Input device
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ALPS ALPINE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2019-11-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-23
Abstract
Description
Technical field
[0001] The present invention relates to an input device. Relevant state of the art
[0002] Patent document 1 discloses, for example, a technique for a push-button switch having a movable contact for transmitting the actuation force of a push button to the push-button switch via a rotatable element. This technique allows the push-button switch to be actuated with essentially the same actuation force and provides a similar click sensation regardless of where the push button is pressed. List of state-of-the-art patent documents
[0003] Patent document 1: Unexamined Japanese patent application publication no. 2007-173015 Brief description of the invention: Technical problem
[0004] However, in the technique described in patent document 1, the rotatable element must be provided between a circuit board on which the push-button switch is mounted and an actuating element, making it impossible to effectively utilize the space between the circuit board and the actuating element. Solution to the problem
[0005] An input device according to one embodiment comprises: a base element, an actuating element arranged to be vertically movable relative to the base element, wherein the actuating element can be pressed downwards, a printed circuit board fixed to the base element and arranged below the actuating element, a push-button switch arranged on a lower surface of the printed circuit board, and a connecting mechanism with a rotating element arranged below the printed circuit board such that a central axis of rotation is held rotatably by the base element, wherein the rotating element pushes the push-button switch upwards by rotating in response to a downward push actuation of the actuating element. Advantageous effects of the invention
[0006] In an input device according to an embodiment in which a push-button switch is pressed downwards by a push-button actuation on an actuating element, the space between a circuit board on which the push-button switch is mounted and the actuating element can be used effectively. List of characters [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective external view of an input device according to one embodiment; [ Fig. 2] Fig. Figure 2 shows an expanded perspective view of the input device according to one embodiment; [ Fig. 3] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective external view of a lifting element of the input device according to an embodiment to illustrate the configuration on the side of the lower surface; [ Fig. 4] Fig. 4 shows a bottom view of the lifting element of the input device according to one embodiment; [ Fig. 5] Fig. Figure 5 shows a partially enlarged view to illustrate the configuration of a connection mechanism of the input device according to one embodiment; [ Fig. 6] Fig. Figure 6 shows a top view of the connection mechanism of the input device according to one embodiment to illustrate its configuration; [ Fig. 7] Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the input device according to one embodiment along an XZ plane; [ Fig. 8] Fig. Figure 8 shows a sectional view of the input device according to one embodiment along an XZ plane; [ Fig. 9] Fig. Figure 9 shows a sectional view of the input device according to one embodiment along a YZ plane; [ Fig. 10] Fig. Figure 10 shows a sectional view of the input device according to one embodiment along an XZ plane to illustrate its operation; [ Fig. 11] Fig. Figure 11 shows a sectional view of the input device according to an embodiment along an XZ plane to illustrate its operation. Description of embodiments
[0007] With reference to the drawings, an embodiment is described below. In the following description, the positive Z-axis direction in the drawings refers, for example, to the upward direction, and the negative Z-axis direction refers to the downward direction. However, the arrangements, directions of actuation, etc., of the components are not limited to this. In other words, the relative positional relationship, the relative directions of actuation, etc., of the arranged components may not be the Z-axis direction in the drawings, but rather the X-axis or Y-axis direction, or any other direction in the drawings that fulfills the purposes of the present invention. Brief overview of the input device 100
[0008] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective exterior view of an input device 100according to one embodiment. In the case of the Fig. 1 shown input device 100 This is a device for use as a switch to control the operation of an electrical component of a vehicle, such as a car. However, this is only stated for illustrative purposes. The input device 100 It can be used for various applications, such as home electronics and personal digital assistants.
[0009] As in Fig. As shown in 1, the input device has 100 an essentially rectangular cuboid outer shape, in which a housing 170 and a cover element 110 are combined with each other. The case 170 and the cover element 170These are examples of a "basic element". In the present embodiment, the "basic element" is formed by two components, but this is stated only for illustrative purposes. The "basic element" can also be formed as a single unit or a combination of three or more components. The input device 100 has an opening 110A, which is rectangular in the top view, in the upper surface of the cover element. 110 . An actuation range 120A of an actuating element 120 It is unobstructed from opening 110A. This allows the user to access the operating area 120A of the input device. 100 to press down.
