.

[0074] (Effect 1) The vibration generator 4 is configured with the magnet 23, which encompasses the movable core 21. When the coil 22 is energized, the magnet 23 causes the movable core 21 to move or protrude towards the vibration element 3 by an electromagnetic force, forcibly pushing and deforming the vibration element 3 from the rear 3a towards the front 3b. When the coil 22 is not energized, the electromagnetic force from the magnet 23 dissipates, and the movable core 21 moves away from the vibration element 3 or is pulled away, immediately relieving the deformation of the vibration element 3. By immediately releasing the compressive force applied to the movable core 21, the vibration element 3 attempts to quickly restore its shape due to its own elastic force.This causes the vibration to occur at the vibration element 3, and a simulated tactile sensation is generated due to the vibration of the vibration element 3.

[0075] Before vibration is generated, the movable core 21 is brought to a resting position, in which it rests against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 by the contact mechanism 24. By bringing it to this resting position, it is possible to generate a vibration on the vibration element 3 without directly impacting it. That is, the magnet 23 performs the actuation without directly impacting the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 with the movable core 21, thus eliminating a loud impact noise. Furthermore, the vibration of the vibration element 3 is generated due to its elastic restoring force. Therefore, a more natural vibration and tactile sensation can be achieved compared to the case where the vibration is generated by forcefully impacting the vibration element 3.

[0076] As described above, in order to generate a vibration on the vibration element 3 by using the deformation and shape recovery due to the elastic force of the vibration element 3, without directly impacting the vibration element 3, it is advantageous to use a comparatively large vibration generator 4 such as the magnet 23.

[0077] To install the vibration generator 4 on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3, it is necessary to consider the influence of dimensional variations (of the vibration element 3 and / or the vibration generator 4). Since the magnet 23 is a comparatively large vibration generator 4 and the movable core 21 has a comparatively large stroke, the magnet 23 is less susceptible to such dimensional variations compared to other small vibration generators with a small vibration amplitude. Therefore, it is easy to install the vibration generator 4. Furthermore, it is not necessary to provide an additional device to absorb such dimensional variations in order to install the vibration generator 4 on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3.Consequently, it is structurally advantageous to use the magnet 23, as it makes it possible to reduce the influence of dimensional variations and achieve stable operation.

[0078] In addition, the influence of dimensional variations during the installation of the vibration generator 4 on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 is easily absorbed by fixing the movable core 21 so that it rests on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 by means of the mounting mechanism 24 in the rest state.

[0079] (Effect 2) The contact mechanism 24 can be the elastic contact element 31. By utilizing the elastic force of the elastic contact element 31, it is possible to position the front end of the movable core 21 so that it rests lightly and reliably against the rear 3a of the vibration element 3 in the rest state, while the front end of the movable core 21 protrudes to the intermediate position in the moving area. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the elastic contact element 31 hardly disturbs the vibration of the vibration element 3 when the magnet 23 generates a vibration on the vibration element 3.

[0080] Here, the elastic mounting element 31 can be used as the mounting mechanism 24, similar to a spring or an elastic body. This makes it possible to simplify the configuration of the mounting mechanism 24 compared to the case where the mounting mechanism 24 uses an additional actuator for electrical drive.

[0081] If the movable core 21 is retracted due to a lack of excitation in the middle of the operating state in which the vibration is being generated, the movable core 21 may be temporarily separated from the rear surface 3a of the vibration element 3 and then collide with it again. However, the distance by which the movable core 21 is separated from the vibration element 3 due to such a phenomenon is small. Furthermore, when the movable core 21 collides with the rear surface 3a of the vibration element 3 after separation, it does so due to the elastic force of the elastic support element 31, not due to the electromagnetic force of the vibration generator 4. This prevents the movable core 21 from impacting the rear surface 3a of the vibration element 3 hard, thus reducing and preventing the impact noise to a level that is not particularly disturbing.

