Push button

Abstract

To provide a push button capable of clearly recognizing a depression.SOLUTION: A button main body 2 is supported so as to enable a depression operation and a rotational operation. A projection member 30 is provided to the button main body 2, and includes an inclination surface 40 in which a third inclination surface part 42C and a fourth inclination part 42D of which an inclination angle is larger than an inclination angle of the third inclination surface part 42C so as to be provided to the side opposite to a first direction from the third inclination surface part 42C so as to be inclined to a peripheral direction of the button main body 2 against a direction along a stroke direction. A guide member 10 guides the projection member 30 to the peripheral direction of the button main body 2 while being contacted to the inclination surface 40 of the projection member 30 when depressing the button main body 2. The depression member 20 is provided to the button main body 2, and depresses a switch by depressing the button main body 2. In accordance with a guide of the projection member 30 by the guide member 10, the button main body 2 is rotated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a push button. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an input operation in which the operation knob is pushed downward and an input operation in which the operation knob is rotated. Patent Document 2 discloses a switch element capable of pressing a rotary push knob. When the rotary push knob is operated, the push knob also pushes. The rotary push knob is designed not to operate the rotary when the push knob is operated. A shoe switch device is disclosed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-103509 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2004-241317 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, it is difficult for users to visually recognize the location and function of the push button. If the user is unable to clearly recognize that the button has been pressed, the user may mistakenly press the button. In the technology disclosed in the above-mentioned patent document, when a pushing action is performed, Since only the member is pressed, it is not clear that the user has pressed the desired push button. It may not be clearly recognizable.

[0005] In view of the above problems, the present invention provides a push button that allows the user to clearly recognize that the button has been pressed. The purpose of this document is to provide [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention provides a push button comprising: a button body supported to be capable of being pressed and rotated; a protrusion member provided on the button body and having a slope formed thereon, the protrusion member having a third slope portion and a fourth slope portion provided on the opposite side of the third slope portion from the first direction and having a larger slope angle than the third slope portion so as to be inclined circumferentially of the button body with respect to a direction along a first direction which is the direction in which the button body is pressed; a guide member that guides the protrusion member in the circumferential direction of the button body while coming into contact with the slope of the protrusion member when the button body is pressed; and a press member provided on the button body and presses a switch when the button body is pressed, wherein the button body rotates as the protrusion member is guided by the guide member. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, a push button is provided that allows the user to clearly recognize that the button has been pressed. It is possible. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a push button according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a push button according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram showing the vicinity of a protrusion member and a guide member according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a push button according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a push button according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement between a push-down member and a switch according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an arrangement between a push-down member and a switch according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a protrusion member according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a protrusion member according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing a protrusion member according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a push button according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a push button according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a push button according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a push button device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The elements are numbered the same.

[0010] 1 and 2 are diagrams showing a push button 1 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the push button 1 according to the first embodiment. A side view of the above is shown.

[0011] The push button 1 includes a button body 2, a guide member 10 (10A, 10B), and a pressing member 20. and protruding members 30 (30A, 30B). Note that FIG. 1 shows two protruding members 30 Although the number of protruding members 30 is shown as 30A and 30B, the number of protruding members 30 is arbitrary. Although guide members 10A and 10B are shown, the number of guide members 10 is arbitrary. The number of members 10 may be the same as the number of protruding members 30. The same applies to the embodiment.

[0012] The push button 1 (button body 2) is pressed in the direction shown by arrow A in Figures 1 and 2. As a result, the pressing member 20 moves toward the switch 4, and the pressing member 20 presses the switch 4. This causes the switch 4 to operate and execute a specified function. In this embodiment, the push button 1 (button body 2) is pushed in the direction of the arrow A. When the button is pressed, the push button 1 (button body 2) becomes a cylindrical button as shown by the arrow Br. The push button 1 is configured to rotate along the circumferential direction of the tongue body 2. When (button body 2) is pressed, it rotates in the direction of arrow Br and moves forward in the direction of arrow A. The direction indicated by the arrow A, that is, the direction in which the button body 2 is pressed, is the stroke direction. The direction indicated by the arrow Br is referred to as the drive direction (first direction).

[0013] For convenience of explanation, the XYZ orthogonal coordinate axes are introduced. In FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the right-handed X A YZ coordinate system is shown. The Y axis direction corresponds to the direction along the stroke direction. The rotation direction of the push button 1 corresponds to the -Y direction. The rotation direction of the push button 1 corresponds to the -ZX plane. Also, when looking at the button body 2 from the +Y side, the rotation direction is counterclockwise. do.

[0014] The button body 2 has a cylindrical shape. When viewed in the direction of the arrow A (-Y direction), The user places a finger or the like on the top surface 2a formed on the +Y side of the button body 2. , and push the button body 2 in the direction of the arrow A (-Y side). The top surface 2a may be knurled. By doing so, the user can feel the rotation of the button body 2 with a stronger tactile sensation. In addition, a protruding member 30 and a pressing member 20 are provided on the bottom surface 2b of the button body 2. The protruding member 30 and the pressing member 20 may be formed integrally with the button body 2. .