[0010] When the user presses down the actuation area 120A, a [unclear] is activated in the housing. 170 the input device 100 intended push button 152 ( Fig. 8) pressed into an ON state, and a control signal indicating the ON state is sent to a device connected to the input device 100 The external device to be controlled is supplied via various types of electrical components (not shown, e.g. an electrical cable or a connector).
[0011] The input device 100 features an electrostatic sensor 130 (see Fig. 2) below the operating area 120A. Therefore, when the operating area 120A is pressed downwards by the user, the contact position is determined by the electrostatic sensor. 130 detected, and a control signal indicating the contact position is sent to a device connected to the input device. 100 The external device to be controlled is supplied via various types of electrical components (e.g., an electrical cable or a connector).
[0012] The operating range 120A of the input device 100It has a relatively wide actuation surface. However, regardless of where the actuation surface is pressed, a similar actuation sensation can be achieved through a connecting mechanism. 160 (see Fig. 2) be mediated, which is in the housing 170 is provided for. For example, the input device includes 100 the push button 152 , which provides a click sensation below the center of the actuation area 120A, but provides a similar click sensation in the case where the center of the actuation area 120A is pressed, as well as in the case where an end of the actuation area 120A is pressed. Input device configuration 100
[0013] Fig. Figure 2 shows a stretched perspective view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. As in Fig. 2 shown, includes the input device 100When viewed from above in the drawing, the cover element 110 , the actuating element 120 , the electrostatic sensor 130 , a push element 140 , a circuit board 150 , the connecting mechanism 160 and the case 170 .
[0014] Regarding the cover element 110 It is a cover-like element located on the top of the housing. 170 is attached to the top opening of the case 170 to close. The cover element 110 The upper surface has an opening 110A, which is rectangular when viewed from above. The opening 110A is for exposing the actuation area 120A located under the cover element. 110 arranged actuating element 120 designed to allow the user to push down the operating area 120A.
[0015] Regarding the actuating element 120It is an element that is located in the housing 170 under the cover element 110 It is arranged in such a way that it is movable in the vertical direction (in the Z-axis direction in the drawing) and is intended to be pressurized by the user. The actuating element 120 It has the form of an essentially rectangular cuboid, the bottom of which is open. The upper surface of the actuating element 120 It is provided with the actuation area 120A, which is rectangular when viewed from above. The actuation area 120A is an area that is defined by the opening 110A of the cover element. 110 exposed and designed to be pressed by the user. Inside the actuating element 120 (in other words, under the operating range of 120A) are the electrostatic sensors 130 and the push element 140 installed through the opening in the floor.
[0016] The electrostatic sensor 130 It is a film-like sensor located under the actuation area 120A in the actuating element. 120 lies. The electrostatic sensor 130 It features a plurality of sensing electrodes (not shown) and detects the contact position on the actuating surface of the 120A operating range based on changes in the electrostatic capacitance of the plurality of sensing electrodes. The electrostatic sensor 130 is with one in the case 170 The intended control unit 134 is connected via a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 132. Thus, the electrostatic sensor can be 130 The majority of the detection electrodes are controlled from the control unit 134.
[0017] The push element 140 is a plate-like element located beneath the electrostatic sensor 130 in the actuating element 120(in other words, located below actuation area 120A). When the actuating element 120 When pressed, the push element moves. 140 together with the actuating element 120 downwards. This triggers the push element. 140 , each end of four rotational elements 162a , 162b , 162c and 162d the connection mechanism 160 using four pressure zones 142a , 142b , 142c and 142d (see Fig. 3 and Fig. 4), each located on the lower surface of the push element 140 are designed to be subjected to pressure. The four pressure areas and the four rotational elements of the present embodiment are examples of "a plurality of pressure areas" and "a plurality of rotational elements," respectively.
[0018] The circuit board 150It is a relatively hard, plate-like element made of glass-epoxy or similar material. The circuit board 150 is horizontal (in other words parallel to an XY plane) in the housing 170 arranged and is attached to the case at four corners 170 screwed together. An example of the circuit board. 150 is a printed circuit board (PWB). The push switch 152 is pointing downwards on the lower surface of the circuit board 150 attached. At the push button. 152 This is a so-called metal dome switch. When the actuating surface of the push switch... 152 When pressed, the top of the metal dome-shaped movable contact element (not shown), which is located inside, is reversed to activate the push switch. 152to switch to the ON state. At this point, the reversal of the moving contact element causes a click sensation on the actuating surface of the push button. 152 The push switch 152 is with the input device 100 The external device to be operated is electrically connected via various types of electrical components (e.g., an electrical cable or connector, not shown). A light-emitting diode (LED) 154 is on the upper surface of the circuit board 150 attached to the LED 154 This is an example of a "light-emitting device" that directs light towards the operating element. 120 emitted.