[0082] (Effect 3) The return-assist mechanism 41 can be provided to accelerate the return movement of the movable core 21 with respect to the vibrating element 3 when the coil 22 is unexcited in the middle of the operating state for vibration generation. That is, the return-assist mechanism 41 helps the movable core 21 to move away from the vibrating element 3 when the electromagnetic force is released by the unexcitation of the coil 22. Accordingly, it is possible to make the timing of the vibration generation at the vibrating element 3 (i.e., the response of the vibrating element 3) faster.

[0083] (Effect 4) The return auxiliary mechanism 41 can be the elastic retracting element 51. The elastic retracting element 51 is deformed along with the movement of the movable core 21 to accumulate the elastic force when the movable core 21 projects to its maximum protruding position due to the electromagnetic force of the magnet 23. Here, the elastic retracting element 51 can be made of an elastic element exhibiting an elastic force weaker than that of the elastic support element 31 (i.e., elastic force of the elastic retracting element 51 < elastic force of the elastic support element 31), such that the elastic retracting element 51 is slightly deformed by the elastic force of the elastic support element 31 in the rest state, in which the movable core 21 projects to the intermediate position.

[0084] The return assist mechanism 41 can comprise the elastic retracting element 51, such as a spring or an elastic body. This makes it possible to simplify the configuration of the return assist mechanism 41 compared to the case in which the return assist mechanism 41 includes an additional actuator for electrical drive.

[0085] More precisely, the elastic retracting element 51 (the return auxiliary mechanism 41) hardly accumulates the elastic force, or accumulates it only slightly, because it is slightly deformed by the elastic contact element 31 when the movable core 21 rests lightly against the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3 in the rest state. In this state, most of the accumulated elastic force is consumed, as the elastic contact element 31 (the contact mechanism 24) presses the movable core 21 against the vibration element 3.

[0086] When the movable core 21 is forcibly extended by excitation of the coil 22, the elastic retracting element 51 is deformed and the elastic force is maximally accumulated. In this state, the elastic contact element 31 (the contact mechanism 24) pushes the movable core 21 to its maximally protruding position, in order to be stretched or close to its natural length, leaving almost no accumulated elastic force (or the elastic contact element 31 may be stretched more than its natural length to accumulate the elastic force in the opposite direction).

[0087] When the coil 22 is not excited, the vibrating element 3 returns to its original shape, and the elastic force accumulated in the elastic retracting element 51 is rapidly released, causing the movable core 21 to move away from the vibrating element 3. Accordingly, the response of the vibrating element 3 increases due to the elastic force added by the elastic retracting element 51 compared to the response of the vibrating element 3 achieved by the restoring force of the vibrating element 3 itself and the weight of the movable core 21. That is, the response of the vibrating element 3 is accelerated by the difference between the elastic force of the elastic retracting element 51 at the time of non-excitation and the elastic force of the elastic support element 31 (i.e.,, reaction rate without the elastic retracting element 51 < reaction rate with the elastic retracting element 51). At the same time, the elastic contact element 31 (contacting mechanism 24) accumulates an elastic force to reposition the movable core 21 against the back 3a of the vibration element 3.

[0088] The movable core 21 then returns to the rest state (in which the movable core 21 rests lightly on the back 3a of the vibration element 3) due to the elastic force accumulated in the elastic contact element 31.

[0089] (Effect 5) The vibration element 3 can be provided as the inner part 2, which is installed on the vehicle 61. Thus, the inner part 2 in the vehicle 61 performs the touch generation function in one piece, making it easy to obtain the inner part 2 that has the touch generation function.

[0090] The touch-generating device 1 can, for example, be provided only on the interior part 2, such as a steering wheel and a seat. This makes it possible to quickly transmit warning information (for example, a warning about a pedestrian jumping out, a sudden disturbance in a vehicle ahead, or a sudden stop by a vehicle ahead) via the interior part 2. This information is detected by the vehicle 61 while driving and is intended to attract the attention of the occupant(s). Such warning information can be determined, for example, by processing signals from various sensors and / or cameras installed in the autonomous driving vehicle.