[0015] The button body 2 is supported so as to be capable of being pressed and rotated. For example, The button body 2 is supported by a support member 6 so as to be capable of being pressed and rotated. As described above, the pushing motion is the motion in the direction of the arrow A, and the rotating motion is the motion in the direction of the arrow The support member 6 is, for example, the upper surface of a housing that houses the push button 1. The support member 6 may have a hole formed therein, the hole having a shape corresponding to the circular shape of the button body 2. The hole and the side surface 2c of the button body 2 slide against each other, so that the button body 2 is pressed. The support member 6 may be supported so as to be capable of being pushed in and rotated. The method of supporting the button body 2 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the support member 6 may be The central axis (rotation axis) provided in the support may be supported.

[0016] The pressing member 20 presses the switch 4 when the button body 2 is pressed. In the first embodiment, the switch 4 is disposed on the -Y side of the pressing member 20. The pressing member 20 in the first embodiment is pressed from the bottom surface 2b of the button body 2 to the switch 4 side, i.e., -Y When the button body 2 is pressed in the direction of arrow A, that is, in the -Y direction, When the pressing member 20 is inserted, the pressing member 20 also moves in the direction of the arrow A, i.e., in the -Y direction. As a result, the pressing member 20 presses the switch 4 in the direction of the arrow A, that is, in the -Y direction. In addition, an inclined surface 22 is provided on the -Y side of the pressing member 20, that is, on the portion facing the switch 4. When the pressing member 20 presses the switch 4, any position of the inclined surface 22 is It may contact switch 4.

[0017] The protruding members 30 (30A, 30B) are arranged on the bottom surface 2b of the button body 2 and on the side of the switch 4. The protruding member 30 is formed so as to protrude in the -Y direction. A hook portion 32 that can be engaged with the material 10 may be formed. Also, in FIG. The members 30A and 30B are arranged on the bottom surface 2b of the button body 2, with the center of the bottom surface 2b in between. For convenience, in the initial state, the Assume that two protruding members 30A and 30B are provided. A protruding member 30A is provided on the +X side of the center, and a protruding member 30B is provided on the -X side. Moreover, the protruding member 30 is formed with an inclined surface 40 .

[0018] The guide members 10 (10A, 10B) are provided in the vicinity of the protruding members 30. The guide member 10A is provided near the protruding member 30A, and the guide member 10B is provided near the protruding member 30B. In FIG. 1, the guide member 10 is formed in a generally arc shape. The member 10 is provided between the two protruding members 30 along the circumferential direction of the button body 2. However, the guide members 10 are arranged only adjacent to the corresponding protruding members 30. The guide member 10 may be fixed to a housing that accommodates the push button 1, for example. In other words, the guide member 10 may be freely moved relative to the support member 6 that supports the button body 2. As described later, the guide member 10 may be fixed at an angle of 0 degrees. As described later, when the button body 2 is pressed, the guide member 10 guides the button body 2 in the direction of the arrow. Then, while contacting the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30, the protruding member 30 is moved in the circumferential direction of the button body 2. When the protruding member 30 moves in the direction of the arrow B, the button body 2 moves in the direction of the arrow Br. The direction of the arrow B corresponds to the direction of the arrow Br.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the vicinity of the protrusion member 30 and the guide member 10 according to the first embodiment. The protruding member 30 has an inclined surface 40. The inclined surface 40 is inclined in the direction along the stroke direction (Y-axis direction). The inclined surface 4 is formed so as to be inclined in the circumferential direction of the button body 2 with respect to the inclined surface 4. 0 is inclined in the opposite direction to the rotation direction with respect to the Y axis direction when viewed from the opposite side to the button body 2. In other words, the inclined surface 40 is formed in the direction of the arrow B when viewed from the -Y side. The inclination is in the direction of the arrow Bx (the +Z direction in Figure 3), which is the opposite direction to the inclination of the arrow Bx (the -Z direction in Figure 3). It is formed as follows.

[0020] In addition, even if an inclined surface 12 is formed on the surface of the guide member 10 facing the protruding member 30, The inclined surface 12 is formed to be inclined to the same side as the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30. Preferably, the slope of the inclined surface 12 is greater than the slope of the inclined surface 40 .

[0021] When the button body 2 is pressed in the direction of the arrow A, the protruding member 30 is also pressed in the direction of the arrow A. As a result, the tip 12a of the guide member 10 abuts against the inclined surface 40. The button body 2 is then pushed in the direction of the arrow A, and the protruding member 30 moves in the direction of the arrow A. Then, the inclined surface 40 slides on the tip 12a of the guide member 10 in the direction of the arrow C. Due to the inclination of 40, the protruding member 30 moves not only in the direction of the arrow A but also in the direction of the arrow B. do.

[0022] In other words, when the button body 2 is pressed, the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface 40 and The protruding member 30 is guided in the circumferential direction (the direction of the arrow B). When the guide member 10 is inserted, the guide member 10 moves the protruding member 30 in the direction of the arrow B while contacting the inclined surface 40. That is, the guide is made in the opposite direction to the inclination direction of the inclined surface 40 (the direction of the arrow Bx). The button body 2 rotates in the direction of the arrow Br in conjunction with the movement of the protruding member 30. When the button body 2 is pressed, the button body 2 moves in the direction of the arrow A. In other words, when the button body 2 is pressed, the button body 2 rotates in the direction of the arrow. While moving in the direction of mark A, it rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side.