[0019] The connection mechanism 160 includes the rotational elements 162a , 162b , 162c and 162d as well as a lifting element 164The rotating elements 162 are attached to a pair of [unclear] in the housing. 170 the provided supports 174a, 174b, 174c and 174d are held in such a way that they are embedded in the housing 170 are integrated and the central axes of rotation are aligned 162A , 162B , 162C and 162D Each rotating element 162 is rotated about one end (an end furthest from a central pressure point P, hereinafter referred to as the “outer end”) by passing through a pressure area 142 of the four pressure areas 142 of the pressure element that is closest to the point of pressure actuation. 140 one end is pressed downwards, while the other end (an end located closest to the central pressure point P, hereinafter referred to as the “inner end”) is pressed upwards. The other end of each rotational element 162 is in contact with a lower end surface 164b (see Fig. 8 and Fig. 9) of the lifting element 164 in its initial state. This allows each rotating element 162 to be the lifting element. 164 to push upwards with the other end, since one end is being pushed downwards.
[0020] Regarding the lifting element 164 It is a column-like element that extends vertically and is located on the underside of the push button. 152 is arranged facing each other. An upper end surface 164a (see Fig. 8 and Fig. 9) of the lifting element 164 is in contact with the actuation surface of the push switch 152 The upper end surface 164a simply needs to be of a sufficiently large size for pressing the actuating surface of the push button. 152 exhibiting. In the present embodiment, the upper end surface 164a has essentially the same radius as the actuating surface of the push switch. 152The lower end surface 164b of the lifting element 164 is larger in the radial direction than the upper end surface 164a and has a sufficiently large radius to contact all of the protrusions 162a2, 162b2, 162c2 and 162d2 at the inner ends of the upper surfaces of the majority of rotational elements 162. A part of the upper end surface 164a of the lifting element 164 is thus through a through-opening 172A a retaining element 172 led through so that it is in the passage opening 172A It is vertically displaceable. The vertical movement of the rotating element 162 is thus limited by the through-opening. 172A guided. In other words, this means that when the lifting element 164 The lifting element is pushed upwards by the rotating element 162. 164 can move upwards in an upright position, thereby increasing the actuation surface of the push button. 152can be safely subjected to pressure.
[0021] Regarding the case 170 It is essentially a rectangular, cuboid, container-like element with an open top. The upper opening of the housing 170 is caused by the cover element 110 sealed, with the components (the electrostatic sensor) 130 , the push element 140 , the circuit board 150 and the connection mechanism 160 ) are installed inside the same. Configuration of the push element 140
[0022] Fig. Figure 3 shows a perspective exterior view of the push element. 140 the input device 100 according to one embodiment to illustrate the configuration on the side of the lower surface. Fig. Figure 4 shows a bottom view of the push element. 140 the input device 100 according to one embodiment. As in Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows the four column-like, downward-extending pressure areas. 142a , 142b , 142c and 142d on the lower surface of the push element 140 planned.
[0023] The pressure area 142a is a predetermined distance x1 away from the central pressure point P of the push button in the negative X-axis direction. 152 arranged. The pressure area 142a extends to below the circuit board 150 , and a lower end surface 142a1 meets a protrusion 162a1 at the outer end of the upper surface of the element of revolution. 162a in contact and pushes them downwards.
[0024] The pressure area 142b is a predetermined distance y1 away from the central pressure point P of the push button in the negative Y-axis direction. 152 arranged. The pressure area 142bextends to below the circuit board 150 , and a lower end surface 142b1 meets a protrusion 162b1 at the outer end of the upper surface of the element of revolution. 162b in contact and pushes them downwards.
[0025] The pressure area 142c is a predetermined distance x1 away in the positive X-axis direction from the central pressure application point P of the push button. 152 arranged. The pressure area 142c extends to below the circuit board 150 , and a lower end surface 142c1 meets a protrusion 162c1 at the outer end of the upper surface of the element of revolution. 162c in contact and pushes them downwards.