[0091] (Effect 6) The vibration generator 4 can be arranged around the touch switch 65, which is installed on the inner part 2. This makes it possible to generate a tactile sensation in response to an input at the touch switch 65. If the touch generation device 1 is provided on the rear 3a of the vibration element 3 together with the touch switch 65, the inner part 2 also implements an advanced control panel. That is, the inner part is equipped with the switch, which is invisible from the outside (since the touch switch 65 is provided on the rear 3a), and this invisible switch provides a tactile sensation (through the touch generation device, the tactile sensation being similar to that of a switch button physically pressed by a finger).

[0092] (Effect 7) In the touch generation method used by the touch generation device 1, the movable core 21 is held ready for vibration generation while bearing against the rear face 3a of the vibration element 3 by the contact mechanism 24. The movable core 21 is then pressed against the vibration element 3 to compress and deform it. Afterward, the movable core 21 is moved away from the vibration element 3 to allow it to return to its original shape and generate a vibration. This touch generation method makes it possible to achieve effects similar to those described above in Effect 1.

[0093] This embodiment additionally includes the following features.

[0094] (Effect 8) The plurality of touch switches 65, in which the vibration generator(s) 4 generate a vibration, can be arranged on the rear side 3a of the vibration element 3. In this embodiment, the vibration generator 4 is configured not to directly impact the vibration element 3, but rather to generate a vibration at the vibration element 3 with its elastic restoring force through the magnet 23, thereby easily transmitting the vibration over a wide area of ​​the vibration element 3. This makes it possible for the single vibration generator 4 to simultaneously generate a vibration (i.e., a tactile sensation generated by a haptic vibration) in response to manipulations of the plurality of touch switches 65. This allows the number of vibration generators 4 to be reduced, thus decreasing the installation space and cost of the vibration generator 4.Furthermore, the vibration generator 4 can be configured such that the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 differ depending on the touch switches 65 (α < β). This makes it possible to change the vibration value of the vibration element 3 individually for each touch switch 65. This allows the vibration value to be determined and adjusted arbitrarily in accordance with the manipulation of each touch switch 65. Alternatively, the vibration can be linked to which touch switch 65 is touched, depending on the vibration value applied to the vibration element 3.

[0095] (Effect 9) The vibration generator 4 can be configured such that the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 differ according to the distances L1, L2 from the touch switches 65. This makes it possible to determine the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 differently based on the distances L1, L2 from the touch switches 65. Accordingly, it is possible to simplify the determination of the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3.

[0096] (Effect 10) The vibration generator 4 can be configured such that the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 are reduced when the distances L1, L2 (L1 < L2) from the touch switches 65 decrease (i.e., the compressive deformation value α is set for distance L1 and the compressive deformation value β is set for distance L2). Alternatively, the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 can be increased when the distances L1, L2 from the touch switches 65 increase. Thus, regardless of the distances L1, L2 from the vibration generator 4, the vibration of the vibration element 3 can feel constant, for example, regardless of which touch switch 65 is touched. This makes it possible to achieve a stable tactile sensation.

[0097] (Effect 11) The vibration generation method enables a tactile sensation by generating a vibration at the vibration element 3 with the vibration generator 4 installed on the rear of the vibration element 3 when one of the plurality of touch switches 65 installed on the rear of the vibration element 3 is touched. The vibration generator 4 is a magnet 23 comprising the movable core 21, which is capable of moving close to and away from the vibration element 3, and the coil 22, which, when excited, pushes the movable core 21 towards the vibration element 3. When excited, the movable core 21 is pushed towards the vibration element 3 to deform it, and when not excited, the movable core 21 is moved away from the vibration element 3 to allow it to return to its original shape.This generates a vibration at the vibration element 3 due to its own elastic restoring force. Furthermore, the vibration generator 4 can be configured such that the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 differ depending on the touch switches 65. Using the method described above, it is possible to achieve an effect similar to that described above in section 8.

[0098] The touch generation method can change the compressive deformation values ​​α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 in accordance with the distances L1, L2 from the touch switches 65. This makes it possible to achieve an effect similar to the one described above in 9.