[0023] Here, the inclination angle of the inclined surface 40 in the circumferential direction with respect to the direction along the Y axis direction is In this case, the button body 2 is pressed by a certain amount (pressing length) S. In this case, the larger the inclination angle θ, the greater the displacement of the protruding member 30 in the circumferential direction (the direction along the ZX plane). Therefore, when the button body 2 is pressed by the pressing amount S, the inclination The larger the angle θ, the larger the rotation amount R. For example, when the button body 2 is pressed by the amount S, When pressed in, the amount of rotation R may be proportional to S*tan θ.

[0024] The hook portion 32 is connected to the guide member 10 at the tip of the protruding member 30 along the ZX plane. The button body 2 is formed so as to protrude toward the +Y side. When the guide member 10 tries to move in the opposite direction, the hook portion 32 contacts the bottom surface 10 on the -Y side of the guide member 10. This restricts the movement of the button body 2 to the +Y side. In this way, it is possible to prevent the button body 2 from coming off from a housing or the like in which the push button 1 is housed. Cut.

[0025] The push button 1 may have a biasing member. The biasing member is a member that is pressed by the user against the button body 2. When the pressing of the button body 2 is stopped and the pressing action on the button body 2 is released, The biasing member is configured to move to the original position. The biasing member is formed of an elastic member such as a spring. The biasing member may be urged in the direction opposite to the rotational direction of the button body 2 (the direction of the arrow Br in FIG. 3). The button body 2 or the protruding member 30 may be biased in the direction of the button body 2. When the pushing action is released, the protruding member 30 is biased in the direction opposite to the arrow B. Then, the inclined surface 40 slides on the tip 12a of the guide member 10 in the direction opposite to the arrow C. As a result, button body 2 moves to the +Y side while rotating clockwise when viewed from the +Y side.

[0026] 4 and 5 are diagrams illustrating the operation of the push button 1 according to the first embodiment. The operation of the push button 1 will be described with reference to Figs. 4 and 5. Assume that the button body 2 is pressed in the direction of the arrow A. Then, as shown in FIG. As described above, the guide member 10A moves in the direction of the arrow Ba. On the −X side of the protruding member 30A, the protruding member 30B is guided by the guide member 10B, The button moves in the direction of the arrow Bb. Therefore, the button body 2 moves counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side. In other words, it rotates in the direction of the arrow Br. Also, the button body 2 is pushed in the direction of the arrow A. Then, the pressing member 20 moves in the -Y direction, that is, in the direction indicated by the arrow Ac, and approaches the switch 4. At this time, the button body 2 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side, so the pressing member 20 also rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side.

[0027] Assume that button body 2 is further pressed in the direction of arrow A from the state shown in FIG. Then, as shown in FIG. 5, the protruding member 30A is guided by the guide member 10A as described above. Then, the protruding member 30A moves further in the direction of the arrow Ba. The protruding member 30B is guided by the guide member 10B and moves further in the direction of the arrow Bb. Therefore, the button body 2 rotates further in the counterclockwise direction as viewed from the +Y side, that is, in the direction of the arrow Br. In addition, the button body 2 is pressed in the direction of the arrow A, so that the pressing member 20 rotates. The pressing member 20 moves in the Y direction, that is, in the direction indicated by the arrow Ac. The button is pressed in the -Y direction, that is, in the direction indicated by the arrow Ac. At this time, the button body 2 is pressed in the +Y direction. Since the pressing member 20 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side, the pressing member 20 also rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side. do.

[0028] In this way, when the button body 2 of the push button 1 according to the first embodiment is pressed, The inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30 slides on the guide member 10, and the guide member 10 guides the protruding member 30. The button body 2 is configured to rotate by pressing the button. The user who pressed button 1 felt that button body 2 had rotated when pressed , can be sensed by touch.

[0029] If the button body does not rotate, the user cannot tell whether the button body is pressed or not by the button itself. The determination is made only by sensing the movement of the main body in the stroke direction. In addition, it is difficult for users to visually recognize the location and function of the push buttons. If you are unable to clearly recognize that the button has been pressed, you may mistakenly press the button. There it is.

[0030] In contrast, in this embodiment, the user presses the button body 2 in conjunction with the button operation. In other words, the user can feel the sensation of the button body 2 rotating. When the button is pressed, the button body 2 moves not only in the stroke direction but also in the rotation direction. This increases the sensation that the user can feel when pressing the button body 2. Therefore, the user can more clearly recognize that the button body 2 has been pressed. Cut.

[0031] In addition, by changing the inclination direction of the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30, the rotation of the button body 2 can be adjusted. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 3, the inclined surface 40 is When the button body 2 is pressed, The protruding member 30 is guided in the -Z direction by the guide member 10, and the button body 2 is guided in the +Y direction. It rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the

[0032] 3, the inclined surface 40 is in the -Z direction (the arrow Bx is opposite to the arrow Bx when viewed from the -Y side). In this way, when the button body 2 is pressed, the protrusion The rising member 30 is guided in the +Z direction (the opposite direction to the arrow B) by the guide member 10. Therefore, button body 2 rotates clockwise when viewed from the +Y side.

