Electronic device

Abstract

To provide an electronic device having a plurality of operating units reduced in differences in operability even if differing from each other in height.SOLUTION: An electronic device comprises a plurality of operating units, which are disposed from a first end side to a second end side of a housing and include key-top members having operating surfaces. The height of the key-top members from lower end portions to the operating surfaces is greater for a first operating unit disposed on the first end side than a second operating unit disposed on the second end side.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to electronic devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, electronic devices known as calculators have a display and a key input section on the top surface of the case. The key input section has a number of keys arranged in a matrix. For example, the key input section has numeric keys, arithmetic keys, function keys, and the like, each of which includes a number of keys.

[0003] Usually, in the case of a small electronic device such as a calculator, a plurality of keys of a key input section are operated with one hand while visually checking the processing results corresponding to key inputs displayed on a display.

[0004] In electronic devices, it is desired that the keys arranged in the key input section can be typed quickly and accurately, and that the user does not get tired even when using the device for a long time. Conventionally, in order to reduce physical burden, a keyboard structure (step sculpture) in which multiple keys are arranged in a stepped shape is known. For example, conventionally, when the keys are configured to have steps, a configuration is known in which the shape of an elastic sheet supporting the keys (push button switches) is deformed (bent) according to the position of the keys (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 60-141035 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In this way, if the configuration of the elastic sheet supporting the keys is changed for each key, the operability (click feeling) will differ for each key, which may cause the user to feel uncomfortable when pressing a key.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an electronic device having multiple operating units in which differences in operability are reduced even if the operating units are at different heights. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the electronic device in this embodiment is provided with a plurality of operating units, including a key top member having an operating surface, arranged from a first end side to a second end side of a housing, and the height from the lower end of the key top member to the operating surface is higher for a first operating unit arranged on the first end side than for a second operating unit arranged on the second end side. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device having a plurality of operation units with reduced differences in operability even if the operation units are different in height. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the electronic device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of the electronic device according to the embodiment as viewed from the bottom side. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the electronic device according to the embodiment as viewed from the right side. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first configuration example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of a rubber key according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 2 is a diagram showing a second configuration example of the cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 8] 2 is a diagram showing a third configuration example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 9]2 is a diagram showing a fourth configuration example of the cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 1 in this embodiment. [Figure 10] 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a fifth configuration example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. [Figure 11] 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a sixth configuration example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. [Figure 12] 1. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a seventh configuration example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, and Fig. 4 are diagrams showing the external configuration of the electronic device 10 in this embodiment. Fig. 1 is a plan view of the electronic device 10 in this embodiment, Fig. 2 is a view of the electronic device 10 in this embodiment as seen from the bottom side, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the electronic device 10 in this embodiment, and Fig. 4 is a view of the electronic device 10 in this embodiment as seen from the right side.

[0013] 1, a key input section 11 and a display section 12 are provided on the top surface of the housing of an electronic device 10. The key input section 11 is provided with a plurality of keys 14, a selector switch 15, and the like.

[0014] The multiple keys 14 include, for example, numeric keys, arithmetic keys, and function keys. The numeric keys include, for example, multiple keys corresponding to each of

[00] [0] to [9]. The arithmetic keys include keys used in normal calculations using the four arithmetic operations, for example, [+] (addition) key, [-] (subtraction) key, [×] (multiplication) key, [÷] (division) key, and [=] (execute operation) key. The function keys include, for example, an all clear key ([AC] key), a clear key ([C] key), multiple memory keys ([MRC] [M-] [M+]), a root key ([√] key), and a [%] key.

[0015] The selector switch 15 includes, for example, a round selector, a decimal point selector, and the like.

[0016] 1, the exterior shape of the top surface of the housing of the electronic device 10 is formed into a substantially rectangular shape. A display unit 12 is provided on the upper side (the upper side of the top surface of the housing) of the top surface of the housing, and a key input unit 11 is provided on the lower side (the lower side of the top surface of the housing).

[0017] The display unit 12 has a display 16 disposed on a first housing surface 12a, which is a first region (upper side) of the housing top surface. The display 16 has, for example, a rectangular display surface in the landscape direction, and is disposed from a first end side (left side side in FIG. 1) of the housing to a second end side (right side side in FIG. 1) opposite the first end side.

[0018] In the key input unit 11, a plurality of keys 14 (operation unit) are arranged on a second housing surface 11a in a second region (lower side) of the housing top surface from the first end side to the second end side of the housing. The plurality of keys 14 have an operation surface 14t on each key top. The plurality of keys 14 are arranged at a predetermined interval (key pitch) with a direction parallel to the upper side / lower side of the housing top surface as a row direction and a direction parallel to the left side / right side of the housing top surface as a column direction.

