Moderation device and rotary switch

Abstract

To provide a moderation device and a rotary switch that can diversify moderation modes applied to an operation unit.SOLUTION: A plurality of magnets 32 are arranged in a circumferential direction around a rotation axis L1 of an operation unit 3, and have at least one variable-pole magnet 36 whose magnetic pole orientation is changeable. A plurality of magnetic body pairs 34 have multiple first magnetic bodies 33 arranged between circumferentially adjacent magnets 32 and capable of forming a magnetic flux path of the magnets 32, and are composed of pairs of first magnetic bodies 33 arranged opposite each other symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis L1. A second magnetic body 35 is disposed around the plurality of magnetic body pairs 34, and a positional relation between the second magnetic body and the plurality of magnetic body pairs 34 changes when the operating unit 3 is rotated. The plurality of magnetic body pairs 34 are formed so that a magnetic flux between the magnetic body pair and the second magnetic body 35 exerts different attraction forces on the operation unit 3 for each of the pair. A moderation device 31 switches which of the magnetic body pairs 34 is attracted to the second magnetic body 35.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a detent device and a rotary switch. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a device capable of changing the tactile sensation generated by a rotating control button by utilizing magnetic interaction is known. This device has a cylindrical first structure with teeth that is rotated by a user, a second structure with teeth arranged inside the first structure, and a magnet at least partially surrounded by a coil. This device sets the presence or absence of a tactile sensation for the control button by changing the magnetization of the magnet depending on the direction and magnitude of a current flowing through the coil. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2022-509688 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, only two states can be set: a state in which a haptic sensation is generated in the control button, and a state in which a haptic sensation is not generated in the control button. Therefore, there is a concern that only two types of haptic sensations can be presented to a user who operates the control button. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The moderation device that solves the above problem includes a plurality of magnets arranged circumferentially around the rotation axis of an operating unit that is rotated, the magnets having at least one magnetic pole-variable magnet whose magnetic pole orientation can be changed, a plurality of first magnetic bodies arranged between adjacent magnets in the circumferential direction and capable of forming a magnetic flux path of the magnets, the plurality of magnetic body pairs being composed of pairs of the first magnetic bodies arranged opposite each other so as to be symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis, a second magnetic body arranged around the plurality of magnetic body pairs and whose positional relationship with the plurality of magnetic body pairs changes by the rotation of the operating unit, and a control unit that controls the magnetic pole orientation of the magnetic pole-variable magnet by passing current through a coil of the magnetic pole-variable magnet, the plurality of magnetic body pairs are formed so that a magnetic flux attraction force between the second magnetic body and the second magnetic body is applied to the operating unit differently for each pair, and the control unit switches which of the magnetic body pairs is to be attracted to the second magnetic body by controlling the current passing through the coil.

[0006] A rotary switch that solves the above problem includes an operating unit that is rotated around a rotation axis, and a rotation detection sensor that detects the rotation of the operating unit, and includes a plurality of magnets that are arranged circumferentially around the rotation axis, and have at least one magnetic pole-variable magnet whose magnetic pole orientation can be changed, a plurality of first magnetic bodies that are arranged between adjacent magnets in the circumferential direction and can form a magnetic flux path of the magnet, and a plurality of magnetic body pairs formed of pairs of the first magnetic bodies arranged opposite each other so as to be symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis, a second magnetic body that is arranged around the plurality of magnetic body pairs and whose positional relationship with the plurality of magnetic body pairs changes by the rotation of the operating unit, and a control unit that controls the orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnetic pole-variable magnet by passing current through a coil of the magnetic pole-variable magnet, and the plurality of magnetic body pairs are formed such that a magnetic flux attraction force between the second magnetic body and the second magnetic body is applied to the operating unit differently for each pair, and the control unit switches which of the magnetic body pairs is to be attracted to the second magnetic body by controlling the current passing through the coil. Effect of the Invention

[0007] The present invention can diversify the moderation modes given to the operation unit. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an overall configuration of a moderation device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a component configuration of the moderation device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a moderation device. [Diagram 5] 4(a) and (b) are explanatory diagrams showing the magnetic pole orientation of a magnet. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first magnetic body as viewed from above. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first magnetic body as viewed from below. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a group of elements constituting the moderation device. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is an electrical configuration diagram of the moderation device. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a magnetic flux path in a first detent mode. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a magnetic flux path in a second detent mode. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a magnetic flux path in a no-moderation mode. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a moderation device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. (Rotary switch 1) 1, the rotary switch 1 includes a housing 2 that houses the components of the rotary switch 1, and a rotary operation type operating unit 3 that is rotatably attached to the housing 2. The housing 2 has a holder portion 4 that holds the components of the rotary switch 1, a cover 6 that closes an opening 5 of the holder portion 4, and a support plate 7 that is attached to the back surface of the holder portion 4. The operating unit 3 is exposed to the outside through a hole 8 formed in the center of the cover 6, and is operated around a rotation axis L1 in the center of the rotary switch 1.