[0026] The pressure area 142d is a predetermined distance y1 away from the central pressure application point P of the push button in the positive Y-axis direction. 152 arranged. The pressure area 142dextends to below the circuit board 150 , and a lower end surface 142d1 meets a protrusion 162d1 at the outer end of the upper surface of the element of revolution. 162d in contact and pushes them downwards. Configuration of the connection mechanism 160
[0027] Fig. Figure 5 shows a partially enlarged view to illustrate the configuration of the connection mechanism. 160 the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 shows a top view of the connection mechanism. 160 the input device 100 according to one embodiment to illustrate its configuration.
[0028] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in 6, the connection mechanism includes 160 the lifting element 164 , which is attached to the push button 152is arranged in the facing position (in other words, at the central pressure point P), as well as the four rotating elements 162a , 162b , 162c and 162d , which extend in different directions from below the lifting element 164 extend away and are arranged in the shape of a cross when viewed from above.
[0029] The rotating element 162a extends from below the lifting element 164 away in the negative x-axis direction. The rotation element 162a is rotatable in the vertical direction, since the central axis of rotation 162A is supported by a pair of supports 174a extending from the base of the housing 170 extend vertically upwards.
[0030] The rotating element 162b extends from below the lifting element 164 away in the negative Y-axis direction. The rotation element162b is rotatable in the vertical direction, since the central axis of rotation 162B is supported by a pair of supports 174b extending from the bottom of the housing 170 extend vertically upwards.
[0031] The rotating element 162c extends from below the lifting element 164 away in the positive x-axis direction. The element of rotation 162c is rotatable in the vertical direction, since the central axis of rotation 162C supported by a pair of supports 174c extending from the base of the housing 170 extend vertically upwards.
[0032] The rotating element 162d extends from below the lifting element 164 away in the negative Y-axis direction. The rotation element 162d is rotatable in the vertical direction, since the central axis of rotation 162Dsupported by a pair of supports 174d extending from the base of the housing 170 extend vertically upwards.
[0033] The elevations 162a2, 162b2, 162c2 and 162d2 at the respective inner ends of the rotational elements 162a , 162b , 162c and 162d are in contact with the lower end surface 164b of the lifting element 164 This allows the rotating elements to 162a , 162b , 162c and 162d the lifting element 164 with the elevations 162a2, 162b2, 162c2 and 162d2 at the inner ends pushing upwards when the elevations 162a1, 162b1, 162c1 and 162d1 at the outer ends are pushed downwards.
[0034] At the point where the actuation surface of the push switch 152 The holding element is located facing the top view (in other words, at the central pressure point P). 172 in addition to the lifting element 164provided. The retaining element 172 It has the form of an essentially rectangular cuboid, which is supported at the corners by four supporting walls 176 extending from the base of the case. 170 extend upwards. The holding element 172 has a pair of hooks 172B (an example of "holding arms") that extend upwards. The pair of hooks 172B extends under the intermediate arrangement of the push switch 152 through a pair of openings 150A (see Fig. 9), located in adjacent positions on the circuit board 150 are formed, and interacts with the upper surface of the circuit board 150 together to assemble the circuit board 150 to be held in place from below. The holding element 172 It has a passageway in the center. 172A , which extend vertically through the holding element 172 extends through it. The passageway 172Ais designed in such a way that the lifting element 164 is movable in the vertical direction. Configuration for pressing the rotation element 162 downwards
[0035] Fig. Figure 7 shows a perspective sectional view of the input device. 100 according to one embodiment along an XZ plane. Fig. Figure 8 shows a sectional view of the input device. 100 according to one embodiment along an XZ plane. Fig. Figure 9 shows a sectional view of the input device. 100 according to one embodiment along a YZ plane.
[0036] As in the Fig. 7 to Fig. Figure 9 shows the four column-like, downward-extending pressure areas. 142a , 142b , 142c and 142d on the lower surface of the push element 140 planned.
[0037] The lower end surface 142a1 of the pressure area 142ais in contact with the elevation 162a1, which is located on the upper surface at the outer end of the rotating element 162a is trained. This enables the pressure area 142a , the outer end of the rotating element 162a to press down when the push element 140 with the actuating element 120 is pressed downwards.