[0019] In the electronic device 10 of this embodiment, the second housing surface 11a of the key input unit 11 is formed so that the inclination angle with respect to the placement surface (casing bottom surface) is a first inclination angle (angle θ) in the direction from the first end side to the second end side, i.e., in the row direction in which the multiple keys 14 are arranged. The first housing surface 12a of the display unit 12 is formed so as to be substantially parallel (or substantially horizontal) to the placement surface (casing bottom surface), or so that the inclination angle with respect to the placement surface (casing bottom surface) in the direction from the first end side to the second end side, i.e., in the row direction in which the multiple keys 14 are arranged, is a second inclination angle different from the first inclination angle (angle θ).

[0020] 2 and 4, the second housing surface 11a of the electronic device 10 is formed to be inclined at an angle θ with respect to the bottom surface 13 of the housing in the row direction in which the keys 14 are arranged. The angle θ is preferably in the range of, for example, 1° to 9°. Furthermore, the angle θ is preferably in the range of, for example, 1° to 3° (details will be described later).

[0021] The configuration of the electronic device 10 shown in Figs. 1 to 4 shows an example in which the second housing surface 11a of the key input unit 11 is inclined to the right (the left side is higher than the right side) as shown in Figs. 2 and 4. That is, at least a part of the operation surface 14t of the key 14 (first operation unit) arranged on the first end side (left side) is formed so as to be higher from the placement surface (bottom surface of the housing) than at least a part of the operation surface 14t of the key 14 (second operation unit) arranged on the second end side (right side). For example, the center (first center) of the operation surface 14t of the key 14 arranged on the first end side is formed so as to be higher from the placement surface (bottom surface of the housing) than the center (second center) of the operation surface 14t of the key 14 arranged on the second end side.

[0022] This provides a configuration in which, when the user of electronic device 10 operates with the right hand (a right-handed user), multiple keys 14 are easy to operate and the user is less likely to become tired.

[0023] In addition, assuming that the user of the electronic device 10 operates it with the left hand (a left-handed user), the second housing surface 11a of the key input unit 11 can be configured to be inclined to the left. That is, at least a part of the operation surface 14t of the keys 14 arranged on the second end side (right side) is formed to be higher from the placement surface (bottom surface of the housing) than at least a part of the operation surface 14t of the keys 14 arranged on the first end side (left side).

[0024] On the other hand, the display surface of the display unit 12 is formed so that the first end side is not higher than the second end side from the placement surface (bottom surface of the housing). In the example shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4, the first end (left side) and the second end (right side) of the display unit 12 are at the same height, and the upper side of the housing top surface is formed to be higher than the boundary part between the key input unit 11 and the display unit 12, and is formed to be inclined in the column direction (front-back direction) in which the multiple keys 14 are arranged.

[0025] 4, the housing of electronic device 10 is bent at the boundary between key input unit 11 and display unit 12, and the position of the upper edge side of the housing top surface is raised. As a result, first housing surface 12a of display unit 12 is inclined in the column direction in which multiple keys 14 are arranged, improving the visibility of the display surface of display 16.

[0026] Next, configuration examples (first to seventh configuration examples) of the multiple keys 14 (operation section) in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 12. FIG.

[0027] (1) First Configuration Example Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 5 shows only two adjacent keys 14 among a plurality of keys 14 arranged on line AA. The same applies to Figs. 7 to 12 below.

[0028] Note that Figures 5, 7 to 12 described below are modified to make the configuration of multiple keys 14 (operation unit) provided on electronic device 10 easier to understand, and therefore do not completely match the configurations shown in Figures 1 to 4.

[0029] 5, in the first configuration example, a substrate 22 is provided at the bottom inside the housing of the electronic device 10 so as to be parallel to the bottom surface 13 of the housing. The substrate 22 supports a plurality of keys 14 inside the housing.

[0030] The key 14 includes, for example, a rubber key 21a and key tops 14a1, 14a2 (key top members). The key tops 14a1, 14a2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin. The rubber key 21a is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 22. The rubber key 21a is formed of, for example, an elastic member such as rubber. The rubber key 21a has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21a1, 21a2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14a1, 14a2 of the multiple keys 14, respectively.

[0031] The rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 are formed of mounting portions 21a11 and 21a22 to which the lower ends of the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 are respectively attached, and supporting portions 21a12 and 21a22 that support the mounting portions 21a11 and 21a21 and the substrate 24 in a spaced-apart state.