[0010] The rotary switch 1 has a board 9 on which electrical components of the rotary switch 1 are mounted. The board 9 is disposed on the back surface of a holder body 10 of the holder portion 4. The board 9 is covered by a support plate 7 attached to the back surface of the holder body 10.

[0011] The rotary switch 1 has a bearing 12 that allows rotation of the operating unit 3 in the housing 2, and a bearing holding portion 13 that holds the bearing 12. The bearing 12 is fitted into a hole 14 formed in the center of the bearing holding portion 13. The operating unit 3 is rotatably attached to a central hole 15 of the bearing 12. The operating unit 3 is assembled to the bearing 12 by rotatably placing a flange 16 formed on the outer circumferential surface on the periphery of the hole 15.

[0012] The holder part 4, cover 6, support plate 7, substrate 9, and bearing holding part 13 are fixed together by a plurality of fastening parts 17. The holder part 4, cover 6, support plate 7, substrate 9, and bearing holding part 13 are fixed together by inserting and fastening the fastening parts 17 into the four corners. The fastening parts 17 are, for example, screws. The holder part 4 has tubular parts 18 at the four corners through which the fastening parts 17 pass. The bearing holding part 13 is positioned relative to the holder part 4 by fitting the tubular parts 18 into holes 19 formed at the four corners.

[0013] (Rotation detection of operation unit 3) As shown in FIG. 2, the rotary switch 1 includes a rotation detection sensor 21 that detects the amount of rotation of the operating unit 3. The rotation detection sensor 21 in this example is, for example, a photosensor. The photosensor may be either a transmission type or a reflection type. The rotation detection sensor 21 includes a detection unit 22 having a function of emitting and receiving light, and a plurality of protrusions 23 that are equally spaced in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis of the operating unit 3 (around the rotation axis L1). Each of the protrusions 23 is formed, for example, in a quadrangular shape, and is disposed at the lower end of the operating unit 3.

[0014] The detection unit 22 is accommodated in a dome-shaped sensor accommodation portion 25 formed in a partition wall 24 extending in a planar direction in the holder body 10. The sensor accommodation portion 25 has a slit 26 in its upper wall through which the protrusion 23 passes. The rotation detection sensor 21 detects the amount of rotation of the operation unit 3 by counting the protrusion 23 of the operation unit 3 depending on whether the detection unit 22 receives its own irradiated light or not.

[0015] (Fixation of holder part 4 and bearing holding part 13) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the holder portion 4 has a plurality of bosses 28 on the partition wall 24 for passing fixing pins (not shown) that fix the holder portion 4 and the bearing holding portion 13. The bearing holding portion 13 has a plurality of fixing holes 29 having a diameter smaller than the boss diameter for fixing the fixing pins described above. For example, a plurality of sets of bosses 28 and fixing holes 29 are provided. The holder portion 4 and the bearing holding portion 13 are fixed together by the plurality of fixing pins described above. In this example, the tube portions 18 are arranged at the four corners of the partition wall 24 (see Figure 3).

[0016] (moderation device 31) As shown in Fig. 3, the rotary switch 1 includes a detent device 31 that applies detent to the operating unit 3 when it is rotated. The detent device 31 of this example generates at least three types of detent modes. The detent device 31 includes a plurality of magnets 32, a plurality of magnetic body pairs 34 each composed of a pair of first magnetic bodies 33, and a second magnetic body 35 that rotates synchronously with the operating unit 3. The plurality of magnets 32 include at least one variable magnetic pole magnet 36 that is capable of switching between an N pole and an S pole. The plurality of magnets 32 and the plurality of first magnetic bodies 33 are held by a holder unit 4.

[0017] The detent mode includes, for example, a plurality of detent modes with different detent degrees and a detentless mode in which no detent is felt. The detent mode is, for example, a ratchet mode in which a clicking sensation is felt when the operation unit 3 is rotated. The detentless mode is, for example, a free spin mode in which the operation unit 3 is rotated without a clicking sensation being felt when the operation unit 3 is rotated.

[0018] (Magnet 32) As shown in Fig. 4, the multiple magnets 32 are arranged in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis L1 of the operation unit 3. The magnets 32 in this example include, for example, a first magnet 32a, a second magnet 32b, a third magnet 32c, and a fourth magnet 32d arranged in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis L1 of the operation unit 3. All the magnets 32 in this example are variable pole magnets 36 whose magnetic pole orientation can be changed. An example of the variable pole magnet 36 is an alnico magnet. Note that the variable pole magnet 36 is not limited to an alnico magnet, and for example, a neodymium magnet or a ferrite magnet may be used.