[0038] The lower end surface 142b1 of the pressure area 142b is in contact with the elevation 162b1, which is located on the upper surface at the outer end of the rotating element 162b is trained. This enables the pressure area 142b , the outer end of the rotating element 162b to press down when the push element 140 with the actuating element 120 is pressed downwards.
[0039] The lower end surface 142c1 of the pressure area 142cis in contact with the elevation 162c1, which is located on the upper surface at the outer end of the rotating element 162c is trained. This enables the pressure area 142c , the outer end of the rotating element 162c to press down when the push element 140 with the actuating element 120 is pressed downwards.
[0040] The lower end surface 142d1 of the pressure area 142d is in contact with the elevation 162d1, which is located on the upper surface at the outer end of the rotating element 162d is trained. This enables the pressure area 142d , the outer end of the rotating element 162d to press down when the push element 140 with the actuating element 120 is pressed downwards. Operating principle of the input device 100
[0041] The Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 show sectional views of the input device100 according to one embodiment along an XZ plane to illustrate its operation. Fig. Figure 10 illustrates the state of the input device 100 before a push button is pressed (in other words, a switch OFF state). Fig. Figure 11 illustrates the state of the input device 100 after a push-button actuation (in other words, a switch-ON state). The present example is a downward push-button actuation not at the center of the actuation area 120A of the actuator. 120 , but at a location offset from it, where the pressure area 142a forms the nearest position.
[0042] If the actuation range 120A of the actuating element 120 first through opening 110A of the cover element 110 When pressed (arrow A in the drawing), the push element 140 together with the actuating element 120Pressed down. The actuating element 120 has a vertically extending guide rib 122 (see Fig. 2) on each of the four sides. Each guide rib 122 is movable in the vertical direction and is constrained to movement in the lateral direction by a [missing information] in the housing. 170 trained guide groove 178 (see Fig. 2) hindered. This allows the actuating element 120 and the push element 140 a movement to a predetermined position lower in the top view, even if a point other than the center of the actuation area 120A is pressed downwards. However, the pushing element can 140 also move downwards in a state in which it is slightly inclined from the center to the pressed point, as there is a very small gap between each guide rib 122 and each guide groove 178.
[0043] Since the push element 140When pressed downwards in a slightly inclined state, the pressure area closest to the point of pressure is affected. 142a of the four pressure areas 142a , 142b , 142c and 142d the remaining pressure ranges 142b , 142c and 142d forward, and the elevation 162a1 at the outer end of the rotational element 162a the connection mechanism 160 is pressed downwards (arrow B in the drawing).
[0044] This causes the rotating element to 162a to execute a rotational movement around the central axis of rotation 162A , and the lifting element 164 the connection mechanism 160 is formed by the elevation 162a2 at the inner end of the rotational element 162a pushed upwards (arrow C in the drawing), as shown in Fig. Figure 11 shows the lifting element. 164 through the passage opening 172Ain the holding element 172 guided, so that the lifting element 164 can move upwards while maintaining an upright posture to press the push button. 152 This allows for an efficient and direct transmission of the actuating force from the 120A actuation area to the push button. 152 via the connection mechanism 160 .
[0045] As a result, the actuation surface of the push switch is 152 through the upper end surface 164a of the lifting element 164 pressure is applied, causing the top of the push button to... 152 the provided, metal dome-shaped movable contact element is reversed or reversed, thereby turning the push switch 152 when switched to the ON state. At this point, the reversal of the moving contact element causes a click sensation in the actuation surface of the push button. 152 .
[0046] At this point, the actuation area 120A of the actuating element is 120 via the push element 140 and the connection mechanism 160 physically directly with the actuation surface of the push button 152 connected (see the dashed line in the drawing). In this way, the actuator surface of the push switch can be... 152 generated click sensation with low damping via the connection mechanism 160 and the push element 140 to the actuation area 120A of the actuating element 120 be transferred. As a result, the user can see the information in the actuation area of the push button. 152 The generated click sensation is conveyed directly.