[0032] In order to provide operability when the key tops 14a1, 14a2 attached to the upper portions of the mounting portions 21a11, 21a22 are pressed down, the mounting portions 21a11, 21a22 are normally supported at a distance from the substrate 24 by the support portions 21a12, 21a22, and when pressed down, are pushed in until they come into contact with the substrate 24.

[0033] The rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 are standardized so that the operability (click feeling) when the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 are pressed is the same. That is, the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 are formed from the same material, shape, and dimensions, and are formed so that the mass and the like are approximately equal.

[0034] The clicking sensation referred to here refers to the sensation felt when the user recognizes the repulsive force (elastic force) generated when the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 are crushed after pressing the key tops 14a1 and 14a2.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of the rubber key 21a in this embodiment.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 6, the rubber key 21a is provided with a plurality of rubber key tops at positions corresponding to the plurality of keys 14 arranged on the second housing surface 11a of the key input unit 11 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 6 includes rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 to which key tops 14a1 and 14a2 of two keys 14 arranged on line AA are attached.

[0037] The rubber key tops 21a1, 21a2 are attached to the corresponding key tops 14a1, 14a2 via attachment parts 21a11, 21a22 such that the key stroke direction (sliding direction) is perpendicular to the housing bottom surface 13 (housing placement surface).

[0038] A conductive member is provided at the bottom of the rubber key tops 21a1, 21a2 (mounting portions 21a11, 21a22), and when the rubber key tops 21a1, 21a2 are pressed down by pressing the key tops 14a1, 14a2, this comes into contact with an electrode wired to the substrate 22 to detect the key press.

[0039] The key tops 14a1 and 14a2 are formed so that the height from the bottom surface (lower end) to the operation surface varies depending on the position in the range from the first end (key top 14a1 side) to the second end (key top 14a2 side). In Fig. 5, since the second housing surface 11a of the key input unit 11 is inclined to the right, the height Ta1 from the bottom surface of the key top 14a1 arranged on the first end side to the operation surface 14ta1 is configured to be higher than the height Ta2 from the bottom surface of the key top 14a2 arranged on the second end side to the operation surface 14ta2.

[0040] This makes it possible to make the height from the second housing surface 11a to the operation surfaces 14ta1, 14ta2 the same, and to make the height from the housing bottom surface 13 (housing mounting surface) to the operation surfaces 14ta1, 14ta2 step-like according to the inclination angle θ of the second housing surface 11a.

[0041] 5 shows only two key tops 14a1 and 14a2, but by configuring multiple key tops arranged from the first end side to the second end side in the same manner as key tops 14a1 and 14a2, the operating surfaces of the multiple key tops are configured in a stepped shape according to the inclination angle θ. Basically, the difference in height between the operating surfaces of multiple adjacent key tops is constant.

[0042] The second housing surface 11a (housing top surface) has openings corresponding to the multiple keys 14. The openings are formed such that the opening surface is substantially perpendicular (vertical direction) to the housing bottom surface 13 (housing mounting surface). The key tops 14a1 and 14a2 slidably pass through the corresponding openings, and are supported such that the operation surfaces 14ta1 and 14ta2 are higher than the second housing surface 11a under normal conditions. Therefore, the side surfaces of the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 and the opening surfaces of the openings face each other substantially parallel to each other with a small gap therebetween.

[0043] In addition, ribs 31a1, 31a2 (slide assist members) are formed from the opening of the second housing surface 11a (housing top surface) in the sliding direction of the key tops 14a1, 14a2, i.e., in a vertical direction to the housing bottom surface 13 (housing mounting surface). The side surfaces of the ribs 31a1, 31a2 facing the key tops 14a1, 14a2 and the key tops 14a1, 14a2 face each other approximately parallel with a small gap. Since the ribs 31a1, 31a2 extend from the opening in the sliding direction of the key tops 14a1, 14a2, they suppress wobbling of the key tops 14a1, 14a2 within the small gap range when the key tops 14a1, 14a2 slide.

[0044] The second housing surface 11a (housing top surface) is inclined at an angle θ, and the heights of the mounting parts 21a11 and 21a22 from the housing bottom surface 13 are the same (horizontal). For this reason, the ribs 31a1 and 31a2 are formed such that the length from the back side (housing inside) of the second housing surface 11a to a position close to the flanges formed on the bottoms of the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 (or the position where the ribs come into contact when not in operation) is longer on the first end side (key top 14a1 side) than on the second end side (key top 14a2 side). That is, the length of the ribs 31a1 and 31a2 is formed to be different depending on the height of the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 in the direction in which the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 slide (vertical direction to the housing bottom surface 13).