[0099] The touch generation device can reduce the pressure deformation amounts α, β with respect to the vibration element 3 when the distances L1, L2 (L1 < L2) from the touch switches 65 decrease (i.e., the pressure deformation amount α is fixed for distance L1, and the pressure deformation amount β is fixed for distance L2). This makes it possible to achieve an effect similar to that described above in section 10. Reference symbol list 1 Touch generation device 2 inner part 3 Vibration element 3a Reverse side 4 Vibration generator 21 movable core 22 coil 23 Magnet 24 Investment mechanism 31 elastic system element 41 Return assistance mechanism 51 elastic retracting element 61 vehicles 65 touch switches α, β Compression deformation amount L1, L2 distance

Claims

[1] Touch generation device (1), comprising: a vibration element (3); and a vibration generator (4) which is installed on a rear side (3a) of the vibration element (3), wherein the vibration generator (4) is configured with a magnet (23) comprising a movable core (21) and a coil (22), wherein the movable core (21) is able to move close to and away from the vibration element (3), and the coil (22) is configured to move the movable core (21) towards the vibration element (3) in order to push and deform the vibration element (3) when excited, wherein the coil (22) is configured to move the movable core (21) away from the vibration element (3) when not excited in order to cause the vibration element (3) to vibrate due to an elastic restoring force of the vibration element (3), wherein the probe generating device (1) further comprises: a locking mechanism (24) configured to place the movable core (21) into a rest state in which the movable core (21) rests against the back of the vibration element (3) when the coil (22) is not excited, and a return assist mechanism (41) configured to accelerate a return movement of the movable core (21) with respect to the oscillating element (3) when the coil (22) is not excited, wherein the mounting mechanism (24) is an elastic mounting element (31) configured to push the movable core (21) towards the rear of the vibration element (3). [2] The touch-generating device (1) according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of touch switches (65) provided on the rear (3a) of the vibration element (3), wherein the multitude of touch switches (65) are configured to generate a vibration at the vibration element (3) by the vibration generator (4), and the vibration generator (4) is configured to change pressure deformation amounts with respect to the vibration element (3) in accordance with distances from the plurality of touch switches (65). [3] The touch generation device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the vibration generator (4) is configured to reduce the pressure deformation amounts with respect to the vibration element (3) when the distances from the plurality of touch switches (65) decrease. [4] The touch generation device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the return assist mechanism (41) is an elastic retracting element (51) configured to push the movable core (21) in a direction away from the vibration element (3). [5] The touch generation device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the vibration element (3) is provided on an inner part (2) of a vehicle (61). [6] The touch generation device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the vibration generator (4) is arranged around a touch switch (65) which is installed on an inner part (2) of a vehicle (61). [7] Touch generation method for generating a vibration on a vibrating element (3) by means of a vibration generator (4) installed on a rear side (3a) of the vibrating element (3) to achieve a touch sensation, wherein the vibration generator (4) is a magnet (23) comprising a movable core (21) capable of moving close to and away from the vibrating element (3) and a coil (22) which, when excited, pushes the movable core (21) towards the vibrating element (3), wherein the method comprises: Pressing the movable core (21) towards the vibrating element (3) upon excitation in order to press and deform the vibrating element (3); and Moving the movable core (21) away from the vibration element (3) when not excited, in order to allow the vibration element (3) to return to its original shape in order to generate a vibration at the vibration element (3) due to an elastic restoring force of the vibration element (3), wherein the method uses a positioning mechanism (24) to bring the movable core (21) into a rest state in which the movable core (21) rests against the back of the oscillating element (3) when the coil (22) is not excited, and a return assistance mechanism (41) which accelerates a return movement of the movable core (21) with respect to the oscillating element (3) when the coil (22) is not excited, wherein the mounting mechanism (24) is an elastic mounting element (31) configured to push the movable core (21) towards the rear of the vibration element (3). [8] The touch generation method according to claim 7, wherein the method generates a vibration at the vibration element (3) by means of the vibration generator (4) to achieve a tactile sensation when one of a plurality of touch switches (65) installed on the rear (3a) of the vibration element (3) is touched, and the vibration generator (4) is configured to change pressure deformation amounts with respect to the vibration element (3) in accordance with distances from the plurality of touch switches (65).

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