[0047] The other pressure areas 142b , 142c and 142d than the pressure area 142a , which is the rotating element 162aHaving been subjected to pressure in front of the other pressure areas, the elevations 162b1, 162c1 and 162d1 at the outer ends of the remaining rotational elements are reached. 162b , 162c and 162d without a gap during the downward movement (arrow D in the drawing) under their own weight in contact, so that the remaining rotating elements 162b , 162c and 162d A more uniform rotational force is applied. When the lifting element 164 from the rotating element 162a First, pressure is applied (arrow C in the drawing), followed by the remaining rotating elements. 162b , 162c and 162d thus a rotational movement, with the elevations 162b2, 162c2 and 162d2 at the inner ends of the remaining rotational elements 162b , 162c and 162d after the upward movement of the lifting element 164 with the lifting element 164without a gap remaining in contact (arrow E in the drawing). This causes all of the rotating elements to 162a , 162b , 162c and 162d After downward pressure, the push element performs a rotational movement by essentially the same amount of rotation from the initial state before the downward pressure, so that the lower end surfaces 142a1, 142b1, 142c1 and 142d1 of the push area, which are in contact with the projections 162a1, 162b1, 162c1 and 162d1 at the outer ends without a gap, are arranged horizontally at essentially the same height. In other words, the push element moves 140 and the actuating element that is integrally designed with this 120 from the initial horizontal state to the essentially horizontal state. Even if the user presses an area other than the center of the actuation area 120A, the actuating element can thus120 essentially pressed horizontally without downward tilt.
[0048] Even when the center of the actuation area 120A is pressed, the input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the actuating force of the downward-moving push actuation via the nearest of the four rotating elements 162 when viewed under a microscope, as well as the lifting element 164 directly onto the push button 152 transferred, whereby, based on a similar working principle, a direct click sensation from the push button is achieved. 152 can convey and furthermore the actuating element 120 can be pressed in an essentially horizontal state.
[0049] Since the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, such that the push switch 152 on the lower surface of the circuit board 150is attached and the connection mechanism 160 also under the circuit board 150 The upper surface of the circuit board is arranged 150 only with the LED 154 provided, as can be seen from the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 is evident. In other words, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, designed such that the space between the circuit board 150 and the actuating element 120 is free and can be used effectively. In other words, the space between the circuit board 150 and the actuating element 120 In the present embodiment, there is no interruption and it can serve as a guide path for the LED. 154 The emitted light can be used. Alternatively, a light guide or reflector can be freely positioned within it. The input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the LED 154to project light onto the back of the actuator. 120 on. If there is no need for it, the LED must be switched off. 154 not on the top surface of the circuit board 150 be attached.
[0050] As described above, the input device includes 100 according to the present embodiment, the actuating element 120 , which can be pressed downwards, located under the actuating element 120 arranged circuit board 150 , the push button 152 , which is located on the lower surface of the circuit board 150 is arranged, as well as the connection mechanism 160 with the rotating element 162, which is located under the circuit board 150 is arranged to be rotatable and that the push switch 152 pushes upwards by rotating in response to a downward push action.
[0051] Thus, the input device allows 100 According to the present embodiment, effective use of the space between the printed circuit board 150 and the actuating element 120 as free space, while they provide direct push-button actuation on the actuating element 120 made possible.
[0052] The input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the push-button switch is 152 around a metal dome switch, and the connecting mechanism 160 The lifting element includes 164 , which is under the push button 152 is arranged to be movable vertically, as well as the rotating element 162, which holds the push button 152 via the lifting element 164 pushes upwards by rotating in response to the downward push action, thereby moving the lifting element 164 pushes upwards.
[0053] In this way, the input device allows 100 According to the present embodiment, a mediation of the signal by the push-button switch 152 generated click sensation directly at the actuating element 120 Furthermore, the input device allows 100 According to the present embodiment, this also includes pressing the actuating surface of the push-button switch. 152 with the lifting element 164 straight upwards. In other words, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, the actuation surface of the push switch 152 less susceptible to slanted pressing, so that changes in the actuation load of the push button are less noticeable. 152 be reduced.
[0054] The input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the holding element further features 172 on, that the circuit board 150 at one of the push buttons152 holds the facing position. The holding element 172 the passage opening extending vertically through it 172A up. The lifting element 164 is in the passageway 172A vertically movable.
[0055] Thus, the input device allows 100 According to the present embodiment, pressing the actuating surface of the push-button switch 152 together with the lifting element 164 upwards in a more direct way. In other words, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, the actuation surface of the push switch 152 even less susceptible to slanted pressing, so that changes in the actuation load of the push button are less noticeable. 152 can be reduced even further.