[0045] As a result, the wobbling of the key tops 14a1 and 14a2 is suppressed by the respective ribs 31a1 and 31a2.

[0046] 5, the operation surfaces 14ta1, 14ta2 (upper surfaces) of the key tops 14a1, 14a2 are formed to be parallel to the bottom surface 13. That is, when the electronic device 10 is placed on a horizontal surface, the operation surfaces 14ta1, 14ta2 of the key tops 14a1, 14a2 are horizontal. Also, the heights L1, L2 of the key tops 14a1, 14a2 decrease in order from the key top 14a1 on the first end side to the key top 14a2 on the second end side.

[0047] The key tops 14a1, 14a2 are formed in the same shape, and the stroke length defined by the movable range of the rubber key tops 21a1, 21a2 is the same, so that the heights L1, L2 relative to the bottom surface 13 become stepped according to the inclination angle θ of the second housing surface 11a, as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0048] As shown in Figures 2 and 4, in the electronic device 1 of this embodiment, the second housing surface 11a of the key input unit 11 is inclined at an angle θ in the row direction of the keys 14 with respect to the bottom surface 13, and the operation surfaces 14t of the keys 14 arranged on the first end side are formed to be higher than the operation surfaces 14t of the keys 14 arranged on the second end side, thereby improving operability of the keys 14 and reducing user fatigue.

[0049] In addition, by standardizing the configuration (material / shape (mass)) of the rubber keys 21a (rubber key tops 21a1, 21a2) among the multiple keys 14 and changing the height from the bottom surface of the key tops 14a1, 14a2 to the operation surfaces 14ta1, 14ta2, it is possible to reduce differences in operability while changing the height from the bottom surface 13 of the housing to the operation surfaces 14ta1, 14ta2 of the key tops 14a1, 14a2.

[0050] (2) Second Configuration Example FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG.

[0051] The second configuration example is basically formed in the same manner as the first configuration example. That is, the key 14 includes, for example, a rubber key 21b and key tops 14b1 and 14b2 (key top members). The key tops 14b1 and 14b2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin. The rubber key 21b is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 22. The rubber key 21b is formed of, for example, an elastic member such as rubber, in the same manner as the above-mentioned rubber key 21a. The rubber key 21b has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21b1 and 21b2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14b1 and 14b2 of the multiple keys 14, respectively.

[0052] The rubber key tops 21b1 and 21b2 are configured similarly to the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5). The ribs 31b1 and 31b2 are also configured similarly to the ribs 31a1 and 31a2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5).

[0053] Similar to the first configuration example, the key tops 14b1 and 14b2 are configured such that the height Tb1 from the bottom surface of the key top 14b1 arranged on the first end side to the operation surface 14tb1 is greater than the height Tb2 from the bottom surface of the key top 14b2 arranged on the second end side to the operation surface 14tb2.

[0054] The key tops 14b1 and 14b2 of the second configuration example are formed by changing the amount of hollowing out of the material for each key. The key tops 14b1 and 14b2 are formed to have different heights from the bottom surface to the operation surface depending on the position in the range from the first end (key top 14a1 side) to the second end (key top 14a2 side) in the same manner as the first configuration example, and the key top 14b1 on the first end side is higher than the key top 14b2. Therefore, if there was no hollowing out of the material, the mass of the key top 14b1 would be greater.

[0055] In the second configuration example, the mass of multiple key tops arranged in the range from the first end to the second end is made approximately the same by increasing the amount of hollowing out of the material depending on the height from the bottom surface to the operation surface. In the example shown in Fig. 7, for example, key top 14b1 is hollowed out leaving the internal support member 41b1, and key top 14b2 is hollowed out leaving the support member 41b2 that is larger than that of key top 14b1.

[0056] This makes it possible to standardize the operability of the multiple keys 14 by standardizing the configuration (material / shape (mass)) of the rubber keys 21b among the multiple keys 14, and by adjusting the hollowing out of the key tops 14b1 and 14b2, the mass of the key tops themselves can be made approximately equal between key tops 14b1 and 14b2, thereby reducing the load on the rubber keys 21b (rubber key tops 21b1, 21b2) and improving durability.

[0057] (3) Third Configuration Example FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG.