[0033] In this way, two push buttons 1 with different rotation directions may be arranged side by side on the housing. This allows the user to rotate the device in different directions when pressing two push buttons 1. The rotation of the direction can be sensed by the sense of touch. The two push buttons 1 can be distinguished. In other words, the user can see the push buttons 1. By simply pressing the push button 1, it is possible to distinguish between the two push buttons 1 without having to It becomes.

[0034] In addition, the above two push buttons 1 each operate different functions of the switch 4. In other words, the functions of the two push buttons 1 and the corresponding switch 4 can be The push button 1 may be associated with each rotation direction. For example, counterclockwise Switch 4, which corresponds to push button 1 rotating clockwise, activates the UP action, and A switch 4 corresponding to the push button 1 may actuate the DOWN action. With this configuration, when the user presses the push button 1, the user feels the following by touch: Therefore, the function corresponding to the push button 1 can be recognized. This can prevent the user from accidentally pressing the push button 1. Even if the user does not recognize the functions of the multiple push buttons 1 arranged side by side, It can be recognized.

[0035] As another means for making the user aware that the push button 1 has been pressed, e.g. For example, a method is adopted in which push button 1 is vibrated when it is pressed. This method requires a mechanism to vibrate the push button 1, In contrast, in the first embodiment, the button body 2 is provided with the inclined surface 40. By forming the protruding member 30 having the protruding portion 30, when the button body 2 is pressed, the button body In this way, the body 2 can be rotated by using a simple structure such as the protruding member 30. , the user can clearly recognize that push button 1 has been pressed.

[0036] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the protruding member 30 is provided with a hook portion 32 for preventing separation. By forming the inclined surface 40 on the button body 2, the button body 2 can be rotated when the button body 2 is pressed. In this way, the protruding member 30 has a mechanism for preventing the button from coming off and a button body. By providing a mechanism for rotating the 2, the user can, with a simpler structure, It is possible to clearly recognize that the push button 1 has been pressed.

[0037] In addition, in this embodiment, when the button body 2 is pressed, the button body 2 rotates. In conjunction with this, the pressing member 20 also rotates. This increases the degree of freedom in design. This will be explained with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

[0038] 6 and 7 are diagrams for explaining the arrangement between the push-down member 20 and the switch 4 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 shows a state in which the facing surface 20a of the push-down member 20 facing the switch 4 is flush. In this case, the initial state is The distance between the opposing surface 20a of the pressing member 20 and the switch 4 is constant at L. The pressing member 20 is pressed down on the button body 2 from the initial state until the switch 4 is pressed down. The stroke is constant at L.

[0039] FIG. 7 shows a case where an inclined surface 22 is provided on the surface of the pressing member 20 facing the switch 4. In this case, in the initial state, the inclined surface 22 of the push-down member 20 and the switch The distance between the inclined surface 22 and the switch 4 can be any value between L1 and L2. L1 is the shortest distance between the inclined surface 22 and the switch 4, and L2 is the longest distance between the inclined surface 22 and the switch 4. .

[0040] In this case, as in state (A), when the button body 2 is pressed down by a pressing amount L1, Then, the tip of the pressing member 20, that is, the pressing member 20 at the side of the inclined surface 22 closest to the switch 4, In the first embodiment, the button body 2 As the pressing member 20 rotates, the inclined surface 22 also rotates. As shown in FIG. 1B, the pressing member 20 first comes into contact with the switch 4 at any position on the inclined surface 22. In this case, the pressing member 20 may be configured to press the switch 4 until the pressing member 20 first contacts the switch 4. The amount of depression can be any amount between L1 and L2. The degree of freedom in designing the amount of depression required to press the switch 4, and the relationship between the switch 4 and the pressing member 20 This improves the degree of freedom in designing the space between the two.

[0041] In addition, as described later, by changing the inclination angle of the inclined surface 40, the user can easily press the button. When the user presses the body 2, the tactile sensation he or she receives changes. Even if the tongue body 2 is pushed in in the same way, the inclination angle with respect to the Y-axis increases. As the rotation increases, the weight (resistance) against the pushing action increases. Therefore, by adjusting the inclination angle, the tactile sensation when the button body 2 is pressed can be appropriately adjusted. It can be adjusted as needed.

[0042] <Modification of the first embodiment> Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described. In the modification of the first embodiment, the protruding member The inclined surface 40 of the 30 has a plurality of inclined surface portions 42 with different inclination angles.

[0043] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a protrusion member 30X according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. The inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30X according to the modified example has an inclined surface portion 42A (first inclined surface portion) and The inclined surface portion 42B (second inclined surface portion) is a surface portion 42B that is inclined from the +Y The inclination angle of the inclined surface portion 42A is set to θ a and the inclination angle of the inclined surface portion 42B is θb, θa>θb. The inclination angle θb of the portion 42B is smaller than the inclination angle θa of the inclined surface portion 42A.

[0044] Therefore, when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A, the button body 2 is pushed in. The amount of rotation when the guide member 10 is pushed in by the amount S is the amount of rotation when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42B. The amount of rotation is larger than the amount of rotation when the button body 2 is pressed in by the amount S. When the button body 2 is pressed from the pressed state, the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A. The user senses through touch the rotation of the button body 2, which is greater than the amount of pressing. On the other hand, when the button body 2 is pushed in and the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42B, The user presses the button body 2 more firmly than when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A. It feels like the amount of rotation relative to the amount of insertion has become smaller.