[0019] 5(a) and (b), the magnet 32 ​​has a coil 37 formed by winding a metal wire multiple times in the same direction, a bobbin 38 around which the coil 37 is wound, and a core 39 housed in a hole 38a of the bobbin 38. The coil 37 is wound around a recess 38b formed in the outer circumferential surface of the bobbin 38. The core 39 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape and protrudes a predetermined amount from both ends of the hole 38a of the bobbin 38.

[0020] As shown in Fig. 5(a), when a current flows in the forward direction (arrow A1 direction) through coil 37, magnetic flux is generated in magnet 32 ​​to the left of the page (arrow B1 direction). As a result, the left side of core 39 becomes the north pole and the right side of the page becomes the south pole. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 5(b), when a current flows in the reverse direction (arrow A2 direction) through coil 37, magnetic flux is generated in magnet 32 ​​to the right of the page (arrow B2 direction). As a result, the polarity of magnet 32 ​​is reversed compared to when a current flows in the forward direction. That is, the left side of core 39 becomes the south pole and the right side of the page becomes the north pole.

[0021] (Magnetic material pair 34) 4, each of the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 is composed of a pair of first magnetic bodies 33 arranged symmetrically opposite each other with respect to the rotation axis L1 of the operating unit 3. The multiple magnetic body pairs 34 are formed so that the moderation generated by the attractive force of the magnetic flux between the second magnetic body 35 is given to the operating unit 3 with a different feeling for each pair. In this example, the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 are formed so that each pair has a different shape.

[0022] The magnetic body pairs 34 in this example include, for example, a first magnetic body pair 34a that imparts a large detent to the operating unit 3 when activated, and a second magnetic body pair 34b that imparts a small detent to the operating unit 3 when activated. Thus, the magnetic body pairs 34 in this example are formed in two sets in order to generate two types of detent.

[0023] The first magnetic body 33 is disposed between the magnets 32 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, and is capable of forming a path for the magnetic flux of the magnets 32. The first magnetic body 33 is made of a material such as iron, iron silicon, or permalloy.

[0024] 6 and 7, the first magnetic body 33 has a main body 41 of the first magnetic body 33 and a plurality of protrusions 42 protruding in the radial direction of the main body 41. The protrusions 42 are arranged at equal intervals in the width direction of the main body 41. In the magnetic body pair 34 of this example, the first magnetic body pair 34a has more protrusions 42 and the second magnetic body pair 34b has fewer protrusions 42. In this example, four protrusions 42 are formed in the first magnetic body pair 34a and two are formed in the second magnetic body pair 34b.

[0025] In this way, the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 are formed in different shapes so that the magnetic flux attraction force between the magnetic body pairs 34 and the second magnetic body 35 is different for each pair of first magnetic bodies 33 and applied to the operation unit 3. In this example, the magnetic body pairs 34 set the magnetic flux attraction force between the magnetic body pairs 34 and the second magnetic body 35 based on the number of protrusions 42 aligned in the circumferential direction.

[0026] The first magnetic body 33 has an engagement portion 43 that partially protrudes from an upper portion of the main body portion 41. The engagement portion 43 is formed, for example, in a triangular shape in a planar cross section. The engagement portion 43 is engaged with the holder portion 4 when the first magnetic body 33 is attached to the holder portion 4. The first magnetic body 33 has a plurality of groove portions 44 provided adjacent to the protrusions 42. The protrusions 42 and the groove portions 44 are alternately arranged in the width direction of the first magnetic body 33.

[0027] (Second magnetic body 35) As shown in Fig. 3, the second magnetic body 35 is formed in an annular shape so as to surround the first magnetic body 33 (magnetic body pair 34). In this example, the second magnetic body 35 is formed in an annular shape. The second magnetic body 35 is arranged coaxially with the operating unit 3. The second magnetic body 35 is attached and fixed to, for example, the inner circumferential surface of the operating unit 3 so as to be integrally rotatable. The material of the second magnetic body 35 is, for example, iron, silicon iron, permalloy, or the like.

[0028] 4, the second magnetic body 35 is disposed around the multiple magnetic body pairs 34, and the positional relationship between the second magnetic body 35 and the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 changes by rotating the operating unit 3. The second magnetic body 35 has protrusions 46 on its inner circumferential surface that protrude in the inner diameter direction. The protrusions 46 are disposed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis L1. The protrusions 46 are preferably formed in the same shape as the protrusions 42 of the opposing first magnetic body 33.

[0029] (Arrangement pattern of protrusions 42) 4, the circumferential pitch W1 of the protrusions 42 of the first magnetic body pair 34a is set to 1 / 2 the circumferential pitch W3 of the protrusions 46 of the second magnetic body 35. The circumferential pitch W2 of the protrusions 42 of the second magnetic body pair 34b is set to the same as the circumferential pitch W3 of the protrusions 46 of the second magnetic body 35. When there are multiple protrusions 42, each of the pitches W1 and W2 is set to an interval such that the multiple protrusions 42 face the protrusions 46 at the same time.