[0058] The third configuration example is basically formed in the same manner as the first configuration example. That is, the key 14 is configured to include, for example, a rubber key 21d and key tops 14d1 and 14d2 (key top members) in the same manner as the first configuration example. The key tops 14d1 and 14d2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin. The rubber key 21d (rubber member) is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 22. The rubber key 21d is formed of, for example, an elastic member such as rubber. The rubber key 21d has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21d1 and 21d2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 of the multiple keys 14, respectively.

[0059] The rubber key tops 21d1 and 21d2 are configured similarly to the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5).

[0060] Similar to the first configuration example, the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 are configured such that the height Td1 from the bottom surface of the key top 14d1 arranged on the first end side to the operation surface 14td1 is greater than the height Td2 from the bottom surface of the key top 14d2 arranged on the second end side to the operation surface 14td2.

[0061] In addition, the second housing surface 11b of the third configuration example does not have the ribs formed thereon as in the first configuration example.

[0062] In the third configuration example, support members 34d1, 34d2 extending in the sliding direction of the key tops 14d1, 14d2 are formed on the inside of the key tops 14d1, 14d2 and on the side surfaces of the rubber key tops 21d1, 21d2 (rubber members) of the multiple keys 14. The support members 34d1, 34d2 are formed integrally with the housing, for example, and are formed vertically from above the rubber key 21d to the bottom surface 13 of the housing.

[0063] A space is provided inside the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 to form the support member receivers 43d1 and 43d2 that slidably hold the support members 34d1 and 34d2. The support member receivers 43d1 and 43d2 provide a space between the outer periphery of the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 and the shaft of the key tops 14d1 and 14d2, for example, and support the support members 34d1 and 34d2 within the space. The shaft of the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, and the bar key tops 21d1 and 21d2 (rubber members) are attached to the lower end (bottom surface) of the cylindrical part.

[0064] The flanges 42d1, 42d2 are formed at the lower ends of the outer peripheries of the key tops 14d1, 14d2. The lengths of the outer peripheries of the key tops 14d1, 14d2 from the operation surfaces 14td1, 14td2 are formed so that the flanges 42d1, 42d2 are positioned close to the back surface (inside the housing) of the second housing surface 11a (or in contact when not in operation).

[0065] The length of the support member receivers 43d1, 43d2 (space) is formed, for example, at the maximum length (close to the operation surface 14td1) according to the heights Td1, Td2 of the key tops 14d1, 14d2. The length of the support members 34d1, 34d2 is also formed, for example, at the maximum length within a range in which the key tops 14d1, 14d2 can slide in the support member receivers 43d1, 43d2 (space) according to the heights Td1, Td2 of the key tops 14d1, 14d2. That is, in the configuration shown in FIG. 8, the support member receiver 43d1 is formed longer than the support member receiver 43d2, and the support member 34d1 is formed longer than the support member 34d2.

[0066] This allows the support member receivers 43d1 and 43d2 and the support members 34d1 and 34d2 to support the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 for as long as possible when the key tops 14d1 and 14d2 slide (a stroke caused by pressing). Therefore, it is possible to minimize wobbling of the key tops 14d1 and 14d2.

[0067] (4) Fourth Configuration Example FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG.

[0068] The fourth configuration example is basically formed in the same manner as the first configuration example. That is, the key 14 is configured to include, for example, a rubber key 21e and key tops 14e1, 14e2 (key top members) in the same manner as the first configuration example. The key tops 14e1, 14e2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin. The rubber key 21e is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 22. The rubber key 21e is formed of, for example, an elastic member such as rubber. The rubber key 21e has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21e1, 21e2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14e1, 14e2 of the multiple keys 14, respectively.

[0069] The rubber key tops 21e1 and 21e2 are configured similarly to the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5).

[0070] Similar to the first configuration example, the key tops 14e1 and 14e2 are configured such that the height Te1 from the bottom surface of the key top 14d1 arranged on the first end side to the operation surface 14te1 is greater than the height Te2 from the bottom surface of the key top 14e2 arranged on the second end side to the operation surface 14te2.

[0071] The second housing surface 11b of the fourth configuration example does not have a rib like the first configuration example (same as the third configuration example). In the fourth configuration example, flanges 45e1 and 45e2 having different heights (thicknesses) are formed at the bottoms of the key tops 14e1 and 14e2, respectively.

[0072] That is, since the second housing surface 11b (housing top surface) is inclined at an angle θ, the height from the bottom surface of the key tops 14e1 and 14e2 to the back surface (housing inside) of the second housing surface 11b is different. The thickness of the flanges 45e1 and 45e2 is formed so that the height is the position where the upper surface of the flanges 45e1 and 45e2 faces the back surface (housing inside) of the second housing surface 11b, that is, the position where they are close to each other or the position where they come into contact when not in operation, depending on the height from the bottom surface of the key tops 14e1 and 14e2 to the back surface (housing inside) of the second housing surface 11b. Therefore, the height Te11 of the flanges 45e1 formed on the key top 14e1 is formed higher (thicker) than the height Te21 of the flanges 45e2 formed on the key top 14e2.