[0045] In addition, the pushing action felt by the user when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A The weight (resistance force) against the guide member 10 is generated when the user The weight (resistance) against the pushing action felt by the guide member 10 is larger than that of the guide member 10. When the user is in contact with the sloped surface portion 42A, the user feels a large resistance to the pushing action. On the other hand, when the button body 2 is pressed in and the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42B, The guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A, and the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A. I feel like the resistance has decreased.

[0046] Here, we will explain the change in resistance force. First, let us consider the resistance force as a normal force. Let us consider the normal force acting on the inclined surface portion 42 as N. The component of the normal force in the Y-axis direction is N Since it is sin θ, if the inclination angle θ is large, the component of the normal force in the Y-axis direction also becomes large. Therefore, the resistance force felt by the user when pushing the button body 2 in the Y-axis direction is When the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A, the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42B. Next, consider the case where the resistance force is considered to be a friction force. The pushing force in the -Y direction against the body 2 is F. When the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42A, When the inclined surface 42A is in the vertical position, a normal force Na corresponding to F1a=Fsinθa is applied to the inclined surface 42A. Therefore, the inclined surface portion 42A has a friction force (kinetic friction force) proportional to the normal force Na. On the other hand, when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42B, the inclined surface portion 42B has F A normal force Nb corresponding to 1b=Fsinθb may be applied to the inclined surface portion 42B. A frictional force (kinetic frictional force) proportional to the normal force Nb acts on the Therefore, the friction force acting on the inclined surface portion 42A is larger than that acting on the inclined surface portion 42B. The frictional force acting on the inclined surface portion 42 is larger than that acting on the inclined surface portion 42. Therefore, the resistance force at the inclined surface portion 42 corresponds to a friction force. The weight (resistance force) against the pushing action felt by the user when the inclined surface portion 42A is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42A. ) corresponds to the pushing action felt by the user when the guide member 10 contacts the slope portion 42B. It is greater than the weight (resistance) it faces.

[0047] By forming the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30X in such a shape, for example, the following configuration can be achieved. Until the push-down member 20 comes into contact with the switch 4, the guide member 10 is inclined at the slope portion 42. After the push member 20 contacts the switch 4, the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42B. The components of the push button 1 and the switch 4 are positioned so that they are in contact.

[0048] This allows the user to experience a large resistance to the depressing motion before switch 4 operates. This allows the user to easily detect the amount of force applied to the button body 2 and the amount of rotation of the button body 2. This can prevent the switch 4 from being operated erroneously. Since there is a large resistance to the pressing action before the button operates, do not touch the push button 1 with too little force. Since the push button 1 is difficult to be pressed simply by pressing the button, it is possible to suppress malfunctions. By detecting a large amount of rotation of the button body 2, if the push button 1 is touched accidentally Since it is possible to more clearly recognize that the push button 1 has been pressed, it is possible to prevent malfunctions. can be done.

[0049] As described above, the functions of the switches 4 corresponding to the two push buttons 1 and When the rotation directions of the push buttons 1 are associated with each other, the user can Before pressing the button 1, the user can recognize the function corresponding to the button. When pressed, the amount of rotation of the push button 1 before the switch 4 operates is large. Therefore, When the user presses down on push button 1, the push button 1 is turned on before switch 4 is activated. For example, as mentioned above, the rotation direction of the counterclockwise Switch 4, which corresponds to push button 1 rotating clockwise, activates the UP action, and Suppose that the switch 4 corresponding to the push button 1 activates the DOWN action. The user pressed down push button 1 to activate the UP action, but push button 1 When the user detects that the switch has been rotated clockwise, the user must press the It is possible to recognize that the button pressed was incorrect. Also, the user can perform the UP operation. Push button 1, which is to be operated, and push button 1 rotates counterclockwise. When the user detects this, the user can press the push button again before the switch 4 operates. Therefore, you can more reliably perform the correct button operation. Cut.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a protrusion member 30Y according to a second modification of the first embodiment. The inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30Y according to the modification includes an inclined surface portion 42C (a third inclined surface portion) and an inclined The inclined surface portion 42D (fourth inclined surface portion) is a surface portion 42A. The inclined surface portion 42D is a surface portion 42B. The inclination angle of the inclined surface portion 42C is set to θ c and the inclination angle of the inclined surface portion 42D is θd, 0≦θc<θd. The inclination angle θd of the surface portion 42D is larger than the inclination angle θc of the inclined surface portion 42C.

[0051] Therefore, when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42C, the button body 2 is pushed in. The amount of rotation when the guide member 10 is pushed in by the amount S is the amount of rotation when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42D. The amount of rotation is smaller than the amount of rotation when the button body 2 is pressed in by the amount S. When the button body 2 is pressed from the pressed state, the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42C. The user senses the small amount of rotation of the button body 2 relative to the amount of depression by touch. In other words, while the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42C, if θc ≠ 0, If θc=0, the user feels that the rotation of the button body 2 is small. In addition, since the inclination angle θc of the inclined surface portion 42C is small, The resistance to the movement is small. Therefore, when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42C, When the pressing motion is performed, the user feels that there is little resistance to the pressing motion.