[0030] (Holder part 4) 8, the holder portion 4 has a plurality of magnetic body accommodating portions 48 formed in sections for accommodating the plurality of first magnetic bodies 33, respectively. The magnetic body accommodating portions 48 have side walls 49 that separate the accommodating regions of the magnetic body accommodating portions 48. In this example, a pair of side walls 49 are provided on both sides. The magnetic body accommodating portions 48 have base ends supported by the holder main body 10, and circumferentially adjacent tip ends are connected to each other by connecting portions 50.

[0031] The magnetic body accommodating portion 48 has an insertion hole 51 on the bottom surface for inserting the first magnetic body 33 into the magnetic body accommodating portion 48. The magnetic body accommodating portion 48 has a fitting hole 52 at its tip for fitting the engagement portion 43 of the first magnetic body 33. The inner surfaces of the insertion hole 51 and the fitting hole 52 are formed with crushed ribs 53 for fixing the first magnetic body 33 accommodated in the magnetic body accommodating portion 48. In this way, the magnetic body accommodating portion 48 has the crushed ribs 53 for fixing the accommodated first magnetic body 33 in position.

[0032] The holder portion 4 has a plurality of magnet accommodating portions 55 that accommodate the magnets 32, respectively. In order to accommodate the plurality of magnets 32, the magnet accommodating portion 55 is formed by an area surrounded by adjacent magnetic body accommodating portions 48 among the plurality of magnetic body accommodating portions 48 that are aligned in the circumferential direction. The side wall 49 separates the magnet accommodating portion 55 from the magnetic body accommodating portion 48 that is adjacent to the magnetic body accommodating portion 48 in the circumferential direction.

[0033] The side wall 49 has an opening 56 that allows the core 39 of the magnet 32 ​​located adjacent to the side wall 49 in the circumferential direction to come into contact with the first magnetic body 33 housed in the magnetic body housing portion 48. The opening 56 is formed in the side wall 49 on both sides of each magnetic body housing portion 48. The opening 56 is formed in, for example, a rectangular shape.

[0034] When accommodating the magnet 32 ​​in the magnet accommodating portion 55, first, the bobbin 38, on which the coil 37 is wound but the core 39 is not attached, is fitted into the magnet accommodating portion 55 from the radial side of the holder portion 4. Next, the core 39 is passed through the hole 38a of the bobbin 38 from the opening 56 to integrate the magnet 32. Then, the first magnetic body 33 is attached to the holder portion 4 by inserting the first magnetic body 33 into each insertion hole 51 from below. In this manner, the magnet 32 ​​and the multiple first magnetic bodies 33 are integrated with the holder portion 4.

[0035] (Electrical configuration of rotary switch 1) 9, the rotary switch 1 includes a control unit 58 that controls the operation of the rotary switch 1. The control unit 58 is configured with, for example, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, and the like. The control unit 58 calculates the amount of operation of the operation unit 3 based on a sensor signal S1 input from the rotation detection sensor 21. Then, the control unit 58 outputs the calculated amount of operation to another external ECU (Electronic Control Unit) as rotation information S2.

[0036] Furthermore, the control unit 58 of this example executes a moderation mode switching process generated in the operation unit 3 based on a switching signal Sa that instructs the setting of the moderation mode. The control unit 58 of this example executes the moderation mode switching by controlling the orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnetic pole variable magnet 36 by energizing the coil 37 of the magnetic pole variable magnet 36. In this manner, the control unit 58 generates at least three types of moderation modes by switching which magnetic body pair 34 is attracted to the second magnetic body 35 by controlling the energization of the coil 37.

[0037] The control unit 58 externally inputs a switching signal Sa in accordance with, for example, an operating situation of the operation unit 3, an operating state of the operation unit 3, an amount of rotational operation of the operation unit 3, etc. Then, the control unit 58 sets the moderation mode generated in the operation unit 3 to a mode in accordance with the switching signal Sa from among a plurality of moderation modes and no moderation modes.

[0038] Next, the operation of the moderation device 31 (rotary switch 1) of this embodiment will be described. (Operation in the first detent mode) 10, when the control unit 58 receives a switching signal Sa to switch to the first mode with detent, it controls the energization of the coils 37 so that the first magnetic body pair 34a of the first magnetic body pair 34a and the second magnetic body pair 34b is active. Specifically, the control unit 58 controls the energization of each coil 37 for the four magnets 32, the first magnet 32a to the fourth magnet 32d, so that the magnetic poles on both sides of the first magnetic body pair 34a are the same polarity and the magnetic poles on both sides of the second magnetic body pair 34b are different polarities.