[0073] This makes it possible to stably hold the key tops 14e1 and 14e2 by the second housing surface 11b and suppress wobbling, even without forming a rib at the opening of the second housing surface 11a (top surface of the housing) as in the first configuration example.

[0074] (5) Fifth Configuration Example In the first to fourth configuration examples, the configuration (material / shape (mass)) of the rubber keys (rubber key tops) is made common to multiple keys 14, and the height from the bottom surface of the key top to the operating surface is changed by varying the height from the bottom surface of the key top to the operating surface, while in the fifth to seventh configuration examples, the height from the bottom surface of the housing 13 to the operating surface of the key top is changed by placing a spacer.

[0075] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG.

[0076] The fifth configuration example is basically formed in the same manner as the fourth configuration example. That is, the key 14 is configured to include, for example, a rubber key 21f and key tops 14f1, 14f2 (key top members) in the same manner as the fourth configuration example. The key tops 14f1, 14f2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin. The rubber key 21f is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 22. The rubber key 21f is formed of, for example, an elastic member such as rubber. The rubber key 21f has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21f1, 21f2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14f1, 14f2 of the multiple keys 14, respectively.

[0077] The rubber key tops 21f1 and 21f2 are configured similarly to the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5).

[0078] In the fifth configuration example, in order to make the heights L1 and L2 from the bottom surface 13 of the housing to the operation surfaces of the key tops 14f1 and 14f2 step-shaped like the first configuration example, the key tops 14f1 and 14f2 are formed including spacers 51f1 and 52f2 of different heights. The heights Tf1 and Tf2 of the key tops 14f1 and 14f2 excluding the spacers 51f1 and 52f2 are the same, but the heights Tf11 and Tf21 of the spacers 51f1 and 52f2 are provided with a height difference according to the difference between the heights L1 and L2.

[0079] Therefore, the height from the bottom end of the key top 14f1 to the operation surface 14f1 is (Tf1+Tf11), and the height from the bottom end of the key top 14f2 to the operation surface 14f2 is (Tf2+Tf12), and the capacitance of the key top 14f21 arranged on the first end side is higher than that of the key top 14f2 arranged on the second end side. In other words, in the fifth configuration example, the bottom end of the key 14 (operation part) indicates the bottom ends of the spacers 51f1 and 52f2.

[0080] The spacers 51f1 and 52f2 are formed of, for example, a non-elastic material, such as resin. Therefore, when the key tops 14f1 and 14f2 are pressed down and the bottom surfaces of the rubber key tops 21f1 and 21f2 come into contact with the substrate 22, there is no difference in operability between the key tops 14f1 and 14f2.

[0081] In this way, by forming the key tops 14f1, 14f2 of multiple keys 14 with spacers 51f1, 52f2 of different heights, the height from the bottom surface 13 of the housing to the operating surfaces of the key tops 14f1, 14f2 can be changed, while the rubber key 21f and the key tops 14f1, 14f2 can be made common to each other, thereby reducing the production costs of parts and reducing differences in operability.

[0082] The fifth configuration example can also be applied to the first to fourth configuration examples described above. That is, similar to the fifth configuration example, the key tops may be formed including spacers of different heights to make the heights to the operation surface different.

[0083] (6) Sixth Configuration Example FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG.

[0084] The sixth configuration example is basically formed in the same manner as the fourth configuration example. That is, the key 14 is configured to include, for example, a rubber key 21g and key tops 14g1 and 14g2 (key top members) in the same manner as the fourth configuration example. The key tops 14g1 and 14g2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin. The rubber key 21g is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 22. The rubber key 21g is formed of, for example, an elastic member such as rubber. The rubber key 21g has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21g1 and 21g2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14g1 and 14g2 of the multiple keys 14, respectively.

[0085] The rubber key tops 21g1 and 21g2 of the sixth configuration example are formed so that the spacers 52g1 and 52g2 are included in the mounting portions 21g11 and 21g21. The spacers 52g1 and 52g2 are not formed separately from the rubber key 21g and then bonded, but are included in the rubber key 21g when it is molded.

[0086] The rubber key tops 21g1 and 21g2 are formed so as to have substantially the same mass as the rubber key tops 21a1 and 21a2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5), except for the spacers 52g1 and 52g2.