[0052] In addition, the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30Y according to the second modification includes an inclined surface portion 42C and an inclined surface portion 42D, there is a step portion 43. Therefore, when the button body 2 is pushed in, the guide portion When the material 10 comes into contact with the step portion 43, a large resistance is exerted against the pushing operation. The user pushes the button body 2 against this resistance, and the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42D. When the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42C, the user feels the button is pressed more firmly than when the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42C. The user feels that the amount of rotation relative to the amount of pressing of the main body 2 has become larger. The resistance to the pushing action is greater than when the member 10 is in contact with the slope portion 42C. I feel like I've grown up.

[0053] By forming the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30Y in such a shape, for example, the following configuration can be achieved. Until the push-down member 20 comes into contact with the switch 4, the guide member 10 is inclined at the slope portion 42. After the push member 20 contacts the switch 4, the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42D. The components of the push button 1 and the switch 4 are arranged so as to be in contact with each other. The push button 10 is moved so that the guide member 10 contacts the step portion 43 just before the switch 4 contacts the switch 4. 1 and a switch 4 are arranged.

[0054] This allows the user to press the button body 2 with a light force before the switch 4 operates. You can feel a strong resistance just before switch 4 operates. The user can more clearly sense the moment when the switch 4 is operated. While the user is pressing the switch 4, the user can sense a large amount of rotation of the button body 2. This allows the user to clearly recognize that switch 4 is functioning. Therefore, the haptic sensation (feeling of touch) in response to the user's operation of the push button 1 can be can be improved.

[0055] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a protrusion member 30Z according to a third modification of the first embodiment. The inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30Z according to the modified example includes an inclined surface portion 42E (first inclined surface portion), The slope portion 42F (the second slope portion, the third slope portion) and the slope portion 42G (the fourth slope portion) The inclined surface portion 42F is on the +Y side of the inclined surface portion 42E, that is, in the stroke direction. The inclined surface portion 42G is provided on the +Y side of the inclined surface portion 42F, that is, on the stroke side. It is provided on the opposite side to the arc direction.

[0056] The inclination angle of the inclined surface portion 42E is θe, the inclination angle of the inclined surface portion 42F is θf, and the inclination angle of the inclined surface portion If the inclination angle of the portion 42G is θg, then θe>θf and θf<θg. The inclination angle θf of the inclined surface portion 42F is smaller than the inclination angle θe of the inclined surface portion 42E. The inclination angle θg of the surface portion 42G is larger than the inclination angle θf of the inclined surface portion 42F.

[0057] Since θe>θf, when the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42E, the button body The amount of rotation when the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42F is the amount of rotation when the guide member 10 contacts the inclined surface portion 42F. The amount of rotation is larger than the amount of rotation when the button body 2 is pressed in by the amount S while the button is pressed in. In other words, when the button body 2 is pushed from the initial state until the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42E, During this time, the user feels a large amount of rotation of the button body 2 relative to the amount of depression. On the other hand, when the button body 2 is pressed in and the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42F, Then, the user feels that the button 42 is pressed more firmly than when the guide member 10 is in contact with the slope portion 42E. It feels like the amount of rotation relative to the amount of pressure applied to the main body 2 has become smaller.

[0058] In addition, the pushing action felt by the user when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42E The weight (resistance force) against the guide member 10 is determined by the user's weight when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42F. The weight (resistance) against the pushing action felt by the guide member 10 is larger than that of the guide member 10. When the user is in contact with the sloped surface portion 42E, the user feels a large resistance to the pushing action. On the other hand, when the button body 2 is pressed in and the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42F, The guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42E, and the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42E. I feel like the resistance has decreased.

[0059] In addition, since θf<θg, the pushing force when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42G is The amount of rotation relative to the amount of pushing S is the amount of pushing when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42F. The amount of rotation is larger than the amount S. In other words, when the button body 2 is pushed in, the guide member 10 When the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42G, the user feels the same as when the guide member 10 comes into contact with the inclined surface portion 42F. In comparison, it feels like the amount of rotation relative to the amount of depression of the button body 2 is larger.

[0060] In addition, the pushing action felt by the user when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42G The weight (resistance force) against the guide member 10 is determined by the user's weight when the guide member 10 is in contact with the inclined surface portion 42F. The weight (resistance) felt by the button body 2 is greater than the resistance felt by the button body 2. When the guide member 10 is pushed in and comes into contact with the inclined portion 42G, the user The resistance to the pushing action is greater than when it was in contact with part 42F. feel.

[0061] By forming the inclined surface 40 of the protruding member 30Z in such a shape, for example, the following configuration can be achieved. Until the push-down member 20 comes into contact with the switch 4, the guide member 10 is inclined at the slope portion 42. The components of the push button 1 and the switch 4 are arranged so as to contact E. During the period from when the guide member 20 comes into contact with the switch 4 until the switch 4 is fully pressed, the guide member 1 The components of the push button 1 and the switch 4 are arranged so that the 0 contacts the slope portion 42F. After the switch 4 is fully pressed by pressing the pressing member 20, the guide member 1 The components of the push button 1 and the switch 4 are arranged so that the 0 contacts the slope portion 42G. do.