[0039] In the case of FIG. 10, the first magnet 32a has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an S pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an N pole. The second magnet 32b has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an S pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an N pole. The third magnet 32c has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an N pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an S pole. The fourth magnet 32d has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an N pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an S pole.

[0040] In the case of this magnetic pole orientation, a loop of magnetic flux is generated between the magnetic body pair 34 and the second magnetic body 35, radiating from one of the first magnetic body pairs 34a, passing through the second magnetic body 35, and entering the other first magnetic body pair 34a. That is, no magnetic flux is generated from the second magnetic body pair 34b through the second magnetic body 35, but a magnetic flux is generated from the first magnetic body pair 34a through the second magnetic body 35. Therefore, the first magnetic body pair 34a is enabled, and the second magnetic body pair 34b is disabled. As a result, when the operating unit 3 is rotated, a click is generated at the pitch W1 of the protrusion 42 of the first magnetic body pair 34a. In this example, the operating unit 3 is rotated at intervals of 10 degrees.

[0041] (Operation in the second detent mode) 11, when the control unit 58 receives a switching signal Sa to switch to the second mode with detent, it controls the energization of the coils 37 so that the second magnetic body pair 34b of the first magnetic body pair 34a and the second magnetic body pair 34b is enabled. Specifically, the control unit 58 controls the energization of each coil 37 for the four magnets 32, the first magnet 32a to the fourth magnet 32d, so that the magnetic poles on both sides of the second magnetic body pair 34b are the same polarity and the magnetic poles on both sides of the first magnetic body pair 34a are different polarities.

[0042] In the case of FIG. 11, the first magnet 32a has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an N pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an S pole. The second magnet 32b has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an S pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an N pole. The third magnet 32c has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an S pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an N pole. The fourth magnet 32d has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an N pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an S pole.

[0043] In the case of this magnetic pole orientation, a loop of magnetic flux is generated between the magnetic body pair 34 and the second magnetic body 35, radiating from one of the second magnetic body pairs 34b, passing through the second magnetic body 35, and entering the other second magnetic body pair 34b. That is, no magnetic flux is generated from the first magnetic body pair 34a through the second magnetic body 35, and a magnetic flux is generated from the second magnetic body pair 34b through the second magnetic body 35. Therefore, the second magnetic body pair 34b is enabled, and the first magnetic body pair 34a is disabled. As a result, when the operating unit 3 is rotated, a click is generated at the pitch W2 of the protrusion 42 of the second magnetic body pair 34b. In this example, the operating unit 3 is rotated at intervals of 20 degrees.

[0044] (No moderation mode) 12, when a switching signal Sa to the no mode is input, the control unit 58 controls the energization of the coils 37 so that both the first magnetic body pair 34a and the second magnetic body pair 34b are disabled. Specifically, the control unit 58 controls the energization of each coil 37 for the four magnets 32, the first magnet 32a to the fourth magnet 32d, so that the magnetic poles on both sides of the first magnetic body pair 34a and the magnetic poles on both sides of the second magnetic body pair 34b are opposite polarities.

[0045] In the case of FIG. 12, the first magnet 32a has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an S pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an N pole. The second magnet 32b has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an N pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an S pole. The third magnet 32c has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an S pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an N pole. The fourth magnet 32d has a magnetic pole facing the first magnetic body pair 34a set as an N pole, and a magnetic pole facing the second magnetic body pair 34b set as an S pole.

[0046] In the case of this magnetic pole orientation, magnetic flux is generated in a loop shape passing only through the magnet 32 ​​and the magnetic body pair 34. In other words, no magnetic flux is generated flowing from the magnetic body pair 34 to the second magnetic body 35. Therefore, both the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35 are ineffective. As a result, there is no moderation between the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35, and a rotation operation without a clicking sensation is imparted to the operating unit 3.

[0047] (Parameter that determines moderation) Moderation is set, for example, by the following four parameters: -Magnetic flux strength of magnet 32 The size of the air gap between the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35 The size of the facing area of ​​the protrusion 42 of the first magnetic body 33 relative to the second magnetic body 35 The crest width and valley width of the protrusion 42 5, the magnetic flux strength of magnet 32 ​​is related to the size of magnet 32 ​​(length Lm, diameter Lr), the material of magnet 32, the amount of magnetization of magnet 32, etc. The magnetic flux strength of magnet 32 ​​increases as the size of magnet 32 ​​increases. The magnetic flux strength of magnet 32 ​​increases for materials with higher magnetic flux density. The magnetic flux strength of magnet 32 ​​increases as the current flowing through magnet 32 ​​increases.

[0048] 4, the air gap between the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35 includes a first gap G1 where the protrusion 42 is present and a second gap G2 where the protrusion 42 is not present. The smaller the first gap G1 is, the greater the detent. Also, the larger the second gap G2 is, the smaller the detent is. Therefore, the larger the ratio of the first gap G1 to the second gap G2 (= G1 / G2), the greater the change in detent feeling.