[0087] Here, the spacers 52g1 and 52g2 are included in the configuration of the key tops 14g1 and 14g2, respectively. That is, in the sixth configuration example, the lower end of the operation portion 14 indicates the lower end of the spacers 52g1 and 52g2.

[0088] In the sixth configuration example, in order to make the heights L1, L2 from the bottom surface 13 of the housing to the operating surfaces of the key tops 14g1, 14g2 stepped like the first configuration example, the height Tg11 of the spacer 52g1 and the height Tg21 of the spacer 52g2 are set to have a height difference corresponding to the difference between the heights L1, L2.

[0089] The spacers 51g1 and 52g2 are formed of, for example, a non-elastic material, such as resin, and the rubber key 21g (rubber key tops 21g1 and 21g2) except for the spacers 52g1 and 52g2 have a common structure. Therefore, when the key tops 14g1 and 14g2 are pressed down and the bottom surfaces of the rubber key tops 21g1 and 21g2 come into contact with the substrate 22, there is no difference in operability between the key tops 14g1 and 14g2.

[0090] In this way, by incorporating spacers 51g1, 52g2 of different heights into rubber key tops 21g1, 21g2 for multiple keys 14, the height from the bottom surface 13 of the housing to the operating surfaces of key tops 14g1, 14g2 can be changed, while the rubber keys 21g and key tops 14g1, 14g2 excluding spacers 52g1, 52g2 can be made common to reduce production costs of parts and differences in operability.

[0091] (7) Seventh Configuration Example FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG.

[0092] The seventh configuration example is basically formed in the same manner as the fifth configuration example. That is, the key 14 includes, for example, a rubber key 21h and key tops 14h1 and 14h2 (key top members). The key tops 14h1 and 14h2 (key top members) are formed of, for example, resin.

[0093] In the seventh configuration example, the height Th1 from the bottom surface of the key top 14h1 arranged on the first end side to the operation surface is formed to be approximately equal to the height Th2 from the bottom surface of the key top 14h2 arranged on the second end side to the operation surface. That is, in the seventh configuration example, not only is the configuration (material / shape (mass)) of the rubber keys 21h (rubber key tops 21h1, 21h2) standardized, but the key tops 14h1, 14h2 are also standardized.

[0094] In the seventh configuration example, a substrate 220 formed of, for example, a flexible substrate is provided at the bottom inside the housing of the electronic device 10. The substrate 220 supports a plurality of keys 14 inside the housing.

[0095] The bottom of the housing is formed in a stepped shape from the first end side to the second end side to match the area where the multiple keys 14 are arranged, i.e., the area on the first end side (first area) is higher from the bottom surface of the housing than the area on the second end side (second area).

[0096] In the seventh configuration example, the bottom of the housing is stepped in order to make the heights L1 and L2 from the housing bottom surface 13 to the operating surfaces of the key tops 14h1 and 14h2 stepped like the first configuration example. The heights of the first and second areas from the housing bottom surface 13 are different according to the difference between the heights L1 and L2.

[0097] The substrate 220 is formed of a flexible substrate and is disposed in the bottom of the stepped housing so as to conform to the shape of the bottom. Therefore, the height from the bottom surface of the housing to the substrate 220 is higher in the region 220h1 (height Lh1) on the first end side than in the region 220h2 (height Lh2) on the second end side (Lh1>Lh2).

[0098] A rubber key 21h is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate 220. The rubber key 21h is formed of an elastic member such as rubber. The rubber key 21h has dome-shaped rubber key tops 21h1, 21h2 (rubber members) formed at positions corresponding to the key tops 14h1, 14h2 of the multiple keys 14. That is, the rubber key top 21h1 (key top 14h1) is disposed in a region (first region) 220h1 on the first end side, and the rubber key top 21h2 (key top 14h2) is disposed in a region (second region) 220h2 on the second end side that is lower than the first region.

[0099] The rubber key tops 21h1, 21h2 are configured similarly to the rubber key tops 21h1, 21h2 of the first configuration example (FIG. 5).

[0100] In this way, by standardizing the configuration of the rubber key 21h (rubber key tops 21h1, 21h2) and the key tops 14h1, 14h2, differences in operability are prevented, and by forming the bottom inside the housing in a stepped shape for each area where the key 14 is arranged, the height from the bottom surface 13 of the housing to the operating surfaces of the key tops 14h1, 14h2 can be changed.