[0062] Here, the "deep press state" refers to the state in which the switch 4 is pressed deeply. This is a state in which a function different from that in the case of a shallow press is activated. This can be an operation that corresponds to a "long press state." For example, switch 4 activates the volume up function. When Switch 4 is pressed deeply, the volume is lower than when Switch 4 is pressed shallowly. The speed of increase may be increased. Also, for example, the switch 4 may be set to turn on or off the power supply function of the device. When you activate the device, if switch 4 is pressed too deeply, the device will wake up from sleep mode. In the fully pressed state, the power of the device may be turned off or on.

[0063] As a result, as in the first modification, the user is forced to press the switch 4 before the switch 4 operates. It can detect large resistance to movement and large rotation of the button body 2. This allows the user to prevent the switch 4 from being operated by mistake. In addition, when switch 4 is fully pressed, it provides a large resistance to the pressing action. This allows the user to sense a large amount of rotation of the button body 2. It is possible to more clearly recognize that the switch 4 has been fully pressed.

[0064] (Embodiment 2) Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the position of the push member and the switch is The positional relationship is different from that of the first embodiment. The configuration is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore the description will be omitted where appropriate. Omitted.

[0065] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a push button 1 according to the second embodiment. As in the first embodiment, The push button 1 according to the second embodiment includes a button body 2, a guide member 10, and a pressing member 2. 0 and a protruding member 30. In addition, the second embodiment is substantially the same as the first embodiment. Similar XYZ Cartesian coordinate axes are introduced to

[0066] As in the first embodiment, the push button 1 (button body 2) is rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow A, i.e., in the direction of -Y. When the pressing member 20 is pressed in the direction, the pressing member 20 presses the switch 4. The switch 4 is operated to execute a predetermined function. When the button 1 (button body 2) is pressed in the direction of the arrow A, the button moves in the direction indicated by the arrow Br. The button 1 (button body 2) is configured to rotate along the circumferential direction of the button body 2. There are.

[0067] Here, the shapes of the button body 2, the guide member 10 and the protrusion member 30 according to the second embodiment are as follows: The position of the guide member 10 and the protruding member 30 is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment. The positional relationship is substantially the same as in the first embodiment. The mechanism is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment. The explanation will be omitted.

[0068] In the first embodiment, switch 4 is disposed on the −Y side of presser member 20. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the switch 4 is disposed on the side of the rotation direction of the pressing member 20. In FIG. 11, the switch 4 is disposed on the −X side of the presser member 20.

[0069] As in the first embodiment, when the button body 2 is pressed in the direction of the arrow A, i.e., in the -Y direction, In conjunction with this, the pressing member 20 also moves in the direction of the arrow Ac, that is, in the -Y direction. As in the first embodiment, the button body 2 rotates in the direction of the arrow Br, and the button is pressed in conjunction with the rotation. The lower member 20 also rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow Bc. The pressed side surface 24 abuts against the switch 4. As a result, the pressing member 20 is pressed down in the direction of the arrow Bc, that is, in the rotation direction of the pressing member 20.

[0070] 12 and 13 are diagrams illustrating the operation of the push button 1 according to the second embodiment. Assume that the button body 2 is pressed in the direction of the arrow A from the state shown in FIG. As shown in 2, the button body 2 rotates in the direction of the arrow Br. Then, the pressing member 20 moves in the direction of the arrow Ac and rotates in the direction of the arrow Bc. As a result, the side surface 24 of the pressing member 20 comes closer to the switch 4 .

[0071] Suppose that the button body 2 is further pressed in the direction of the arrow A from the state shown in FIG. Then, as shown in FIG. 13, the button body 2 rotates further in the direction of the arrow Br. In conjunction with the movement of the main body 2, the pressing member 20 moves further in the direction of the arrow Ac, and Then, the side surface 24 of the pressing member 20 abuts against the switch 4. As a result, the pressing member 20 rotates the switch 4 in the direction of the arrow Bc, i.e., Press down in the rotation direction.

[0072] In this embodiment, the button body 2 is configured to rotate when pressed. Therefore, the pressing member 20 formed integrally with the button body 2 also rotates. In the second embodiment, the rotational movement of the pressing member 20 is utilized so that the pressing member 20 presses the switch 4. In other words, the switch 4 is arranged on the side of the pressing member 20 in the rotation direction. The side surface 24 of the pressing member 20 presses the switch 4 as the pressing member 20 rotates. With this configuration, the switch 4 is pressed on the -Y side of the push button 1, i.e., when the button body 2 is pressed. This eliminates the need to place the push button 1 and the switch 4 in the opposite direction. The degree of freedom in designing the arrangement between the In comparison, the space required for arranging the push button 1 and the switch 4 in the Y-axis direction can be made smaller. It becomes Noh.

[0073] (Embodiment 3) Next, a third embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a push button device 100 according to the third embodiment. The device 100 includes the push button 1 (1A, 1B) according to the above-described embodiment, a housing 102, and In the example of FIG. 14, the push button device 100 has two push buttons 1. However, the number of push buttons 1 may be any number equal to or greater than two. The device may be any device having a push button.