[0049] 6, the size of the facing area of ​​the protrusion 42 of the first magnetic body 33 relative to the second magnetic body 35 is a value obtained by multiplying the width Wr of the protrusion 42 by the height H of the protrusion 42. The larger the facing area is, the greater the feeling of detent becomes. Therefore, the larger the facing area is, the greater the change in feeling of detent becomes.

[0050] 6, the crest width of the protrusion 42 is the width Wr of the protrusion 42 of the first magnetic body 33. The valley width of the protrusion 42 is the width Ws of the portion of the first magnetic body 33 where the protrusion 42 does not exist. The wider the width Wr of the protrusion 42, the greater the sense of detent. The wider the width Ws of the portion where the protrusion 42 does not exist, the smaller the detent. The ratio of these widths Wr and Ws (=Wr / Ws) is set to an optimal value according to the required sense of detent.

[0051] As a result of the above, the strength of the magnetic flux of the magnet 32, the size of the air gap between the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35, the facing area size of the protrusion 42 of the first magnetic body 33 relative to the second magnetic body 35, and the crest width and valley width of the protrusion 42 are each set to a value according to the detent required for the operating unit 3. In this manner, optimal detent sensations are set for the first detent mode and the second detent mode. Also, in this example, since multiple detent modes can be selected, it is possible to generate a variety of detent sensations in the operating unit 3.

[0052] (Effects of the embodiment) According to the configuration of the above embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) The moderation device 31 includes a plurality of magnets 32, a plurality of magnetic body pairs 34, a second magnetic body 35, and a control unit 58. The plurality of magnets 32 are arranged in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis L1 of the operating unit 3 that is rotated, and have at least one magnetic pole variable magnet 36 that can change the orientation of the magnetic poles. The plurality of magnetic body pairs 34 have a plurality of first magnetic bodies 33 that are arranged between the magnets 32 adjacent in the circumferential direction and can form a magnetic flux path of the magnet 32, and are composed of pairs of the first magnetic bodies 33 that are arranged symmetrically opposite to each other with respect to the rotation axis L1 of the operating unit 3. The second magnetic body 35 is arranged around the plurality of magnetic body pairs 34, and the positional relationship between the second magnetic body 35 and the plurality of magnetic body pairs 34 changes by the rotation operation of the operating unit 3. The control unit 58 controls the orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnetic pole variable magnet 36 by passing current through the coil 37 of the magnetic pole variable magnet 36. The magnetic body pairs 34 are formed so that a different magnetic flux attraction force between the magnetic body pairs 34 and the second magnetic body 35 is applied to the operation unit 3. The control unit 58 switches which magnetic body pairs 34 are to be attracted to the second magnetic body 35 by controlling the energization of the coil 37.

[0053] According to this configuration, by controlling the energization of the coil 37 provided in the magnetic pole variable magnet 36, it is possible to change the sense of detent generated by the magnetic flux attraction force between the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35 by switching which of the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 is to be attracted to the second magnetic body 35. In this way, by controlling which magnetic body pair 34 is to be enabled by energizing the coil 37, it is possible to generate a variety of detent modes. Therefore, it is possible to diversify the detent modes provided to the operating unit 3.

[0054] (2) The control unit 58 generates at least three types of detent modes. The detent modes include a plurality of detent modes with different detent strengths and a no-detent mode in which no detent strength is generated. With this configuration, the detent mode of the operation unit 3 can be selected from a plurality of detent modes, and a no-detent mode in which no detent strength is generated can also be set.

[0055] (3) The moderation device 31 has a holder portion 4 that holds a plurality of magnets 32 and a plurality of first magnetic bodies 33. According to this configuration, by attaching the plurality of magnets 32 and the plurality of first magnetic bodies 33 to the holder portion 4, a positioning state can be maintained.

[0056] (4) The holder part 4 has a plurality of magnetic body accommodation parts 48 formed in sections for accommodating each of the plurality of first magnetic bodies 33. The magnetic body accommodation parts 48 have crushed ribs 53 that fix the position of the accommodated first magnetic bodies 33. According to this configuration, the first magnetic bodies 33 accommodated in the magnetic body accommodation parts 48 of the holder part 4 can be fixed by the crushed ribs 53, so that the first magnetic bodies 33 are less likely to fall off from the holder part 4.

[0057] (5) The holder unit 4 has a plurality of magnet accommodating sections 55 constituted by an area surrounded by adjacent magnetic body accommodating sections 48 among the plurality of magnetic body accommodating sections 48 arranged in the circumferential direction in order to accommodate each of the plurality of magnets 32. The base ends of the plurality of magnetic body accommodating sections 48 are supported by the holder body 10 of the holder unit 4, and adjacent tips in the circumferential direction are connected to each other by connecting sections 50 that define the magnet accommodating sections 55. With this configuration, it is possible to form the magnetic body accommodating sections 48 and the magnet accommodating sections 55 in shapes that are difficult to deform, and therefore it is possible to make it difficult for the magnet 32 ​​and the first magnetic body 33 to fall off from the holder unit 4.