[0101] It should be noted that the seventh configuration example can also be implemented by applying the rubber key (rubber key top) and key top configuration of the fifth or sixth configuration example.

[0102] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments, and can be modified in various ways in the implementation stage without departing from the gist of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriate combinations of the disclosed constituent elements. For example, even if some constituent elements are deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiments, or some constituent elements are combined, if the problem described in the "Problem to be Solved by the Invention" column can be solved and the effect described in the "Effect of the Invention" column can be obtained, the configuration in which the constituent elements are deleted or combined can be extracted as the invention.

[0103] The invention as originally claimed in the present application is set forth below. [1] The touch panel includes a plurality of operation units, each of which includes a key top member having an operation surface and is disposed from a first end side to a second end side of the housing; An electronic device characterized in that the height from the lower end of the key top member to the operation surface is higher for a first operation part arranged on the first end side than for a second operation part arranged on the second end side. [2] the operation portion further includes a rubber member supporting the key top member, The electronic device described in [1], characterized in that the shape, dimensions, and material of the rubber member are common to the first operating unit and the second operating unit. [3] a top surface of the housing is formed so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to a mounting surface in a direction from the first end side to the second end side, an opening is formed in a top surface of the housing to allow the key top member to pass therethrough so as to be slidable in a vertical direction relative to the placement surface; a sliding auxiliary member is formed in a sliding direction of the key top member from the opening in the top surface of the housing to prevent the key top member from sliding in a direction different from the sliding direction; The electronic device according to [1] or [2], characterized in that the length of the sliding auxiliary member in the sliding direction is formed to differ depending on the height of the key top member corresponding to each of the first operating portion and the second operating portion. [4] The electronic device described in any one of [1] to [3], characterized in that the amount of hollowing out of the key top member of the first operation part is formed to be larger than that of the key top member of the second operation part. [5] a support member extending in a sliding direction of the key top member is formed on the inner side of the key top member and on a side surface of the rubber member in the plurality of operation portions; The electronic device described in [2] is characterized in that the length of the support member is formed to differ depending on the height of the key top member corresponding to each of the first operating portion and the second operating portion. [6] a top surface of the housing is formed so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to a placement surface in a direction from the first end side to the second end side, an opening is formed in a top surface of the housing to allow the key top member to pass therethrough so as to be slidable in a vertical direction relative to the placement surface; a part of the key top member corresponding to each of the first operation portion and the second operation portion is formed to face an inner side of the top surface of the housing; The electronic device described in any one of [1], [2], or [4], characterized in that the heights from the bottom end of the key top member of the first operation unit and the second operation unit to a position facing the inside of the housing on the top surface of the housing are different. [7] The key top member includes a spacer, The electronic device described in any one of [1] to [6], characterized in that the thickness of the spacer is made thicker in the first operating part than in the second operating part, so that the height from the lower end of the key top member to the operating surface is made higher in the first operating part than in the second operating part. [8] A plurality of operation units including a key top member having an operation surface, the operation units being arranged from a first end side to a second end side of the housing; A substrate on which the plurality of operation units are arranged; Equipped with a height from a lower end of the key top member to an operation surface is formed to be substantially equal between a first operation part arranged on the first end side and a second operation part arranged on the second end side; the first operation unit is disposed in a first region of the substrate, the second operation unit is disposed in a second region of the substrate, An electronic device, characterized in that the height from a bottom surface of a housing to the substrate is formed so that the first region is higher than the second region. [9] the operation portion further includes a rubber member supporting the key top member, The electronic device described in [8], wherein the shape, dimensions, and material of the rubber member are common to the first operating unit and the second operating unit.

[10] The electronic device according to [8] or [9], wherein the substrate is formed of a flexible substrate that can be bent. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 10...electronic device, 11...key input section, 12...display section, 13...bottom surface, 14...key, 16...display.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: a first surface having a display unit; and a second surface in contact with the first surface and having a plurality of operating units, the first surface is inclined with respect to a mounting surface of a housing in a first direction that is a connecting direction of the first surface and the second surface, and is parallel to the mounting surface in a second direction that is a direction along the mounting surface and perpendicular to the first direction, the second surface is provided so as to be inclined with respect to a mounting surface of the housing in the first direction and to be inclined with respect to the mounting surface in the second direction.

1. An electronic device comprising:

2. The first surface is provided so as to be inclined relative to the second surface in the first direction.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1 .

3. Further comprising a substrate supporting the operation unit, the substrate is provided so as to be parallel to the placement surface in the first direction and so as to be parallel to the placement surface in the second direction.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the first and second electrodes are arranged in a first direction.

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