[0074] The housing 102 accommodates the push button 1. The housing 102 has holes 110A, 110B in the top surface 102a. The push button 1A is embedded in the hole 110A. A push button 1B is embedded in the hole 110A. The push button 1B may be supported so as to be capable of being pushed in and rotated. B may be supported so as to enable pushing and rotating operations.

[0075] The push button 1 according to the third embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the above-described embodiment. In addition, although not shown, the inside of the push button device 100 In the vicinity of each push button 1, there is a switch 4 operated by the corresponding push button 1. Here, the two switches 4 perform different functions when pressed. Move.

[0076] The push buttons 1A and 1B are configured to rotate in opposite directions when pressed. That is, the push buttons 1A and 1B are configured such that the button bodies 2A and 2B of the push buttons 1A and 1B are pressed. The rotation direction of the push buttons 1A and 1B is different from each other. For example, When the button body 2A of the push button 1A is pressed, the button body 2A of the push button 1A moves in the direction indicated by the arrow B1. When the button body 2B of the push button 1B is pressed, , the button body 2B of the push button 1B rotates clockwise as shown by the arrow B2.

[0077] Preferably, the top surface 2a of the button body 2 is aligned with the top surface 10 of the housing 102. 2a. In this embodiment, the protrusion of the upper surface 102a of the housing 102 can be reduced. The button body 2 according to the embodiment is formed in a circular shape when viewed in the direction of pressing. Even if the button body 2 rotates, the rotation of the button body 2 is prevented by the contact formed on the upper surface 102a of the housing 102. The obstruction caused by the holes 110 is suppressed.

[0078] The push button device 100 according to the third embodiment is configured as described above. Even without looking at push button 1, just by pressing push button 1, the corresponding button For example, if switch 4 corresponding to push button 1A is UP, When the switch 4 corresponding to the push button 1B is operated, the DOWN operation is activated. In this case, the user feels that pressing the push button 1A rotates counterclockwise. Since it detects with 1A, it can be recognized that the function corresponding to push button 1A is the UP operation. Similarly, the user feels that pressing the push button 1B rotates clockwise. Therefore, it can be recognized that the function corresponding to push button 1B is the DOWN action. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from pressing the push button 1 by mistake.

[0079] In addition, for visually impaired users who cannot visually recognize the operation of a push button, The function of a button is indicated by Braille near the button. However, it is common for users to repeatedly touch the Braille. This can cause the braille protrusions to wear out or deteriorate, making it difficult for users to properly recognize the braille. In contrast, in the third embodiment, the push button 1 has different functions. Therefore, even a visually impaired user can This makes it possible to easily recognize the function of button 1.

[0080] The push button device 100 according to the third embodiment has two push buttons 1. However, three or more push buttons 1 may be provided. In this case, three or more push buttons 1. The direction of rotation and the amount of rotation (resistance to the pushing action) are made different from each other. Thus, the functions of three or more push buttons 1 can be recognized by the sense of touch. For example, The push button device 100 may have four push buttons 1. In this case, for example, the first The rotation direction of the push button and the second push button is counterclockwise, and the rotation direction of the third push button and The rotation direction of the fourth push button is clockwise. The rotation amount of the first push button (pressing the amount of rotation of the second push button (resistance to pushing) The amount of rotation of the third push button (resistance to the push action) is set to be larger than the The resistance force against the pressing action of the fourth push button is set to be larger than the rotation amount of the fourth push button. With this configuration, the functions corresponding to the four push buttons 1 can be recognized by touch. In other words, by making the rotation of multiple push buttons 1 different from each other, The functions corresponding to the push buttons 1 can be recognized by the sense of touch.

[0081] (Modification) The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the configuration of the modified example of the first embodiment and the configuration of the second embodiment may be modified. Therefore, for example, the protruding member according to the second embodiment is The protruding member according to the first modified example may also be used.

[0082] In the above embodiment, the hook portion 32 is formed on the protruding member 30. The protruding member 30 does not necessarily have to have the hook portion 32. The hook portion for this purpose may be provided on a component separate from the protruding member 30. However, However, the protruding member 30 on which the hook portion 32 is formed has a slope 40 formed thereon. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a hook portion and a protruding member separately. The structure is simplified. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1 Push Button 2 Button body 4 Switch 6 Supporting member 10 Guide member 12 Slope 20 Push-in member 22 Slope 24 Side 30 Protruding member 32 Hook part 40 Slope 42 Slope section 43 Step 100 Push button device 102 Case 110A,110B hole

Claims

1. A button body supported so as to be capable of being pressed and rotated; a protrusion member provided on the button body, the protrusion member having a slope formed with a third slope portion inclined in a circumferential direction of the button body with respect to a direction along a first direction in which the button body is pressed, and a fourth slope portion provided on the opposite side of the third slope portion with respect to the first direction and having a slope angle larger than the slope angle of the third slope portion; a guide member that guides the protruding member in a circumferential direction of the button body while contacting the inclined surface of the protruding member when the button body is pressed in; a pressing member provided on the button body, the pressing member pressing the switch when the button body is pressed, The button body rotates as the protrusion member is guided by the guide member. Push button.

2. The pressing member rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the button body, and presses the switch in the rotation direction of the pressing member. The push button according to claim 1 .

Images