[0056] The input device 100According to the present embodiment, a limitation of the extent of the upward movement of the lifting element is permitted. 164 by means of the holding element 172 , so that damage to the push button may occur 152 due to excessive pressing of the push button 152 can be prevented.
[0057] The input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the push-button switch holds 152 adjacent areas of the circuit board 150 using the hooks 172B of the retaining element 172 fixed to accommodate changes in the position of the push button 152 due to bending of the circuit board 150 to reduce and thereby in turn change the feel of the push button. 152 to reduce.
[0058] The input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the connection mechanism includes160 the majority of rotational elements 162, which extend in different horizontal directions (in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction) from below the lifting element 164 extend away.
[0059] Even if a position of the actuating element 102 other than the center is pressed, the input device allows 100 According to the present embodiment, a direct pressing of the push button. 152 via the rotation element 162 depending on the actuation position of the actuating element 120 , and it allows the click sensation to be conveyed directly from the push button. 152 .
[0060] The input device according to the present embodiment further includes the LED 154 , which are located on the upper surface of the circuit board 150 is arranged and directs the light towards the back of the actuator. 120emitted. In other words, the input device 100 according to the present embodiment, designed such that the connection mechanism 160 etc. not in the direction of emission from the LED 154 are present in the emitted light. Thus, the light emitted by the LED can be... 154 emitted light efficiently towards the back of the actuator. 120 be emitted.
[0061] Having described embodiments of the present invention, it is understood that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and that various modifications and changes to the scope of the present invention, as described in the claims, may be made.
[0062] For example, in the present embodiment, the actuating element is 120 and the push element 140separate objects that are combined with each other. However, these can also be designed in an integral way.
[0063] Although the present embodiment uses a metal dome switch as a push-button switch 152 Alternatively, another type of push switch, such as a rubber dome switch, can be used.
[0064] The input device 100 According to the present embodiment, the LED 154 in the free space between the circuit board and the actuator 120 installed. Alternatively, a mechanism for detecting the downward pressing force of the user can be provided.
[0065] The present international application claims priority from Japanese patent application No. 2018-248491, filed on December 28, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated by reference into the present description. Reference symbol list 100 Input device 110 Cover element (base element) 120 actuating elements 130 electrostatic sensor 140 Push element 142a, 142b, 142c, 142d pressure range 150 printed circuit boards 152 push switches 154 LEDs (light-emitting devices) 160 connection mechanism 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d rotation element 162A, 162B, 162C, 162D central axis of rotation 164 Lifting element 170 Housing (base element) 172 Holding element 172A Through opening 172B Hook (holding arm) QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION
[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature
[0000] JP 2007173015
[0003] JP 2018248491
[0065]
Claims
[1] Input device comprising: a basic element; an actuating element which is arranged to be vertically movable in relation to the base element, wherein the actuating element can be pressed downwards; a printed circuit board that is fixed to the base element and positioned below the actuating element; a push-button switch located on a lower surface of the circuit board; and a connection mechanism with a rotating element arranged under the circuit board such that a central axis of rotation is held rotatably by the base element, wherein the rotating element pushes the push switch upwards by rotating in response to a downward push actuation of the actuating element. [2] Input device according to claim 1, wherein the connection mechanism comprises: a lifting element that is arranged to be vertically movable below the push button; and the rotary element that pushes the push switch upwards via the lifting element by rotating in response to the downward push action of the actuating element in order to push the lifting element upwards. [3] Input device according to claim 2, further comprising: a holding element which is supported under the push button by the base element, wherein the retaining element has a through-opening in the vertical direction, and the lifting element is vertically movable in the passage opening. [4] Input device according to claim 3, wherein the holding element has a holding arm which extends through the printed circuit board at a position adjacent to the push-button switch and interacts with an upper surface of the printed circuit board to hold the printed circuit board. [5] Input device according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the connection mechanism has a plurality of rotational elements extending away from below the lifting element in different directions. [6] Input device according to claim 5, comprising a plurality of pressure areas provided below the actuating element, wherein the pressure areas press downwards the corresponding plurality of rotational elements. [7] Input device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the push-button switch is a metal dome switch which produces a click sensation when the actuating element is pressed downwards. [8] Input device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a light-emitting device arranged on an upper surface of the circuit board, wherein the light-emitting device emits light towards a rear side of the actuating element.