[0058] (6) The magnetic body housing portion 48 has a side wall 49 that separates it from the magnet housing portion 55 located adjacent thereto in the circumferential direction. The side wall 49 has an opening 56 that allows the core 39 of the magnet 32 ​​located adjacent thereto in the circumferential direction to come into contact with the first magnetic body 33 housed in the magnetic body housing portion 48. According to this configuration, the pair of adjacent first magnetic bodies 33 can press and hold both sides of the core 39 of the magnet 32, making it possible to prevent the magnet 32 ​​from shifting position.

[0059] (7) The first magnetic body 33 has protrusions 42 that protrude in the radial direction. The magnetic body pairs 34 set the magnetic flux attraction force between the second magnetic body 35 and the protrusions 42 arranged in the circumferential direction. With this configuration, the moderation generated between each of the magnetic body pairs 34 and the second magnetic body 35 can be set by the simple method of setting the number of protrusions 42 provided on the magnetic body pairs 34.

[0060] (8) When the magnets 32 located on both sides have the same polarity, each of the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 is in an active state where a magnetic flux path is formed between the second magnetic body 35, thereby providing moderation to the operation unit 3. When the magnets 32 located on both sides have different polarities, each of the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 is in an inactive state where a magnetic flux path is not formed between the second magnetic body 35, thereby providing no moderation to the operation unit 3. The control unit 58 sets which of the multiple magnetic body pairs 34 is to be enabled by controlling the current supply to the coil 37. With this configuration, various moderation modes can be generated by a simple method of determining the combination of the north pole and south pole of each magnet 32 ​​and setting the magnetic body pairs 34 to be enabled or disabled.

[0061] (Other embodiments) This embodiment can be modified as follows: This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that no technical contradiction occurs.

[0062] 13, at least one of the magnets 32 may be a pole-unchanging magnet 60 whose magnetic pole orientation is fixed. Specifically, a magnet 32 ​​(fourth magnet 32d in this example) whose magnetic pole orientation does not need to be changed even when switching between the first mode with mode, the second mode with mode, and the no mode with mode may be the pole-unchanging magnet 60. With this configuration, the number of magnets 32 that are the subject of current control of the coil 37 is small, so that the moderation mode switching process can be simplified.

[0063] The magnet 32 ​​and the magnetic body pair 34 may be disposed radially outside the rotary switch 1, and the second magnetic body 35 may be disposed radially inside the rotary switch 1. In the rotary switch 1, the magnet 32 ​​and the magnetic body pair 34 may be provided on the rotating side, and the second magnetic body 35 may be provided on the non-rotating side.

[0064] The rotation detection sensor 21 is not limited to an optical sensor, and a magnetic sensor may be used. The detent device 31 is not limited to a configuration in which detent is generated by the protrusion 42 of the first magnetic body 33 and the protrusion 46 of the second magnetic body 35 attracting each other by a magnetic field. For example, the protrusions 42, 46 may be omitted and the distance between the first magnetic body 33 and the second magnetic body 35 may be changed to generate a different detent.

[0065] The magnetic pairs 34 may be of the same shape, or may be made of different materials to provide different click sensations. The moderation device 31 may, for example, switch the resistance of the rotation operation of the operation unit 3 to switch the moderation mode. That is, instead of a clicking sensation as the sense of moderation, the operation load of the operation unit 3 may be changed.

[0066] The number of switchable modes is not limited to two, but may be three or more. The number of magnets 32, the number of first magnetic bodies 33, and the number of magnetic body pairs 34 may be changed to numbers different from those in the embodiment according to the number of moderation modes.

[0067] The rotary switch 1 and the moderation device 31 may be used in devices other than vehicles. The phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one option" or "both of two options" if the number of options is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" if the number of options is three or more.

[0068] The control unit 58 may be configured by [1] one or more processors that operate according to a computer program (software), or [2] a combination of such a processor and one or more dedicated hardware circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), that executes at least some of the various processes. The processor includes a CPU and memory, such as RAM and ROM, that stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute the processes. The memory (computer-readable medium) includes any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer. Alternatively, instead of a computer including the processor, a processing circuit configured by one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute all of the various processes may be used.

[0069] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to the embodiment, it is understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment or structure. The present disclosure also includes various modifications and modifications within the scope of equivalents. In addition, various combinations and forms, as well as other combinations and forms including only one element, more than one element, or less than one element, are also within the scope and concept of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1...rotary switch, 3...operation unit, 4...holder unit, 10...holder main body, 21...rotation detection sensor, 31...moderation device, 32...magnet, 33...first magnetic body, 34...magnetic body pair, 35...second magnetic body, 36...variable magnetic pole magnet, 37...coil, 39...core, 42...protrusion, 48...magnetic body accommodating unit, 49...side wall, 50...connecting unit, 53...crushed rib, 55...magnet accommodating unit, 56...opening, 58...control unit, 60...univariable magnetic pole magnet, L1...rotation axis.

Claims

1. A plurality of magnets are arranged in a circumferential direction around a rotation axis of an operating unit that is rotated, the magnets having at least one variable-pole magnet whose magnetic pole orientation is changeable; a plurality of first magnetic bodies arranged between the magnets adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction to form a magnetic flux path of the magnets, the plurality of magnetic body pairs being composed of pairs of the first magnetic bodies arranged symmetrically opposite each other with respect to the rotation axis; a second magnetic body arranged around the plurality of magnetic body pairs, and a positional relationship between the second magnetic body and the plurality of magnetic body pairs is changed by a rotation operation of the operation unit; a control unit that controls the orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnetic pole-variable magnet by energizing a coil of the magnetic pole-variable magnet; the plurality of magnetic body pairs are formed such that an attractive force of magnetic flux between the magnetic body and the second magnetic body is different for each pair and is applied to the operation unit; The control unit switches which of the magnetic body pairs is attracted to the second magnetic body by controlling the current supply to the coil.

2. The control unit generates at least three types of moderation modes, The moderation device according to claim 1 , wherein the moderation modes include a plurality of moderation modes with different modes of moderation and a moderation-free mode in which no moderation occurs.

3. The moderation device according to claim 1 , further comprising a holder portion that holds the plurality of magnets and the plurality of first magnetic bodies.

4. the holder portion has a plurality of magnetic body accommodating portions formed into compartments for accommodating the plurality of first magnetic bodies, The detent device according to claim 3 , wherein the magnetic body receiving portion has a crushed rib for fixing the position of the received first magnetic body.

5. The holder portion includes: a plurality of magnetic body receiving portions formed in sections for receiving the first magnetic bodies, a plurality of magnet accommodating portions each configured by an area surrounded by adjacent magnetic body accommodating portions among the plurality of magnetic body accommodating portions arranged in the circumferential direction in order to accommodate each of the plurality of magnets; The moderation device according to claim 3 , wherein the base ends of the multiple magnetic body storage portions are supported by the holder body of the holder portion, and adjacent tips in the circumferential direction are connected to each other by a connecting portion that partitions the magnet storage portion.

6. The magnetic body accommodating portion has a side wall that separates it from the magnet accommodating portion located adjacent to it in the circumferential direction, The moderation device according to claim 5 , wherein the side wall has an opening that allows the core of the magnet located adjacent to the side wall in the circumferential direction to come into contact with the first magnetic body housed in the magnetic body housing portion.

7. The moderation device of claim 1 , wherein the magnet comprises a polarity invariant magnet having a fixed polarity orientation.

8. The first magnetic body has a protrusion protruding in a radial direction, The moderation device according to claim 1 , wherein the magnetic body pair sets an attractive force of the magnetic flux between the second magnetic body and the magnetic body pair depending on the number of the protrusions aligned in the circumferential direction.

9. Each of the plurality of magnetic body pairs, when the polarities of the magnets located on both sides are the same, is in an active state in which a magnetic flux path is formed between the second magnetic body, thereby applying a moderation to the operation unit, and when the magnets located on both sides are of opposite polarities, is in an inactive state in which a magnetic flux path is not formed between the second magnetic body, thereby not applying a moderation to the operation unit, The moderation device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit sets which of the plurality of magnetic body pairs is to be enabled by controlling the energization of the coil.

10. A rotary switch including an operating unit that is rotated around a rotation axis and a rotation detection sensor that detects the rotation of the operating unit, A plurality of magnets are arranged in a circumferential direction around the rotation axis, the magnets having at least one variable pole magnet whose magnetic pole orientation is changeable; a plurality of first magnetic bodies arranged between the magnets adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction to form a magnetic flux path of the magnets, the plurality of magnetic body pairs being composed of pairs of the first magnetic bodies arranged symmetrically opposite each other with respect to the rotation axis; a second magnetic body arranged around the plurality of magnetic body pairs, and a positional relationship between the second magnetic body and the plurality of magnetic body pairs is changed by a rotation operation of the operation unit; a control unit that controls the orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnetic pole-variable magnet by energizing a coil of the magnetic pole-variable magnet; the plurality of magnetic body pairs are formed such that an attractive force of magnetic flux between the magnetic body and the second magnetic body is different for each pair and is applied to the operation unit; The control unit is a rotary switch that switches which of the magnetic body pairs is to be attracted to the second magnetic body by controlling the energization of the coil.

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